Fashion – Providence
Geraldine Barclay-King is an entrepreneur, community leader, and now the “Head Bluffa-Jo” of Geri's Bluffing Boutique, recently featured in publications that include The Best of Rhode Island Monthly, Providence Business News, The Valley Breeze, The Woonsocket Call and GoLocal.
The concept of Geri’s Bluffing Boutique comes from Geraldine’s Liberian (West African) roots. The word “Bluffing” denotes the desire to not only “look good” but to “feel good”. It is used by Liberians to denote the use of fashion to project confidence and positivity, even when one might not be feeling their best.
It was during the pandemic that Geraldine developed the concept of a boutique that would deliver an uplifting experience to make a difference in a community that was finding it difficult to quote with the challenges of COVID-19. The idea was “Geri’s Bluffing Boutique”, a “feel good” retail shopping experience.
Geri’s Bluffing Boutique has become a welcome and unique shopping experience in downtown Woonsocket. The mission is to transform lives through fashion, art, and cultural education. Geraldine’s sense of style, event planning skills and background in Travel Tourism allows her the opportunity to create the ultimate retail experience. When visiting this Afro-Bohemian themed boutique, one will be invigorated with vibrant colors, unique styles, handmade fashion accessories, art pieces, music and customized gifts for all.
It is not as much about the shopping as it is the overall experience of feeling good about your purchase. Products are selectively sourced from Sub-Saharan Africa for that unique buyer who is seeking a one-of-a-kind purchase. For example, two hand-woven baskets may have the same shape but differ in prints, colors, size, or finish. No two pieces are identical.
Many customers return with regularity and bring friends and family to enjoy the unique experience that includes education about the apparel, art, and décor that are featured and their unique origins. Among the products found at Geri’s Bluffing Boutique are apparel for women, men, and children, African-Bohemian-inspired home décor, art, and customized gift sets.
Looking for a fun atmosphere, a warm personality, and an educational retail experience? Search no further and visit Geri’s Bluffing Boutique at 285 Main Street in Woonsocket, RI or online at bluffingboutique.com for the ultimate cultural retail experience. While there, make sure to take photos and post on your social media. Don’t forget to tag @gerisbluffingboutique for your chance to win unique prizes.