Chapter 2 – Just Stay Alive

Chapter 2 – Just Stay Alive

The second in a series of chapters about the life of Minnie Griswold.  Lauren and I were supposed to drive up to Middlebury together yesterday for the Vermont Folklife Center opening reception of “Up Home,” the photo exhibition of the works of Neil and Susanne Rappaport that were taken in the home I now own. […]

Chapter 1 – Minnie Was a Hulett

Chapter 1 – Minnie Was a Hulett

“Minnie was a Hulett,” Susanne began back in 2012 when she and I sat down to tea in the very dining room that I am sitting in now as I try to begin putting this story into words. Susanne told me she had to tell someone the story of Minnie Griswold. I’m forever grateful that […]

Inventory…Again

Inventory…Again

It’s January so that means it’s time for us to do another inventory here at the shop.  It will take us a full day to count and scan all of the items and then a day more to download and match up what the computer says we have to what our physical counts and scans […]

How to Justify a Green Bra

How to Justify a Green Bra

Went to a holiday party last night sporting the green Marlies Dekkers bra embellished with gold on the strap.  It was quite the conversation piece. One of the conversations was about how practical a green bra actually is.  What could you wear it to besides a Christmas party?  That got me to thinking and googling […]

I Just Need A Strapless

She came in at the most chaotic time of the weekend. I can’t even tell you which day it was. All the dressing rooms were full. I had a front-closure, no wire, narrow shoulder, heavy tissue in one room deciding on her options of magnets, buttons, or snaps.  Lila had a two fittings going in […]

I Signed Up For This

Since opening the shop, I keep it very low-key on Thanksgiving. It has everything to do with Black Friday. Black Friday has been the biggest sales day of each of the four years that we have been open. I am going to walk through those doors early tomorrow morning with a goal to have the […]

Let’s Talk About SAXX

Let’s Talk About SAXX

It all started with a couple of friends of mine here in Manchester.  We were watching football on Mimi’s flat screen and all of a sudden Jeff asks,  “Hey Joy, have you ever thought about carrying men’s underwear?”  I responded that I hadn’t.  Aidn chimed in, “You should.”  Stevenson threw in, “It’s a really good idea.”  The […]

Trends with Friends

Trends with Friends

trend  noun   a general direction in which something is developing or changing.   “I stopped drinking.” “I took up needlepoint.” “I’m doing more yoga.” “I’m just not eating crap anymore.” “I’m an independent consultant now.” “I voted.” “I’m thinking about running for something.” “Let’s start a supper club.” “I have this business idea.” “Did you […]

All Aboard – My Wallet Story

All Aboard – My Wallet Story

I find myself on the train again today on this gorgeous October day. Reminds me that I’ve been wanting to tell this story about the day I lost my wallet. Took the Amtrak down to New York City in August to attend the Curve Expo Lingerie Trade Show. It was a typical journey to get down […]

Joy’s ITVFester’s Guide to Manchester

Joy’s ITVFester’s Guide to Manchester

The first thing you should know is that we are glad you are here!  Manchester is a unique and beautiful town.  Here’s my guide and some tips! It’s a small town… We all pretty much know each other – especially in the business community.  If someone says, “Go to Bob’s or go up to Amy’s,” […]