Business & Tech
Dispatches: Serafina Brings Effortless Chic to Mission Street
Seraphina is one of three new high-end boutiques that opened recently on Mission Street despite tough economic times.
Despite an uncertain economy, it seems that some luxury consumers are still spending on high-end products.
Serafina, an upscale boutique for women and children, is one of three new high-end shops that have recently opened their doors on Mission Street in San Marino.
Patch will be profiling all of these new businesses in the coming weeks in a "Mission Street Revival" Dispatches series.
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Corina Madilian is no stranger to high-end luxury. The business owner has her own fine vintage and contemporary jewelry store, in Los Angeles and the boutique in San Marino. Three weeks ago, Madilian opened her first clothing store in San Marino, Serafina.
“I’ve always wanted to do a lifestyle store,” said Madilian. “This is a great space for a store like this.”
After opening Single Stone five years ago, Madilian is no stranger to operating a business in a tough market.
“We opened Single Stone five years ago after we had our first big drop in the economy,” said Madilian. “When you’re starting with an economy that’s compromised, you can only go up.”
While customers may have cutback on spending, the business owner did not hesitate to open the San Marino boutique.
“I felt that the area could support it,” said Madilian. “People come from out of town just to shop on Mission Street. The store could become an asset to the street.”
Madilian and her team took two and a half months to transform the space into Serafina – a spacious fashionista’s oasis outfitted with comfy cotton tees, designer eyewear and trendy denim jeans.
“We have had a good reaction so far, it’s been a positive response,” said Madillian. “I am definitely happy with the store.”
The store is separated into different areas for women and kids. The children’s salon features comfortable and casual tees from Splendid and Ella Moss as well as gift items and sock monkeys.
The women’s lounge is home to classic contemporary pieces with an edge, including MIH jeans, SALT optics and Michael Stars tops.
“Shopping styles may have changed but people are still buying,” Madilian said.
Have you been to Serafina? Have you cut back during the economic downturn? Tell us in the comment box below.
