INFOCUS

from SIMPLYkc Magazine February 2022

by SIMPLYkc Magazine

AROUND TOWN

OFFERING INSPIRATION

FROM THE COMMUNITY FOR THE COMMUNITY

WRITTEN BY SHANNON E. ROESGEN / PHOTOS BY JAMI BOWMAN

“A fun and artsy boutique featuring pre-loved designer clothing, local handmade goods, and fine art.”

When the owner of Lulu’s Boutique was selling the business in 2018, Jennifer Bricker Pugh said, “Why not?” and purchased it! “My kids and I have always been thrifters,” says Pugh, and she loved the idea of owning and promoting a small business in the community.

“Lulu’s is an environmentally friendly boutique featuring pre-loved designer and vintage clothing, handbags, shoes, and accessories,” explains Pugh. “We also have an amazing gift shop filled with a large array of locally made jewelry, gifts, and fine art, as well as several national gift brands, including Blue Q and Whiskey River Soap Company.” Lulu’s offers clothing from the community for the community. There are hundreds of pieces that are high quality designer goods and are in impeccable condition.

High end fashion is very expensive and it may not be in line with everyone’s budget, especially those trying to support a family. But at Lulu’s Boutique, you can find high end fashion at reduced prices, and often the items are half or more of the price of retail. Lulu’s Boutique also offers a wide variety of high end designers, including Anthropology, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Burberry, just to name a few. “Customers can also sell their trendy, name brand clothes to Lulu’s Boutique and get cash or a 50/50 split for consigned clothing,” adds Pugh. This aligns with popular trends of younger generations, such as #chooseused. This is a very familiar term to Gen Zers. Our children’s generation is educated about not only social justice issues, but environmental safety issues concerning the future of our planet. Recycling not only water bottles, but articles of clothing is a part of a Gen Zer’s weekly repertoire.

Not only is Lulu’s Boutique a consignment shop, it is also a venue for local artists to exhibit and sell their work. “As of now, I have 25 local makers who show their work inside Lulu’s,” says Pugh. “We offer candles, mugs, ceramics, and lots of jewelry. I give them all a little space to promote their work. I love the ‘Shop small, shop local’ handmade narrative,” she explains. Lulu’s offers many original, creative gift ideas for you, your home, or your loved ones. If you are looking for fresh ideas or unique gifts that you can’t find just anywhere, Lulu’s Boutique is the perfect shopping destination. Pugh is an artist as well, and customers can view her works of art at Lulu’s Boutique. “I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to fill people’s homes with joy through my artwork,” she says. “An artist’s mind is constantly filled with doubt about their work and vision, but when we sell our work, the pride and gratitude that is felt is indescribable. Although the urge and passion to create far transcends the sale, it gives me a sense of validation that I am indeed right where I should be—creating work that brings happiness to others,” explains Pugh. Lulu’s Boutique has been voted BEST OF KC by The Pitch for the past two years in a row. Pugh says she is beyond grateful for not only the recognition, but also the customer loyalty during the past two years—years which have brutally affected many small businesses. “We would like to thank our loyal customers for all of their support during the pandemic,” says Pugh. Lulu’s Boutique is located in Mission, Kansas. Hours of operation are 11 am6 pm, Tuesday-Friday, and 10 am5 pm on Saturday.

“We would like to thank our loyal customers for all of their support during the pandemic.”

Lulu’s Boutique • 6017 Johnson Dr., Mission, KS • 913.362.2442 • IG: @lulusboutiquekc • FB: @lulusboutiquekc • artsifartsi02@yahoo.com SIMPLYkc Special • Mention this article to receive 10% OFF a piece of commissioned art by a local artist!