CH boutique celebrates one-year anniversary with special events week of Aug. 11

Drue Thompson in her shop on Lee Road.

The Internet has given way to the ease and convenience of shopping online. With a click of a button, customers can view, purchase and have merchandise delivered to their home. But what does the rise in online shopping mean for traditional retailers? As customers have become accustomed to the effortless process of purchasing online, some retailers find it difficult to compete, leaving many small, independently owned businesses pressed to bring in customers, and closing down within a year of opening. 

Others, however, see the situation as an opportunity to change the methods of traditional retailing. DruChristine Fabrics & Design, at 1623 Lee Road in Cleveland Heights, has successfully cleared the one-year mark by offering more than just fashionable merchandise to clients.

To celebrate her first year of business, owner Drue Thompson will host a week of events Aug. 11–18. These include a day thanking customers, featuring food, music and giveaways; tutorials and hands-on demonstrations; and an appearance by Karyn Buggs, entrepreneur educator.

Designed in the style of a chic living space, Thompson's shop provides customers with a comfortable setting for their buying experience. Clients are welcomed with complimentary drinks as they browse, and Thompson encourages her clientele to sit and chat while she sketches their designs. Service is her main priority, and she knows that customers place a high value on her fashion expertise—from designs to selecting fabrics, or even accessorizing a recent purchase.

"I was aware of the challenges that come with being a retailer and knew I had to be creative to bring clients to my store instead of shopping online, or in another boutique." said Thompson. "In our fast-paced society, there is a need to develop a true shopping experience, letting clients know their time and money is well spent, and setting my boutique apart from traditional retailers."

DruChristine Fabrics & Design carries items from the designer's current collections, as well as ready-to-wear selections for both men and women. The boutique offers an array of designer and vintage fabrics, with a rare collection of findings adding to the experience—clients can see the design, select fabrics, and even choose buttons to complete the look. In addition, the shop carries several unique accessories lines from other local designers and artisans.

Thompson also hosts monthly events as part of Fashion Forward Living, a lifestyle series that features sewing classes, personal style and holistic workshops, all held at the boutique.

Thompson knows the importance of personalization as it relates to the overall shopping experience, and has combined her design talents, energetic personality and specialized customer service to stand out in the fashion retail market.

For more information about DruChristine Fabrics & Design, and the shop's Aug. 11–18 special events, visit www.druchristine.com.