Boutique GenMarie....An interview

Hi, Here is my interview with Christine, owner of GenMarie, my first friend in this community!




Where were you born and raised? I was born and raised in Lindenhurst, NY.

Where do you live now? I currently live in East Islip, NY.

How many children do you have? Names and ages? I have two beautiful little girls, Emma, age 5, and Ava, who will be 4 in September.

What are your hobbies (besides designing and sewing)? I don't have much time for hobbies, lol. I spend any free time I have with my girls.

What is your eBay ID? I no longer sell on ebay.

Do You Have An Etsy Store? I do, it is www.genmarieshoppe.etsy.com.

How did you come up with your ID, is there a story behind it? My id and name of my company is named after my girls. It is a combination of their middle names, Emma Genevieve and Ava Marie.

Are you a member of a design group? How long have you been a member of that group? No, I am not a member of a design group.

How long have you been selling your designs on eBay? I sold on ebay for 1 1/2 years, and on etsy currently. This August marks GenMarie's 2nd Anniversary.

What got you started? I saw on ebay the most beautiful creations by woman like myself, and I knew I had to learn to sew. Most people are surprised to learn that I only learned to sew 2 1/2 years ago. I always loved fabric, so it was the perfect thing for me!

Do you remember the first set you sold on eBay? How much did it sell for? The first thing I sold on ebay was a stripwork dress and pant set which sold for $40.
Have you noticed a change in your designs from when you first started? My designs have evolved over time, and truly reflect my love of vintage style, and all things feminine.

What is your inspiration for your designs? I usually derive inspiration from my girls, fabrics, and current trends.



Is there any other designers you admire? There are so many designers I love. Too many to name.


What is your favorite design you have created? I don't know if I have a favorite. Every time I make something new, it becomes my favorite. I made a beautiful peasant dress for my Fall line, which is currently my favorite.

Who is your favorite fabric designer? I have lots! Jennifer Paganelli, Amy Butler, Anna Maria Horner, Heather Bailey, Tanya Whelan are just a few.

What is your favorite custom auction on eBay right now? My favorite listinng on etsy right now, is my Darla Knot Dress. I just love the colors.

If you could max out your credit card at one store, what store would that be? Hmmmm...that is tough. I rarely spend on myself, it is usually on my girls. I would say Anthropolgie if it was for me.

What can we expect from you in the future? GenMarie is currently expanding into trunk shows. We have a few trunk keepers across the country and are hiring more every day. The first planned collection, Autumn Sky, is almost complete, and will be available in my etsy shoppe by August. I will also be making a Holiday line available in October.