Introducing . . .

In case you haven't noticed, I have added a couple of links to my toolbar. One is under Links. It's Petite Boutique, a new store opening in Cool Springs on February 1. The site isn't complete yet, so keep checking back for updates. The other is under Friends' Blogs. It's Laurie Roe. Laurie is the owner of Petite Boutique and she blogs about the day-to-day tasks of being an entrepreneur and getting this adorable store open for business.

I'm working with Laurie to help promote Petite Boutique's opening. It's an amazing idea. I can't believe nobody around here has done this already, but there's not another petite store in Tennessee—that we know of. In the department store world, the ever-shrinking petite sections have become a disappointment. I've resorted to shopping in the regular sections and getting everything altered. But that gets expensive

In Laurie's research before she decided to open the store, she learned that 43% of women are petite—5'4" or shorter. (I can't think of a single department store that dedicates 43% of their real estate to petites.) She also learned that petite women are terribly frustrated with the lack of options they have when looking for clothing. So she's filling a need.

Inspired by Kate Spade's successful business launch, Laurie took a leap of faith of her own to start Petite Boutique and she is succeeding to serve the underserved. So if you get the chance, go out and visit her at 401-A Cool Springs Blvd, between McAlister's Deli and Moe's Southwest Grill. Congratulate her on making her dreams come true—and get yourself some new clothes!