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Tired of resorting to that same old hostess gift? Maybe you just need to try something different—no really, Something Different Boutique in Easton. Debbie DeRogatis, who opened the store in 2002, says it’s a shop where customers can count on favorite brands like Alex and Ani, Lokai, Dogeared and Chamilia, as well as shop unique finds for every occasion.
What makes Something Different Boutique different from other shops?
First and foremost, we pride ourselves in providing outstanding customer service and ensuring customers feel welcome, whether they just want to browse or come specifically to make a purchase. On top of that, our diverse selection of products and range of price points accommodate all of our customers’ gift-giving needs. We also have many designer overstock clothing and accessory items at phenomenal prices.
How do you help customers find the perfect gift—even when they don’t know what that is?
Without being intrusive, we do our best to learn about the reason for the gift and the person the gift is for. Since we’re familiar with our inventory, it helps us to make suggestions. Many people come back to let us know how much the recipient loved their gift.
What type of items/brands does the shop carry that won’t be found anywhere else?
Alex and Ani jewelry is very popular, but it is only found in limited locations due to the company’s restrictions on whom they approve to carry their merchandise. Our newest line, Kendra Scott jewelry, is a beautiful yet affordable line worn by many celebrities and is not found locally. We also have a local artist who brings in her jewelry, and part of the proceeds goes to the local animal shelter.
Is there a particular item that continuously flies off the shelves?
Our Alex and Ani jewelry—we are an Alex and Ani shop in a shop, carrying almost their entire line—as well as many of our designer clothing items. Customers love to see what designer brands I have for the season at 50 to 70 percent off. There is always something new and different!
Tell us about the success you’ve had with the online shop and the ability to ship internationally.
Our online store is still new and is just a small part of our business; however, we do ship internationally. While we love interacting with our customers in person, we realize shopping online is a convenience that shoppers want. We are in the process of improving our online selection and experience.
How has the boutique evolved since first opening in 2002?
When I opened the store, it was a home décor and gift shop. In an effort to be more of a boutique, we started shifting our focus more towards gifts, jewelry, purses and clothing. We offer top and trendy brands as well as unique finds. The readers of The Morning Call recently voted us “Best Women’s Boutique” and “Best Women’s Clothing Store” in the Lehigh Valley.
How important is giving back to the local community to you?
Giving back to the community is very important to me. I volunteer in my hometown of Forks Township.
I also volunteer as a board member for the Forks Business Association, the Forks Council of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce as well as the Economic Development Committee. I have received awards from the Chamber of Commerce, and state and federal governments for volunteering, giving back to the community and [being involved with] many charities. I hold fundraisers for local school and charity groups several times a year.
351 Town Center Blvd., Easton | 610.515.8006 | somethingdifferentshopping.com
