If you’re visiting the Miami area, the city of Coral Gables–also known as “The City Beautiful”–is a must see! It’s home to the University of Miami, famous landmarks such as the Venetian Pool, Douglas Entrance, the Biltmore Hotel and many amazing restaurants, retailers and boutiques! It is a shopper’s dream come true. Coral Gables also has the most unique boutique I’ve ever stumbled upon: Emporium.
Emporium is where style meets creativity, with a beautiful selection of contemporary women’s clothing and accessories. I was instantly inspired by the clothes and decor of the boutique. I needed to know more about the story behind the unique pieces and what inspired the selection of the clothing and jewelry pieces that made the boutique so special. I had the opportunity to meet with the owner of Emporium, Sara Zamikoff. She is so down to earth and the definition of fabulous business woman! Sara’s boutique is not just a store–after spending some time shopping I noticed how locals were not just customers for her but they were friends. Sara and her team provide exceptional service and fashion advice. It was refreshing to see a staff dedicated to service and that helped you find pieces to fit your individual style. One of my favorite parts of visiting Empiourum was seeing Sara’s dog Maple, who is a staple in the store! Sara tells me people come in just to see Maple! I asked Sara Zamikoff a couple questions to learn more about the inspiration behind the start of Emporium.
Shayda: How did you get started in fashion?
Sara: I got my start in the fashion industry almost by accident. I wanted to be a business owner and work for myself, and my original plan of opening a tea shop/bakery ended up morphing into a boutique. I have always been drawn to fashion and my friends and family would constantly be asking me to style them, so I figured why not do what I love every day and turn this business into a clothing and accessories store.
Shayda: What inspires you and what inspires the selection of pieces chosen for the boutique?
Sara: So many things! Music is a huge inspiration in my life–my playlists in the store are a local favorite and people constantly ask me what songs are playing while they are shopping. I think it creates a cool, relaxing vibe for my customers that is also very me. I’m also inspired every single day by the amazing local designers that I work with. While I like to stock up on classic pieces and brands, Emporium wouldn’t be what it is without the local Miami designers I carry. I find their pieces to be so unique and inspired, and my customers love that they won’t see every other girl walking down the street in the same outfit or wearing the same accessories. It’s really about standing out and being unique–that’s the Emporium “look.”
Shayda: What are some of the brands that Emporium carries?
Sara: Level 99 Denim, T Audrey, Giles & Brother, Flynn Skye, Chaser, Blanca Beroes, Pure of Heart, Cleobella, and so many more!
Since opening in 2007, Emporium has become an award-winning local business. Sara never mentioned it in our interview but this past year she won the 2013 Outstanding Florida Retailer Award! Emporium gives back to the community by working with Dress for Success and Foster Care Review. Just a block away from the famous Miracle Mile, be sure to stop by when you’re in Miami and check out Emporium online or on for pictures of items available!
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