After walking runways in New York, Paris, and Milan, former model Amy Briesemeister took her knowledge of the fashion industry and started her own boutique, Pink Champagne, in Long Lake.
After helping a friend at her West Coast boutique, owner Briesemeister came to realize it was something she, herself, wanted to pursue. “I wanted to stay in the fashion industry being that I used to model, so I thought about this,” said Briesemeister.
Pink Champagne opened about two years ago in Minneapolis on Nicollet Avenue. But about three months ago Briesemeister relocated her store to Long Lake. The boutique now sits just off Wayzata Boulevard, near other one-of-a-kind craft, horse, and home stores. “I moved the store because a lot of my clientele were from this area, so it made sense,” said Briesemeister.
From the large pink and white sign outside the store, customers have no idea what to expect when they walk in. But once inside Pink Champagne they are immersed into an inviting and comfortable atmosphere with soothing teal and taupe walls, wood floors, soft chandeliers, and a comfy lounge in the back to make customers feel right at home. In regards to the design, Briesemeister said, “I just do what I love. I wanted a comfortable, homey atmosphere where people would feel welcome and known on a first name basis.”
The boutique offers luxury fashion items mainly for teens and young adults, but also has things for kids, women, body, men, home, and even pets. “We have a little bit of everything for everyone. From infants and children in our Pink Lemonade section to men’s and women’s. [There are] also a few gift items for that last minute birthday gift,” said Briesemeister.
Catering to all, Pink Champagne has a wide variety of high-end merchandise including handbags, boots, sleep and workout wear, designer jeans, tops, and dresses. Overall there is a mixture of sophistication and fun in the clothes. “As far as my products I pick it all out myself, and I love everything in the store. I believe that I have a broad enough sense of style to fit many different needs, and I don’t believe in selling something I don’t like,” said Briesemeister.
Pink Champagne participated in the BSM fashion show Funky to Formal, but is also involved in many fashion shows throughout the community. “We [were just at] the Graves Hotel for The Ultimate Pajama Party to benefit Women’s and Children’s HIV/AIDS Programs in Minnesota,” said Briesemeister.
This is no ordinary boutique: from its worldly and industry-expert owner, welcoming and friendly atmosphere, and the luxury items sold there, Pink Champagne is a totally unique shopping experience.
