The Good Customer

Writing this post on Orla Kiely (Hong Kong) has been on my “to-do” list for some time now. Sadly, by the time I got around to it, I found out that the boutique had closed it’s doors here in Hong Kong. Sniff Sniff!

To pay homage to their “once” Hong Kong store, I hereby post this entry.

I’ve been a admirable fan of the kitschy, 60s -inspired line, Orla Kiely. Faring from the UK, this brand is most notably known for it’s bright and colourful line of handbags, clothing, housewares, and linens. High quality materials coupled with whimsical designs, these products are sure to inspire your playful yet feminine side.

Up until last year (2009), Orla Kiely had 2 boutiques in Hong Kong. After the closure of it’s Times Square (Causeway Bay) location, only one remained in Hong Kong – the boutique in Central on Wyndham Street.

I have patronized both locations and have always been impressed with the service. Sales personnel are not condescending and seem genuinely willing to assist with any questions or suggestions. And let me tell you, this type of service can be hard to come by within the confines of this bustling city.

The real bonus for all you fans of this label – is the price!!! If you have shopped in the UK or the USA for Orly Kiely products, you will be pleasantly surprised to know that most of their products are sold for LESS in Hong Kong.

Another tip is, the boutique in Hong Kong consistently have promotions or sales – and they are indeed fabulous. Unfortunately, this boutique does not advertise these sales and therefore we, as consumers, are forced to check in periodically, for promotions. But who’s complaining? I love a reason to shop! Yes, even window shopping counts.

Before it’s closure on February 28, 2010, the store had a closing out sale. Items were being sold for below cost!!! Initially I felt that I had missed a great opportunity, but upon reflection, it’s probably for the best…. I’m sure I heard my pocketbook heave a big sigh of relief. For all you that made it out to the sale, I hope you procured some fabulous deals.

To my fellow Orla Kiely fans, a moment of silence for our dear friend ….

If anyone should know of where to purchase products from this brand in Hong Kong now, please drop us a comment. I know it would be much appreciated.

Popularity: 4% [?]

~Beecher's~

WHAT? : Beechers Handmade Cheese. An artisan cheese shop specializing in their own line of handcrafted cheeses.

WHY? : Uses all natural ingredients and milk from local single-herd dairies in the production of their cheeses. What does this mean? No artificial preservatives. No bovine growth hormones. Greater control over quality and purity of milk.

A neat little shop where you can witness the process of cheese-making. Then head on over to the food counter to try their famous “World’s Best” Mac & Cheese, grilled-to-order sandwiches, or homemade soup. On your way out don’t forget to pick up some of their “flagship reserve cheese”, named America’s Best Cheddar (2007) by the American Cheese Society. Lots of souvenirs, cheese supplies, and cookbooks to choose from as well.

WHERE? : 1600 Pike Place,  Seattle, WA,  USA   (206) 956-1964       www.beechershandmadecheese.com

Popularity: 4% [?]

WHAT? :  Front & Company

WHY? : While their main business is clothing – new, samples, and consignment, Front also has an adjacent retail space that focuses on gifts. In this store, you will find cute stationary, home accessories, and kids stuff. The real gem here is their fabulous selection of greeting cards. This is not your neighbourhood Hallmark. Expect to find unique cards for every genre and occasion. Many of these cards are created by local/worldwide designers. A wonderful store for the discerning card shopper!

WHERE? : 3772 Main Street, Vancouver BC, V5V 3N7  Canada

www.frontandcompany.ca

Popularity: 2% [?]

~Kim's Mart~

 

What : Kim’s Mart

Why :

• Grocery store in Mount Pleasant specializing in Asian fare.
• Offers fresh produce, seafood, loads of instant noodles, cute confectionary, Korean delicacies, Asian sauces & spices.
• Competive pricing
• Alternative to Chinatown grocers or mega Asian market – T&T

Where :

591 E Broadway
Vancouver, BC V5T
(604) 872-8885

Popularity: 2% [?]

 

Attention: For all you lovers of this yoga inspired  clothing and accessories brand…. the old location of the outlet on 1945 McLean Drive in Vancouver has moved. The new address is 110-5566 Trapp Avenue, Burnaby, BC

 

 

At this location, the store is a bit more spacious. However, the amount of inventory is about the same as the previous locale. Expect to see about 2-3 racks of clothing per size  – 2 racks of XS-S (or 2-4), 2 racks of M (or 6-8), so on and so forth.

I’m not entirely sold on the markdowns in their outlet – as most items are only $10-$30 off. You can find great deals on their seasonal items, like hot pink yoga pants. But more timeless pieces are not far off from their original price.

As with the old location, I’ve always found the staff to be really friendly and most notably, very down to earth. The personnel know their products – very important. And if challenged with a question or problem, they will try their best to find the appropriate answer.

I often find myself asking for the staff’s advice on the fit and suitability of garments. I’ve never been disappointed with their suggestions and value their opinion.

Spacious store = comfortable shopping environment

Friendly staff = enjoyable shopping experience

Popularity: 1% [?]