Who doesn’t love vacation? While sightseeing and exploring ranks high on my list, my favorite part of vacation has always been shopping. As ridiculous as this may sound, there’s just nothing else like it! Boutiques offer an unique experience, different from everyday retail shopping. More personal and attentive, small business owners are so genuine and gracious. Not to mention, boutique collections are rare and individual. Whenever I wear an item I purchased from a boutique, I receive so many compliments.
It’s no surprise by now, that half of my closet consists of online boutique merchandise. I have forged many special relationships with the owners since I started blogging. I especially admire the supportive messages that all of these women convey. None of them compete, but rather build up and promote each other’s efforts. It’s a beautiful thing to watch.
Networking and being even more fashion focused, it’s evident that I don’t need to travel to get that “boutique” experience. There are so many amazing ones right here in New Jersey. I have had the pleasure of working with one very “special” boutique in particular.
STITCH, located in Madison and Montclair, is a contemporary women’s clothing and accessory boutique offering a hand-picked selection of unique designer fashions at affordable prices. Opening STITCH is a lifetime dream come true for owner Caitlin Rinaldi, who has spent the past 10 years honing her skills in just about every area of the fashion industry. A die-hard fashion addict and compulsive shopper (my soul-mate), she is always on the hunt for the next great find.
Caitlin, also comes from a fine arts background, with a keen eye for color and design that allows her to find inspiration in all things. She has channeled that creativity into STITCH, making sure that no detail is overlooked and that both product assortment, and customer experience are always on point!
After my initial visit with Caitlin, I was in awe. This adorable and very fashionable 30-year-old woman, has made it happen. How impressive. She found her passion and turned her dreams into a reality, while still remaining humble and extremely relate-able. We instantly connected over fashion and everything in between. I fell in love with her cozy store and adored the impeccable decor. Her fine arts background and keen eye for design were detailed and on display. It was evident that she put an enormous amount of time into her store’s creation. It was a personal reflection of her dedication, talents, and hard-work.
I spent the morning trying on so many trending items adorning her racks. I settled on a jacket, sweater, and a ruffled blouse. All so stylish, yet practical. My shopping session culminated with a plan to work together again. So exciting. This time, I visited her Montclair location. Her newest “baby,” Caitlin is still working hard to advertise and promote this store. She thought it would be fun for me to come and try on some clothes, take pictures, and explore this new location.
Erin and I jumped at the opportunity and headed over to Montclair last week. The location is magnificent. Right in the heart of downtown Montclair, it’s just exquisite. I will not even attempt to describe Caitlin’s decor. These pictures will speak for themselves. Erin and I had a field day in her shoe room. The fluffy chairs and mauve hues made us swoon! Closet goals for sure.
Despite the freezing temps, we all had a fabulous day connecting, collaborating, and encouraging each other’s passions and talents. Three “boss” ladies operating on talent, determination, and pure passion. It was rewarding, empowering, and reaffirming to be a part of.
Looking forward to more shopping adventures at STITCH and future endeavors with Caitlin……. Stay Tuned!
*Special thanks to Ruffles and Trains Photography for capturing this adventure perfectly and seamlessly.
