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Ali Alford & Sallie Glover in Cloudveil & Mammut

Kit Meyer and Jennifer Meyer in Patagonia Nano pullover

Black Squirrel Sightings were found on the Montana ski trails and NY bike trails.  Whatever the temperature or activity we can help you look and feel good.

Recent Article in Pelham Patch

Alex leaving the Alma boutique in his new BSQO outfit!

I spent the weekend at the Alma Holiday Fair in Rye, a fundraiser for St Vincent's hospital, where I watched hundreds of people, mostly women, shopping for Christmas gifts.  During a quiet moment I was struck by how much fun these women were having trying to find the perfect gift for their loved ones.  Likewise, I could tell the other vendors and I were having just as much fun helping the shoppers select the best gift. Helping someone find that perfect gift is one of life's simple pleasures for me.   Now I shop on-line as much as anyone. BUT when you really need to find the right gift – there is simply no substitute for working with a live person who knows and loves the products they are selling.  In these last frenzied days of shopping I encourage everyone to get out from behind the screen, meet the people you are buying from, eavesdrop on other shoppers conversations, enjoy some laughter and try to take a moment to think about how excited your loved one will be to unwrap your present this year.  I promise it will be more fulfilling.

This week's email for Black Squirrel is titled “G.I.F.T.S.”  

I have highlighted a few BSQO favorites at diverse price ranges.

Gortex shell by Arc'teryx is the best in its category.  Color is hot this season and I am a big fan of the yellow.

Ibex Zepher has been a stand by since we opened in 2007.  Owning two is not considered extravagant. It gets our vote for the most versatile item we sell.

Flannel shirts and flannel lined pants by Mountain Khakis are great price points, practical products and good looking.

TailorByrd shirts give any outfit some pop.

Sherpa pullover and pants can’t be beat for price and quality.

 

Secret of My Success: Anne Ainslie

Inspired by her love for the outdoors and fashion, Anne Ainsle opened the Black Squirrel Outfitters shop in Pelham more than three years ago.

   

Anne Ainslie opened Black Squirrel Outfitters at its first location on 15 Fifth Ave. in Pelham on September of 2007 and has lived in the community with her family since May 2005. In May 2010, the store opened up at larger retail space located on 525 Fifth Ave., Pelham, NY.

As a small business owner, Ainslie has used her position to give back to the communities that have supported her.  For example, she recently hosted a shopping day for Friends of Pelham Sports, an organization aimed at investing at the recreational facilities for the Town of Pelham.  In a little more than four hours, the store was able to donate nearly $2,000 to the organization.
 
What drew you to your profession?What do you find interesting about the work you do for a living?
I think Black Squirrel Outfitters started with my families love for the outdoors.  I have a husband and 2 boys and we love to be active and we are always outside, whether we are playing or just watching. My family needed good looking, functional clothes that worked for our active lifestyles, and I felt there was a real void in the marketplace.  There are plenty of high end fashion houses and mass market men's shops, like J Crew, Orvis, LL Bean, but I believe I fill the niche in the middle -- I  marry fashion with the outdoors to create the Black Squirrel look which we call outdoor chic. I love finding the merchandise, meeting new people, helping customers find the appropriate outfit or gift.

How do you balance your career with family life?
I chose to open my shop at 15 Fifth Ave., Pelham, NY so that I could still be a part of my boys' daily lives. My first location was very close to our home and schools.  Now that they are a bit older, the bike ride to 525 Fifth Ave is easy. I work hard when the boys are in school and doing their homework so that I can be there for them when they have free time and games.

If you could change one career decision you’ve made, what would it be? 
Take more chances.

What are some key lessons you've learned in your professional and personal life that you think everyone can learn from? 
I think one needs to be passionate about what they do. I think treating all those around you with respect is of utmost importance. Lastly, surrounding yourself with people smarter than yourself, all of whom have different strengths and weakness is the key to success.

What is your definition of success?
Having a strategy and fulfilling it. Enjoying your daily routine.