Hello friendly faces! It’s a new Chicago North Shore Moms spotlight brought to you in part by Mary Gifford of Gifford Law. In this Meet a Mom spotlight we’re introducing you to a really cool Evanston mom of two grown daughters and the owner of Hubba-Hubba, Wilmette’s very successful fashion-forward boutique celebrating 36 years, Julie Cohen!
Julie Cohen knows a thing or two (or 36) about success. The owner of an accessible and approachable women’s clothing boutique called Hubba-Hubba, is excited to share with us the evolution of her career as an entrepreneur and small business owner. Spoiler alert: there are opportunities all around us, it’s up to us how we seize them! In our exclusive interview with Julie, get to know more about this incredible boutique owner, partnerships that have helped her along the way and a lovely discount just for you! Welcome, Julie!
Hi Julie! Please introduce yourself.
I am originally from Wilmette and I currently live in Evanston as an empty-nester of two grown daughters aged 22 and 27 years old. I own Hubba-Hubba in Wilmette and we’re celebrating our 36th anniversary!
What are one or two fun facts to know about you?
I am a New Trier Grad and my first few retail jobs were here in Wilmette. I worked at the school book store in Howard Jr High, as a candy girl at the Wilmette Theater and at Demas Grocery store! The Wilmette Theater is the only one still going. Lol!
Let’s talk shop! What inspired you to open the women’s clothing boutique, Hubba-Hubba?
Just out of college, I was invited to run my sister’s store in LA while she was traveling abroad. It was there that I discovered my love of retail and fashion! I had always been into clothes and jewelry but helping other women find the perfect outfit and achieve their fashion goals was really exciting to me! It is definitely a creative outlet and very rewarding! Helping our customers figure out what they are going to wear for a special occasion, event or vacation as well as every day, day-to-night outfits for women at all stages of life is always fun at Hubba-Hubba.
Julie with long-time store manager and friend, Jen!
How would you describe this Boutique?
Hubba-Hubba is a fashion destination for anyone looking to elevate their wardrobe without spending thousands of dollars! We carry the latest styles so that our customers can stay on trend and face the world looking fresh yet timeless. We shop with all ages and sizes in mind as we have been styling three generations of women!
When did you first open the doors to Hubba-Hubba and where was your first store? Why did you move to your current location?
Hubba-Hubba opened in October of 1988 in the heart of Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood. We had an amazing run in the city! So many great people that are still customers today! After 25 years, we were ready for a change and my hometown of Wilmette seemed like a great place for a new boutique with a city vibe.
Have your daughters ever helped with the business?
They have helped me out many times throughout the years. They come in whenever we need extra people for an event or to help with inventory. As they have gotten older, they have helped with modeling, graphic design and social media. My daughters are my pride & joy for sure and I also say to them that Hubba-Hubba was my first baby.
Do you collaborate and partner with other businesses in Wilmette? Why is this important to the success of your community and business?
I am a strong believer in supporting local businesses and working together to keep our little town vibrant! One of the first things I did upon moving my business to Wilmette was join the Wilmette Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce. This is a great way to partner with other business owners, cross promote each other and develop fun events in town that help everyone thrive.
Hubba-Hubba has stood the test – congratulations on your 36th year anniversary! What’s the secret to this longevity?
Hubba-Hubba is an accessible, approachable boutique. We offer beautiful merchandise in a comfortable space. Amazing customer service is a top priority for us. We select merchandise that appeals to our demographics and we build relationships through personal connections. We love what we do and that shows when our customers come through the door.
Store Manager Jen and Julie
What did you do to celebrate your 36th anniversary?
Just this past weekend we hosted a two-day celebration during which we will offer a special discount, raffle prizes and gift with purchase. Prosecco & cookies will be served! We have fun promotions from time-to-time. Subscribe to our email for the latest in trends and promotions.
Do you have any special promotions going on now through the end of the year?
We offer a mobile loyalty program year round. Customers who participate receive 20% off one full-priced item every 5th visit in the store in addition to being the first to know about special sales and promotions. And, now through 10/31/2024 visit the shop and mention this article and receive 20% off one full-priced item!
Any trunk shows or events we should save the date for?
Yes, please save the date! The jewelry trunk show with VB & Co is Saturday, November 2, 2024 from 11-3 (No appointment needed) and the Bonded Forever permanent jewelry is Saturday, November 23rd from 10:30 to 2:30 (Appointment recommended).
What should people know about holiday shopping at Hubba-Hubba?
Holiday shopping is a great experience at Hubba-Hubba. Our customers often tell us how much they appreciate that we are a one-stop shop for all their gifting needs. We work really hard to offer exciting and special items from all categories of jewelry, housewarming gifts, and of course clothing and accessories of all sorts. We happily gift wrap for our customers, and the recipient can come in and exchange their gift if necessary. We appreciate our customers and their loyalty to Hubba-Hubba!
Is there anything else you’d like us to know about you and/or Hubba-Hubba?
Hubba-Hubba is a great place to gather with friends, family and coworkers. We offer after-hours, private shopping parties at Hubba-Hubba. These events can be fundraisers for your favorite organizations or schools or a special way to celebrate a birthday, or a gathering for friends. You can find more info on our website or just give us a call at 847-728-0272. Please connect with us on Instagram and Facebook where you’ll see weekly featured products and trends!
About our Meet of Mom Sponsor
A very heartfelt thank you to CNSMoms’ Meet a Mom sponsor, Lake Forest mom of three and owner of Gifford Law, a solo Estate Planning Firm (wills and trusts). Mary, we appreciate your support of local moms in our North Shore communities! Learn more about Mary by visiting her Meet a Mom spotlight here! Contact Mary directly here: [email protected].
