Women Rule on Upper Girard; Mother’s Day Event Highlights Female Business Owners

When Elizabeth Allen, owner of Elizabeth Allen Atelier in La Jolla, was brainstorming ideas to bring more foot traffic to her Girard Avenue boutique, she thought it might be nice to get more businesses on the block to get involved as well. That’s when it dawned on her that 15 of the 23 businesses on upper Girard Avenue are owned and operated by women – certainly a cause to celebrate.

“They do say that women nationally are responsible for a huge number of employment through their small businesses, but when I realized it was true right here on this street, I was kind of amazed.”

What evolved is the “Women Rule on Upper Girard” event, taking place on Saturday, May 11 from noon to 5 p.m. During that time, 13 of the 15 female-owned businesses will offer special promotions, discounts, raffles tickets, and more. Purposefully tied in with Mother’s Day weekend, the event is meant to encourage women to treat themselves, and indulge in some of the great products and services that are available right in their backyard.

“It’s a little neighborhood up here that a lot of people don’t know much about, other than Pannikin – which is also run by a woman,” Allen said. “A lot of people don’t know the other shops, so we just want to bring more attention to the area.”

Businesses participating in the event include:

• Armone Core Connection: coupon for a free class and a discount on massages. Both are subject to availability.
• Arrica Italian Market: $2 off any soup, salad or sandwich.
• Elizabeth Allen Atelier: free lip balm with every $30 purchase.
• Girard Nail & Skin Care: coupon for $2 off any service (over $10).
• Gracie & Co: enter a raffle for $100 gift certificate.
• Harvard Cookin' Girl: free cookies and a raffle to attend an iron chef competition.
• Pannikin: $1 regular coffee.
• Rica Boutique: a super sale, free drinks and a special surprise for all.
• Ross Thiele and Son: enter a raffle for a one-hour design consultation.
• Symphony Home Decor: 25 percent off plus a $50 gift card to a neighboring boutique with purchases over $500.
• Talisa Hair & Boutique: enter raffle for a free haircut and blow dry.
• My Art Shed: Free Family Art noon to 4 p.m., plus free lesson giveaways and prizes. 'Create and Play, the My Art Shed way!'
• The Faded Awning: enter a raffle for $50 gift certificate.