Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeanne Ring.
Jeanne, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I developed my love for fashion in high school, obsessively collecting fashion magazines and coming up with my own out of the box style. My first favorite designers were Todd Oldham and Betsey Johnson who had an affinity for leopard print. Growing up on Long Island, New York I was a train ride from the fashion epicenter New York. I frequented Barneys, Saks Fifth Avenue and the small boutiques of the west village to window shop for fashion inspo. I graduated from LIM College in Manhattan a fashion merchandising and business school. I worked various jobs in retail, production, styling and design before relocating to San Diego in 2013. I’ve always dreamed of owning my own store and being my own boss. I found a void in the San Diego boutique scene; many boutiques were filled with a more boho beach style. I couldn’t find the more streamlined modern attire that’s synomous with NYC. Hence the creation of little APPLE. Bringing a little of the Big Apple to San Diego.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has generally been a smooth road. It’s always a challenge to encourage customers to move out of their comfort zone and try something new in fashion but I’m here for it! I’d say the biggest struggle yet has been this recent pandemic and having to shut down the shop for over two months. But I’m optimistic I will make it through and get my customers back in store shopping. Online shopping is a great alternative but there’s nothing like face to face customer service and the ability to touch the product.
We’d love to hear more about the business.
little APPLE is a women’s clothing and accessories boutique. The airy soho inspired space is not over crowed but a carefully curated selection, to not overwhelm shoppers. We specialize in modern sophisticated style with a little edge. All pieces in the store are super comfortable without sacrificing style. I’ve been told many times that I should have named my store the “soft store” because it’s obvious I shop with my hands, searching out the softest fabrics possible. The most important and enjoyable part of my job is customer service. As the owner I’m very present in the shop. I get to know my customers and I’m happy to spend plenty of time with them assessing and refreshing their wardrobe. Styling my customers and having them leave confident in their new look makes me the happiest.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I have a very supportive husband, family and friends. My biggest cheerleader has been my mom who has supported me in this career path since the beginning no matter what life challenges came up. I couldn’t have done it without her positive energy and support. I also have to credit most of my success ultimately to the customers who have supported me throughout this journey the past five years. I couldn’t have succeeded without them. I’m very thankful for the community I have built.
Contact Info:
- Address: 12925 El Camino Real Ste J7 San Diego CA 92130
- Website: www.shoplittleapple.com
- Phone: 6192361421
- Email: littleapplesd@gmail.com
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