Wholesale Gift Shows

Marilyn's Boutique makes right move to Main Street retail space

The spice company’s wholesale business was taking off in so many directions, it was getting too hard to maintain the retail outlet.

So, Jane went to see Post at her store and proposed the idea to her.

Post jumped at the opportunity. After all, it would be a much better location than where her store was tucked away in the 101 Market Place mall. She says people just did not know she was back there amidst businesses like a bank and day-care center.

Since moving to Main Street over Memorial Day weekend this year, customer traffic and sales have noticeably increased.

Post says one of her biggest surprises has been the male customers she is now getting.

At her old location, she says she never had men come into her boutique. Now, one-third of her customers are men coming in to purchase Wayzata Bay spices she carries for the Buntings.

In fact, Post plans to turn one corner of her boutique into a “man cave” that will feature items more inclined toward her male customers.

Though the retail space on Main Street is smaller and has no back-room storage, that is fine with Post, who only buys in small quantities anyway.

“It’s a better fit. This place looks more like the boutiques you find up north,” Post says. “The wood floors make it warm. It’s fun.”

Post is all about making shopping at her boutique a fun experience. One of the things she does quite often is to have parties around themes such as The Gold Guys and parties featuring psychic Ruth Lordan.

Groups of eight or 10 women book a party that includes readings for each participant, adult beverages and finger foods.

Post says it combines a fun time with a shopping experience the women will remember for quite some time.

Other things Post does to make her boutique a fun experience for women include fishing and casino trips.

She says 50 women fill a charter bus and head for Lake Mille Lacs. Later in the day, the women hit the casino where they also stay during their getaway trip.

“This last time it was so much fun to see people’s faces as we’re getting off the (Land of Lakes) Choirboys’ bus.” Post laughs.

The creative entrepreneur also plans to add a ladies night out for Thursday nights.

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