Everything Old is New Again!

Frugality and thrift haven’t always been the buzzwords of my generation.  The 80’s and 90’s were times of exaggerated need and easy credit; the lessons of our parents and grandparents learned through war and depression went largely unheeded.  But as the economy has slowed and the reality of overspending comes ever closer to home, we are beginning to appreciate their wisdom and simple mantra…live within our means.

Saving for the things we want, keeping what we have a little longer or maybe even doing without now and then, both at home and in business.

Consider two new retail stores opening this month in downtown Zion, Route 66 and the Bees Knees Boutique.  Both are upscale resale concepts but each has a unique approach. 

Route 66 is the passion of Julie Lococo of Lake Forest.  As an active FBI agent, her work made her keenly aware of the plight of homeless veterans trying to transition back into the workplace after serving their country.  Since few existing businesses are hiring in this economy, Julie decided the most expedient way to help was to start her own company.  Inspired by Building 66, a shelter on the Great Lakes Naval Campus, she adopted the tag line for the store, “Route 66: A Path to a Better Life”.  The first store opened in Waukegan and soon nearly a dozen men and women were working and enjoying a restored, independent life with dignity and hope.  Her mission is to open stores throughout Lake County and encourage other organizations to focus on the needs of our returning veterans.

The Zion store will open on June 24th at 2672 Sheridan Road and offer gently used clothing, household goods and furniture to the public at remarkable savings.  This is a non-profit operation and all proceeds benefit the veteran employees.  For more information lease call 847-360-0678.

The Bees Knees Boutique at 2689 Sheridan Road is a delight to the senses and the pocketbook.  The concept of sisters in law, Kiera Pracht and Laura Jones, Bees Knees specializes in higher in goods but not high prices.  The store buys and sells gently used items, but also carry new product lines including shoes, jewelry and accessories.  An ever-changing oasis of selection and savings, you’ll find names like Prada, BCBG, Coach and Abercrombie along with Osh Kosh and Baby Gap. 

The décor is a mix of colorful whimsy and bee related humor with departments defined as Queen Bees, In-BeeTweens and of course the men’s section is referred to as Bumble Bees.  This is definitely a unique experience that invites you to simply ‘bee’ with fresh cookies, personal attention and a nod to those old fashioned values of quality and prudence.  For more information please visit www.beeskneesboutique.com

Although already open, Bees Knees and Route 66 will host a joint grand opening event on June 24th at 3:00 with refreshments, special deals and official ribbon cuttings.  See for yourself how high end style doesn’t have to include sticker shock.  If you decide to bring you mom or grandmother, you’ll probably have to hear, ‘I told you so’, but the savings will be worth every word.