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Katules was the lifelong Mamaroneck resident's nickname in college. And so, it was only natural when it came to opening her own boutique, she turned to the moniker where the seed for her dream was first created.
Now known as Kristen Carelli (she's married with a 10-month-old daughter), she's been in the fashion industry for close to 10 years with a background that spans working in the personal shopping department at Neiman Marcus to being a photographer for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week to product development and fabric sourcing at Calvin Klein.
"All of my past jobs have allowed me to gain the hands-on experience I needed in opening Katules," she said. "It was always my dream to open my own boutique. And being in Mamaroneck is definitely a bonus. It feels so natural to be in this location."
Her location -- a former hair salon -- required a complete renovation when she opened in October 2013.
Her mission: To keep a wide range of affordable items that appeal to all ages and styles. "It's very important to me that almost anyone can come in here and find something," she said.
"I'm very conscious of my price points. I also love the idea of mothers and daughters shopping together."
In fact, many days you can find Carelli's own mom behind the counter. The store has been a family affair of sorts. Her dad actually found the location and gave her the push to make it a reality. Her father, as well as her "super handy" husband, transformed and gutted the place and followed through with every idea and vision Carelli had.
Her sister, an artist, came up with the idea of creating a colorful, funky-decorated bathroom complete with inspirational quotes while Carelli's mom is her "wingman."
"She's in the store with me everyday and shops the shows with me finding all the fashions for the store," said Carelli.
Carelli can't help mentioning her brother, a NYC Broadway producer who recently won his first Tony award for Hedwig. "He's a great role model in making your dreams come true," she said.
Come Mother's Day, Carelli promises lots of fashion accessories ( jewelry, bags, scarves, candles) as well as Farm House Fresh bath and body/skin care products.
Katules is at 501 E. Boston Post Rd., (914) 341-1333.
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