MINDFULLY… AT MARIA LUISA

As you know, we put a lot of thought into what we bring into both Maria Luisa Boutique and ML by Maria Luisa.

Goods, whether a fall sweater or a scented candle, are not selected solely because they “look good” or “smell just lovely.”

No, all of our sourcing for products goes much deeper – and we believe that is one of the reasons why you continue to be a loyal patron, something we never take for granted.

This autumn, we are really putting the spotlight on what we call “ethical shopping” – once again calling your attention to products and designs that have deeper meaning.

As Maria Luisa Whittingham says, “Just because something is made in a particular region doesn’t mean it’s made ethically.”

We do research on what we bring into the shops, as we continue our search to supplement our longtime brands and designs that you know and love with new finds from around the world that add something more to the mix.

That’s why we will continue to share the stories behind our goods with you, whether they are items made following Fair Trade practices, designs that benefit women across the globe or even products that directly support our local artists and artisans.

Feel free to always ask us about anything that catches your eye; we like nothing more than to share the story behind what fills our shops.

And to keep that conversation going – both literally and figuratively – we ask you to “save the date” of Nov. 8 when we host a special evening from 5 to 8 p.m.

We will officially introduce one of our newest brands – MacKenzie83, a New-York based, made-in-America company that designs eco-friendly, responsibly sourced accessories featuring organic, free-range and vegetable-tanned leathers, organic cottons and recycled metals.

We plan to not only showcase its handcrafted creations but also host a “sip and chat” about Fair Trade and ethical shopping options, focusing on why we decided to carry the brand – and how you can get more involved in how you shop and what it all means.

The evening will also serve to raise funds for one of our important local nonprofits, the Center for Safety and Change, with 20 percent of all product sales to be donated to the organization.

And a bonus? You’ll also save 10% that evening on MacKenzie83 purchases above $200.

It’s really a win-win, don’t you think?

Sign up through our Facebook events page (Link HERE) - and hope to see you there!

• And speaking of supporting local artists and artisans, we hope you’ll also make a plan to stop by Oct. 13, when we offer a Trunk Show featuring jewelry from Nyack-born designer and artist Jane Cowles. Coinciding with Nyack’s Fall Sidewalk Sale – another “shop local” event not to be missed – Jane will be on hand from 2 to 4 p.m. showcasing her one-of-a-kind fine jewelry, inspired by the gardens of Paris and handcrafted in New York. We know you’ll just love her work, which also includes custom designs – so we hope to see you then, as well.

(And speaking of happenings this month, remember the final Nyack Street Fair of the year is set for this Sunday).

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

LABEL-CONSCIOUS – THE MARIA LUISA WAY

We know our customers aren’t all about chasing designer labels and brands.

But we also know that labels and brands can tell a lot about a product.

At Maria Luisa Boutique and ML by Maria Luisa, we are proud of the labels and brands you’ll find throughout our shops – and we’re starting a new way to direct your attention to these.

As the spring progresses, you’ll notice signs dotted throughout our shops, as well as online.

We’ll be noting the products we carry that are created following Fair Trade practices and principles – and also those products that are “Maker Made” artisan creations.

LABEL-CONSCIOUS

As you know, we’re constantly on a search to bring you fashions, accessories, gift items and decorative goods that are pleasing to you and your gift recipients – but it’s so much more than the look or impression of something.

We strive to offer quality products that also have a “story,” whether it’s something made by hand with proceeds supporting a women’s collective in a developing nation – or a greeting card, candle or print handcrafted by a local company or artist.

To us, it’s all about supporting the heart of the creative process and the sharing of distinctive, quality goods that have a story behind them.
 

Watch Maria's Story

Feel free to ask our team members about anything you see in our shops or online (at marialuisaboutique.com or shoptiques.com).

And look for the signs that add another level of meaning to your Maria Luisa purchases.

Explore

Another Informative BLOG by Maria Luisa

ML Faves for GOOD

Scholarship Fund

WON'T YOU JOIN US?

What are you doing July 14?

We’d like to make a suggestion for a fun – and meaningful way –
to start off that summer day.

We hope you’ll consider joining the ML Faves for Good team as we again 
participate in the  Women’s Distance Festival at Rockland Lake State Park 
in Congers.

ML Faves for GOOD

The event, which will mark its 31st annual edition this year, will again gather
women of all ages – from girls through seniors – to participate in the run/walk
at the park.

Last year, more than 1,000 registered for the event that celebrates womanhood
and camaraderie while raising funds for the Center for Safety & Change.

With the momentum of Maria Luisa’s own 30th anniversary of doing business
in Nyack, we assembled a team of some 80 women strong, making us the
second-largest team within the 2017 event. 

Whether our team members ran or walked, our effort was a bonding experience –
 filled with quite a few laughs – as the ML Faves raised more than $2,000.

Registration is now open for this year’s event, and we have set an ambitious goal –
to raise $2,500 or more.

Our participation in the festival was key one for us in another way, as well.

The teamwork sparked the creation of the ML Faves for Good initiative where
we formalized our “habit” of joining together to, yes, do good.

This year, ML Faves for Good kicked things off by participating in
Resolution Fun Run/Walk in Nyack. During this January event, our team
raised more than $2,600 to benefit the Nyack Hunger Coalition.

With such teamwork, we cannot fail – so we hope you’ll join us in another
successful effort by participating in the 31st annual Women’s Distance Festival.
 
REGISTER NOW and join the ML Faves for GOOD Movement.
 
And to add a little “incentive,” we’ll help you show off that ML Faves team spirit:

• Returning participants who made a contribution last year and sign up as part 
of the ML Faves for Good team for this year’s event by April 15, may choose 

 

 

MariaLuisaBoutique.com

 

 

 

 

a free ML team T-shirt or water bottle.

• Those new to the ML Faves team who sign up by April 15 and:

    Make a $25 WDF ML Faves for Good donation, will receive a free ML team T-shirt.

    Make a $75 WDF ML Faves for Good donation, will receive a free ML team T-shirt
    and a water bottle.
 

DONATE NOW

We really hope you’ll join us this July 14 – participating again or for the first time. 
It’s going to be a blast.

Please help our fundraising effort by recruiting your female friends and family 
members to also participate.

And please encourage anyone you know to join us “in spirit” by making a contribution 
on behalf of the ML Faves for Good team.

Here’s to another strong effort.

It will be fun – but it will also help raise funds for one of our vital community resources, 
the Center for Safety and Change.

Now that’s doing something Good!

REGISTER NOW and join the ML Faves for GOOD Movement.
 

DONATE NOW

Another Blog post my Maria Luisa

VALENTINE’S FOR YOUR VALENTINE

Valentine’s Day, as we all know, is Feb. 14… and that’s coming up pretty quickly.

It’s a day devoted to love – all kinds of love.

Sure, the most traditional celebration is of romantic love – but in a wonderful way, the observance has expanded over the years. Valentine’s Day is now a time to recognize all those you love – romantic partners but also parents and children, siblings and friends.

A wander through both Maria Luisa Boutique and ML by Maria Luisa offers up quite a selection of gift ideas ideal for anyone you may be shopping for.

KIORI Oil
Available in Nyack, NY Shop

When it comes to pampering – what a nice way to show you care – we have soaps (think everything from lilac to lemongrass sage to stout beer), lotions, scents, bath goods, candles and more. And just for the guys, there’s a full range of Duke Cannon products, which you may know, are “premium grooming goods for hard-working gentlemen.”

BEER SOAP

If you’re setting a romantic scene for your Valentine with a nice meal, we have cookbooks, tabletop goods and some lovely candlesticks to help set the mood.

BOOKS

There’s always jewelry, a near-universal favorite that takes on added meaning when given for Valentine’s Day. Whether it’s sterling silver twisted into a one-of-a-kind ring, a graceful tassel necklace or truly unique selections created out of agave fibers, the options are plenty.

MANTRA BANDS

All ages will be dazzled by the bright Fair Trade totes. There’s a blush-hued jacket from KUT.  And we have charming terrariums. Scarves featuring reclaimed Sari fabrics and settle-into-them pillows are colorful choices. And shoes, did we mention shoes, for those who really want to make an impression? 

We even go literal – with heart-shaped stones boasting sayings such as “Love is Love,” while other stones and signs that offer encouragement (“What are you waiting for?”). 

Journals of many styles are at the ready for those who like to chronicle their life – perhaps this Valentine’s will be especially memorable – or simply want to keep their endless lists in beautiful bindings.

And, of course, we’ve got the fashions and accessories not only for others but to also dress you in style, wherever your Valentine’s celebration may take you.

THE PERFECT RED DRESS

We hope to see you all soon. Don’t forget, we’re always here to offer advice and suggestions – or if you can’t make it in, remember you can shop online any time.

Lastly, remember that a Maria Luisa gift card always “fits.” HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

Shop NOW

JOIN THE MOVEMENT
Sign the Pledge

ML Faves for GOOD

ML by Maria Luisa Scholarship Fund

Another Newsletter
 brought to you
by Maria Luisa

TAKE A DEEP BREATH…

Thanksgiving’s not even here yet, but you’re already feeling that ol’ holiday stress building?

We can certainly relate… as much as we love this time of year, it’s hard to keep feeling laid-back when there’s so (so!) much to do.

But, fear not – our shops are chock-full of relaxation products designed to take the edge off.

And they’re not only ideal to help you de-stress but also make oh-so-thoughtful gifts that allow you to share the serenity.

A new product we’re very excited about is called Pinch Me – and it’s therapy dough. You’ve never heard of it? Well, one quick test run, and we bet you’ll be hooked. It’s a holistic, drug-free portable stress-reduction “tool.” You simply squeeze, knead or mold it – it feels like clay – while you’re doing something else (reading, watching TV, etc.). Not only will you feel your blood pressure dropping, but using Pinch Me also releases a heavenly scent (ocean, sun or citrus) that adds to the experience. You can also chill it for a real “cooling off.” And when you’re done, you just put it back in its tub, and it’s ready for next time. Best part – as good as you’ll already feel, you’ll get an extra boost knowing that every Pinch Me purchase helps pay for a soldier’s stress management training. Believe us, you’ll love this – and it will make a really unique stocking stuffer or gift for anyone in need of really kicking back.

If stress is giving you a headache, you might want to check out the products we’re now carrying from Clear My Head, a natural sinus and headache relief collection. Options include room spray, linen mist, herbal inhalation and more.

We’ve also got a wide selection of options for the bath – or just a bit of pampering. Among them are Handmade Luxury Bath Blasters (think sage & citrus, sea breeze or Cleopatra’s Desire, for example); Sonoma Lavender products, ranging from soaps to diffusers; Spinster Sisters Co. Bath Butta Bomb Trios; and SallyeAnder Soaps, 100% handmade and hypoallergenic since 1982.

And that’s just for starters – stop by to see (and smell) more – or shop 24/7 at  marialuisaboutique.com.

Don’t you feel more relaxed already?

AUTUMN AT MARIA LUISA

New arrivals

                    New activities

and OUR 30th ANNIVERSARY!!!!!!

 Welcome to our latest seasonal newsletter.

Yes, autumn is here.

Summer flew by, as did Labor Day, back-to-school

- and just about everything else of late.

But...

We are all about embracing this new season.

We have two shops filled with a stunning array of new fashions and accessories, gift ideas and ways to spruce up your surroundings.

We have some new brands, many tried-and-true favorites - and yes, BOOTS - one of our favorite things and yours!

***

AND OF COURSE....

This is the season when we officially mark - and CELEBRATE - our 30th anniversary in business.

Yes, the original Maria Luisa Boutique opened its doors in Nyack back in 1987 - and your loyalty and support have helped us reach this milestone, so it's only fitting you join in the celebrating, as well.

***
 

Stay tuned for full details on the event but hopefully you've noticed - and are participating in our anniversary events already under way:

*

Looking good

We hope you've been enjoying our "30 Looks for 30 Years" fashion show featuring some of our most loyal customers modeling their favorite finds from Maria Luisa.

It's our way to celebrate the individual styles of the women who have made our offerings their own - and celebrate their unique styles. 

Check out our Facebook page for the stylish ladies.

*

Trivia time

Think you know Maria? Prove it- ha! Through Oct. 18, we are posting a daily trivia question on Facebook about Maria, the store or the Nyack community. Let us know how much you know.

Lend a hand

We are conducting a clothing drive for the Center For Safety & Change through our MLfavesForGood initiative.

We are collecting much-needed essentials, which include:

New underwear (bras and panties), in all sizes;

Sweatshirts and pants; 

And pajamas. FB Event Link

We thank you for joining us in this effort that will have a very real impact.

Don't forget we also have BIG plans for this year's edition of Nyack's famed Halloween Parade, which is also marking its 30th anniversary.

Join us during the day on Oct. 28 when we offer our annual Halloween Doorbuster sale (details to come) - but also plan to join us that evening as we join in the march, set for 5 to 8 p.m.

As part of the fun, we'd love to have you join our #MLfaves group, as we're planning a creative way to send a message about the ongoing importance of "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle."

We are gathering all kinds of recyclable and non-recyclables to create some one-of-a-kind costumes. Think plastic, cardboard, foam, coffee-cup lids, plastic bottles and all kinds of packaging materials.

Here's how you, as an MLfave, can help:
* Join the MLfaves parade group. 

FB Event Page Link
* Help us collect materials - what others might call "garbage" - for our costumes.
* Create - or let us help you to create - your themed costume.

Keep in mind, we welcome children, who are encouraged to participate.

We are really excited about this event - and hope you are, too. Stay tuned for more details, but get in touch now if you'd like to know more.

   

***

As always, thank for reading this, our seasonal update.

In each edition, we'll continue to share details with you on new fashions, accessories, furniture, home goods and gift ideas that seem to arrive all the time in both Maria Luisa Boutique and ML by Maria Luisa

(and always available 24-7 online).

 And of course there are the seasonal SALES that you'll definitely want to know about.

***

As always, we continue to keep in more frequent touch through social media, with steady postings to our Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest accounts, 

as well as our blog and community calendar.

SOFT AND EASY

When you have a rough day, all you want to do is come home and relax.

It’s even better when you have a cozy space to just sink into.

If you haven’t seen lately, our lower level at ML by Maria Luisa is filled with an expanded selection of home furnishings and accessories – including some wonderfully welcoming oversize pillows that you’ll want to dive right into.

Stock up… and we promise your next bad day suddenly won’t seem so bad.

Shop Now

Our Mother’s Day Shopping Wish List registry is under way.

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY FROM MARIA LUISA

Browse our shop

Here at Maria Luisa Boutique and ML by Maria Luisa, we are all about celebrating women – and with Mother’s Day coming this Sunday, May 14, there’s no better time to recognize the special women in your life.

It could be your mom, your grandmother, an aunt, a sister, a dear friend, a mentor – any woman who’s been important in your life that you would like to honor.

Our shops are filled with gift ideas from clothing to bags, jewelry to scarves, shoes to lotions, candles, artwork and more. Of course, we also have journals and books, kitchen gear, furniture… lots of options to be sure.

***

Here’s what we have going on to help you find that perfect gift

Our Mother’s Day Shopping Wish List registry is under way.

Now through May 10, you can come in and create your own registry – a “wish list” of sorts – to put some gift ideas out there.

Then, you or anyone who shops from your list by May 12 will receive a 20% percent discount. And for the younger set, we've got a special offer - shoppers ages 12 and under who shop for mom now through May 12 - and BEFORE NOON May 13 - will receive a special Junior-Shopper 30% discount on cash purchases for mom.

***

And if time gets away from you, fear not. In addition to being able to shop 24/7 at marialuisaboutique.com, you can also take advantage of 15% off select gift packages in store.

Purchase GC

We have created a number of “grab-and-go” gifts featuring some of our most appealing selections. These artfully wrapped gifts feature products ranging from lip balms to earrings to jewelry boxes, reflecting both a variety of interests and budgets.

***

And don’t forget, a Maria Luisa gift card allows you to give Mom her very own shopping spree, something she can enjoy when she has the time – and perhaps you’ll even join her and see how delighted she is with what she finds.

***

So once again, to all those moms – and mother figures – enjoy the day!

***

Both Maria Luisa Boutique and ML by Maria Luisa are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays.

We look forward to seeing you this week.

Maria Luisa and the ML Team