Shopping is always a favorite pastime of mine, and part of living in San Diego means shopping in beautiful places. Once of those places is a shop in Downtown’s Gaslamp District called Bubbles Boutique. I first was introduced to Bubbles Boutique when I attended my first San Diego Style Bloggers event last year (original post here), and it’s where I met and befriended one of my favorite independent jewelry designers, Suki of Suki Bijoux. Other than the fabulous fashions and accessories, I simply adore the eclectic décor. There are so many delicate details and it reminds me of a lovely French boudoir.
I visited Bubbles Boutique again last Saturday, and after some much-needed retail therapy, I chatted with owner Gayleen Nichols about her fabulously sophisticated, yet fun and unique boutique.
How long have you owned your own boutique, and how did you get started in the business?
I have been in business for over 10 years. The idea of opening a retail shop came when a friend opened a franchise shop called Splash Bath & Body. I fell in love with the concept and the products. I took a leap of faith and left my corporate property management job, sold everything and moved to San Diego from Long Beach.
How did you come to the decision to own your own boutique/business? How did you come up with the name of your boutique?
After 2 years it became apparent I would need to sell more to keep the doors open. This was against the franchise guidelines so we parted ways and I became Bubbles…a Unique Boutique.
What would you say is your “style” and how is that reflected in what you have to offer?
What has emerged after 10 years is a new tag line that speaks my style: “Eclectic fashion for every mood”.
I think fashion is an expression of our thoughts and feelings. Somedays I want to be funky , retro, biker chic and Audry Hepburn. I don’t believe one has to dress the same every single day. Mixing it up keeps it fresh and fun!
I buy with an eye for the unusual. You know…that keeper piece in the closet. I receive many compliments every day about what a fun shop and customers often thank us for having a really fun shopping experience.
How do you choose who to feature in your store as far as independent designers/jewelers are concerned?
A big part of my niche market is featuring over a dozen local artists who create amazing jewelry and accessories. My business is driven largely by tourism and it is exciting to offer keepsakes other than San Diego shirts and mugs.
Suki Bijoux
What do you like best about what you do?
I love what I do because it provides an outlet for the creative side in me. I put much energy into merchandising in a fun way that is enjoyed by my customers.
I am blessed each and every day with the opportunity to meet people from all parts of the world. The reward is in helping women feel awesome about themselves and encouraging them to step outside the fashion rut box.
I absolutely love, love, LOVE this display!
Thank you Gayleen for taking the time to chat with me! After you shop til you drop at Bubbles Boutique, please make sure to stay connected with them through their official site, Facebook page and on Instagram.
226 5th Ave., San Diego, CA 92101 619-236-9003
