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After a career in fashion buying, Paula Alves and her husband moved to Marion to start a family and be closer to relatives. As her children grew, she dreamed of owning her own consignment boutique. Now, Paula’s Posh Picks at 288 East Church Street is celebrating its five-year anniversary this May.
“I love the hunt to find the best price and not pay retail,” Alves said. “I love couture brands. I’ve always loved great deals.”
For Alves, it was a dream that came true when she opened her store in the building with Booming Blessings Tea & Treasure.
“It was like providence,” Alves said.
The store offers tops, bottoms, formal wear, prom gowns, athleisure, suits, dresses, pants, sweaters, hats, handbags, jewelry and accessories.
“I specialize in couture brands and better brands because they have great quality and resale value. I carry just about everything you could need from size 0 to 4X,” Alves said.
More than 165 consigners from six states provide items that are previously loved.
“I have a lot of fabulous pieces from spectacular closets!” Alves said. “They love that there are unique, one-of-a-kind finds.”
Shopper Christy Caryer said that is one reason she keeps coming back.
“I love that I can style myself and no one will show up to an event wearing the same thing. As a fashion collector, that’s important,” Caryer said. “Who wants to pay full retail for a piece you wear once?”
“My shoppers love that you can get five items for the price of one at retail price. You don’t have to drive to Columbus or pay for gas,” Alves said. “I always have a discount rack of $15 and under, too. There’s something for everybody.”
Alves takes consignment as well as donations.
“I like to give back to the community. A part of the proceeds of donated items go to Turning Point (a local domestic violence shelter),” Alves said.
Seeing Marion develop over the last 20 years, Alves is excited about Marion’s progress and direction.
“Being a part of the downtown, I feel Marion’s come a long way even since I’ve been open. I feel Marion has a lot of potential and is on the right path,” Alves said.
The biggest win for Alves is customers who support local instead of online discount shops.
“I wish more people would come and give us a try first,” Alves said. “We appreciate those who support local and shop local.”
“It’s like antique shopping – you never know what you will find until you look!” Caryer said. “You never know what treasure you will find.”
Alves and Booming Blessings Tea are partnering for a spring fling on April 17 and 18. Join them for a luncheon and tea from Booming Blessings, followed by a fashion show to demonstrate the newest spring trends. The fun includes discounts and giveaways. Tickets are $20.
“It’s perfect for a Mother’s Day outing,” Alves said.
Alves is also partnering with the Women’s Club Home for a brunch and fashion just before Mother’s Day on May 9 at 10 a.m. in the WCH auditorium.
Beyond the spring events, Alves creates and rents her original “Designed by Paula” Derby Hat collection.
“Each one is a winner!’ she said.
This article originally appeared on Marion Star: Paula’s Posh Picks celebrates five years as this week’s MarionMade!
Reporting by Special to Marion Star, Marion Star / Marion Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
