Geri’s Bluffing Boutique, a new pop-up business located right in NWBRV’s Millrace Cafe, is hosting a grand opening celebration on Friday, November 20, at 5:00 p.m. The pop-up boutique specializes in African apparel, gifts, fashion accessories, and décor accents. The boutique will be open through the end of Black History Month on February 28, 2021. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will be followed by live outdoor entertainment by Sidy Maiga as part of the Levitt AMP Woonsocket Millrace Series and RI Commerce “Take it Outside” Initiative. All attendees must abide by social distancing and mask wearing protocol.
“Shoppers can experience Africa in a unique way, right here in Woonsocket, without having to make a special trip to Boston or New York,” explains Geraldine Barclay-King, owner of Geri’s Bluffing Boutique. “This new venture is an opportunity for me to contribute to the city’s economy while introducing African culture to the City of Woonsocket and the Blackstone Valley area.”
As for the boutique’s name, Barclay-King explains that Liberians are generally sociable and vibrant people who love fashion. In Liberian culture, anyone who loves to dress up, show off and project self-confidence while flaunting their stuff are called a “Bluffa-Joe.” Her vision for the pop-up business was to design an authentic experiential retail space offering clothing, gifts, fashion accessories, and decor accents from African countries including Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria, South Africa, and others. The focus, she adds, will be on women’s clothing but will include selections for men and children. Customers can also experience boutique shopping online where Barclay-King features unique styles, cuts, and patterns from many African designers at the shop’s online store at BluffingBoutique.com.
“I also plan to offer workshops and personal shopping experiences,” Barclay-King adds. “This will include anyone with insecurities, COVID-19 fear, or simply someone who just wants a one-on-one with a fashion expert. This will give my customers the attention they need. It can also be used as a “Girls Night Out” with friends. These interesting workshops will feature handmade products from local businesses.” Following the grand opening on November 20, the pop-up boutique will be open on Fridays from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Other hours are available by appointment by calling 401-405-4161. Follow the boutique on Facebook at Geri’s Bluffing Boutique for updates on new arrivals and store hours. To learn more about Geri’s Bluffing Boutique, visit BluffingBoutique.com or send an email to bluffingboutique@gmail.com.
