Nestled in the heart of the Five Towns, Lulu’s is a community treasure. Established 20 years ago by Louise Kramer, it features a stellar selection of beautiful and unique Shabbos gifts, engagement gifts, personalized gifts — presents perfect to celebrate any occasion — curated by Louise with great style and sophistication.
Louise discovered her interest in retail at an early age. “I was born into a ‘retail family’ and my parents imbued me with a passion for the industry,” she shared. For 50 years, her parents had owned a store in Brooklyn. Included among Louise’s fondest memories were the weekly Sunday buying excursions to Manhattan to select merchandise for the store. In the ensuing years, she honed her talent and interest by pursuing her studies as well as taking an active part in the family business.
“Retail is in Louise’s blood,” declared her husband, Lenny, justifiably proud of Louise’s success. “Back when we were dating, we’d spend many a Sunday in the city, selecting unique items for her parents’ business. Even then, she had all the makings of a successful retailer. She knew every aspect of the business and of the industry and it was inevitable that she would pursue her passion and talent into a career.”
An unabashed shopper, gifted with a fabulous sense of style and panache, Louise has her finger on the pulse of the latest trends in design and décor, often serving as style consultant and personal shopper to family and friends seeking her impeccable savvy and sophistication. She is also quite the “people person” — warm and inclusive, making you feel, at the first hello, like you’ve been friends for a while.
It was not surprising, therefore, that Louise would fuse her affinity for retail with her congeniality and establish a business that would be mutually rewarding to her customers as well as to herself. Thus was Lulu’s created. More than merely a gift shop, Lulu’s is a charming experience and makes any day a celebratory event. Louise is the definitive source for all gifts — bring her your lists and she will find the perfect gift for everyone. I must admit, dear reader, that just the thought of receiving that signature orange bag from Lulu’s, its contents beautifully wrapped and lovingly tucked within, makes my heart flutter with anticipation.
Enter Lulu’s store and you will be greeted by an aesthetic sensory experience. The store features a magnificent selection of gorgeous gift options in a variety of price points. Shopping at Lulu’s is a pleasant, tranquil experience. Browse at your leisure, devoid of pressure. Lulu’s also features a bridal registry for happily-ever-afters.
“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to have made Shabbos tables and simchas more enjoyable with my gifts from Lulu’s,” said Louise. “Lulu’s has been serving the Five Towns and many other neighborhoods for 20 years on Central Avenue. I’m so glad to continue the tradition from inside Bridal Secrets at 525 Central Avenue in Cedarhurst.”
“The thought of moving locations after 20 years — and during the COVID pandemic — was at first quite daunting, but we pulled it off, and the store is more beautiful than ever. During the harshest times of COVID, we found new ways to connect to our customers with pop-up shops at Gourmet Glatt, in West Hempstead, and through many Instagram posts.”
She adds, “Our biggest challenge during these crazy COVID business times has been finding the right merchandise for my customers. I love to shop for myself, family, and friends. I am still eager to keep up with current trends in giftware, jewelry, etc., but trade shows and showroom visits have been put on hold until further notice. Nonetheless, I am driven to keep searching for the right mix of quality and value for my customers. Why? So many of you have said to me over the past couple of decades that you love getting that signature Lulu’s bag with a gift inside because there is no doubt you are going to love it. So, don’t be afraid to treat yourself to something special for the holidays.
“Wishing all a kesivah v’chasimah tovah.”
Rochelle Maruch Miller is a contributing editor for the Five Towns Jewish Times. She is a journalist, creative media consultant, lecturer, and educator, and writes for magazines, newspapers, websites, and private clients. She welcomes your comments at Rochellemiller04@aol.com.
