Thursday, December 3, 2009

I'm Here!!

I Know I Haven't Been On Here In A While....I've Been Crazy Busy. I Hope You All Had A Fabulous Thanksgiving:) I Spent Time With My Family Which Is Always A Great Thing! I Am Spending Alot Of Time In The Store Fixing Some Mistakes I Made In The First Few Months Of Becoming The New Owner! I Think Maybe I Was Concentrating Too Much On Making New Friends And Not Enough Time On The Inventory I Was Excepting. This Is A Fabulous Store And My Number One Priority Is To Keep It That Way! So If You Stopped by In The Last Few Months And Found That Things Were A Little "Different" Don't Lose Faith In The Store I Am Working Very Hard To Maintain The Quality Of The Inventory!! Hope To See You All Soon And Please Feel Free To Give Feedback...It Is Always Appreciated!!

Friday, August 28, 2009

Holt Hometown Parade...

We're giving away $5 coupons at the Holt Hometown Parade Saturday August 29th!
To get yours, just hang out at the parade which starts at 11am. One of the best spots to watch is the corner of Holt & Aurelius Rd.
The coupon is good for $5 off a purchase of 10 or more! We don't mess around :)
We're also giving away a fall wardrobe! To enter the drawing, visit Angels & Rascals.
You only have a few weeks, so don't miss out.

MATERNITY SALE - - - We've got some absolutely ADORABLE maternity clothing right now. The styles are so fabulous, people won't even know you're wearing "maternity" clothing. The sale isn't to get rid of the ugly leftovers, it's to promote our maternity section! It's a best-kept secret of some lucky moms-to-be...and we want all of you to know :)
Our prices are really great - Old Navy jeans for under $10, Motherhood tops, Mimi dresses, Olian blouses - all the up-to-date styles at 30% off. Only until September 12th. Shop early!

See you around...

Nicole & Crystal

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Goodies Galore...

Oh how I love a full store...and right now we're brimming with fabulous Fall clothing. New inventory hits the floor every single day - which is why you need to stop in weekly, right?!
You never know what you'll find...

For example - - today we received a Play Yard XL - snap it up before it's gone - they don't last long!

Do you need girls size 6 jeans? We have LOTS!

We even put out some winter outerwear - I know, I don't want to think about it either...
Just think though, if you get your winter goods at Angels & Rascals, you'll have more money for, well...how about new snow tires? Ok....yep, that was another bad thought. Sorry. I'm too practical, I guess :)
Anyway, I've seen plenty of Columbia, Lands' End and L.L.BEAN coming to the register. We've got some little boots out too - smaller sizes like 4-8.

Oh gosh and I can't forget to mention the ADORABLE girls size 2T clothing that one of our new sellers brought last week. She had the best brands and everything is like NEW - Baby Gap, Gymboree and some boutique brands too.

Happy Shopping :)

Nicole

Thursday, August 6, 2009

New this week...

Well, since I'm here until the end of August I thought I'd squeak in a few more blog posts :)

New this week - - Lots of fall clothing in all sizes, including some cute boy shirts and jeans.

Expecting a baby this fall/winter? Do you have a car seat cover? Well if you don't, we've got one from last season's Lands' End catalog that is like new and it's top-of-the-line in quality and function. It doesn't just cover the top of the car seat, it goes inside the seat and has a place for the straps to go through so the baby is enclosed in super soft fleece and zipped in all the way around. This style is particularly nice for two reasons, you don't have to bundle your baby like a mummy because they're snug in their little cocoon, and your car seat stays nice and clean.

Need a baby swing? I believe we've got FIVE right now - a few full size (like the papasan style) and a few travel/take along size.

If you are looking for a small stroller, we've got two.

Are you a Britax fan? Want the very best toddler car seat you can buy? We have a Britax Marathon seat (in excellent condition) priced at less than 50% of retail, and a Britax Decathlon (like new - save over $100 off retail). I've had two Britax seats and let me tell you, they're the best...they install solid as a rock and last forever.

Lets see...what else is new (that I can remember!):
** A very cool Fisher Price pirate ship
** Patty Potty training potty seat, and underpants (endorsed by Dr. Phil)
** Fisher Price Entertainer (deluxe exersaucer with music, 3 different ways to use on the floor, for learning to stand, etc)
** Jogging Stroller
** TinyLove activity gym/floor mat (like new and half of retail!)
** Baby supplies like wipe warmers, brand new bottles, brand new Huggies & Pampers diapers, a newborn co-sleeper that you use in your bed so baby doesn't get rolled on, bathtubs, onesies, small toys, newborn sling/carrier, nursing cover, and lots more I'm forgetting :)

Please be sure to say hello to Crystal when you stop in! She is the new owner and would like to meet each and every one of you :) She is working so hard to keep things running smoothly and is committed to keeping Angels & Rascals among your favorite places to shop!

Resale Rocks!

Nicole

Monday, August 3, 2009

Hey everyone I just wanted to introduce myself. My name is Crystal Murphy, I live in Holt and I have 2 children. My husband and I are the new proud owners of Angels and Rascals. We still have lots of cute summer items and we are currently taking fall items. We have quite a few baby swings that we just marked down, so come in and check out the store!

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

SUPER SALE - Thurs, Fri & Sat!

Hi!

We spent all day getting the store ready for the big sale that starts tomorrow and runs through Saturday.
I think I marked down 80% of the inventory- seriously!
You've got to make it in for the three day sale because we're clearing out items at up to 70% off.
Since we were still taking summer inventory up to 10 days ago, this isn't a leftover clearance...this is a really GOOD opportunity to get some GREAT stuff we just received.
It was difficult for me to hole-punch those tags (...there were SO many adorable outfits still new with store tags attached!), but the time has come to make room for fall inventory.

Oh and I wanted to mention, we have three VERY nice toddler car seats. Two of them are Britax seats (a Marathon, and a Decathalon). They are in excellent condition with manuals and very clean straps, the LATCH system, etc. These seats retails at Toys R Us for $279.00. If you want the best car seat on the market, stop in and take a look at these.

Hope to see you at the sale!

Happy Shopping,

Nicole ;)

Saturday, July 18, 2009

Change Is In The Air!

Hey everybody!

I've got some really exciting news :) Angels and Rascals will be welcoming a new owner! Crystal and her husband have purchased the business from Nicole. This is a really exciting time for everyone, and even though we are all going to be sad to see Nicole leave, Crystal is an amazing woman with a lot to give :) We love you, Nicole! Crystal, we wish you all the happiness in the world!

So, this means that there are going to be a few short term changes - Right now, we are only going to be taking select items. Call before you bring something in! This way, I can make sure we are in need of it and you are going to receive the best opportunity. See the website for further information. Also, everything taken in for this itsy bitsy time frame will be taken in on consignment only. This is just to make the transition from one owner to the next a little simpler :) I thank everyone in advance for making this an easy and awesome time!

Now - on to more exciting news: I am in possession of 6 swings! (Yes, I said 6!!!) There are 2 Winnie the Pooh swings, a Take-Along Aquarium swing from Fisher Price, a Graco open top with a super cute bear mobile over it, another Graco open top with activites on the tray, and the Nature's Purest is still here. These swings are all at fabulous prices and deserve excellent homes with you and your little one! Also, I've got 2 bouncers, a SUPER nice activity center that is WAY cooler than an exersaucer, and a double stroller that could use a little TLC.

So, those are my super great pieces right now (as well as the adorable clothes that are always in stock here) and everyone should stop in to give them a peek. Keep checking those emails for news about upcoming sales and information, as well as the website to keep you posted about everything that is Angels and Rascals. Wish Crystal luck with owning her first business, and tell Nicole how much she has meant to everyone these years!!

Corrie Ann

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Exciting News for the Fourth of July!

Hey all!

Well, I just thought that I would let you know about some of our great stuff hanging out at the store again. We have three infant swings right now!!! And, of course, they are at amazingly low prices. There's a Disney All in One swing that plays 5 different songs and has five different vibrastions and speeds. Also, a Graco open top swing with a teddy bear mobile attached. Finally, there is the Nature's Purest Hug Me swing. It is made from all organic cottons and retails for $80. However, these precious swings are ready to come home with you today and rock your infant into Dream Land. :)

We've still got an awesome selection of clothing ranging from Girls size Newborn to 12 and Boys size Newborn to 12. Lots of new stuff being added for the fall and winter season as well. Our 60% off clearance is still holding some great treasures at excellent bargains for the thrifty shopper, and our $1.99 rack has been reduced to $1.00!!! Definitely worth checking out, if you are in the market for some cozy winter wear.

Right now, a Fourth of July display is making a splash on our mannequins and in our windows. We've selected some of the best Fourth wear and displayed it everywhere in the store, so come on in and grab a little something for your young one's Fourth of July Weekend!

We've always got more to talk about and to put out! Our inventory is just exploding from our back room. But, that just means that you all have produced fabulous items that we are privileged to sell. Our quality is as great as ever thanks to all of you wonderful patrons. Keep up the great work, and stop in to see me sometime!

Corrie Ann

Thursday, June 18, 2009

We Are Overflowing!!

Hey there! It's me again and I just thought I would let everyone know how thankful we all are down here that we continue to get such quality items. In the last few weeks, I have been overwhelmed by people bringing in such awesome stuff! That being said, Angels and Rascals will not be accepting clothing until further notice.

Our store is so very full of every size in both genders!! Come on down and check it out :) If you have any questions about baby equipment, give me a call and I would be more than happy to answer those questions for you.

Right now, we have the excellent selection of clothes as well as a bunch of great equipment items. I just put out a pink Sit and Step 2 in 1 Exersaucer that grows with your little girl, as well as a Nature's Purest Swing that is all organic cottons. Both are fabulous and searching for great homes.

Thank you all for your continued support and stop in to see me sometime! :)

Corrie Ann

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

New and Exciting!

Hey there everyone!

It's markdown time, and that means that I have just gone through the entire store and marked down select items 25-30% off! Also, the $1.99 rack has been marked down to the $1.00 rack! That means that everyone should stop in and check out the great deals for your little ones.

We are still filled with excellent items in sizes 0-12 in girls but we are a little lacking in our boys clothing. So, all you moms and grandmas with little boys out there need to bring your boys' clothing in! All you moms and grandmas with little girls need to come and go shopping ;)

Recently, we acquired a great infant carseat in pink plaid that is perfect for your little girl. Our bedding selection is just as great as ever and growing a little. We've got lots of great learning toys for your angels and rascals to grow with. And I can't forget to mention the Jumparoo that is waiting to hop into your heart.

All you moms-to-be out there should stop in and check out our summer maternity section. We have bathing suits in every size and plenty of shorts and capris to keep you cool and comfortable this summer. Also, don't forget about our selection of baby books that just keeps growing!

I think I've hit all the high points right now, but we are always adding new things. Stop in and see me sometime!

Corrie Ann

Monday, June 1, 2009

We are stuffed...

I know I say this every time I post, but it makes me so HAPPY to have such WONDERFUL quality items being brought in for us to purchase! That being said, our store is FULL :) Full of great stuff for you, in ever size up to girls 12.

If you know anyone looking for a sit and stand double stroller, we have one and it's like NEW. The last one we had was purchased an hour after it hit the floor so if you want it, please give us a call and we'll hold it for an hour or so until you can come and get it.
We also have a great convertible car seat for your sweet little toddler, and lots of cute crib and toddler bedding. Oh and I can't forget to mention the cute blue Step 2 indoor/outdoor rocking horse - it needs a new home :)

We have hired two new employees, and I adore them both - so will you. Please stop in and say hello to Corrie, and Crystal.

See you soon!

Nicole

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Summer might be here sooner then we think!











I just looked at the weather and it said that it should be 81 on Friday!! Really? I mean thats swimming weather. Whooooo Hooooo...
Well the store is packed. Lots of really cute summer items for your little rascals and angels. From swimsuites to sandals its all here. I will be adding a few pictures to this blog of some of the super cute dresses we have in the store right now. If your getting married this summer and need a flower girl dress or if you have that all important daddy daughter dance coming up stop in here first. We also have the cutest canopy bed for dolls. I havent tried it out yet but i think it might be the perfect size for an American Girl doll. A beautiful purple toddler bed bedding set that includes the bedskirt, comforter, pillow case, fitted sheet and sheet. A really nice Cosco Alpha Omega carseat, mint condition. And much more.


We now have a $1.99 rack, plus a rack and rounder that is now 60% off. If your looking for cleats we have a really great pair of red Adidas size 6.5 and a pair of black Wilson soccer cleats that are a size 4. LIKE NEW.

So get out of the rain and come see us.

Lisa Jane

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

I know its been awhile.....

But I'm back! Hi everyone I'm so sorry its taken me so long to blog, its been crazy busy in the store. We have new store hours, 40% off sales, and beyond full racks!!!

So get in here and see me.

Lets start with the hours. The store is now open:

Monday - Friday 10:30-6:30

Saturday 10:00-4:00

We've decided to stay open till 6:30 for the longer summer hours.


Now on to the sale items, I have two large rounders that are full of 40% off girl and boy clothes. Its loaded with lots of cute items. I also have a rack that is size 14 and up all 40% off. Summer and winter fall items. Get in here now before its all gone.

Our maternity section is blooming with cute summer items. Our size 4 boy is taking over the store, and Easter dresses are "hopping" with excitement to be worn! LOL i know that was pretty cheesy.

So get in here and bring those kids. Mine are away visiting their dad and i need some happy little faces to cheer me up.

Lisa Jane

Friday, March 6, 2009

Popping in for a quick update...

Hi A&R Shoppers!

Well, is Spring finally here? We have our fingers crossed :)

Are you looking for a convertible car seat? One that can be used rear or forward facing?
We have two...and both are like new, with the instruction booklets, etc intact. These will not last long so if you want one, give us a call to make sure we still have one.

We have a like new Eddie Bauer double stroller...top of the line, reversible front seat, cup holders, big bottom basket, holds an infant car seat. The A&R price is nearly HALF of what it retails for at B*bies R' Us. You'll save at least $80.

The quality of clothing we are receiving continues to impress us! Thank you for properly preparing your items before bringing them...we greatly appreciate it.

Off to photograph a little cutie in Old Town.
Here is my website: www.ArtandSoulOldTown.com
You can check out my work in the "Portfolio" section.

Until next time...
Nicole

Saturday, February 28, 2009

Special request...

Hi!

I'm hoping to find a Stand and Ride Duo Stroller for a very nice customer of ours.
We had one and sold it immediately - so if you have one and would like to make $40-60.00 (depending on condition and age, brand, etc) please call us or bring it in right away.
I would love to help out this person, and I know she would be very pleased.

Thank you!

ps. We put out over 500 new items over the last two days - and it's all AWESOME stuff! Come visit us soon ;)

Monday, February 23, 2009

Baby it's cold outside...

...So why in the world do retail stores clear our their winter inventory so soon? Do they think it will make Spring come faster? What about all of us with kids who seem to outgrow their clothing right at the tail end of a season? My daughter goes to school every day looking like she's waiting for a flood...she doesn't need bathing suits and tank tops...she needs jeans!

One of our customers just brought in a few dozen pair of way too cute jeans and shirts size 12 months. So for those of you that have that fashion model 1 year old girl, now is the time to add to her wardrobe! Angels & Rascals still has plenty of great winter items...we know what you need :)

Lucky enough to be escaping the Michigan winter weather? We have lots of wonderful Spring and Summer clothing too. Jackets, shorts, dresses, and t-shirts are eagerly awaiting your arrival.

We are looking for 18 month, 2t and 3t boy Spring/Summer (and basics like jeans, khakis, etc) so please help us out. It's not too early to start cleaning those closets. Of course we want your other sizes as well.

We've started something new and fun! We're cherry-picking the brands you love and putting them on one rack, right up front. Right now all the Gymboree clothing is there and easy for you to shop. Next month it will be something different. This has been a great hit! So if you have a love for Gymboree bring in your excellent condition kids clothing and help us fill the Gymbo rack while doing some shopping for your own kids as well.

Thank you to all of the new customers that have tracked us down through our commercial on 99.1. Your business and friendship is greatly appreciated :)

Thursday, February 5, 2009

THINK SPRING! PLEASE!









So yes, I know I'm from Alaska, and this weather should be a piece of cake for me, right? Well its not and I've had enough! So I've decided to make it spring in the store. The mannequins are dressed in capri's and summer outfits, Hawaiian print shorts, sandals and Easter dresses!

But for those of you that love this weather we have tons of WARM cute clothes just waiting for you to take them home. The boys size 5 is overflowing with Gymboree and Baby Gap. The larger girl item racks are full as well from size 5 and up......... so much cuteness. I just cant take it!!!!

We would like to ask for your help on bringing in 18 month to 3T boy and girl clothes. Theses sizes are harder to get because toddlers are still so uhm..... whats the word? Wobbly at that age and they spend a lot of time falling, which doesn't always help with the like new items that we would love to stock up on. So if your child skipped over the wobbly stage and their clothes are sparkling like orbit gum then please bring them in.

If your looking for some mother to be reading, we have a ton of books that have just arrived from When you're expecting, What to expect the first year, and my all time favorite Pregnancy for dummies!! (where was this book when i was prego?)

We have also received some cute crib bedding for that new little man in your life, spaceships, stars and rockets. Its very cute and has a lot of primary colors in it. Also the lady bug set is here, but not for long...... get in quick before it flutters away.

So many great toys that i am reluctant writing about them, I'm worried that you might run in here and buy them and then i wont have them to play with any more. My favorite ones are Zurg and Buzz Lightyear its amazing how far Zurg can fly through the store when Buzz Lightyear shows him who's boss!! (Speaking about boss, i hope Nicole doesn't read these blogs often LOL) What???? I need to test the toys right? That's part of the job..... all toys are a go, to infinity and beyond!!! he he he

OK well I've babbled on long enough, now get in here and say hello, and don't forget to bring in those super cute babies, that might just need me to hold them while you shop.

Blog ya later, lol (I'm funny today)

Lisa Jane











Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Finishing my update...

Lets get a little personal.
(to read from the beginning, you'll need to see the older posts)


Do you know that Angels & Rascals will be 7 years old in September? How many of you remember our first store on the corner of Cedar and Aurelius (between CVS and QD)? Our youngest daughter was just 5 months old when we opened. She just turned 7 last Saturday. Ooh that makes my stomach hurt a little. She learned to walk in that store. Our middle daughter lost her first tooth in that store. I met my best friend Lisa Jane there - in that teeny little funny shaped store. Wow.

A lot has changed, but so much has stayed the same.

I love Angels & Rascals. Though I do occasionally want to burn it to the ground and collect the insurance money, I cannot deny everything the store has given me. Without it, Art & Soul Photography would likely not exist. Little did I know I would gain such a comprehensive business education. And the clothes...well, lets just say we've been blessed with full closets.

Angels & Rascals has introduced me to many friends and amazing customers who have shopped with us, laughed with us and cried with us too. Thanks to our customers, A&R has been able to donate thousands of nice clean outfits to local families in need. We've held fundraisers, sold Girl Scout Cookies and candy bars for customers, held diaper drives, and donated to fire victims. We couldn't have done it without you. When it comes to shopper support, I can honestly say our A&R shoppers are the cream of the crop. Thank you! Oh and the kids - I adore them all. Even the criers, and the ones with poopy pants. We love to see your children so please bring them in with you...really, we mean it.

From the day A&R opened, I have been adamant about only offering items in top-notch condition. Occasionally, I even make people angry because I won't take something they think I should. When you walk into the store, I want it to smell good, feel inviting, and I want valuable items to jump out at you right away. Otherwise, what is the point...right? Who wants to sift through a bunch of junk? Not me, and not you either! This leads me to price and value. I've shopped in hundreds of resale shops over the years. Sometimes I just have to laugh at the high prices. Again, there's no point in buying something used, if it's only priced a few dollars below the new retail price. So trust me, we constantly evaluate our prices and we study retail trends. I know children's clothing and equipment inside and out. Sometimes you can find new items on an extra super clearance for less, but 90% of the time our prices compared to new, full retail prices are rockin' low, especially on clothing. If you truly think we've got an item overpriced, please tell us. Sometimes we make mistakes and if so are happy to make a correction...or we'll just smile and thank you for the suggestion :) For all of you who talk up our low prices, we could kiss you! Never be afraid to tell us what's on your mind ;)

Established Angels & Rascals customers - thank you, thank you - we love you!
New customers - please keep coming back - we like you a lot and want to please you :)
Potential customers...what are you waiting for - we want to meet you (and your kids too)!

Thank you for reading this post.

Happy Shopping!

Nicole

Oh my goodness - new stuff!




Hi,

I am so excited to tell you about all the new merchandise that has recently flowed through our doors.....

*Lady Bug Crib Bedding to just die for, if your expecting a baby girl, get in here quick before this adorable set walks away!

*Tons of educational toys!

* Any Peter Rabbit fans out there? Well if so come and check out our beautiful pictures that just arrived.

*And the clothing...all sizes of great stuff, not to mention cute. If you need pajamas for your little ones this is the place.

OK, so now I'm going to move to the personal level of things.

I am going through major baby withdrawals, soooooooo if you have a little one that you would like me to hold while you shop through our store, I would be delighted! (this will save me from wanting one of my own) Any age will do........ LOL

Well I guess I should finish entering items so they will be ready for you when you walk in the door.

Until next time, stay warm! And if your kids are having a hard time staying warm bring them in and check out the winter coats.

Yours truly,
Lisa Jane

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Ok...lets get this party started!

Hello!

We have started this blog to keep in touch with you on a more personal basis - so lets get started :)

First up - are we open, are we closed, has the store been sold...?
Originally we had decided to close the store. Not because it is suffering, but because we miss our girls...they are growing so quickly! Soon after we began to liquidate, an individual expressed interest in buying the store. It didn't work out for them but another couple came along shortly after that and committed to buying Angels & Rascals. We were delighted! However, the transaction fell through on their end and we were left with attorney fees and confused customers. Not fun!
So, we are here...alive and kicking... and still the same fabulous little store where you can find great deals on top quality stuff for your children! Wahoo :)

Some customers just walked in so I'm going to chat it up with them...but I'll be back to finish this update.

New arrivals...several fisher price toys, some great 18m boys clothing, and a newborn carseat base...perfect for Daddy's car so you don't have to do the switcheroo.

To be continued...!

;) Nicole