Ramirez finds niche with Bombshell Boutique

Brooke Ramirez thought it would be fun to open a boutique after graduation with a double major in criminal justice and sociology from San José State University. Her plan was to provide trendy, affordable, quality clothing for all ages in the Bombshell Boutique located in Campbell’s courtyard. The hot sellers right now are summer dresses.

Her mother, “Mama Jo,” has been a great help by joining Ramirez on buying trips and providing much needed days off. She is an integral part of the shop and often outsells Ramirez.

Ramirez found her niche with affordability. The majority of her customers are women between 20 and 35. She gets a lot of referrals from other Campbell businesses, especially the hair salons. Many of the hair stylists are also regular customers. Bombshell Boutique also carries a smaller selection of men’s and baby clothing.

Before starting Bombshell Boutique, Ramirez worked in a Campbell boutique that has since closed. Even though she lives in San José, Ramirez chose Campbell because of the community feel and spirit. She is in charge of booking entertainment for First Fridays for the Downtown Business Association (DCBA). This Friday will feature belly dancers, a dancing fitness group and live bands.

The Bombshell Boutique will be hosting a bikini fashion show at Pearl nightclub downtown San Jose on Friday, June 19.

The best part of opening the boutique for Ramirez has been developing close friendships with several customers.

"I am truly appreciative that my customers have been so loyal to me," said Ramirez. "They are the sole reason that I am thriving."

Great hair is worth the drive for Alice and Dustin

Alice Brunson drives from Morgan Hill to get her hair done at Palazzi in Campbell. Dustin tags along for the ride and greets other shoppers from his stroller every chance he gets. Brunson said that she has followed her stylist to different locations and that the longer drive is a small price to pay for great hair.

Marcus brings human downtown to Embellishes

Marcus Aurelius doesn't believe in hanging around. Between jaunts with his petwalker, running in the backyard and regular strolls downtown with his human, Mary, Marcus keeps a fit body and his mood elevated to content--never giddy.

He never misses stopping by to visit his crystal-studded flip flop friend, Priscilla Flynn, at Embellishes. He's not particularly interested in her dog treats, however; it's her friendship he values. Priscilla understands that he was attacked by a Lab last month and treats him with extra tenderness.

Marcus is far from indifferent toward other shoppers. His aloof aura protects the mandatory je ne sais quoi of his heritage. He is, after all, a French bulldog. Three and a half years ago as a pup, he noticed the silly, needy, fumbling sorts (probably Labs) bouncing around loving practically everybody. "Pleeeease," he told himself, "I will never be that." Marcus has been true to that oath.

He will visit with strangers but prefers that folks pet his back rather than touch his face. His nose wiggles when he decides to move along. Often, there are dogs in the area that need to be sniffed out. His human tags along.

Pedicabs add zip to Campbell nightlife

Kwickcart.com, a pedicab service, debuted on May 15 for Campbell's monthly third Friday Downtown Campbell ArtWalk. Campbellites and visitors were thrilled to ride in open-air pedicabs with charming escorts delivering them around town. Artwork displays accompanied by outdoor live music filled the downtown with people who shopped, walked, dined and enjoyed beverages.

Even though Campbell is filled with young adults, it is a place where people of all ages meet. Opportunities for chance encounters with old friends and chances for meeting new ones, defines the homespun social life of this town.

Dates and friends were amazed by savvy hosts who were in on this exciting new approach to experience the Bay Area's happening hotspot! The drivers know Campbell and are more than happy to recommend its highlights. There are three pedicabs transporting folks to and from art galleries, shops, restaurants and vehicles.

Pedicabs will be in Campbell on Thursday through Saturday evenings and during any downtown events including first Fridays, the ArtWalks and Big Bands & BBQ.