Just a couple of weeks after reporting that Anthropologie has added a personal shopping service at its 50th and France store, Edina-based Hot Mama has created a similar program at all of its Twin Cities locations (Edina, St. Paul, Wayzata, Maple Grove). The store that tries to make shopping do-able with kids – offering toys and snacks – is now taking simplicity to the next level, allowing customers to call ahead with their wants and needs and show up to find options waiting in a fitting room. And same as department stores, there’s no charge for the service and no obligation to buy. Just another sign that boutiques are recognizing they need to distinguish their service to be successful. Wonder which one will be next to jump on the bandwagon.
Tags: anthropologie, Hot Mama, personal shopper, personal shopper minneapolis, personal shopper Twin Cities, personal shopping, personal shopping service, stylist minneapolis, twin cities shopping
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Not necessarily jumping on the bandwagon, but Second Debut also has offered this service all along. If you have a favorite designer or certain item you are looking for, our staff will give you a call when something comes in that fits your needs. Since we get merchandise daily, it’s possible you will have what you want in no time. We’ve seen it happen before: a customer was looking for a “seat belt bag” and we got one in later the same day. Just stop by and let the staff know what you are interested in finding.
I work at a store called Martin’s and they have two locations, Excelsior and Wayzata. One of the main things that sets us apart is our customer service and personal attention. We even have our customers bring in their own wardrobe so we can match things and update them. We have a call list for people that want to be called when certain things come in. Also we set up appointments with the owner/buyer so she can outfit people also and do special orders. I think personal shopping should be a given with boutiques.