This week we interviewed storeowner, Karen Smith, for our 2nd Premier Store Spotlight of the New Year – The Purple Turtle – located in Gallipolis, Ohio. Not only does she have the cutest baby and kids clothes in Gallipolis, but she also throws fabulous anniversary events at her store with local photographers that take pictures of your kiddos (eh, hem, make sure to go!)! Karen’s store is sure to be your “go-to” for the best baby shower gifts in town, and she reveals in her interview her secret reading gift for any new mom, as well dishing on what she swore she would “never do as a grandparent.” Read more about the fabulous boutique, The Purple Turtle below!
The Purple Turtle
300 2nd Avenue
Gallipolis, OH 45631-1163
740.446.1998
www.purpleturtlekids.com
CHECK-IN and JOIN The Purple Turtle’s Facebook page and click HERE
Model wearing Le Top "My Best Friend" collection
1. What a cute name for a store! Tell us the inspiration the name The Purple Turtle? How long has your store been around?
I tried to think of a name that the children would remember and maybe connect with, and The Purple Turtle came to mind. We have purple carpet and pictures of our mascot Purple Turtle on the walls. Who doesn’t like Purple Turtles?! We’ve been in business since October 2000.
2. It’s 2012 and resort and spring 2012 styles are coming into stores. What are your top 3 items (clothes, toys, giftables, etc.) for any parent shopping for warm weather items for a nice holiday vacation this winter?
We sell many baby shower gifts, so warm blankets and sleepers are very popular. Snuggly jackets are good for the cold weather.
Wall of Fame
3. Any special events that you have planned at your store for this New Year or Valentine’s Day next month? Tell us the inside scoop about any special events and fun deals we can expect!
The most exciting event that we do in the store is our “Gallery” opening in the spring and fall. We work with a local children’s photographer, Melissa Echler, who takes fantastic pictures of our customers sporting outfits found in the store. The evening before the public sees the new pictures, we have a private viewing for the families of our little models complete with special cookies and drinks. Everyone loves to see their children/grandchildren on the wall of fame in The Purple Turtle! Check the below photos.
4. What is your favorite children’s book that you would recommend to our readers?
On the Night You Were Born by Nancy Tillman. I give this book to many new moms. They love it!
5. Although spring 2012 styles are available soon, what would you suggest as the top 3 essentials in the winter that any parent should buy to brighten up their child’s wardrobe this winter?
I think accessories like new tights and leggings, new hair bows and headbands. Those accessories always brighten up a winter day.
6. Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?”
….talk about them all the time!! But I just can’t help it…you know they are SO cute and I just must share all my pictures!
7. Describe the neighborhood of your store location in Gallipolis, Ohio? Did you grow up in the local area?
No, I did not grow up here, but I raised my children here and have definitely set down roots. Gallipolis is a beautiful historic town on the Ohio River with a beautiful city park in the center of the downtown area. I would love for everyone to visit us anytime.
8. What is the hottest trend for kids’ clothes right now?
Boots and cute skirts and tops.
9. Where are the best/essential family hangouts and places to go around your store location?
Our lovely city park is the place to be in the summer. You will always see people walking, picnicking and looking at the Ohio River.
The Le Top “Fantasia” Collection for winter was one of my favorites. Every child who wore it looked so pretty….the colors are so vivid. Of course, the Le Top Christmas “Candy Cane Cutie” Collection too with the striped or dotted tights that are great.
Model wearing Le Top '"Fantasia" collection
The Purple Turtle
300 2nd Avenue
Gallipolis, OH 45631-1163
740.446.1998
www.purpleturtlekids.com
CHECK-IN and JOIN
The Purple Turtle’s Facebook
page and click HERE
Le Top blog 