Located in Portland’s bustling shopping district, this three-year-old store has come a long way from its beginnings as a women’s and children’s gift shop. After noting customers’ requests for more kids’ merchandise, mother and daughter duo Ellen and Sarah Dolloff revamped their 1,000 square feet to offer an array of pint-size fashions and products. Providing a mix that includes christening gowns, PJs and one-pieces, Ms. Lulu’s Boutique makes young and old shoppers feel right at home. “We always want you to feel like you are walking into a closet,” Dolloff said.
As a former politician, Ruth Foster knows firsthand that meeting the needs of the public ensures long-lasting support. Through selling classic clothing for boys and girls plus a wide range of books, plush items and toys, Ruth truly has made her colorful, 2,500-square-foot boutique a one-stop shop. She attributes her store’s success to her ability to find quality clothing her customers can keep for years and pass down from one child to the next. “I like to find good lines and stick with them,” Foster noted. “I’ve been carrying Le Top since I opened and don’t plan to stop anytime soon.”
When faced with the decision of closing or moving from her downtown Bangor location after two years, owner Harmony Allen decided to relocate her shop to Bangor Mall. It turned out to be the best decision she could have made. According to Allen, this vibrant store stocks “unique, quality items that are different from anywhere else.” She believes her staff’s personal attention keeps customers coming back. Her store also benefits from active outreach via social networks, plus a layaway option and free gift-wrap on orders being shipped.
