BY MAUREEN WERTHER
Kimberly Harbour knows that, regardless of the type of business you own, an understanding of how business works is vital to success.
With B. Couture Fashions in Ballston Lake, Harbour has combined her business and marketing expertise with her love of fashion to create a successful retail company.
B. Couture Fashions carries Carlisle-Etcetera, an exclusive luxury line of clothing and accessories catering to the busy woman who needs to keep current with her wardrobe, but who doesn’t have the time or the inclination to go from department store to department store in search of items that fit and look great.
Harbour, who has a degree in business and marketing from Skidmore College, began her career in retail, and later opened her own public relations firm. She was a longtime client of B. Couture before she was approached by the former owner to purchase the business.
She took over in January 2014 and has been doing great ever since. B. Couture already had a loyal following and Harbour continues to attract new customers. Her marketing and PR skills have been a huge help to her in her efforts, but her biggest challenge is getting people to make that initial appointment.
“People need to know that there is absolutely no obligation to purchase anything at their appointment,” Harbour said.
Sometimes people feel intimidated having a one to one appointment, but Harbour stresses that she just wants to introduce people to the clothing. She is confident that, once they see how well constructed they are and how well they fit, they’ll become loyal customers for life.
Harbour hosts eight trunk shows throughout the year, showcasing between 350-450 pieces representing the latest trends, as well as classic looks, in the comfort of a relaxed setting. She works with clients on an individual basis to help them find pieces and help them build their wardrobes.
Carlisle and Etcetera are sister companies and, together they offer a great mix of clothing for business, casual, and social occasions. Clients can find a dress for the track, dinner on the town, or something comfy and chic for a day tooling around Saratoga.
In addition to trunk shows throughout the year, customers can schedule shopping by appointment with Harbour in the privacy and comfort of her retail showroom in Ballston Lake. Customers can preview fashion items on her Facebook page and then call Harbour to schedule a private shopping session.
Harbour derives a satisfaction from helping women look and feel their best and she is excited to continue to spread the word about B. Couture Fashions and Carlisle-Etcetera.
For more information, contact Harbour at 727-2622 or like her on Facebook at B. Couture Fashions.