Fashion changes, Style remains.

I have been thinking a lot lately about what has kept me in the retail business for over 20 years as the owner of Pistachio Boutique. When I first decided to return to the fashion industry in 2003, it took a huge investment of time and money to make it happen. I left an exciting career in sales to risk a lot. I've been pondering about why I did it and why I am still so committed to success 20 years later when most of my friends are retired and enjoying winter months in the desert. (I love it there, too!).

I've always loved fashion. Even when I was little, I loved the way my parents dressed and how much attention they paid to their appearance. My dad was always so well put together and my mom was an outstanding seamstress - who designed most of our clothes. Dressing sharp was always a priority!

My husband, Ken, got his training at Hudson's Bay and worked there for many years, before we opened our first jean store in Cranbrook, BC in 1975. We loved the jean business and our stores were a great success - until the high interest rates and recession of 1983 forced us to close our business. Many of you have met Ken, as he works in the back office now, receiving and processing the inventory as it arrives. His support and encouragement is vital to our success!

I've always loved a challenge - and the fashion retail business is definitely that! As the buyer, I've had to stay on top of current styles and figure out how to balance fashion and trends. I've had to be the marketer, advertiser, and promotions and event planner. I've managed all the paperwork, budgets, leasing negotiations and staffing. There is always something to keep small business owners busy, as not all responsibilities can be delegated. But speaking of delegating, I have been blessed with the most wonderful team of women who treat Pistachio like it is their own business. Their dedication and commitment to the store, to me and to each other has been something I am so thankful for. It is just a pleasure to come to work each day!

Finally, there is you - the customer. Your encouragement and support has meant the world to me. The positive feedback we get every single day about the store, the clothes, the videos or our events has kept us going and continuing to work harder each season to keep the store exciting and fresh every time you come in to see what's new! We love it!

These things are all a wonderful part of being in business - but what is the main reason, I am still here?? It is because I truly believe that GREAT CLOTHES CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE! Looking and feeling like a million bucks can really give you the confidence to achieve whatever it is you want in your life. There is no greater reward than when someone comes into the store feeling discouraged and almost hopeless and leaves feeling uplifted and good about themselves! Selling clothes is not our number 1 priority, it's about serving you and helping you feel great when you leave - ready to take on the challenge before you! Albeit, not every transaction is that transformational, but our goal is to make sure you feel better about yourself when you leave, than when you came in. This is our commitment and there is nothing more gratifying than seeing this take place!

So, I am not ready yet to give that up! We love serving you at Pistachio! We look forward to many more years of helping you achieve your dreams - whether it's dressing for your trip, your interview, your first date, your celebrations or your daily life. Thank you for allowing us to be part of those special moments and please remember "You can have anything you want in life, if you dress for it!"