Q. Tell us about your store! What made you decide to open up your own retail space?
A. I began working at Pippen Lane in 1999. After 20 years, our previous owner was ready to pass the torch and it was time for me to step up. We are truly a children's emporium that carries clothes, shoes, and gifts for all sizes (newborn to size 16). Now, with two boys of my own, it is amazing to see all the changes that have taken place in this business. Children's clothing is such a lighthearted and whimsical division of the retail industry. Discovering new brands like Rylee + Cru and watching them grow is also rewarding.
Q. What is your favorite thing about running your store?
A. Our customers! It is wonderful to see people react so positively to the selection of merchandise we've curated for the store. Just being a part of the New Orleans community of specialty shops is such a joy. I have also worked with our staff for over 20 years which is a rare occurrence in retail and a very special part of the shopping experience at Pippen Lane.
Q. What does a typical day look like for you?
A. I am a mom first and foremost so my day begins and ends with the boys. At the store it starts with social media and answering emails. We are open Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm so I try to be present on the sales floor as much as possible. We are always in the midst of a new season at work. Here in New Orleans, we have a few extra ones to celebrate, compared to the rest of the country so weekly re-merchandising is key. After my day ends at the office, it is on to extracurricular activities for the boys. Gratefully my husband cooks, so dinner tends to be my favorite time of day to reconnect and rest with everyone.
Q. How do you select the brands you carry?
A. We carry such a variety of brands in the store. We also "dress" for every occasion here. Some of the brands we carry for our infants are more traditional. Soft cottons and breathable fabrics, like the ones we find at Rylee + Cru, are a must for us, especially for the littles. As we move into the older years, you start to see a more fun and contemporary approach to the selections. Trends are important to us, especially for older kids and tweens. We love finding new things on the market, but are grateful to have our long-time favorites as well.
Q. If we had one day in your hometown, where should we visit?
A. ONE DAY?!!! Each part of our city is so different. In New Orleans, your itinerary should definitely be dictated by the time of year you visit. If you visit during Mardi Gras or Festival season you are truly in for a treat!
Q. Is there anything else you want to share about your store?
A. The pictures are a reflection of our family life here. We celebrate everything with the kids. The photos are also a representation of how Rylee + Cru aligns with our brand. It always makes me smile that you have either music, tigers, pelicans or alligators for us to choose from! XO - Shane
Connect with Pippen Lane:
Location: 2930 Magazine St. New Orleans, LA 70115
Website: pippenlane.com
Instagram: @pippenlanenola
