Cute Pink Pinup Sailor Girl Outfit This Item Includes: Hat with Anchor Patch; Halter Dress with Double Breasted Buttons and Rope Belt with Anchor Charm
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OK, I rarely foray into the controversial territory when it comes to my writing, but I cannot resist it this time. I live in the city core of Toronto , so this whole big box store thing has not affected my life terribly much. This idealogy tends to belong to the suburbs. Dont get me wrong, I occasionally find myself in a Walmart or Ikea. They are terribly attractive in many ways. Good prices, large selection and a good return policy. As a Mom, these are all features I find appealing. Whats not so fun you may ask? The crowds in the aisles, the long line-ups at the cash, and the lack of customer service.
I am an independent costume shop. I reside in Toronto, employ local people, and buy from Canadian companies and distributors. As well, I offer my products and services all year long. So this is where my rant begins. The big box stores undercut us small guys at Halloween by selling the same products and accessories that we carry. They do this because they are able to buy direct from the manufacturers in large volumes. But, there are some very big differences that you also need to know before making your buying decisions.
This is where my confession begins. If your buying principles are based solely on price, then by all means, shop at your local big box store. WE CANNOT COMPETE ON PRICE. And please dont ask us to.
If, however, you have a different shopping philosophy than that, such as, you want to support local businesses and the local economy, or you prefer to shop Canadian or you want to bring your business somewhere that offers customer service, then we independents are for you.
Here is my list of why we are the better way:
Shopping locally enhances our way of life. Small stores are part of a community feeling, something that breathes life into the environment. It makes our communities cleaner, safer and more beautiful.
When you shop at an independent, you support local businesses. I dont think I have to tell you that many of these big box stores are not Canadian owned. In fact, many of the dollars that they generate go south of the border into some pretty deep pockets.
The big box stores are not socially conscience. Money is the major motivator. Independents base their buying decisions on what is best for the community and how to contribute to their community. As well, we listen to the needs of our customers and adjust to meet their needs
The independents are neater. I mean, maybe this seems like a silly thing to say, but try to find the costume you want at Halloween when all of the shelves are a disaster, and everything has been picked over. Chaos.
Customer service. Aside from social conscience, independents offer better customer service, no ifs, ands or buts. You can find an actual person to serve you, often times the owner. It's it nice to actually talk to someone about your needs? We answer the phone, we call you back. We offer our expertise to you because we actually have training in this business. We see if we can get you that costume you have been looking all over town for, or well refer you to someone we think will have it. Well assist you in your shopping needs. Well communicate with you. And well be honest.
As well, well offer things that the big boxes cant possibly. Well rent costumes. Well do custom work. Well special order. Once the big boxes are out of stock, thats it.
I feel better already. I am going to shop locally too, because we independents practice what we preach.
Heidi Loney has worked as a costume designer and wardrobe stylist for theatre, film and television for the last 10 years. She currently owns Ms. Dress-Up, a Toronto based retail and on-line store offering quality kids and adult dress-up clothes. Check out her website: http://msdress-up.com/home/home.htm
costumes for halloween