Friday, September 30, 2011

Blog Update: Cirque La Chique, Nordstrom, Tory Burch, Judith Bright, and Bourbon Tours

I returned to work yesterday after a much-needed break where staycation 2011 ensued. Other than completing a few assignments for class, and a trip back to Lexington, KY to visit friends and family, I spent the majority of my time doing things I rarely have a chance to do: watch movies, read books, grab drinks with friends, and do a little shopping. Of course, I updated Nashville Fashion Blog with upcoming events and local happenings, but I admit, I haven’t been on my blogging game. So, here it is. A recap of recent events, fashion and non-fashion related.



Recently, I attended the Cirque La Chique fashion show sponsored by Shop La Chique. Several of my students worked the event, and had an absolute blast. The circus themed event featured hula hoopers, jugglers, cotton candy cocktails, fashionable clothing, and circus-inspired hair and makeup. Other than some technical problems with the sound, the event was fun, lighthearted, and entertaining. I enjoyed my pink cocktail and watching the show from the sidelines. Although there are much better pictures on Shop La Cique’s Facebook page, I snapped a couple I thought I’d post. I only had my purse-size camera on me, but I like the artistic and dark feel of these photographs, with the spotlight and photographers on the models. 








I also had a chance to visit the new Nordstrom and attend the Tory Burch grand opening at the Green Hills Mall. I didn’t snap any photos at Nordstrom and the TB crew banned me from picture taking, but photos from Nordstrom, at least, are featured on several local websites. Unfortunately I was working (so much for that vacation, right?) and was unable to attend the opening day at Nordstrom, but day 2 was equally as enthralling.



Nordstrom, I love you. You carry the Chanel purses I adore. You let me touch the Miu Miu glitter booties I have been obsessing with. You adorned me in Yves St. Laurent. You break my heart, and I will never afford you. I would love to pretend I had a disposable $945 to purchase the sapphire blue Manolo Blahnik’s I was drooling over. But, I know it’ll never happen. At least, not any time soon. Despite this, I was enthralled with the new store; specifically, the visual merchandising is on point. Sometimes even more than the clothing and accessories themselves, I go totally nuts for the visual aesthetics of a store. I literally stood and stared at these two exquisite Chanel mannequins for an uncomfortable amount of time. Even I started to feel weirded out. The store is clean, bright, and beautifully decorated. I’m in visual heaven.





The new Tory Burch store was equally as beautiful. I was greeted at the door with a glass of champagne and my choice of a cupcake or cookie decorated with the iconic TB logo. The store was pretty packed so I had a difficult time maneuvering around the small space. While many women around the mall were sporting large TB orange bags, I’m sure filled with purses, shoes, and clothing, I quickly purchased a beautiful pair of black-rimmed Tory Burch sunglasses. This could easily be my new favorite pair.

Rounded Sunglasses with Studded Logo - $149.00


I also swung by my favorite jewelry retailer, Judith Bright, to use my Nashville Lifestyles Chic Week Shopping pass to save 20% on a pair of gold organic cluster earrings. What I love so much about this darling store is that all merchandise is hand-crafted at their Green Hills location. I hit up the store, informed the salesclerk of my intended purchase, wherein she said to me, “Oh, we’re actually out of that style right now. But, I can make a pair for you while you’re shopping, so come back in ten minutes and you can pick them up.” Uh, retail win! How often do you go shopping, fall in love with an item, only to discover they don’t have your size or color? So, yeah, its pretty sweet when a store can just whip up another item on the spot. Love me some Judith Bright. Frrl.


14 GF Organic Cluster Earrings $73

Last of my Green Hills Mall trip, I hit up our local Macy’s to see Jay McCarroll speak to the latest fashion trends. I arrived when there was some style competition between a few local girls dressing models for the upcoming Fall season; Jay critiqued each outfit, offering his audience tips for fashionable style for the colder months. I was surprised that only around forty or fifty patrons were gathered around; I expected a larger audience. I believe there was an opportunity for a meet and greet after the style marathon, but I had to head out and move on before I had the chance.





I also spent a weekend at my old stomping grounds, Lexington, KY, to reconnect with old friends and family.  It was a much-needed weekend eating at my favorite late night spots, having cocktails at my favorite bar, and touring my all-time favorite distillery. I’m from Kentucky, so you better believe I’m a bourbon girl. Woodford Reserve, located about 20 minutes from Lexington and on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, is planted on beautiful rolling hills and nestled between some seriously epic horse farms. My boyfriend had never been, so I figured we’d hit up a tour, eat some complimentary bourbon balls, and sip our complimentary shot of whiskey. If you’re ever in the mood for a road trip, I highly suggest you hit that spot up.

 Bubbling yeast. You can see the dude's hand in the corner to understand the dimensions of this container. Frrl.


Barrels of Woodford Reserve bourbon whiskey. And yes, this room smells like heaven.


This week, I’ve been engulfed in preparation for the upcoming quarter of teaching (school starts Monday). I am anticipating attending much of the nD Festival to benefit the Belcourt Theatre and received an invitation to Vanderbilt’s Scene and Heard Fashion Show on Saturday. Should be fun, and I hope to see you there. Until the next blog update! 


photo credit:
Nordstrom - http://bridgettezzard.blogspot.com/2011/09/nordstroms-nashville-opening-night.html

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Blush Benefit Fashion Show: October 21, 2011


Blush Boutique will be hosting another charitable fashion show on October 21, 2011 at the Red Rooster (1530 Demonbruen Street). Here are some of the details:

Sponsored by Blush Boutiques, Red Rooster Nashville, Skyy Vodka, and the Alpha Chi Omega Chapter at Vanderbilt University.
 
Date: Friday, October 21, 2011
Venue: Red Rooster
           1530 Demonbreuen St
           Nashville, TN 37203
Schedule: 8pm-10pm Happy Hour with Blush inspired cocktails
               10pm-11pm Fashion Show to benefit domestic violence victims
               11pm After Party sponsored by Blush Boutiques and Red Rooster Nashville
Tickets: $10.00 can be purchased at Blush Boutiques before the show and at the door
Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Bridges Women's Shelter in Franklin, TN

Junior League of Nashville's Tis the Season Marketplace: November 18-20, 2011


 I'm a huge fan of the  Junior League of Nashville, "an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers."  I even inquired about becoming a member last year. Unfortunately, I realized that with teaching, school, friends, blogging, etc., I do not have time right now. However, I do look forward to joining this organization in the future. 

Every year, the Junior League of Nashville hosts a charitable shopping event. I was recently contacted by the organization with the details for their upcoming Tis the Season Holiday Marketplace. Save the date for this one! Here are the details:



November 18-20, 2011 Nashville Convention Center

'Tis the SeasonHoliday Marketplace is a three-day shopping event filled with aisle after aisle of upscale gifts from over 100 unique merchants across the country. In its fifth year, 'Tis the Season is the signature fundraiser for the Junior League of Nashville with all proceeds going directly into the community to support our mission of improving the lives of women, children, and families.  A new venue and Sunday shopping time accompany three special events at this year’s 'Tis the Season --Preview: Let the Shopping Begin, Girls Night Out: Mischief & Magic, Christmas with the Clauses and Santa Snaps.

Schedule

Friday, November 18
Preview: Let the Shopping Begin         9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Open for Shopping                              11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Girls Night Out: Mischief & Magic      6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Saturday, November 19
Open for Shopping                              10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Christmas with the Clauses                  9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Santa Snaps                                         2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday, November 20
Open for Shopping                              11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Special Events

Preview: Let the Shopping Begin!
Come experience the event where the season truly begins! Get the first look at the exhibitors before we open to the general public. Shop privately with exclusive discounts from select merchants, silent auction, light breakfast fare, and more. Valet parking will also be available to preview shoppers at no charge.

Girls Night Out: Mischief & Magic
'Tis the Season is extending its Friday hours for shoppers looking for an entertaining evening with their friends, complete with shopping, hors d'oeuvres and music. Girls Night Out shoppers will also be treated to exclusive discounts from select merchants. Make it a girls' night and bring all your friends to 'Tis the Season!

Christmas with the Clauses (JLN members only)

Bring the kids and meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus, decorate your very own gingerbread house for the holidays and have your family picture made by noted Nashville photographer Ashley Segroves. This is a memorable event for children of all ages!

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Express Casting Call in Nashville: September 29, 2011




Ok, I'm just going to say it, I'm not really a fan of retailer Express; the style just doesn't suit me. However, if I were a model, I'd grab this opportunity to walk for the mega corporation. Here are the details:

Want to be an Express runway model? Come to the OPEN CASTING CALL this Thursday, September 29th from 6 – 9pm ET at the Nashville Marriott @ Vanderbilt University (2555 West End Avenue Nashville, Tennessee 37203) in the Parthenon E room.

PLUS get there early and receive a $20 Express GiftCard while supplies last.

If you’re one of the lucky models picked, you’ll walk the Express runway at our next fashion show in Nashville on October 22nd, 2011. And you’ll also get a $100 Express GiftCard. Must be at least 18 to enter.

Monday, September 26, 2011

Pink Your Drink @ Betsey Johnson: October 1, 2011





Every year designer Betsey Johnson creates a line of products for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As a survivor of breast cancer herself, this cause is near and dear to the celebrity designer. So, Chambord Liqueur is helping her celebrate by hosting a special Pink Your Drink event from 6 - 8 pm. Guests are invited to enjoy special Cocktails and Cupcakes while shopping for a cause. 

Ready for a celebration? 


The event will take place at the following location:
Betsey Johnson
2126 Abbott Martin Rd.
Nashville, TN 37215




Chambord Fleur Di Lis
3/4 oz CHAMBORD® Flavored Vodka
3/4 oz CHAMBORD Liqueur
2 oz lemonade
1 oz cranberry juice
Squeeze of lemon
Combine ingredients over ice, shake and pour into a tall glass. Garnish with a black raspberry.



Chambord French Martini 
1 1/2 oz Finlandia Vodka
1/2 oz Chambord
1/2 oz pineapple juice

Shake ingredients with ice and strain into a martini glass.

Silent Night @ Hip Zipper: September 29, 2011





The Hip Zipper is joining in on the nD Festival fun, hosting a Silent Night on September 29, 2011 from 5:00 to 8:00 at 1008 Forrest Avenue in Historic East Nashville. Here's the scoop and RSVP to Facebook here:


This is part of Thursday's East Nashville Crawl, sponsored by the 2nd annual nD Festival, a fundraiser for the Belcourt Theater.

The Belcourt Theater opened it's doors in 1925 as a 'Silent Movie House.' So to pay homage to it's pioneer days, the Hip Zipper is hosting 'Silent Night,' an evening of shopping and recalling the stars of the Golden Era.

Please join us on the red carpet for cinema refreshments and silent movies as we 'preview' our vintage fall best on the shop racks.

25% of the proceeds at that time will go to the Belcourt, and for every $25 you spend, you get 25% off!

We're ready for our close-up, Mr. DeMille!

Blush Seeks Models for October 21st Fashion Show





Here's the scoop:


Calling all models! We have a HUGE fashion show coming up on October 21st at Red Rooster Nashville to support Domestic Violence Awareness Month and raise money for Bridges Domestic Violence Center with the help of Vanderbilt Alpha Chi Omega!! Wanna strut your stuff for us? Send a head shot and professional photos to barratt.lori@gmail.com ASAP!! You'll need to be available the 20th and the 21st please and thanks!

Friday, September 23, 2011

Open Casting Call: September 24, 2011

Interested in modeling, acting, or doing voice over? Join Elzemeyer Talent Agency for an open casting call on September 24, 2011 from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm at 2323 21st Ave. S Suite 302. RSVP and learn more details here.


Looking for Models, Actors and Voice Over Talent
Kids/Teens 4+ years
Adults 18+ years
All Ethnicities

**Models bring a photo to leave
**Actors Bring a head shot and resume
**Voice Over Talent, bring a professional demo to leave

Porter Crossing Arts Market: Fashion, Art, & East Nash: October 8, 2011





From 12:00 to 9:00 pm, join your hipster friends at Porter Crossing for their Arts Marketing featuring fashion, art, and more. RSVP here.


The Porter Crossing Arts Market will be the 2nd Saturday of every month September - December at the corner surrounding the Family Wash (Porter Road at Greenwood Avenue). Featuring the wealth of talent of local Nashville artists, the culinary delights of Nashville's Food Truck revolution and the one-of-a-kind garments of local fashion designers.

Our September event was a HUGE success and you don't want to miss October because it will have everything that you loved and much, much more!!

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Now Hiring: Muse Boutique, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, Urban Outfitters, The Container Store, Children's Place, Gap

If you're in need of employment, look no further than Nashville Fashion Blog. I've got you covered.


Muse Boutique (Cool Springs) seeks Part-Time Employees


Muse Boutique is gearing up for Fall and Winter and is accepting applications for Part time positions - to start immediately! 

If you want an exciting opportunity to work for Nashville's Best Women's Boutique (Toast of Music City winner 2010 & 2011) apply today!

Muse Boutique offers a competive compensation package that includes an hourly wage, commission, and holiday bonuses.

If you have a love for fashion and sales, we want to meet you! Must be available to work nights, weekends and holidays.

For quickest response, please apply in person to 545 Cool Springs Blvd location. You may also send your resume to: musekg@gmail.com

Visit us at www.facebook.com/museboutiques 







The Container Store Seeks Part-time Early Morning Merchandise Processing





Hello Early Birds! 

We're looking for more great people for our early morning part-time Merchandise Processing team. 

We're interviewing now for our new store opening November 5 at the Mall at Green Hills.

Our merchandise processing team works from 5:00 am to 11:00 am, unloading our store replenishment truck and merchandising the product on the shelves to create a well presented, fully stocked, neat and organized store.

Additional responsibilities include working with inventory, signage, props, samples, cleaning and every merchandising detail that sets The Container Store apart from other retailers.

Part-time positions generally consist of one to two shifts per week. Additional sales, visual or register shifts scheduled based on availability and when business needs require, daytime, evenings and weekends.

Along with a fun working environment, our employees enjoy:
• Security in a financially strong company
• Great pay and exceptional training
• 40% merchandise discount
• 50% discount on elfa -- our best selling product
• 30% discount on elfa Installation Service
• Casual work attire
• 401(k) plan
• Medical/Dental/Vision plans for full-time and part-time employees
• An opportunity to work with the best customers ever
• Everything that puts The Container Store at the top of FORTUNE magazine's list of "Best Companies To Work For" year after year
Apply Online Today! http://www.containerstore.com.
If you know someone who is passionate about customer service and has a knack for organization, please pass along this message!

Find us on Facebook at 
http://www.facebook.com/containerstore.

The Container Store promotes a smoke-free, drug-free environment. EOE. 









The Children's Place (Cool Springs) Seeks Manager


Essential Responsibilities Include:
Drive Results by developing strategies to maximize business through the analysis of daily, weekly and monthly key performance indicators. Exceed goals and objectives in all areas of key performance indicators
· Drives results by recruiting and developing high performing teams while using all available resources to interview, hire and retain top talent for key positions in store and district
· Effectively communicates goals and monitors the progress of team members against key business initiatives
· Motivates and inspires team by creating a positive work environment for both internal and external customer
· Coaches and develops the team to achieve results in all areas of measured performance.
· Ensure compliance to all visual presentation and operational standards.

Minimum Qualifications Are:
Minimum 2-5 years experience in Store Management in a in relevant traffic, volume and unit intensity business
· Strong proficiency for business acumen
· Proven track record in demonstrating the ability to manage multiple business priorities
· Strong time management, prioritization and organizational skills
· Strong leadership skills
· Excellent visual presentation and operational skills Hands on management style
· Ability to work a flexible schedule that meets the needs of the business; could include overnight, evening and weekend shifts 



Apply via email here








Nordstrom Seeks Salon Shoes Salesperson



Nordstrom is a fashion specialty retailer founded on a simple idea: offer each customer the best possible service, quality, value and selection. We're looking for exceptional salespeople to provide outstanding customer service, develop strong customer relationships and build individual sales volume.
 
From attentive salespeople to meticulous tailors and innovative merchants, our teams are comprised of talented people who work hard to delight the customer. When you join a Nordstrom Store, you are welcomed into a family dedicated to creating memorable and rewarding shopping experiences for our customers.
 
Nordstrom offers selling positions in Men's, Women's and Kids' shoes. The ideal candidate is motivated, enjoys working one-on-one with customers and thrives in a commissioned sales environment. If you share our love for the customers we serve, the merchandise we sell and the work we do, this is a place for you to build a rewarding career.
 
Responsibilities
 
  • Set and achieve personal sales goals while supporting the goals of the team
  • Greet customers in a timely, professional and engaging manner
  • Provide an exceptional shoe fitting experience, that includes measuring for size and suggesting fashion looks based on current trends and customer feedback
  • Provide honest and confident feedback to customers regarding merchandise style and fit
  • Build lasting relationships with customers by contacting them to follow up on purchases, suggest new merchandise and invite them to upcoming events
  • Consistently seek new fashion and product knowledge to act as an expert for the customer
  • Open new Nordstrom Fashion Rewards accounts as a means of building customer relationships
  • Work as a team player to ensure each customer receives the best service possible
  • Perform daily department maintenance tasks including stock work, re-merchandising, display, price markdowns, merchandise transfers and light cleaning
 

 
Qualifications
  • Proven ability to set and achieve sales goals
  • Competitive drive and entrepreneurial confidence to succeed in a commission-based environment
  • Demonstrated ability to develop relationships with customers and coworkers
  • Knowledgeable and enthusiastic about fashion
  • Ability to positively and proactively handle customer concerns and prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to quickly learn new procedures and processes
  • Strong organizational and follow-through skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • High level of ownership, accountability and initiative
Since 1901, Nordstrom has offered a wide variety of quality apparel, shoes and accessories for men, women and children at our stores across the country. We're proud to be named to Fortune™ magazine's list of '100 Best Companies to Work For.' We believe this recognition comes from our desire to empower our employees to set their sights high and deliver exceptional service to customers.
 
As a Nordstrom employee, you can feel confident that your health and well-being are among our highest priorities. We offer a comprehensive, flexible employee benefits package that includes medical/vision and dental coverage, a generous merchandise discount, an employer-matched 401(K) savings and profit sharing plan and much more.
 
Apply here.




Urban Outfitters, Inc. Seeks Assistant Store Manager (Anthropologie)

The successful Assistant Department Manager will have one or more years of management experience in a specialty retail environment. An understanding of the Anthropologie aesthetic, strong fashion sense and visual skills are required. Asstistant Department Managers are responsible for providing excellent customer service and upholding all visual and operational standards within the store. They are responsible for store operations and work closely with our visual team. Our Asstistant Department Managers are strong leaders with an ability to drive sales through excellent service, strong visual presentation, and a full understanding of their business. They play a key role in the training and development of all store staff, especially Managers in Training and Sales Associates. Apply here.




Urban Outfitters Seeks Department Manager

TITLE: DEPARTMENT MANAGER
REPORTS TO: Store Manager

OBJECTIVE:
To oversee the operations of the store and assume total department accountability for sales, service profitability and loss prevention. To achieve a store environment that fosters creativity and inspires the Urban Outfitters customer. Ensure appropriate feedback and guidance is given in order to execute employee development. Participate in building community relationships that directly reflect the Urban culture. To uphold the Urban Outfitters 'Peers Teaching Peers' philosophy.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT: 
One to two years of retail management experience in a leadership role 
An understanding of the Urban Outfitters culture and its appeal to the local market
Ability to drive sales through excellent service, strong visual presentation, and a full understanding of the business

BONUS ELIGIBILITY:
The Store Management team and the Visual team will receive a bonus by achieving the quarterly sales goal and payroll plan. The bonus is based on the employee's annual salary, and is payable on a quarterly basis. 

JOB SKILLS: 

PEOPLE:
* Recruit, train, develop and coach a productive sales team
* Maintain department staffing requirements to support forecasted sales and payroll budgets 
* Manage all aspects of performance development (Performance Appraisals, Individual Development Plans (IDP's), Coaching and Counseling and disciplinary actions) 
* Recognize and develop talented individuals for advancement within the organization 
* Uphold Company standards and act as a positive role model to others

LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNICATION: 
* Conduct productive daily meetings to ensure that daily goals are met 
* Inspire, motivate, and encourage teamwork 
* Effectively delegate projects while at the same time allowing others the creativity to succeed by making their own decisions
* Possess excellent communication skills in both written and verbal forms 

MANAGING THE ENVIRONMENT:
* Oversee all levels of customer service by setting daily goals and expectations to create a positive store environment
* Exhibit excellent floor presence by training and coaching team members on customer service, standards, product placement and time management 
* Achieve Company-average mystery shop results by upholding the Company's customer service standard

OPERATIONS: 
* Perform all store-level operational procedures accurately and in a timely fashion, in accordance with all Company policies and procedures 
* Supervise the daily operations of the store (i.e. Opening/Closing process, cash management, shipment receipt) 
* Utilize Company reports to react to trends and drive business 
* Achieve the store shrinkage goals by overseeing adherence to loss prevention practices
* Ensure compliance with Company emergency and safety procedures in order to protect employees and customers against accidents and incidents

MERCHANDISING AND DISPLAY:
* Manage all aspects of the assigned department in collaboration with the Store Merchandiser with regard to: training, shipment placement, markdowns, transfers, merchandising and store standards
* Understand and interpret current fashion trends in local markets in order to generate creative solutions
* Take an active role in ensuring floor sets for the department are well organized and scheduled appropriately

Apply here.





Gap @ Green Hills Mall Seeks Part-Time Associate

Gap Sales Associates love the brand, love our products, and are passionate about bringing those products to life for our customers. Sales Associates work as members of the store team to lead a positive customer and brand experience, while being BOLD, EASY, and REAL. Gap Sales Associates follow our founder's legacy of doing what they love- serving our customers and the communities in which they work and live.  Providing our customers with an optimal shopping experience is our #1 priority.  We work as a team, and team members are expected to perform a variety of cross-functional tasks as assigned by the leader on duty or as needed to ensure overall customer satisfaction.  This job description intends to describe the general nature and level of work people assigned to this job perform.  It is not intended to include all duties and responsibilities.  The order in which duties are listed is not significant. 
 
Our Sales Associates:
  • Influence customer buying decisions, by communicating information about the quality, value and style of Gap products including style, fit, fabric, price, and care instructions.
  • Differentiate the Gap Brand and products from competitors with real connections with our customers.
  • Set the example by role modeling our Selling culture to provide outstanding customer service. Demonstrate peer coaching and facilitate training for new Sales Associates.
  • Utilize available Gap Brand resources, including GapCard and store promotions and training, to create sales and build customer relationships.
  • Positively and proactively help solve problems for our customers and can balance multiple customers in a fast-paced retail environment.
  • Deliver results in their role to contribute to their stores success. Are aware of and accountable to store and individual goals and results.
  • Contribute to a positive work environment by consistently treating all Gap Brand employees and customers with respect.
  • Demonstrate a high degree of integrity and enforce/uphold all company policies (ie. LP, Customer, Employee) and communicates violations to the leadership team or the Code of Business Conduct Hotline.
  • Completes floor replenishment and shipment as needed to ensure customer satisfaction and size availability.
  • Maintains store standards per Visual Presentation Assessment direction to enhance customer shopping experience.

Qualifications:
Join us if you:
  • Are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about current fashion/trends. Consistently seeking new fashion and product knowledge to serve as an expert for our customer.
  • Have strong communication, influencing and time management skills
  • Are confident and can easily build rapport when meeting new people
  • Can assess customer needs and enjoy helping people solve problems
  • Enjoy being part of a team environment
  • Preferably have previous retail and/or customer service experience
  • Have availability and flexibility to work nights, weekends, store openings and closings, to meet the needs of the business.
  • Can safely lift 30 lbs. and can maneuver throughout the sales floor and stockroom