Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Maria Luisa Blog: OPEN DAILY for your Local Shopping Convenience

Maria Luisa Blog: OPEN DAILY for your Local Shopping Convenience: How’s your holiday shopping going? Good, we hope. And we just want to remind you we’re here for all your gift-giving needs. Maria Luisa ...

OPEN DAILY for your Local Shopping Convenience

How’s your holiday shopping going? Good, we hope. And we just want to remind you we’re here for all your gift-giving needs. Maria Luisa Boutique and ML Gifts & Accessories are now open daily – yes, every single day now through Dec. 24 – for your shopping convenience. Tight on time? If you don’t feel you have time to browse, just give us a call and we’ll not only provide gift ideas but also discuss late hours. And don’t forget that always-appropriate solution, the gift certificate. It might make your shopping a breeze, but it also makes for a lovely surprise for the recipient. They get to come in, at their convenience, and pick out their heart’s desire, all on you. Now if that’s not a generous gift, then what is? We’re again also offering our Wish List. Make it easy on those you love – create a Maria Luisa wish list, and we’ll give those who purchase something for you off that list a 15% discount when they shop through Dec. 16. So, as you see, we’re more than ready to fill your holiday needs, in the most stylish way. We hope you’ll stop in, especially as that will give you the chance to see our festive holiday windows. Happy shopping, no matter how you do it. Maria Luisa

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Movember

It is the last week before December. Thanksgiving is over, so we are all slowly focusing on other things than enjoying each other’s presence and love. Soon we are to think about presents. For this week between Thanksgiving and the beginning of December, all of us at Maria Luisa Boutique and ML Gifts and Accessories would like to thank all of those who have been participating in Movember. We know it must have been hard to go to Thanksgiving dinner and not get too much turkey and cranberry sauce in your mustaches. Maybe it was difficult to explain to your relatives your new look, but we are so proud of anyone who has supported this cause. We will be sad to see your mustaches go. During Movember, men grow out their mustaches to raise awareness for men’s health issues. The Movember Foundation is trying to increase early detection for prostate and testicular cancer with awareness. To get involved in this initiative, men can sign up at www.movember.com and register to grow out facial hair through the month of November. Funds that are raised through this program are directed to programs like the Prostate Cancer Foundation and LIVESTRONG Foundation. Congratulations to all who made it through this month with itchy faces!
Written by Ruth Vandevanter, ML Gift & Accessories' Manager.

Friday, November 23, 2012

WildLIFE Art Show by Shawna Handke @ML Gifts

We featured pastel artist Rachel Avenia this past month and now another artist steps into the spotlight. (These art openings are so fun, don't you agree?). Shawna Handke, a Nyack-based artist and illustrator, will unveil "WildLIFE," an exhibtion that will be featured through the end if December. Some of you may know Shawna - she's well known for TOMS customizing events - and recognize her work, which not only includes fine art but also T-shirts, notecards (available year round at ML Gifts & Accessories) and more. Plan to stop by from 5:00pm to 6:30pm to meet Shawna and see this latest exhibition, as always featured in the lower-level gallery of ML Gifts & Accessories. We will formally welcome the show with a sip of wine, a snack or two and plenty of good conversation. And why not come early to do a bit of holiday shopping? We're happy to showcase Shawna's creations for you, our preferred customers. Please RSVP via the link below. Hope to see you there. Bring a friend or two! ML
RSVP Link

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

25 25 25 Encore

TwentyFive Year Anniversary Sale! Can you believe it's been been 25 years? Neither can we. Our growth wouldn't have been possible without you - our loyal customers - so in honor of you and our anniversary, we're adding an encore to last month's 25 25 25 event. So, come in to Maria Luisa Boutique and ML Gifts & Accessories on Sunday November 25 when we are offering you 25 percent off on everything priced at $25 or more. That's right! Everything! In addition, we are offering 25 percent off all gift certificates (available through our web site) from Thanksgiving Day through Sunday, Nov. 25. Go ahead and stock up - buy a dozen for work friends and as thank-you gifts for teachers or splurge on a larger denomination for a dear friend, relative... or yourself. No matter the amount or the recipient, there's a 25% built-in discount. And be sure to pick up the sought-after Maria Luisa T-shirt, also 25% off when purchased at marialuisaboutique.com, which makes a perfect accompaniment for any gift certificate.( Coupon Code MLBTEE) Remember, we personalize the gift certificates, too. Click here to start ordering.
We will be OPEN 7 days a week beginning on November 26 through December 24.

Sunday, October 28, 2012

"Close to the Hudson: New Pastels" by Artist Rachel Avenia - Nov. 4 through 30.

Our signature series, Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way, just keeps rolling along. We thank all of you who were able to join us Oct. 25 as we officially kicked off our 25th anniversary celebration. What an exciting day that led right into a truly celebratory edition of our Ladies' Night. (Don't worry if you missed it; we will continue the party well into 2013). Next up, we will host the opening reception for our latest exhibition in the lower-level gallery of ML Gifts & Accessories. Pastel artist Rachel Avenia will be showing a collection called "Close to the Hudson: New Pastels" Nov. 4 through 30. From 6 to 8 p.m. Nov. 8, we will formally welcome the show with an evening set to include comments from the artist and our usual mix of good conversation and a sip of wine, etc.
Avenia says she specializes in pastels as she loves "their immediate and vibrant color." A School of the Visual Arts graduate, Avenia recently was part of a group show in Piermont. We're happy to showcase her work to you, our preferred customers, and hope you can make it to the opening. Please RSVP via the link below. RSVP Link

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way, continues Thursday, Oct. 25, with a very special night.

We are proud to announce that our now-signature series, Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way, continues Thursday, Oct. 25, with a very special night. Last month, we had a packed house for a lively (and empowering) night with Cindy Joseph, the 'timeless beauty' who's not only the founder of BOOM! Cosmetics but a supermodel. This month, it's... um... all about us. Well, about you, too. Maria Luisa Boutique is officially 25 years old. It's a milestone that both pleases and humbles us - and would not have been possible without the enduring support of you, our longtime, preferred customers. We are hosting a special Ladies' Night from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 25 to officially kick off what's going to be a pretty extended celebration (oh, we have events planned into 2013, so stay tuned). The evening will be about good conversation- sharing Maria Luisa memories - and of course, a bit of bubbly to make a toast and plenty of shopping. As our special gift to you, to mark our 25 years on this event on the 25th, we'll be offering 25% off items over $25, in both shops. The promotion will run all day, from 10 a.m. and continue til we close. In addition - and already under way - any purchase of $25 or more in either shop earns the customer a raffle ticket that will be drawn that evening. Prizes range from T-shirts to gift certificates to our special gala planned for early next year. And if that weren't enough, the 25th also marks the day of our "Best-Dressed Customer" contest and our poster contest. Judged my Nyack Mayor Jen White and another 'mystery judge' So please join us on the 25th for the start of our celebrating and remember, it's the perfect time to stock up on great fall fashions, pick up a few gifts or even get a jump on the holiday rush. As always, please RSVP to help us with the planning. (And don't forget to stop by Oct. 27 before Nyack's Halloween parade to get a "Trick or Treat" coupon. RSVP Hope to see you there. ML

25 25 25 RULES AND PRIZES

Rules and Regulations for 25th Anniversary Celebration! Best Dressed in Maria Luisa Fashion: 1. Should be an outfit. So, 2-3 item minimum, and a minimum of one apparel piece (dress/sweater/top/pant). 2. Clothes can be vintage or current Maria Luisa clothes and accessories. 3. Forms will be available to be filled out at the event. 4. We will take a quick photograph to be featured on our blog (with your permission). – Check us out at…… 5. Two judges will judge the photographs from the event. 6. If you are not present on the day of the celebration, we will accept an email with your picture (and if possible – approximate date of the style). 7. All entries must be received by 10/25. Poster Contest: 1. Posters must a minimum of 12x24 to a maximum of 18x24. 2. Prompt of the poster is – What has being a Maria Luisa customer meant to you? 3. Can include artwork, collages, words… whatever you’re inspired to do. 4. Artwork by customers of all ages and skill level are welcome! 5. Can be submitted until the end of October, 2012. Prizes for both contests include: 1. The winner of each contest will receive two admission tickets (one for winner and one for their guest) to the Maria Luisa Boutique Anniversary Gala taking place early 2013. 2. The first 5 runners-up for each contest will win $25 Gift Certificates. 3. All participants will receive a consolation prize. 4. Maria Luisa Boutique will donate $250 on behalf of each judge to the local non-profit of their choice.

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

John Sangimino Honorary Fund / Light The Night Walk

My Fundraising Page

I have joined John Sangimino Honorary Fund Team for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's annual fundraising walk. I met John and his wife Kiera a number of years ago and most recently Hudson, their baby boy. I loved them instantly and although our interactions have been brief I always have looked forward to our conversations. If you can, join me in supporting Kiera and the John Sangimino Honorary Fund. Thank you-ML

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

MARIA LUISA HOSTS POLITICAL VIPS

Did you see Maria Luisa Whittingham made the local news? She recently hosted U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Congresswoman Nita Lowey, who selected her boutique to announce federal legislation designed to extend targeted tax breaks for small businesses. A great example of a small business "success story," Whittingham was honored to have the event at the shop - and even more pleased when the VIPs not only spoke but shopped. For a quick look at the event, check out the video created by Lisa Kaess of Feminomics, our friend and neighbor whom you may remember from our inaugural Ladies' Night back in January when she screened her short documentary. Watch Video

October Spotlight: Textures and Colors

There are so many new things in both shops, with more arriving almost every day. If there's a theme, it's one devoted to great and unique textures, colors and silhouettes. You don't want to look like everyone else, right? Well, we have gathered some great finds that help you make a statement no matter where you are. Luna Luz is a great new brand for us, spotlighting made-in-the USA dresses that definitely stand out. Think fitted bodices and lush, poufy skirts for a decidedly feminine look. There are new footwear styles from CAMPER that offer comfort with standout colors and shapes. There's a new line from BCBG Generations, similar in look and feel to our Kensie favorites, that's on the way. And ideal for yourself or gifts, we have a great new collection of Tyvek and nylon totes from Mimot, a Los Angeles-based company. Stop by to see all the new selections.

Friday, August 31, 2012

I couldn't wait until our next newsletter to tell you about the new HOPE hair clips we have received this week. They are simple to manage your hair up with and Beautiful. And there is a bonus to owning a HOPE (H.elping O.ther P.eople E.very) Dayclip, Hope Clips was founded not only to bring you an amazing product and support Fair Trade, but simultaneously to support another great cause--helping American children in need. A portion of all proceeds is donated to Hopes & Dreams International and the Will Santa Find Me? Foundation; a nonprofit 501(c)(3) foundation, to help prevent, as well as rescue and heal victims of, child sex trafficking, and to grant exact gift wishes for critically and chronically ill children and their families. Our staff members Ruth (that's Ruth in the photo) and Laurie are already wearing HOPE clips. $20 each

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Ladies Night- "The Maria Luisa Way" Resumes on September 13

We hope all of you who were able to make it to the summer soiree-edition of "Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way" on July 26 had fun. We loved the evening's casual feel - an abundance of tasty treats and good conversation, a bit of music and a lot of shopping (hope you enjoyed those deep discounts!). Despite the crazy weather, we had a good turnout, and we again thank all who "braved the storm." As noted, we combined July and August events, so we will resume "Ladies' Night" on Thursday, Sept. 13 when Cindy Joseph, the creator of "BOOM! " cosmetics, joins us for a presentation on beauty at all ages. We hope you'll save the date (Full details to come closer to the event). **And please save the date of Oct. 11, that will be a very special "Ladies' Night" in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Maria Luisa Boutique, part of a week of festivities to honor the milestone.

Friday, July 27, 2012

AUTHOR APPEARANCE, BOOK SIGNING Saturday, August 11

As you'll note in the item below, we're not officially having "Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way" this month. But that doesn't mean there's not a chance for a special evening gathering. Jocelyn Jane Cox, who owns a home near Nyack with her husband, is a freelance writer with a graduate degree in creative writing from Sarah Lawrence College. She writes about her own home-owning adventures on her web site, The Home Tome. And her book, "The Homeowner's Guide to Greatness, puts the spotlight on how to think creatively and maintain a sense of humor as you tackle the everyday challenges of owning a home. It's already become an Amazon Bestseller in the humor and crafts, hobbies and home categories. Well, from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 11, Cox will be on hand at ML Gifts & Accessories for a short reading, followed by a short Q&A. Afterward, she'll then sign some books as guests mingle and have some refreshments. Make a plan to come - and let your friends know. We're sure you'll enjoy Cox, her writing - and the evening out.
Author: Jocelyn Cox

Saturday, July 14, 2012

Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way Series Continues July 26 (and Street Fair July 15)

We are proud to announce the seventh edition of our now-signature series, Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way, will be held Thursday, July 26. But first, let us remind you that the next edition of the Nyack Street Fair is July 15. We'll have both shops buzzing inside and in our booths out front, so be sure to stop by from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
It's the perfect opportunity to check out the newest inventory from TOMS; wear your own customized pair and let us take your photo for our Facebook page! We'll also have some special activities under way. Here are some favorites.
Pop into ML Gifts for our summer shoe sale, and the Maria Luisa boutique for some great opportunities at street-fair, closeout prices. Check out our $30 (Orig. prices $60-$100+) dresses, tops and bottoms from White Rice. And now, back to our Ladies' Night info...
The monthly series has really taken off, and we're always pleased to welcome you, our preferred customers, and your friends (who, as we see from past events, quickly become our friends and customers, too). In June, we were all stretching our minds and bodies as we learned about "Vital Movement™ with Judith Rose. This time, we are taking a summer break from the learning (ha) - and putting the spotlight on fun. We will host a "Summer Soiree" complete with refreshments, catching up with friends - and lots of time to shop and save. Both shops will be open; stop by ML Gifts & Accessories, our usual Ladies' Night headquarters, from 6 to 7 p.m., where we will have refreshments (wine, non-alchoholic drinks, fruit and more) and some great sales under way. Take the time to explore our furniture department (at savings up to 30 percent), a great destination if shopping for a dorm room, first apartment or some overall sprucing up. After 7 p.m., we'll shift our attention over to Maria Luisa Boutique where the "progressive" party will continue. We'll move the snacks; you keep shopping and enjoy the music. Overall, we hope the night provides you with plenty of fun and the chance to stock up on discounted summer merchandise (up to 60 percent off) while getting a sneak peek at our autumn finds (up to 30 percent off). And don't forget to take part in the raffle, to add even more excitement to the festivities. Throughout the evening, feel free to share your thoughts on the Ladies' Night programs - we love feedback and want to hear your thoughts on what you might like to see when the series resumes for the fall months, starting in September. RSVP Link Hope to see you there. (And bring a friend or two - it's a party after all). ML

Thursday, June 21, 2012

Our Summer Soiree: July 26

Who wants to go to school during the summer, right? Well, we're not exactly comparing our "Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way" series to school - but we think we are giving you the chance to learn a bit while having a nice night out. (In June, for example, we learned a lot about the spirit-body connection when Judith Rose introduced her Vital Movement method, which offers an approach to wellness that goes beyond simple exercises) Well, for summer - who's traveling, who's home? - we are going to combine our series and have one evening during July/August - and the focus will be FUN. Shopping, sale prices, snacks... nothing to think too hard about. So save the date, July 26. Expect an email blast closer to the event with full details - RSVP and be ready to party (and get ready to go "back to school" come September).

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way, Tuesday June 19

We are proud to announce the sixth edition of our now-signature series, Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way, will be held Tuesday, June 19. The monthly series has really taken off, and we're always pleased to welcome you, our preferred customers, and your friends (who, as we see from past events, quickly become our friends and customers, too). In May, we hosted a thought-provoking night with Gloria Rodriguez, author of "You Are More Than Good Enough." Rodriguez, founder and director of DeAlmas Women's Collective, had us thinking, laughing and sharing stories as she talked about women, female empowerment and more. This month, Judith Rose will introduce us to an approach to health and wellness that touches on everything from increasing flexibility to managing stress. Here's how Rose describes her work: "Vital Movement™ is a unique program for health and well being that integrates the teachings and principles of a variety of kinetic and artistic disciplines to provide intense, restorative, and therapeutic movement experiences for people of all ages and movement capacities. The benefits of regular Vital Movement™ work include increased flexibility, expanded range of motion, improved balance and coordination, spinal alignment, physical strengthening, stress management, and personal integration." Rose is the founder and director of Nyack-based Vital Movement™. Her extensive movement background includes training in yoga, t'ai chi, modern and Afro-Caribbean dance, ballet, Alexander technique, and therapeutic breath work. She is also a certified practitioner of Otiyot Hayyot, a meditative form of letter movement, and an award-winning poet and educator. She has introduced the benefits of Vital Movement™ work to the lives of people of all ages through her classes, workshops, and sessions in private practice. She currently offers mentorship and training to new movement educators and is a frequent presenter at national and international movement conferences. Her work is deeply grounded in the belief that the arts provide a medium for personal and communal healing and transformation. As always, we'll gather starting at 6:30 p.m. in the lower-level gallery space of ML Gifts & Accessories. There will be the chance to mingle, participate in the activities (wear comfortable clothes) and as always, have a few refreshments. To help us track the number of guests - and ensure entry, as our events do tend to fill up quickly - please do RSVP via the link below. RSVP Link Hope to see you there. ML

Monday, May 28, 2012

Wow, we are loving "Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way

Wow, we are loving how "Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way," has gained such support. This past month, nearly 20 women gathered to participate in a powerful evening devoted to female empowerment. Gloria Rodriguez, founder of DeAlmas Women's Collective and author of "You Are More Than Good Enough," had most of us laughing, a few of us moved to tears and all of us doing some pretty deep thinking..... This month, Judith Rose will lead an evening devoted to "Vital Movements," an approach to health and wellness that touches on everything from increased flexibility to stress management. Wear comfortable clothes. As always, we'll meet starting at 6:30 p.m. June 19 (a Tuesday this time) in the lower level gallery space of ML Gifts & Accessories. Look out for an email blast with more details closer to the event. And please keep in mind that space is limited for these events, so be sure to RSVP via the Facebook event invite you'll be receiving. **Also note: With the summer coming and everyone away or otherwise involved, the Ladies' Night program will transition into summertime mode. For July and August, we're going to take a little break from the usual format. Instead of a "formal" program with a guest we're simply going to meet just once during July and August (most likely late July), and the evening will be festive in nature. Think shopping (yes, there will be sales and discounts), perhaps a bit of entertainment and of course, some refreshing beverages. Stay tuned for details on this mid-summer soiree. (And let us know if you or someone you know would like to be considered as the featured guest for when our themed evenings resume in September).

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

You are More than Good Enough

We are proud to announce the fifth edition of our now-signature series, Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way, will be held Thursday, May 17. The monthly series has really taken off, and we're always pleased to welcome you, our preferred customers, and your friends (who, as we see from past events, quickly become our friends and customers, too). Last month we had a "record" crowd - wow, was it nice to see the place so lively - as we hosted the opening reception for "In Plain Sight," a photography show by local artist Laurie Peek. (If you missed the event, click here for a few photographs from that evening - and stop by during this Ladies' Night or any day soon, as the exhibit continues in our gallery space through May 29). OK, so this month, our evening will include a presentation from Gloria Rodriguez, author of "You Are More Than Good Enough." Rodriguez, founder and director of DeAlmas Women's Collective, will lead an interactive evening "celebrating the spirit of women in community." Click here to visit Rodriguez's site and get a feeling for what her female-empowerment work is all about. It's going to be a good night! As always, we'll gather starting at 6:30 p.m. in the lower-level gallery space of ML Gifts & Accessories. There will be the chance to mingle, hear (and participate in) a very special presentation and of course, have a few refreshments. (And don't forget the next Nyack Street Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 20; we'll have plenty going on in - and in front of - both shops throughout the day). To help us track the number of guests - and ensure entry, as our events do tend to fill up quickly - please do RSVP via the link below. RSVP Link Hope to see you there. ML Maria Luisa Boutique, 77 S. Broadway, Nyack NY 845-353-4122. ML Gifts & Accessories, 75 S. Broadway, Nyack, N.Y. 845-358-1293. marialuisaboutique.com. CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN 2012

Sunday, April 8, 2012

Ladies’ Night: The Maria Luisa Way

We feel our signature series, Ladies' Night: The Maria Luisa Way, is now quite established - this month marks our fourth edition. We're so pleased with not only the events we've organized but the way you, our preferred customers, have embraced them. These nights have become something to look forward to for us, and we hope you feel the same.

Last month we spotlighted the 'next generation' of powerful women, a group of local students vying for scholarships sponsored by the Nyack Center. It was inspiring to hear how the spirit of helping and 'giving back' to others is alive and well among these teens.

Our next gathering is set for April 19, and we'll get together starting at 6:30 p.m., as always in the lower-level gallery space of ML Gifts & Accessories. And gallery space it will truly be.

Local photographer Laurie Peek - many of you may have met her at a previous Ladies' Night - is going to be on hand as we host the opening reception for her latest exhibition.



Be among the first to see "In Plain Sight," which will continue into late May at the shop's gallery space.

As always, the evening will be a chance to mingle, have a few refreshments and this time, check out the works of a talented local artist.

To help us track the number of guests - and ensure entry, as our events do tend to fill up quickly - please do RSVP via the link.


Hope to see you there. ML

Monday, February 27, 2012

In honor of women

It’s amazing how much changes in the world – and how quickly.
I was thinking of that when recently watching the finale of “Downton Abbey.”
For those of us obsessed with the British production that’s become a mega-hit for PBS here in America, the recently concluded second season was even more tantalizing than the first. And sure, it’s perhaps nothing more than a highbrow soap opera – but it’s also a very entertaining way to explore how society can seemingly change overnight.
During this season, primarily devoted to World War I and its aftereffects, the narrative served as a reminder of how change can sweep through a society no matter the era. It also put a very pointed focus on the role of women during that time. From housemaids who were dreaming of a better life to the Lord’s daughters who suddenly see their days can be about more than pretty dresses and fancy dinner parties, the characters helped convey how things we take for granted were groundbreaking during another time.
This month, March, is designated as Women’s History Month, giving us the chance to again pause and think about women and their role in society – both now and in the past.
Here in Rockland, events such as the Women’s Celebration Brunch at the Nyack Center honor local women who continue to impact their surroundings.
Rockland County has no shortage of these women, from doctors to teachers, politicians to musicians, artists to environmentalists, entrepreneurs to athletes.
Each woman has her own story. Each woman lives her own life. But, as we well known, from family and friends, there are many common threads.
These are the things that make us laugh together, plan together and sometimes, cry together.
The connection is sometimes what helps you get through the day. It’s not about discounting the contributions or importance of men in the world (we wouldn’t want to be without them), but sometimes, all you need is a word with your mother, sister, daughter or best friend to get you through.
Our new series, “Ladies’ Night: The Maria Luisa Way,” is tapping into that very concept.
It was evident during our very first gathering that women whose lives take them to very different places (jobs, schools or at home raising children) all came together in the lower-level gallery of ML Gifts and easily bonded. There was thoughtful discussion, acquaintances made and yes, even though we had a few gentlemen guests in the room, there was a very strong sense of female accomplishment – who met at which awards ceremony, who worked on which committee together, whose business was helping another woman’s to grow, etc.
Here in Rockland, we can readily look to those who’ve made a name for themselves, some even steps away from the Maria Luisa shops themselves. Think of famed actress Helen Hayes, who long made her home on Broadway, to evocative author Carson McCullers, whose onetime home was also on Broadway though in the other direction. These are just two of hundreds, if not more.
Celebrating the accomplishments of women can only help spur more achievements.
Having spent some time on the Women’s History Month website (womenshistorymonth.gov), I learned that today, organizations including The Library of Congress, the National Archives and Records Administration, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the National Gallery of Art, the National Park Service, the Smithsonian Institution and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum have banded together to continue to offer programs, exhibits and more “paying tribute to the generations of women whose commitment to nature and the planet have proved invaluable to society.”
The site, which welcomes you with a charming photo of Amelia Earhart and tells you its mission is to foster “learning about women’s tenacity, courage and creativity through the centuries,” goes on to give a bit of background about the month.
It seems that before the 1970s, women’s history was not a topic given much attention. A Women’s History Week was introduced in 1978 in California, built around International Women’s Day (March 8). By 1981, Congress had officially recognized the week and in 1987, it was expanded to the monthlong celebration that continues to today.
That’s the summarized version; there’s the proverbial “wealth of information” found throughout the site and its links, so why not spend some time there yourself?
You might even be inspired by this year’s theme for Women’s History Month: “Our History is Our Strength.”
Perhaps you’ll take a moment to reflect on your own history as it relates not only to you but also to your family and those you know.
Maybe even think of a teacher who made an impact on you or a boss you had early on who gave you the chance to prove yourself, each imparting lessons that remained with you for decades.
Remember those feelings – and pass them on to another young woman this month to keep the history alive.
– Mary Shustack

Newsletter Editor
Maria Luisa Boutique / ML Gifts & Accessories

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Sale Continues

Did you make it to our Big Winter Sale?
If not yet, don’t worry, as the savings are continuing into February.
We simply have to make way for the new spring merchandise that will soon be filling our shelves and racks.
So that means big discounts throughout both shops will be extended a bit more.
Look for 20 to 50% off winter fashions and accessories,
10 to 50% off footwear, and
20 % off home goods and furniture.
If you’re not sure what’s on sale, simply ask – you’ll get the details along with a smile.
Happy shopping!

PS – If you bring your own bags to carry all your new unwrapped purchases, we’ll take another 3% off the entire purchase as our thanks to you for reducing your carbon footprint.

Maria Luisa Boutique, 77 S. Broadway, Nyack, N.Y. 845-353-4122.
ML Gifts & Accessories, 75 S. Broadway, Nyack, N.Y. 845-358-1293. marialuisaboutique.com.
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN 2012