As you know, in RETAIL, one day you're in, and the next day you're out.

The best reality TV showcases talented people with big dreams putting everything on the line to achieve them. We want to be inspired, because some of us really do have it all on the line, don't we? On Project Runway, designers watch their outfits walk before the judges, then wait to hear their fate: Am I IN or OUT? 

Small retailers like me, in the worst economic meltdown in recent history, certainly can relate. We're hustling to squeeze a maximum return for of our limited time and extremely limited money. This summer three more local kids boutique have gone under, bringing my count to NINE of our small indie kids stores out of business in the past year (see my 6/5 post for #1-6):

7) Bellies & Babies, on College Ave. in Rockridge (and Danville)
8) Lora's Closet, on College Ave. in Elmwood
9) Babyalula, on Piedmont Ave.

These nine were IN (some for many years), yet now they are OUT, but not because of Project Runway judge Heidi Klum. The real judges here are the consumers: this means you and me! We all vote with our dollars every day. Which retailers would you like to vote IN? Besides spending money at these places (see Project 350), don't forget to tell your friends.

Ruby's Garden is extemely grateful for the encouragement we've received from our customers; you really are the reason we do the work. But now, more than ever, we could use your word-of-mouth power! Please Yelp us, every review helps! Please join our Facebook Fan Page and invite your friends! We want to be in this for the long haul. You can help.