Many items for sale are locally produced, including wood crafts and cards
By Staff Report
Photo by Marty Cheek
Andrea Leslie in her downtown boutique.
When she was a child, Andrea Leslie dreamed about having her own boutique. At age 4, she would replicate K-Mart’s Blue Light Special and play boutique store for hours in her room. Her favorite toys of all time were a cash register, a shopping cart and pink pedal car. As the years went by, her interest in fashion, accessories, and home décor grew greater and she found great comfort in retail therapy. She would find unique pieces and store them away for what would one day be her downtown business, a boutique shop called Maison A. Morgan Hill Life asked her about her business.
You work in High Tech in Silicon Valley. How does your full-time job compare to your shop and how do you juggle both?
My background is in human resources and I’ve worked in both start-ups and the corporate world. I have a passion for working with people, creating opportunities and building businesses. While the industries may differ, both jobs have similarities: I always have the customer in mind, I enjoy working with longtime friends and doing something I love. Of course, it’s not always easy juggling both jobs.
However, I’m a total planner and use all waking hours of the day to the fullest. It’s not uncommon that I send an early morning text or a late night email. That’s just how I roll and rather than fester on perfection, my motto is “Looks good. I’m over it and moving on!”
How do you select the unique items you stock in your boutique?
I have an eclectic taste and I’m all about mixing and matching. I like things to be different yet versatile. Whether it’s clothing, accessories or a piece for the home, I always think of several different ways in which I could use something for it to be of value. Quality doesn’t always have to be expensive — it’s about the options the items provide.
Many of your items are locally produced in the South Valley region or in California. Please describe them and why you decided to bring locally-made merchandise in Maison A.
I’m a huge fan of supporting local businesses that offer quality product. When sourcing items, I always look for items that are made in California or the United States first. I also look to support local artists and new Kickstarter venture businesses. Here are a few examples of local products: Frantoio Grove Olive Oil from San Martin, Honey from Gilroy and Saratoga, Berit Block Jewelry from Kensington, Giddy Giddy hair clips for children from Emeryville, Wood Crafting by Sean McNamara in Gilroy, and Cards by Marie in Morgan Hill.
Although many of your items are decorative items that women would generally buy, you also have merchandise for men and children. What kinds of items do you stock for men?
Maison A is a shop where there is something for everyone. Oh yes, that includes gifts for the little ones and Gents too! At this time, we have the Man-dle, a candle for men, skincare product and decorative accessories for the man cave. New items are arriving weekly so swing by and check us out.
You opened right before the holiday shopping season. How have local residents responded when they discover your store?
First and foremost, thank you to all of our customers who have supported Maison A this holiday season. I’m very appreciative for the responses and support I’ve received. The local community has given Maison A a very warm welcome.
