Milk Money is for the Child that Deserves More!
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According to Milk Money Boutique’s store owner, Rita Thomas, her children’s specialty store in North Carolina is “for the child who has everything but deserves more. At Milk Money, every day is a special occasion.” Rita shares how she went from marketing for the federal government to marketing her own store and its assorted collections of quality apparel and gifts for boys and girls. Inspired by a move to North Carolina, her own sense of style and how she wanted to dress her son, Rita is successfully showing everyone that a little “milk money” can go a long way in making children and moms feel special.
When and how did you get started in children’s retail?
“I started in children’s retail in 2008. When I moved to North Carolina from Michigan I could not locate any children’s clothing in the area that fit my style. I was continuously searching online or making special trips back home to Virginia for the clothing I wanted to purchase for my son.
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What was your background prior to this business?
“Prior to this I was a Marketing Specialist for the Federal Government. I also was a day care teacher for some years.
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What was the biggest challenge you faced when starting up?
“My biggest challenge has been marketing, believe it or not. Knowing where to invest those precious marketing dollars is very important.
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What is one thing you would have done differently?
“One thing I would have done differently is to have established a customer base before opening.
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What do you feel are the three biggest keys to your success?
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- Excellent customer service.
- Word of mouth
- Quality products
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How do you evaluate and choose new product lines to pick up?
“I look for products that are made with quality fabrics and unique designs. I also look for items you can’t pick up at any big box department store.
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Do green or eco-friendly concerns weigh into your business decisions, and if so, how?
“Yes green and eco-friendly are some of my concerns. I purchase tissue paper used to wrap gifts that is made from recycled paper. I sell a line of baby feeding products (Boon) that are BPA free, PVC free, and Phthalate free. Also, I carry a selection of organic plush toys. With children having so many allergies, especially to stuffed toys, I wanted to make sure they were off to a great start.
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What types of marketing are most effective for your business?
“The types of marketing that are most effective are word of mouth, (happy customers talk about you), email, and Internet marketing.
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What is one trend you’re currently seeing with customers?
“One trend I am currently seeing with customers is shortall jumpers for girls and the polliwalk sandals. I can’t keep these items in stock.
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How does your business make use of the Internet?
“We have an Internet presence, and online store. I use email marketing currently that has worked well for us.
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What is one change/addition that’s had a positive impact for your business?
“Having a great staff; your employees can make or break your business. I have changed staff in the past year and it has made a difference. Also, the addition of an online presence has made a positive impact on my business.
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If you had one piece of advice for someone entering children’s retail today, what would it be?
“Do your homework. Know your customer, your products and market. Last piece of advice is don’t give up and you will be successful.
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Milk Money Supports “A Better Cause.”
Milk Money understands that there are many less fortunate kids receiving little or no help from their surrounding communities and wants to be part of a solution. Owners Rita and Shaun Thomas believe that every child deserves a reason to think, laugh, smile and hope. Rita says, “That is why we began Milk Money’s A Better Cause or ABC” which benefits underprivileged boys and girls through various charity events, which are supported by many of their customers.”
The store also supports Soles-4-Souls through its shoe drive which helps in distributing footwear to impoverished communities and participates in an annual Toys for Tots Drive. Milk Money has also hosted a One Warm Coat (coat drive) to give children a chance to keep warm during the winter weather months.
More About Milk Money Boutique
Milk Money is a children’s boutique where customers can find just about anything to inspire, entertain or fill the bill for little girls and boys. As the seasons change, so do the colors, fashions and individual needs of toddlers; one remaining constant Milk Money keeps in mind is no matter the weather or style of the season, they keep on hand all types of goods and necessities for children throughout the year!
Milk Money specializes in unique clothing, shoes, toys and accessories for children. It offers sizes infant to 10 in girls and sizes infant to 7 in boys. Milk Money is for the child who has everything but deserves more. At Milk Money, every day is a special occasion!
For more information, visit www.milkmoneyboutique.com
Milk Money Boutique
9601 Brookdale Drive
Suite 300
Charlotte, NC 28215
704-598-0001
Milk Money Boutique
Homestyles Gallery
11237 Lawyers Road
Mint Hill, NC 28227
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