Opened April 4, 2012 by Kim Capece and Clara Nunziato, Augusta Mae Boutique in Cranford has received big time props from many folks, including being voted the #1 consignment shop in North Jersey from New Jersey Monthly magazine. Kim and Clara found a few moments to sit down to answer some questions for our shopping issue.
Q: Five years is a tremendous milestone! What has brought you success here in Cranford?
A: In the last five years, Cranford’s downtown has been revitalized. From the shops to the restaurants, there is always nice foot traffic. We have also had great support from the Cranford Downtown Business & Economic Development Office; their commitment to Cranford and creating events has definitely helped with our success.
Q: What really draws in the fashionistas? What are some of your popular items?
A: Jewelry, scarves, hats, it’s endless. A true fashionista can take a simple black t-shirt, and create a different look with her accessories. We love to see that!
Q: Your locally themed items are a big hit. What are some of your favorites?
A: Love where you live! Custom zip codes are a hit! From our pillows to our key chains, t-shirts and dishtowels, we have lots of ways to display your local love! Our New Jersey opal necklace has been a favorite to our college girls who were headed out of state!
Q: The world of consignment has grown tremendously. Why do you think that’s the case?
A: Reuse, Recycle, Repurpose, three words we embraced when we opened 5 years ago. Consignment is a great way to sell an unwanted piece, while searching for a good find!
Q: What styles and/or designers are some of your favorites to source?
A: On the consignment end, we are always looking for designer handbags, i.e. Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Marc Jacobs, Tory Burch and many others. As far as the boutique, we are drawn to the companies that give back. Chavez for Charity, Little Words Project, Banded Headbands are some of our favorites.
Q: What can folks expect this Holiday Season and beyond?
A: Wrapped and ready to go…our boutique is filled with customer favorites, such as our Noel candle, as well as new items that you will see trending this holiday. Katie Loxton sentiment pouches have already been a great seller and we are expecting it to be one of our most popular this season. Swig hydration wine tumblers are another fun gift. Our customers love the variety of colors and the fact that you can customize them, makes it even a little more special! We are excited to be welcoming the designers from Powerbeads by Jen, Our Whole Heart and MAS Designs Jewelry for truck shows this holiday season. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram to find out the dates and times for these events.
Q: Where did the name Augusta Mae come from?
A: We get this question a lot. Augusta Mae is named after our grandmothers, who were very special to us. That’s probably why, when you walk into our boutique you get a warm happy feeling. Our staff of ladies, most of who came to us in high school, are available to offer great gift giving ideas, as well as complimentary wrapping, which is something our customers love! We are grateful to Cranford and the surrounding communities for making Augusta Mae their place to find the perfect gift both during the holidays and throughout the year!
Q: Besides your store, what’s one of your favorite places to shop in the area?
A: We are all about Shop Small! We love supporting our local businesses as well as getting to know the owners.
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