Hi Alli could you please do a video on accounting and bookkeeping for your online boutique, taxes and how you pay yourself: when and how often. Please.
Ahhhhh so helpful! Your videos have inspired me to start my own online boutique. I live in NYC, and decided to go to the MAGIC show here next month in the city, but wasn't sure what it was going to be like, but this video helped calm my fears!
Very interesting video Alli. I've been to different trade shows over the years. Every February I attend "Stitches West" at the Santa Clara Convention Center. This trade show is devoted to all things related to the yarn crafts. There are hundreds of vendors there for 3 days and thousands of shoppers. Everything is SO expensive. I rarely buy anything, but it's fun to check out all the booths, meet designers, friends, yarn dyers and other people I've met online. Keep the videos comin'. Love you. XOXO
I love your videos bcuz in about 5 years I plan on opening up my own brick and mortar store, I’m presently saving up for it. You really give a good taste of the life of a boutique owner. Last year I expanded into accessories along with jewelry and people love my inventory so I had a much better year financially this year and I’m growing more confident every day. I’ve been dreaming of having my own brick and mortar business for a very long time, now all I need to do is save my money and in time I will have my first store! I also bought books about the retail industry so that I go in prepared.
Hi Alli, I am soooooooooooooooooooo excited about my visit to MAGIC next month...I hope to see you there this year to thank you in person. It's TRULY been a pleasure and you've been very informative in sharing all there is to know about your experience; tips for us, etc. I just want to say again in case I don't see you there..Thank you. Happy Buying :)
Hey alli! I just found your channel and have been binge watching all your videos, I’ve wanted to start up a online boutique for the longest time but never new where to even start. I look forward to more videos you are such a inspiration
Ahh I made it in your video but I didn’t even notice you sitting right behind me near the dj! I would have loved to met you! You were such a HUGE help to me when I started my online boutique this year. Just wanted to say thank you and I’m glad you had a great show! :)
Allie, thanks you SO much for posting these videos. I live in a small town and am trying to find inspiration for when I open my online boutique and it’s so hard here. You are such a delight to watch and I always learn so much from every video you post! Also, I’m wondering what a good starting amount would be to spend on my first batch of inventory. I dont have much to spend to start up, but I’ve got about $1500 to play with including staring my website, marketing etc. any tips would be so helpful! Thanks!:)
Hey so I actually had a question for you! I'm in the process of buying my domain and getting my licenses! But what would be your recommendations on how to start selling? Do you recommend just picking a few styles for someone that doesn't have a lot of money? Or wait a little longer to purchase more styles? Thanks love your videos!!
Hey girl! Thank you so much for doing these videos- Could you do a video talking about negotiating a wholesale price aspect at a trade show- you showed the denim jacket was $24 and I'm assuming that is the retail price? When is it necessary to negotiate and how do you go about it while still staying on the sales reps good side? Also, do you suggest opening an online store first before a brick and mortar? Thanks!
I've debated for about two years about opening up a children's boutique. I just always felt so lost when it came to how to start, so I'd overwhelm myself and drop the idea. I just wanted to say THANK YOU for your videos. I'm back on track to trying to make this happen by early next year! Any additional tips or advice please message me! For instance qty & size options in different styles should a person purchase?
I just got my first inventory box to open my online boutique any advice? I watch and re watch all your videos I’m in Pennsylvania and terrified to fail I have kids so I have a lot riding on this I have to order all my stuff online I don’t know if I’ll ever get to LA is that okay
Hi Alli! Im a big fan of your videos. Do you buy unbranded apparel or white label clothing for your stores? If not, do you keep the original labels on? Thanks in advance !
Can you also buy for personal use when you are at the Magic Market as well or is it just Wholesale purchase only when you go? Just curious...thank you in advance!
Hi Alli, I've watched several of your videos. I love all your content! Thanks for being so generous with all your knowledge. I would love to open a boutique that carries clothing similar to Lulus/Zara. I'm excited to get started now, but the Magic show isn't until August. Are there trade shows or wholesalers that you recommend I check out in the meantime? Any recs would be greatly appreciated. I live in San Francisco if that helps. Thanks!
Is it strictly adult clothing at those conventions? Are there baby clothes? I’ve been thinking about starting a baby boutique but don’t know how to go about finding whole salers for baby stuff.. help!
Kimberly Perez I normally just ask what their price breaks are. I've been going to Magic for 4 years now and I always ask. Some offer reasonable discounts and some don't, but it never hurts to ask.
Hi Alli, thank you so much for all your informative videos! I'm soon opening my store and Im the process of sourcing clothing brands, shoes, bags etc. I've just check the WWD Magic for 2019 is in AUG. Can you please tell me if there are buyers from other countries? Or for US only? I don't even thing I can attend but I wonder if I did would they be able to ship to South Africa. Thank you so much. xxxx
It was nice to see you there, although you didn't see me! Also, I was glad to say hello on IG, hope you know who I am (poetic boutique). What are the odds with a million people there that I saw you! haha. Thank you for all your info!
Was there Jewelry at the trade show? What was the price point range that you’ve seen there. Thank you for posting the vid and taking us along the journey!
Hi Stephanie. I'm opening an online boutique this October, and I'm starting by buying one "pack" of each style I will be carrying. This is recommended because it's hard to know what your customers will like when you're just getting started, and you don't want to get stuck with a bunch of inventory you can't sell. A typical pack contains a quantity of 6. That's either 2 smalls, 2 mediums, or 2 larges OR sometimes junior sizing goes 3 small, 2 medium, and 1 large. I hope that helps! Good luck!
Hi Alli! I went to Magic this year as well-my first time! I had a question for you. A well known individual named Mercedes Gonzalez held a couple of new store seminars that I attended. However, she HATES online stores and says that they're not profitable. I was kind of skeptical of this because I know you and many others have started with online stores first as well. I was wondering whether you could give me your perspective on online vs. brick and mortar either by replying to this comment or a personal message. Thank you SO much for your time and I LOVE your videos and store!
catherinecuti3 hey there. HUMBLY responding, I think online is a great start.. you'll make mistakes, learn from them and take those lessons with you when it's brick and mortar time.. online is the precious pregnancy...brick and mortar is the banging birth...lets get it!!! No turning back...💖 hope all is well on this day, now that I've butted all up in your conversation... I'm sorry. Just trying to encourage us all..🤗
not trying to be rude with this question I'm just curious, it seems like you only carry to size XL ( maybe?) is there a reason to do that? I would think the plus size market would be great. Just wondering.
Hi Joy. I don't own a brick and mortar but I can tell you that it will really depend on the area that you live and what type of property you plan to rent from. Location is everything for retail so I would recommend to save a little more to get storefront in a busy shopping center. I would start by Googling the rent of commercial properties in areas you're interested in. Inventory costs will vary depending on how much and what you want to sell. Typical markup is on average maybe 2.5 times what you paid for the item wholesale (so if you want to sell Tops in your store for an average $50.00, you will probably pay $20 for it wholesale). There are other costs of course but I think rent and inventory will be your biggest expenses. Many people get business loans to help in the beginning. I hope this helps!
catherinecuti3 thank you so much! Yes this was very helpful. I'm a designer so at the moment I'm getting designs manufactured in LA and looking for a store space in a year .
Hey Allie! I’m starting my online store soon in hopes of earning/saving enough money through that to open my brick and mortar dream store! I’ve been binge watching your videos and they inspire me SO much. I have 2 questions.. 1) did you take out a loan to fund your business at all or were you able to self finance? Or just racked up credit card debt? 2) do you have any marketing tips on how to grow your insta account or other ways to drive traffic to your store/website?
Fontisha Yarborough I want to know like which camera and lighting is best to use and how to resize photos for the website. I don't know how to resize my photos for my website
Plant based yes me too!! I wasn't ignoring you.. ok I think Ali briefly touched on that topic. or maybe it was jance... I gotta dig back..hmmm.. I'll find something for us hold up.. O BTW.. HEY GIRL HEEEY😁 Hope all is well on this day... I'm staying in bed researching alllday... fibromyalgia has me bummed 😥
Ali you need to reach out to your mentee.... 😁😁 ME. I've officially bullied begged trantrumed!! I'm displaying HEALTHY adolescent behavior.. for attention...💖😇
Hi Alli could you please do a video on accounting and bookkeeping for your online boutique, taxes and how you pay yourself: when and how often. Please.
Can you please do more a day in the life of a boutique owner
Ahhhhh so helpful! Your videos have inspired me to start my own online boutique. I live in NYC, and decided to go to the MAGIC show here next month in the city, but wasn't sure what it was going to be like, but this video helped calm my fears!
Very interesting video Alli. I've been to different trade shows over the years. Every February I attend "Stitches West" at the Santa Clara Convention Center. This trade show is devoted to all things related to the yarn crafts. There are hundreds of vendors there for 3 days and thousands of shoppers. Everything is SO expensive. I rarely buy anything, but it's fun to check out all the booths, meet designers, friends, yarn dyers and other people I've met online. Keep the videos comin'. Love you. XOXO
Yay! I get so excited when I see an upload from you! I hope to make it to the trade show next year when I boutique takes off!
so excited for a new video!! please do more like this, i love seeing behind the scenes stuff for wholesale!
So glad to hear that!
I'm loving your videos! The best on boutique ownership thus far. I'm excited to get started now!
Ugh! I CANT WAIT FOR THIS PART LOL thanks for uploading these types of videos! wish I found you before I started my business
Dyed laughing when you showed the Trump building😂.. I love your hair.. Color is 👍🏽
I love your videos bcuz in about 5 years I plan on opening up my own brick and mortar store, I’m presently saving up for it. You really give a good taste of the life of a boutique owner. Last year I expanded into accessories along with jewelry and people love my inventory so I had a much better year financially this year and I’m growing more confident every day. I’ve been dreaming of having my own brick and mortar business for a very long time, now all I need to do is save my money and in time I will have my first store! I also bought books about the retail industry so that I go in prepared.
Hi Alli, I am soooooooooooooooooooo excited about my visit to MAGIC next month...I hope to see you there this year to thank you in person. It's TRULY been a pleasure and you've been very informative in sharing all there is to know about your experience; tips for us, etc. I just want to say again in case I don't see you there..Thank you. Happy Buying :)
so cute! glad you had fun!! loved all the pieces you're going to add for your stores!
Girrrllll, you're in my top 5 to watch. I saw some snippets of this on your IG story. Can't wait to see what you purchase.
Hey alli! I just found your channel and have been binge watching all your videos, I’ve wanted to start up a online boutique for the longest time but never new where to even start.
I look forward to more videos you are such a inspiration
LOVE YOUR VIDEOS!.....Thank You for sharing your expertise!
Ahh I made it in your video but I didn’t even notice you sitting right behind me near the dj! I would have loved to met you! You were such a HUGE help to me when I started my online boutique this year. Just wanted to say thank you and I’m glad you had a great show! :)
6:21: BAHAHAHA!!! I'm with you on that girl. LOL 😂😂
I love your black shirt,Thank you for the vlog ! Ive always dreamed of having a boutique of my own. Your tips have been very helpful.
Allie, thanks you SO much for posting these videos. I live in a small town and am trying to find inspiration for when I open my online boutique and it’s so hard here. You are such a delight to watch and I always learn so much from every video you post! Also, I’m wondering what a good starting amount would be to spend on my first batch of inventory. I dont have much to spend to start up, but I’ve got about $1500 to play with including staring my website, marketing etc. any tips would be so helpful! Thanks!:)
I know clothing usually comes in 6 count. How do you purchase shoes? How many are required per style?
Hey so I actually had a question for you! I'm in the process of buying my domain and getting my licenses! But what would be your recommendations on how to start selling? Do you recommend just picking a few styles for someone that doesn't have a lot of money? Or wait a little longer to purchase more styles? Thanks love your videos!!
She yeah uhm.. "no comment" 😂💕 love watching your channel. You are so inspiring!
Hey girl! Thank you so much for doing these videos- Could you do a video talking about negotiating a wholesale price aspect at a trade show- you showed the denim jacket was $24 and I'm assuming that is the retail price? When is it necessary to negotiate and how do you go about it while still staying on the sales reps good side? Also, do you suggest opening an online store first before a brick and mortar? Thanks!
Thank you Alli for this video ❤️
Hi Alli, can you please do a video on pricing merchandise and more of the buying details?
Hi Alli, how much inventory would you recommend starting off with and in what category ie: dresses, tops, bottoms, etc.?
I can’t wait to go to go one day 💕💕💕 thanks for sharing
LOLOLOLOLOLOLOL I DIIIIIIED AT THE TT ZOOM IN “um. Yeah. No comment.” Same girl 😂
I spotted you too! You were a busy bee! You looked gorgeous as always, xo
I will be there this weekend! Any recommendations on where I should go? What shows to see?🤗
I've debated for about two years about opening up a children's boutique. I just always felt so lost when it came to how to start, so I'd overwhelm myself and drop the idea. I just wanted to say THANK YOU for your videos. I'm back on track to trying to make this happen by early next year! Any additional tips or advice please message me! For instance qty & size options in different styles should a person purchase?
We tried the upgrade thing too. They did I fact upgrade us... but it ended up being more of a downgrade lmao. I will try it again next time.
Hey alli, thank you for the video.. have you ever gone to magic in February? Do you know if the trip is still worth it then?
Was the name of the brand you mentioned spelt like "brixton"?
😂 no comment to trump tower 😶
A video on important questions to ask wholesalers might be cool
Do you pay when you place your order or do they invoice you?
I just got my first inventory box to open my online boutique any advice? I watch and re watch all your videos I’m in Pennsylvania and terrified to fail I have kids so I have a lot riding on this I have to order all my stuff online I don’t know if I’ll ever get to LA is that okay
Would you recommend going for kids fashion?
Hi Alli! Im a big fan of your videos. Do you buy unbranded apparel or white label clothing for your stores? If not, do you keep the original labels on? Thanks in advance !
I want a video on how to price your merchandise, online & in store if different
! PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE (crying face)
Soooooo cool. Are you going this year August 2019?
Hi Ali! Loved the vlog! Would you recommend starting as an LLC?
Can you also buy for personal use when you are at the Magic Market as well or is it just Wholesale purchase only when you go? Just curious...thank you in advance!
Hi Alli, I've watched several of your videos. I love all your content! Thanks for being so generous with all your knowledge. I would love to open a boutique that carries clothing similar to Lulus/Zara. I'm excited to get started now, but the Magic show isn't until August. Are there trade shows or wholesalers that you recommend I check out in the meantime? Any recs would be greatly appreciated. I live in San Francisco if that helps. Thanks!
can you do a video on how you price your items
That’s true, they do it at my job
Is it strictly adult clothing at those conventions? Are there baby clothes? I’ve been thinking about starting a baby boutique but don’t know how to go about finding whole salers for baby stuff.. help!
You should do a video on how you hire your workers
Can you do a video on how to possibly ask for discounts when buying from wholesale companies ?
Kimberly Perez I normally just ask what their price breaks are.
I've been going to Magic for 4 years now and I always ask. Some offer reasonable discounts and some don't, but it never hurts to ask.
Hi Alli, thank you so much for all your informative videos! I'm soon opening my store and Im the process of sourcing clothing brands, shoes, bags etc. I've just check the WWD Magic for 2019 is in AUG. Can you please tell me if there are buyers from other countries? Or for US only? I don't even thing I can attend but I wonder if I did would they be able to ship to South Africa. Thank you so much. xxxx
It was nice to see you there, although you didn't see me! Also, I was glad to say hello on IG, hope you know who I am (poetic boutique). What are the odds with a million people there that I saw you! haha. Thank you for all your info!
Is the “tip to upgrade “thing just a Vegas thing ? Or anywhere lmao
The tip story 😂😂😂
Have you ever seen any plus size vendors there or in the fashion district in LA?
Nikki Jay great questions
I look like I’m going to the beach right now and I don’t even care 😂😂😂
Was there Jewelry at the trade show? What was the price point range that you’ve seen there. Thank you for posting the vid and taking us along the journey!
Janky Patel yes there was tons of jewelry this year!
I have a question how do you pay yourself as an online boutique owner? Whats the best way to do it so that it can be a full-time thing
Eva Nicol yes! I wanna know too :)
Same
what types of items and how much should you buy of each if you are just starting out with an online boutique?
Hi Stephanie. I'm opening an online boutique this October, and I'm starting by buying one "pack" of each style I will be carrying. This is recommended because it's hard to know what your customers will like when you're just getting started, and you don't want to get stuck with a bunch of inventory you can't sell. A typical pack contains a quantity of 6. That's either 2 smalls, 2 mediums, or 2 larges OR sometimes junior sizing goes 3 small, 2 medium, and 1 large. I hope that helps! Good luck!
Alli, Are you coming to Magic this year??? I'd love to meet you!
Allí, where did you get your neon sign??
Etsy
FIRST🤗
Hi Alli! I went to Magic this year as well-my first time! I had a question for you. A well known individual named Mercedes Gonzalez held a couple of new store seminars that I attended. However, she HATES online stores and says that they're not profitable. I was kind of skeptical of this because I know you and many others have started with online stores first as well. I was wondering whether you could give me your perspective on online vs. brick and mortar either by replying to this comment or a personal message. Thank you SO much for your time and I LOVE your videos and store!
catherinecuti3 hey there. HUMBLY responding, I think online is a great start.. you'll make mistakes, learn from them and take those lessons with you when it's brick and mortar time.. online is the precious pregnancy...brick and mortar is the banging birth...lets get it!!! No turning back...💖 hope all is well on this day, now that I've butted all up in your conversation... I'm sorry. Just trying to encourage us all..🤗
As someone who is a busy working mom. I buy 80% of my clothing online. I do love to look and try on but life happens and I just don’t have time.
catherinecuti3 Did you ever hear from Alli via DM? Was wondering what she said. Thx!
To go is it free? And can you bring anybody you want? :)
not trying to be rude with this question I'm just curious, it seems like you only carry to size XL ( maybe?) is there a reason to do that? I would think the plus size market would be great. Just wondering.
playlulusim I only carry Small, medium or large. XL’s and above don’t sell well in my store!
thank you! :)
Can anyone answer please. Prior to getting a brick and motar store how much is required to save?
Hi Joy. I don't own a brick and mortar but I can tell you that it will really depend on the area that you live and what type of property you plan to rent from. Location is everything for retail so I would recommend to save a little more to get storefront in a busy shopping center. I would start by Googling the rent of commercial properties in areas you're interested in. Inventory costs will vary depending on how much and what you want to sell. Typical markup is on average maybe 2.5 times what you paid for the item wholesale (so if you want to sell Tops in your store for an average $50.00, you will probably pay $20 for it wholesale). There are other costs of course but I think rent and inventory will be your biggest expenses. Many people get business loans to help in the beginning. I hope this helps!
catherinecuti3 thank you so much! Yes this was very helpful. I'm a designer so at the moment I'm getting designs manufactured in LA and looking for a store space in a year .
Hey Allie! I’m starting my online store soon in hopes of earning/saving enough money through that to open my brick and mortar dream store! I’ve been binge watching your videos and they inspire me SO much. I have 2 questions.. 1) did you take out a loan to fund your business at all or were you able to self finance? Or just racked up credit card debt?
2) do you have any marketing tips on how to grow your insta account or other ways to drive traffic to your store/website?
Did you get to open your store as yet?
Can you do a video about taking photos for the website?
Yes plant based.. I wanna see that also🤗
Fontisha Yarborough I thought I was the only one😁 I hope alli see my comment
Plant based nope... I like the flat lay look. I'm imaging it's fairly easy. But my corky self will make it more difficult than it probably is.. lol..
Fontisha Yarborough I want to know like which camera and lighting is best to use and how to resize photos for the website. I don't know how to resize my photos for my website
Plant based yes me too!! I wasn't ignoring you.. ok I think Ali briefly touched on that topic. or maybe it was jance... I gotta dig back..hmmm.. I'll find something for us hold up.. O BTW.. HEY GIRL HEEEY😁 Hope all is well on this day... I'm staying in bed researching alllday... fibromyalgia has me bummed 😥
I'm early
What hotel were you at? We were just there for a conference at the Mandalay and want to try a new hotel next year. Your room looks amazing 😍
I stayed at the Venetian!
The Delano is such a beautiful hotel ! I highly recommend it 😊
Hi Alli ! How did you actually open your storefront ? Did you find investors ? I’m trying to do the same thing ? Any advice ? Btw Your soo inspiring 😊
Tiffany Fara she saved. There’s a video explaining
I LOVE THE TRUMP TOWER ZOOM IN👍🏼
And all your videos Alli❤️
Heey Al boogie!! Missed ya😄
Fontisha Yarborough al boogie 😂 I missed you!!
Ali you need to reach out to your mentee.... 😁😁 ME. I've officially bullied begged trantrumed!! I'm displaying HEALTHY adolescent behavior.. for attention...💖😇
hahahaha "yea, no comment" lmao
Visit us at WWC MAGIC SHOW VEGAS booth 77030 it would be our first year there,
OMG I didnt know you did youtube. This is your neice or brother ryans daughter ABBY
One love from @treehuggernation
Vegas is Hot!
I have so many questions but it looks like she never replied 😭😭😭
kirsty 😞 right