- Credibility:
LAKEVIEW — A kids’ boutique from the owner of Alice & Wonder is opening down the street from its Southport Corridor location.
Mini Wonder, 3527 N. Southport Ave., opens Sept. 30 and is the third store from owner Ali Reff. The store, focusing on babies and toddlers, is an offshoot of women’s boutique Alice & Wonder, with one location at 3542 N. Southport Ave.
Reff, who has three children under 3, said in an Instagram post she wanted “to create a space for babies and toddlers that encourages the creativity and curiosity of being mini.”
” … I know first-hand this mini stage goes too fast,” Reff said. “And my hope is this shop will help you and your loved ones enjoy every second.”
Mini Wonder’s selection is inspired by the kinds of gifts Reff received at her baby shower or ones she bought for her friends’ kids, Reff said in the post.
The store will have items for babies and toddlers designed in-house, including a collection of Chicago-themed clothing, Reff said. The store also has a photo booth, which customers can pay to use or get free access to if they spend at least $75.
Reff plans to host kid-friendly events, including a grand opening party Sept. 30 where local artist Kaitlyn Dornbier will create family fashion illustrations.
Reff launched the Alice & Wonder brand after leaving a corporate public relations job, fulfilling her dream of running a boutique, she said.
Reff started the business in 2015 from her bedroom, selling just 13 items the first year, she said. Since then, the brand has grown with stores at 956 W. Webster Ave. in Lincoln Park and Lakeview’s Southport Avenue.
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