Officially into the new location. Lots of new decisions to be made!

Location TBA

Hours by appointment

Phone number remains the same

Updates to come

Thanks for sticking by through sticky times.

Love you all!!!!!!!!!!!

Re-Opening - Moving - Donation Drive - SALE SALE SALE

Today, Thursday the 9th we are re-opening the store after a few week hiatus of preparation, sick kids, coordination donations and re-organization! 10:30-1:30 and phone/email/website all hours for messages!

Warm up with some BabyLegs and a Beanie. Get some new shoes for the holiday! At SALE prices :)

See the new merchandise from See Kai Run, See Kai Run Smaller, Inky Binky Baby, Binky Baubles, Melissa and Doug, Hippie Clippies, and more!

To thank you for your patience, for the remainder of the month, all in-store purchases will get a 5% discount! Bring a donation (please nothing with big stains or holes) and receive 10% off your purchase! If using store credit, I can only give you a 5% donation with donation. You can save your store credit if you want the discount.

New items are in and since we are moving the store (new location TBA, but will remain in the Scripps/Miramar type of area), we need to SELL and DONATE so there is less to move!

I will be in the store more hours than the "open" posted hours because I have lots to do. So always feel free to call because I may be able to meet you at the store, a mutual location, the Farmer's Market, or ship. Sorry for any inconvenience, as I have said before, but sometimes changes are for the best and it is our belief that this is the best way to accommodate all needs! Lots of thought and research have been put into this decision. I love my building, I love the neighbors and square footage and design but it just is not the best decision if Fresh Picked is to be around for years to come!

Hours will be posted regularly, as they will be irregular for the remainder of the month until we must move to a new location. All new products will be at the store, but some of the larger resale sizes have been moved. However, if that's what you are looking for I just need a little notice to gather them up and bring them in.

To end this ramble, I will update our ads and the sidebars by the weekend. Thursday's hours will be 10:30-1:30 for shopping. Friday will be 12-4 (pending an appointment I may be able to open earlier or have to close earlier).

Saturday (more info to come) repeat "it will not rain, it will not rain" I will be at the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market along with the Humane Society and the Easter Bunny (10-12)! And commercial filming. Stop by for your chance to be on TV.

Okay, off to the store. Please call or email or visit regularly for store info and hours until new location is announced. I will be doing TONS of events on weekends, working on the website and doing shipping and everything I can do accommodate customers until a regular schedule is established.

Thank you for your patronage, your support, and for helping Fresh Picked remain a reputable business that I hope to pass down someday to my own children. We are not "closing our doors" just re-arranging.

Love you all for your continued support!

Still Here!

Sorry Sorry Sorry for the long delay!!!!!

Spring pounced upon us and so did millions of other things.

Good news:

Fresh Picked is still in business.

Inventory is full.

• meaning I am not buying anything at this time)



• meaning also lots to choose from once I get organized!

Other news (Bad? Depends on how you look at things!):

• It looks as though we will be moving locations, no stress probably very nearby, perhaps closer to most of you. Closer to my kids for sure- at least that's the idea.



• We will be open until the end of April at the current location. We will be at the SRFM all month. And thereafter pending other events only really.



• No new permanent address left- been looking at lots!



• All store credit is STILL GOOD. I will be calling with an online code also those customers because soon...



• The online store will be complete.



• Personal chaos , three sick kids (plus mom) and co-workers with also very sick with sick kids has set us behind schedule!



• But we will be better than ever.



• We will be accessible 24 hours a day.



• There will be a place to shop locally- even if smaller- until we get rolling and get a fantastic store-front smack-in-the middle location.



• Events being planned!

SO sad to leave my beautiful boutique but I know when to quit when I am ahead.

FPB is not going to close.

We will also be starting the Farmer's Market again (which if it wasn't for the eye infections would have started already!). Huge events like the Community Fair and Baby Expo are being planned.

• Playgroups and day cares will be notified. Our new address will be listed here ASAP.



• The store number will remain the same. It will be forwarded to a Cell Phone during all closed hours.



• Credits and discounts will be out of control! *Blush* Probably should've left that out.



• We are not losing any vendors- if anything we may be gaining some!



• I will have time to craft and design again myself :)

Many, many, many reasons went into this decision. Bottom lines- cut the overhead before it gets us, I am working 60-80 hours a week- why not 40-60 and take a 20 hour a week job with health benefits I really need if necessary?- online shopping keeps me working 40+ hours plus I get to spend time with the kids, more time for fairs and shows, and then one day, re-open bigger and better!

Oh of course, there is more and slowly it will come out.

But it's late, I must sleep. That's where I have been. Dealing. Searching.

WE ARE NOT CLOSING OUR DOORS- WE ARE MOVING!!!!

Everyone will be contacted by the end of the month.

All donations will reach shelters this month for National Child Abuse Month.

Hours so far will still be by appointment. Sorry :( But appointments are great. And there will be days I will be there most/all of the day. If I have not returned your call- PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL because I lost a bunch of messages.

My kids have Spring Break and they all had ear infections and eye infections for the past couple weeks. I just could not open the store under those conditions!!!

Gotta find a new spot.

Got to get the web site LAUNCHED.

Customer's contacted.

Store ready.

A big sale coming maybe????

Shipping as always available. Coupons available through April- just ASK.

Stick through our spring transformation and watch the butterfly break free!

Changes!

As Spring emerges with new beginnings,

so will Fresh Picked Boutique.

Sorry for any delays or inconvenience,

as we are working hard to improve our service to you.

Please send an email request if you wish to be updated personally of changes,

or, check back here for more information soon!

Saturday News and Then Some.

I'll actually be in the store for a few hours today instead of the Farmer's Market to catch up on some inventory and receipts/tax logging (fun stuff!). Feel free to call and set an appointment if you want to come by. Otherwise, I'll be working on the online store the remainder of the "working day" and every night after the kids go to bed as long as I need too.



I have a weekly update also and will post later today or tomorrow.



There is so much going on- so I am going to be in and out of the store to get some things settled. I know this has been a major inconvenience for some of you- but, it has to be done and the sooner the better, so I do apologize.



Although my usual store hours are Tuesday-Saturday (or SRFM on Saturdays), for the next few weeks I will take shopping appointments or offer discounts/shipping any day of the week (but you have to ask!). The store phone is forwarded when I am out of the store and you can call or email anytime.



Wednesday was planned as another story time in the afternoon- however, it seems that I just have a playgroup interested if I offered an earlier time. And so I offered them to come at 11:15 on the 25th and figured if anyone had RSVP'd for later, I could do it twice. But I have no confirmed afternoon RSVP's so I am going to officially change the time to 11:15. I will contact anyone who had inquired but not confirmed as well as post a separate post just on that. Also, I will update any web sites it is listed on...



I will elaborate more in a later post about more of what is planned for the next few weeks, as well as update the information on the main part of this site and my voicemail.



The online store is going to be a very important part of the business, as the economy is very slow and reaching a national market and offering convenient online ordering for shipping (pick-up also will be available for locals through the online store!) will ensure that Fresh Picked remains a fabulous San Diego business for years to come. This also will hopefully not only increase what merchandise I can offer, but increase selection!



It should be a Win-Win situation,- just think of it as a "remodel". When businesses go through a change or remodel, they often have to work around the clock but behind closed doors to do it efficiently. Both big chains and small businesses frequently need to reassess what is working, what is not, and what could change.



Hang in there with me and I promise you won't be disappointed. And don't worry if you have credit because your store credit is and will be good- even online. As soon as the website is up and running, I will figure out how to issue the "discount" and notify those of you with credit.



Gotta run. Happy Saturday! And soon I can get back to writing fun blog postings instead of all this blah, blah, blah informative stuff.

New Time, New Week, New Stuff and New Events!

I've been crazy-working on the online store and so much more to do! I've been invited to four big shows also (on weekends other than the Farmer's Market) so I'm trying to decide which (any? all?) are best suited. For sure, the SR Community Fair! Keep you updated on the rest in case you want to check out some stuff in person (if you are local), on a weekend, while doing something else fun!

Thursday story time is still planned for 1 PM. I have had lots of calls, emails, etc. and not really sure whether to expect just a couple little ones or a dozen- either way we will have fun. As mentioned- RSVP's requested, not required. And small groups welcome. Or I can plan some day specific to your group. Please excuse the *dust* as I finish re-arranging the store, get out donations, and divide some things out specifically for online, etc. Let's just have fun. Casual. Come by.

And I think by April we should be ready for some parties? Let's get on it ;)

I have lots of new stuff from Hippie Clippies and Baby Legs, and expecting an order from Inky Binky Baby. Love the new line!

Just call or email if you are coming by Tues/Weds and want to make sure I'm at the store before dropping by. I know it is awful for walk-ins if the store is closed, but as a new business and the only employee- well, I have to weigh out the risks and then jump.

STOUR HOURS MARCH 9th-13th

Right now, I'm thinking Tuesday 10-1ish and Wednesday I can either come early and leave again at 1 or come by after lunch and stay until 3. I have to leave both days by 3 regardless (school transportation for this week and next!) But Thursday all day. Friday again will be a short day, 1:30-4. Volunteer!

Saturday, still debating. Might take this week off from the Farmer's Market to accommodate some Saturday-Shopping requests and work in the store. Lots to do there anyway with so much going on. See how the week goes... www.freshpickedboutique.com available SOON!!!!

But once the online store is running, things should calm down. If all goes well, I hope to have it at least up for viewing by the end of the week and completed by the end of March... I do take orders over the phone and ship though anytime so just because my "online shopping cart" isn't available to view doesn't mean it is not there.

So, I haven't had any fantastic postings or interesting stories lately and I hope you, as other moms, understand that sometimes life throws us into a whirlpool of demands. I promise as always to accommodate you as best I can including shipping, appointments, coupons, service and I always welcome custom orders! Let me get your gift together so you can get one more thing checked off your own list. And so after all that, I just have this to add:

I also have lots of donations for drop-off and as always, there is a high need in the shelters so if you have anything in nice or fixable condition including infant towels, blankets, bibs, stuff for moms, books or toys, clothing, etc. and don't know what to do with it- give me a call and arrange a time to bring it by (or if you see posted hours for the day any time during those).

Donations to the store welcome as well ;) Anything that we don't need (or sell right away) goes into the donation bins.

Don't forget to purchase a ribbon clippie so I can include some needed cash donations! Want a custom ribbon for your cause? Doing a walk? Etc.? Ask, ask, ask. Let me see what I can do for you.

Women and children often leave with little or nothing and tend to get lost in the system. Keep them safe and comfortable- it is something they might not have been in a long time. Remember, domestic violence comes in all forms and affects all "classes" of people. Being thrown from a "middle-class" lifestyle to being homeless is only one of many transitions and hardships that are endured. Google it. Then look around your house. Most people have at least one toy or never-going-to-wear-those-too-small-pants again or the shower gift that just was not your style! One small item adds up when everyone contributes. I'll do the work- I just need you guys to keep giving. It has been fantastic.
boys to men campaign NYC

National Child Abuse Awareness month is in April. Let's see what Fresh Picked can do to raise awareness on symptoms and signs of child abuse and neglect- and understanding that their is more than one way child abuse is defined. Emotional, intimidation, witnessing abuse, neglect, ignorance, and more all are forms of child abuse. Even when their are no "bruises" to arouse suspicion, their just might be an "inside boo-boo".

Okay, back to work on the site and try and get some sleep. Tuesday and Wednesday the hours are not "set-in-stone" except I do have to have to leave no later than 3. So, if you want to come in I will shuffle my schedule if possible and if not, get you a coupon or offer free shipping. This is the make-it-or-break-it six month point. Got to get the site up! I love the store and so many people shop online, I know we can reach a greater audience and encourage fashion, affordability, recycling of clothing, and other fun stuff and at the same time have a "brick-and-mortar" location that supports other moms. A place to shop in comfort, take a seat, let your little ones read a book and play. Nurse or feed your baby.

Much thanks and love to Shanon for all the hours devoted to creating the layout and design hours to come as it gets perfected (remember, I will have it up and running before it is actually "completed"). Words don't say enough/money doesn't pay enough. Need a site for your business, group, organization, personal use or whatever- I'd love to pass the referral on! Just ask.

I'd like to place the See Kai Run order early this week, so if you wanted a custom order from me now is the time to email/call! I'll also follow up with everyone who had asked (or at least I will attempt to!).

Stay tuned.

It's Friday, I'm In Love: Check out the new merchandise in stock!

`As I mentioned previously, I will be having a booth at the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market again this Saturday (and hopefully thereafter- excluding rain). It seems to be a great venue to market some of my merchandise and get the word out about the store. I thought Saturdays would be a busy day at the store with the people who work during the week, but it seems to be my slowest day!

So, get outdoors. This is San Diego right? There is a ton of stuff there for kids to do and it is one of the most popular and largest Farmer's Market around. Visit their website for more info at http://www.srfm.org/SRFM/Home.html

This week they are having a Treasure Hunt for the kids with prizes, in addition to the other wonderful things there- including a playground :)

I bring mostly new and seasonal items when I go, but if you contact me before 4:00 Fridays I can also pack up any specific requests you might have or meet you afterwards at the Store (2 or 2:30 usually). The Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market is located at EBS Elementary School (the new location is the old Marshall Middle School) and the address is 11778 Cypress Canyon Rd. (92131). Directions available through their web page also- click on find us! And then come and find me there from 9-1.

I am still doing inventory at the store- lots of new items to brag about and as soon as I can I will post more pictures and updates. Regular story time needs to be decided this weekend so I can get it posted in the major magazines and web sites - but it will be at least twice this February.

Lots of Valentines outfits, gifts, and accessories also available right now. I have my two little ones at the store this morning until around lunch so come by and play if you want :) I won't be doing a lot of "work" until after lunch.


Happy Friday!

Happy New Year!

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and is looking forward to a fabulous 2009! I know I'm ready for good things to come.

It's late, so I'll just give a quick update since I have not posted in awhile. The store is open again, regular hours. Except I'm putting 10:30 to 4 for now because I have a ton of stuff to do around the store, my oldest daughter is out of school a few more weeks, and other random things. So I may be in at 10, but assume 10:30. You can always call first if you want to get there early and I can see if I can make arrangements.

Well the new year brought us some new racks to display the merchandise, so excuse the dust as I rearrange the store. I probably won't be taking any buying appointments until everything gets settled and my tags come in (running low and lots to inventory still!). I like to know what I need before making any purchases, but don't hesitate to call. One never knows ;)

I have also spent the last couple weeks mostly away from the store, spending lots of time with the kiddos and family/friends. We had lots of fun destructing the house and breaking out new projects or finishing chores. This was only spoiled by the horrible virus we all caught, but luckily not only was I away from the store (to not contaminate anyone else) but I am now officially finished with my antibiotics and hoping for my energy level to restore to normal. Of course, I never actually stop working for long. I have a huge list from brainstorming that I have been doing and lots of ideas to get started working on.

My New Year's Resolution is to learn to sew and use a sewing/embroidery machine so I can start on the dream of making some of my own items! Sewing is one craft I never tackled with a machine and certainly never mastered it. I'm keeping my eye out for a gently used inexpensive one to start with. Hopefully something will catch my eye!

I would also like to finalize an official story time. I am working on details of day/time/how often. And maybe even having a different theme each time or treat. Hopefully by the end of the week, I'll make a decision and can get it posted in San Diego Family Magazine for a great turnout! I am also trying to figure out if I should continue at the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market and if so, how often to be consistent without compromising too much time away from the store.

And since I never had an official "Grand Opening Party" I would like to do something special in the next month or two. I have had several requests from people interested in teaching a short class about something (such as cloth diapers or nutrition) and also other moms that sell stuff (something fun, practical or different) to host a "party" at the store. It could even be during off hours. The playroom would allow the kids to play eliminating the need for a sitter. And of course, I always welcome small playgroups or meetings by appointment and of course, this includes a group discount. So if your breastfeeding group is branching out or you and some friends want an excuse to shop together without 'mall-meltdown' let me know and we can figure something fun out. Also, I would like to do some good things such as more donations and perhaps a blood drive...

Good Night!

Saturday December 13th Schedule

So... The big question arises. Is it going to rain and when?

If it is raining, or is extremely probable that it will rain I will not be doing the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market on Saturday and instead will be at the store awaiting smart shoppers avoiding the malls on a Saturday in December to do some shopping. It is much to risky to bring merchandise to an outdoor market and have it potentially ruined by the rain.

But if it is not raining, we will be at a nice booth (wearing a really cool scarf probably due to the cold!) with great gift ideas, coupons, and fliers.

Also, we now have gift certificates!

And... Hair Clips (Clippies) and Pacifier Clips. More on their way and pictures to be posted when I have a little time.

Exciting new products. Exciting resale-new-to-you-products. Received some of my new Melissa & Doug toy shipment today. Anxiously awaiting the next one! I'll post some pictures and product names of those also. And of course, the new See Kai Run order should be in before the Holidays also!

But, I also have a great selection of quality used items and clothing for you to choose from. My inventory changes weekly and I do my best to keep up with my customer's requests. I still also have both new and used outfits and accessories for the Holidays and Pictures or Santa Visits. And some of them can really be mixed and matched with other clothing to be reused throughout the year instead of just a one-time-wear. Whichever is right for you.

So be smart and do some holiday shopping or buy a friend a gift certificate at Fresh Picked Boutique. Consistency, Customer Service, Quality and Variety are important goals to me. And you are supporting other moms because at this point all my products come from other moms- even the big vendors of new products were once small ideas by a mom looking for something different.

And while you are there, pick up a copy of Laura Roppe's CD to give to a friend or yourself. Listen to her music at www.lauraroppe.com and see why it is a must-have gift.

And my neighbor La Jolla Picture Frames (see link below) can personalize and frame items of your choice such as shadow boxes, memorabilia (like Jerseys, etc.), rugs, family portraits, etc. He can even spruce up an old photo and preserve it. What a fantastic gift idea. I'm doing one or more myself (shhh.. can't say anymore about that here!)

Also coming soon- awareness ribbons. The Purple Ribbon (my personal choice) which represents all Cancer Survivors, Cancer Awareness & Detection, Cancer Remembrance and Domestic Violence and Child Abuse. Also, Pink Ribbons for Breast Cancer. Once I get the ribbons in and figure out my cost and what I can price them at, I will post pictures of those also and let you know where the donations for each ribbon purchase will go to.

Final note, Dr. Jason at Active Posture Chiropractic Clinic upstairs from me is still accepting donations for Mama's Pantry (see earlier post for more info or contact his office directly at 858-564-7081 or click on the link below). Remember the gift of giving this holiday season. I'm still waiting to see about the Adopt-a-Family from Becky's House and my YWCA donations. Remember, I take donations at ALL TIMES! You can donate directly to me and then in many cases I may even pick up the items or designate the items solely for YWCA/Becky's House Donations and they will be placed in the bin for a family in need.

Ideas? Questions? Comments? Speak up, I'm listening :)