Pop.Bop.Shop. Turns Nine

Today Pop.Bop.Shop. turns nine. Nine! I remember the decision to start this blog so clearly. It was December 2008 and I was about eight months into my first job in public relations. I was doing a lot of writing at work, but mostly about medical devices and I was looking for a more creative outlet. I decided that my New Year's resolution for 2009 would be to start and maintain a blog for a full year. Here is my very first post on January 4, 2009. 

I laugh every time I re-read that post. In so many ways I am still committed to exactly what I laid out in that first, ever-so-brief post. But then I notice things like . . . the post had no photos, no links to anything and beyond basic formatting. The asterisks kill me! 

Over the years, we've celebrated each new year together: 

I am so grateful to you, my readers, for continuing to follow allow, leaving great comments and making superb recommendations. Thanks to your suggestions I've discovered wonderful books, addicting TV shows, delicious restaurants, cozy hotels and inns and so much more. 

As you know, for the last few years I have been chronicling my New Year's resolutions here on the blog. Though I haven't yet published my 2018 list (that's coming up!) I wanted share one of my resolutions for this year, which is to feature more businesses founded and run by women. Today, in honor of Pop.Bop.Shop. turning nine, I am thrilled to highlight nine businesses owned by powerhouse females. 

1. Crompton Collective

If you've been following Pop.Bop.Shop. for a long time, you already know I am obsessed with Crompton Collective in Worcester, MA. This treasure trove of handmade products and antiques was started by Amy Lynn Chase, who wanted to revitalize her childhood neighborhood. 

Crompton Collective Crompton Collective Crompton Collective

While I love hunting through the stalls for the perfect card, birthday gift or awards show party decor, what I really admire most about Crompton Collective is that it gives other women an opportunity to expand their businesses. 

In addition to the Crompton Collective, Amy has also helped established a farmer's market, promote the businesses that are upstairs in the same building (BirchTree Bread Company, Seed to Stem) and has even turned part of their space into a wedding venue called the White Room. She is the driving force behind the new energy in this area. 

The next time you're looking for a special gift or a new piece of furniture, make the trip to the Crompton Collective. Pro tip: be sure to hit up Armsby Abbey in Worcester for the greatest mac and cheese on earth before or after you shop. 

2. Greentail Table 

It's no secret that I love to entertain. For every occasion I challenge myself to use new decor, create special meals or cocktails and set the most festive mood possible. Over the past year I've been able to do that with ease thanks to Linda De Valpine's beautifully curated shop, Greentail Table in Newton, MA. 

Greentail Table

After a long career in buying and merchandising, Linda developed an eye for what's truly special. Her entire store is filled with gorgeous serving pieces, paper goods, cards and more. 

Greentail TableGreentail Table

If you host an annual celebration of any kind, make time to zip over to Greentail Table to stock up on items that will surely make the event memorable. Linda is constantly adding new items, especially for big holidays. 

3. Koko Bakery 

Also in Newton, MA, Koko Bakery is owned and operated by chef Nobuko Maruyama. The bakery name is a mashup of her name and her dog's name (Kuroko). She says, "I loves that it sounds just like the baking ingredient cocoa."

Koko Bakery

Koko Bakery makes the lightest, most heavenly tasting donuts. 

Koko Bakery

Their chocolate croissants are equally addicting. So many layers of flaky, buttery goodness. 

Koko BakeryKoko Bakery

The bakery is located on California Street in Newton, just a few blocks from Watertown Square. It's not in a high traffic area (for cars or on foot) so please support them if you can! Your taste buds will thank you. 

4. Gus & Ruby Letterpress 

I first discovered Gus & Ruby Letterpress through my cousin, who was using them to create the save-the-date cards for her wedding back in 2009. The business is co-owned by Samantha Finigan and Whitney Swaffield. The shop is named after their two dogs (sensing a theme, here?). You can read more about their all-female team here

Gus & Ruby

Gus & Ruby began with a shop in downtown Portsmouth, NH and then expanded to an e-commerce presence. Since I don't always have time to drive up to Portsmouth, I love the option of ordering online. In 2017 they opened a second shop in Portland, ME. These ladies are on fire! 

Gus & Ruby

They carry one of my favorite brands, Rifle Paper Co., including these note cards, this desk calendar and this pretty candle

Gus & Ruby Gus & Ruby Gus & Ruby

If you're looking for a special wedding card or gift, a beautiful baby shower present or something charming to add to your home, Gus & Ruby is the place. Plus, who wouldn't want to stroll through Portsmouth or Portland on a warm, New England day?

5. Posh + Prep 

Julie Mancini is the creative (and comedic) mastermind behind Posh + Prep, a calligraphy and design business. You may remember we did a Valentine's Day collaboration together back in 2015. 

Posh + Prep

I am still obsessed with this Real Housewives card. 

Posh + Prep

And this is my favorite print of all time

Posh + Prep

I love following along on Julie's Instagram account as she shares all the custom creations she designs for weddings - envelopes, escort cards, table numbers - you name it, she can make it happen. 

Recently, Julie also co-founded a calligraphy workshop called Sip & Script. I am dying to attend one of these! 

6. Verrier Handcrafted 

In our mostly digital world, I still have a love affair with snail mail. My favorite card company is called Verrier Handcrafted and it's run by a mother and daughter, Jude and Ashleigh Verrier. Read about their all-female team here

I first discovered these cards at Chelsea Market in New York City. I was drawn to the fashion illustrations, jazzed up with a tasteful amount of glitter. Soon after, I learned that Mint Julep (in Cambridge and Brookline) also carries their cards - bonus! 

Verrier Handcrafted

I have given this wedding card numerous times. 

Verrier Handcrafted

My sister gave me one of their cards when she asked me to be her Maid of Honor. I still have it. 

I just learned that they also make phone cases. I wanted to include two or three examples here of my favorites and all of sudden I had flagged six of them. Check out all the fabulous options here

7. EvaDane 

A girl can never have enough jewelry and designer Lexie Broytman has created a line of bracelets you won't be able to resist.

EvaDane

Lexie got her love of jewelry from her mother and grandmother (just like me) and the company is named after her grandmother, Eva. 

Each EvaDane bracelet is handmade, and is a combination of semi-precious stones and a single charm. Here is my bracelet, a gold Libra charm with black onyx: 

EvaDane

Black onyx is known for strength, absorbing and transforming negative energy and wise decision making. Who doesn't need a little more of that? 

8. A Ruby 

I've profiled A Ruby a few times here on the blog and that's because I can't get enough of their flattering, feminine basics. The clothes are so functional, but also things you can't wait to put on. 

The brand was founded by Avra Myers, one of the co-founders of Club Monaco. She makes clothes specifically designed for women's bodies. 

A Ruby A Ruby

I have been eyeing this cotton fleece moto jacket for two years. 

A Ruby

It's so refreshing to shop for clothes from a brand for women, by women. 

9. Nantucket Kids 

Last, but not least, is Nantucket Kids. I was introduced to founder Andrea Romito last summer and I was immediately impressed by her desire to bring back the classic, preppy, New England styles of decades past. As someone who shops for a lot of kiddos, I am always looking for clothes that will help them stand out from the pack. 

These two outfits are my absolute favorites: 

Nantucket KidsNantucket KidsNantucket Kids

I can't think of anything better than teaching my little cousins to feel beautiful and confident when they get dressed. 

In addition to running Nantucket Kids, Andrea is also a mom to twin girls. #SuperWoman 

And there you have it! Nine incredible companies led by fearless females. 

Now, what would a birthday celebration be without a gift? In honor of Pop.Bop.Shop.'s 9th birthday, I am giving away a $100 dollar Visa gift card to one lucky reader. I hope you'll use it to support one of these fantastic businesses, or another brand you love and adore. 

To enter to win, simply leave a comment below telling me about your favorite female-owned business. 

This giveaway will be open until Sunday, January 7, 2018 at 11:59pm ET. The winner will be notified via email on Monday, January 8, 2018. 

Who run the world? GIRLS. 

Comments

Marisa Edelstein's picture

I adore the KT Collection shop in my neighborhood (Upper West Side) in NYC. They started out in 2003 at street fairs and holiday markets and then opened a storefront on Columbus Avenue (a true NYC success story). Their jewelry is stunning! It is a versatile mix of high-end fine jewelry and trendy costume jewelry - they also sell other accessories including gorgeous leather handbags, hats, and scarves (I have purchased one of each!). Most of the jewelry is handmade at their studio only a few blocks away and the designs are inspired by NYC and its stylish female residents. It's a true neighborhood gem - when I go in, I feel recognized and greeted warmly as a neighbor. In the video on her website (link below), the owner, Katie, explains how she's able to organize her schedule around her 3 children which I think is an important and special part of being a female business owner. Molly, you'd love this place! Happy shopping!

https://ktcollection.com/

Molly's picture

So excited to check out her stuff!

Lindsey Berlin's picture

I love rifle paper copy and hello Hadley co! Both run by awesome women and mamas. Happy 9th birthday to your wonderful blog, I love reading along :)

Lindsey Berlin's picture

Rifle paper Co. (Darn autocorrect)

Molly's picture

I love having you as a reader! I am OBSESSED with Rifle Paper Co.

Jessica Leeds's picture

I have a friend who started her own Etsy shop and has taken knitting hats, blankets etc full on. She’s a working mom and has managed to start her own side business as well. Her Instagram handle is @stitchedbykatielynn. Jolie got a hat from her and I’m always getting compliments! It gives hope to working women that we can still find something we love and learn to work it into our lives, even learn to make a profit from it as well! Congratulations Molly, you’re blog is as amazing as ever!

Molly's picture

I agree, watching women juggle all these responsibilities is mega inspiring. I may just need to get myself a hat!

Daniel's picture

I assume you’re talking about our favorite female owned businesses besides popbopshop? I’m going with Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Molly's picture

Oh how you flatter me! And Ruth is a definite inspiration!

Stephanie Blackburn's picture

Bethenny Frankel is my #1 business idol. She not only started a multi-million dollar company, but is dabbling in real estate (which you know I love), and spent so much of her time and money this past fall bringing direly needed supplies down to the people of Puerto Rico.
But also, the Skinny Girl White Peach Margarita is pretty delicious.

Molly's picture

Bethenny Frankel is a mega mogul! Watching her star rise has been amazing. And I agree, her support of disaster relief in Puerto Rico is incredible and such a powerful use of her celebrity status.

Stephanie Blackburn's picture

More importantly, HAPPY BLOGAVERSARY!!!!!!!

Molly Marzalek-Kelly's picture

What incredible companies, and such a happy post to boot! While I've only been to Crompton Collective once, I still dream about it. I get to enjoy a great family sandwich shop in Rutland, Gill's Delicatessen - it opened in 1964 and is now owned and operated by one of the daughter's of the original Mom and Pop that started it.

Molly's picture

Love that their daughter is continuing their delicious legacy!

Maura Roche's picture

Congrats on nine years! One of my favorite female-owned businesses is Bario Neal, a Philly based ethically sourced jewelry company. All of their stuff is really unique and beautiful.

Molly's picture

Hi, Maura! Ooo, I will have to check that out!

Maura Roche's picture

Congrats on nine years! One of my favorite female-owned businesses is Bario Neal, a Philly based ethically sourced jewelry company. All of their stuff is really unique and beautiful.

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Molly Galler

Welcome to Pop.Bop.Shop. My name is Molly. I’m a foodie, fashionista, pop culture addict and serious travel junkie. I’m a lifelong Bostonian obsessed with frozen confections, outdoor patios, Mindy Kaling, reality television, awards shows, tropical vacations, snail mail and my birthday.

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