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!

New Arrivals! Hours for Remainder of Week...

Today, Wednesday, I will be working from home trying to sort out this inventory for the web site- among other things that I will write about later, should they become a reality.





I will be in Thursday and Friday, normal hours (10:30-4, Friday perhaps a few minutes later due to volunteering). Saturday, if all goes as planned I will again be at the SRFM. Anything, I can bring, let me know.





Otherwise, I will probably be bringing a selection of my new stuff from Inky Binky Baby. It includes the latest prints for burp cloths, onesies and bibs, along with 1 1/2" and 3" headbands with flowers.





I will also be bringing lots of BabyLegs, Pacifier Clips, Hair Clippies/Corkers/Holders, and some Melissa and Doug toys.





I am pursuing lots of new ideas, affordable boutique items, and different ways to help spread the word about the web site since the store hours are going to be getting complicated because of some daycare issues in the next five weeks. I need to be able to either (a) get something in place for the kids on Tuesdays and Wednesdays- which I'm working my butt off to do! (b) plan activities and shipping, etc. only on those two days or (c) suggestions????





I am also in the process of inventorying a ton of new clothing- various brands, starting with newborn sizes and then going up as the bins get sorted. However, I may just place them on the online store (except for those that have doubles). Everything is older "seasons", but still practical and fashionable! And that also means, about 50% off the original retail price (sometimes more, sometimes a little less....).





We are talking Gymboree, Gap, baby Dior, Baby Lulu (USA), Ralph Lauren, and more. In addition, I actually am adding some great layette basics from lower-end names like Carter's, because I know people are looking for them and who can pass up a great sleeper, brand new, for just a few dollars!





Also, with Spring Break coming up and my chaotic schedule, I will be using Monday-Wednesday for not just appointments/events/playgroups/ideas from customers...., but also to get these donations sorted and to the appropriate shelters in need.





I'd love to bring a larger cash donation- don't forget the Awareness Clippies!





And as for donations, it's not just clothes they are looking for but think of those things around the house that you use everyday and do not realize how vital they are to your routine. Toothbrushes still in packages? Brands of Dental Floss you never opened because it was not the one you meant to buy? Something given to you that was nonreturnable? Diaper bags and backpacks in decent condition that are not something you can sell, but someone could surely use... Or a bag of crayons and some pads of paper. Stickers you have piles of and don't want to throw away but cannot seem to use them up. Feminine products that are unopened because your husband bought the "wrong" brand and you shoved them in the back of the cupboard so you wouldn't hurt his feelings. Unopened baby food (unexpired).





Like I mentioned, April is National Child Abuse Awareness Month. Even if a child is not directly abused in a Domestic Violence situation, they are often victims of abuse in many other ways. By donating to the women and their children in these shelters, you are doing your part in raising awareness that this happens across all economic lines, to your neighbor, your friend, the lady at the grocery store...





If you need assistance or have any questions- give me a call or email!

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.

New Month, New Week, Same ol' craziness!

I am really excited my March ads are out and new products are in. Story time preparations and ideas for more fun. Website in the works. Stuff getting tagged. Inventoried. Prepared for sale. Getting updated customer list for a coupon mailing.

However...

Having some issues working on the web site

Events at the kids school

Doctor's appointments for the little ones

and stuff like that this week.

So...

For all of you, THANK YOU for your continued support through all my recent crazy hours. It will normalize again. It's just right now, with everything I have to rely on my customers calling or reading my blog to get the ins-and-outs of the week.

I will be open this week Tuesday-Saturday (well, if it looks like rain still- otherwise Farmer's Market on Saturday).

However, my hours will vary because I'm not sure of how long each will take.

But I'm always available by phone and email or fill out the comment form below and I will get back as soon as I can!!! Hopefully Tuesday I will be done and at the store by 11; but I have a feeling it will be a little later than that. No idea. Or I might just do what I can and be there by 10:30 and leave a little early.

As soon as the madness settles and the website complications are worked out, things will be routine again. Routine for a mom ;)

I will update more about the story times and answer to group requests and all that as soon as I have a few minutes to get to one at a time. I did get in some new stuff and I still am awaiting some final answers before placing a See Kai Run order so if you haven't gotten in your request and you'd like a special order- lemme know! I can even run cards from home and meet up for appointments this week.

Your continued support is awesome. I really want to get this boutique up and running. And you, my customers and potential customers, are my future!

Military discount offered this week, Tuesday to Saturday (March 3-7). If you call during NORMAL business hours and I am off working on one of the above mentioned things, I can give you a coupon code. Or offer shipping for free. So hang in there with me and I'll pay it forward.

Speaking of, one of the things I need to do is do some drop-offs of the fabulous donations Fresh Picked has received! My donation bin is currently full and if I cannot get a pick-up this week I am going to just do it myself because I need to make room for more. While I'm on the topic of support and donations, not only are the Purple Awareness Ribbon Clippies in, but the Pink ones will be here this week!

Show your support for all cancer survivors and victims of domestic and child abuse with the purple ribbon and if you don't know what the pink ribbon is for by now... ;)

Support with style!

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 :)