Boutique Chou Fleur, Paris

Paris welcomes a new children’s boutique called Chou Fleur (cauliflower). This 35 square meter store is located in the 5th arrondissement, known for its concentration in universities, libraries and cinemas focused on good old classics. Founder of Chou Fleur, Véronique Suzzoni mixes toys, decor, clothing and accessories, but also events for her little clients : workshops, birthday parties, English for beginners. I’d say Chou Fleur “c’est chou”, which translates as “it’s sweet, it’s adorable”. Veronique (herself “chou”), answers a few questions, business related and more personal.

How long have you been in the children’s industry? It’s been a year. I left the world of communication in which I worked for 10 years to jump into the children’s market.

When did you open your store? In Novembre 2011

What brands do you carry in your store? Bellerose, Emile & Ida, Adri, Bobo Choses, Le Marchand d’Etoiles, Petit Pan, Rice Bakker made with Love, Fifi Mandirac, Kitsch Kitchen, Mimi Lou, Sonny Angel, Baby watch, Les Apprentis Rêveurs, Annabel Kern, Engel, Kiko Kids

What children’s trade shows do you visit? Playtime Paris and Maison & Objets

How does business compare to your expectations? To my surprise, decor objects and accessories are more successful that clothing. But with only two months behind me and the Christmas period which was mainly about presents, I can’t really make reliable conclusions.

Why did you chose this area? The 5th arrondissement is both a students and family area. My store is in the perimeter of a bunch of nursery schools and it also faces a playground where mothers gather after school. There are very few children’s stores in the area and mothers are very happy to have Chou Fleur at reach; they don’t have to go all the way to the 6th arrondissement to find beautiful brands anymore.

Your favorite children’s stores in your own city? Le Château de ma Mère (av Ledru Rollin, 12eme) but also the must see stores like Chantelivre, Serendipity, Muskhane, Bonton.

What are theinteresting places in your area? My favourite one : l’Avant-Comptoir in Odéon, to drink good wine and eat the tapas prepared by chef Yves Camdeborde. I also love the cinema MK2 Bibliothèque.

What inspires you at the moment? My two daughters

A magazine that inspires you? Doolittle

Your favorite bedtime story? Les p’tites Poules by Christian Jolibois

A movie you recently saw and that stayed with you? “La guerre est declare” by Valérie Donzelli

Your favorite movie to watch with the whole family? “La Mélodie du Bonheur » (The sound of music) by Robert Wise

Anything missing in the current children’s product offer? Nice party bags…but I am working on that!