Store idea - need feedback!

[weeniegeniewife]

I'm not sure, but I may be the only iMSN member who is in surgical menopause in her 30's. As some of you know, it's been a tough year for me, figuring out hormones, hot flashes, physical changes, etc. I've looked everywhere for advice, support, helpful products and gadgets, and it hasn't been easy.

Last night during my usual insomnia from unbalanced hormones, I thought up an idea for a new brick and mortar store. There's nothing like it around anywhere, and DH thinks I'm on to something.

I'd like to open a store that caters to peri- and post-menopausal women. It would have different sections: cool bedding and clothing, products to help hot flashes, a book section, vitamins and herbs section, a little cafe with coffee and pastries, a massage therapist on hand to give 10 minute chair massages, and weekly seminars on hormones, etc. I was also thinking about running a weekly support group for young women in surgical menopause. There is a definite need for this; one-stop shopping for the menopausal woman. You can get a lot of products online, but there's no actual store that lets you try on wicking clothes and bedding, hot flash gadgets, talk to experts on hormones, all while getting pampered with a massage and treats from the cafe, while talking with other women in the same boat as you.

What do you guys think? I am looking at space tomorrow, and I am trying to come up with a catchy name. I need your creative suggestions!

[GreyhoundsRUs]

My brain is not functioning at 100% (is it really ever), but what about some play on "pause"? Like "Press Pause"? or some play on the acronym HRT? "Her _____ _____"...

[weeniegeniewife]

Awesome ideas, Jen! Thank you.

[diggitydot]

I think it's fucking brilliant.

[Michele]

Great idea! My mom had breast cancer at 45 and the chemo rushed her through menopause. I was 12-13 at the time and very much in my own world. . I don't think she had anyone to go to or talk to (her mom had died 12 y earlier). And I think she's had some issues recently related to being without hormones for 15 y but that are really uncommon in 60 yos.

[TulipsAndSunscreen]

I think it's a great idea too. Those type of boutique stores are incredibly helpful for certain times in your life (I'm thinking pregnancy, babywearing, or cloth diapering stores) and women seek them out - you could definitely fill this niche since I agree it's completely underserved. Plus, with your ties to the medical community, you could definitely get the word out quickly.

[scrub-jay]

I love your idea! However, from a fellow overachiever... shouldn't you be focusing on healing & coursework? Please be easy on yourself. ((hugs))

[alison]

I think it's great! One thing though to perhaps consider is that many women are embarrassed/shy/modest about what's happening to their bodies. I mean, they aren't toting around a cute baby, so that might be something to consider.

[bobk]

I think it's great! One thing though to perhaps consider is that many women are embarrassed/shy/modest about what's happening to their bodies. I mean, they aren't toting around a cute baby, so that might be something to consider.

That was my thought as well. I wouldn't name or market the place explicitly for menopausal women. Give it a general "women's oasis" vibe but specialize In those products. Especially if you're also selling food; you'd need a broader customer base.

[diggitydot]

Some of the same products might do double duty for other conditions, too. I'd stay away from being too specific when you name or advertise.

[Auspicious]

Women will go into a brick-and-mortar Toys in Babeland or Good Vibrations, though, even though that's theoretically embarrassing and all that stuff is available online . . .

[scrub-jay]

The sense of community surrounding the condition would be very welcoming. Just to play devil's advocate, maybe having a store front would help alleviate the sense of shame and embarrassment.

[diggitydot]

Truthfully, I wouldn't be the least little but embarrassed to head into a menopause shop if I were menopausal, but I err on the side of caution for other peeps who maybe give more of a shit than I do. But, also remember that I don't care where people see me shopping. DH and I have had more than one memorable date going sex toy shopping at White Castle.

The only reason I would avoid being too-specific is that some people maybe wouldn't think of a menopause supplies stores for heat-wicking sheets or other items that could do double duty for other conditions.

I think the idea is brilliant and much needed in the area. An online presence would probably be really helpful to women, too.

[niener]

I don't really have much advice but I think this is a terrific idea and can see it being very well-received. I would definitely encourage an online presence as well just because that's how a lot of people will probably first hear about the brick-and-mortar store.

[SoonerTexan]

I love the idea

DD, I'm assuming you are not talking about the White Castle of Harold and Kumar?