An Update from La Rella: Growing, Learning, and Looking Ahead

When I started La Rella, my dream was never simply to open another online boutique. I wanted to create a place where women could discover thoughtfully curated fashion with authentic Italian roots, timeless style, and a personal touch. Every season has taught me something new, and these last few months have been some of the most rewarding since we began.

Our Biggest Sales Months Yet

I'm incredibly grateful to share that June and July have been our strongest sales months since La Rella launched. Every order, every returning customer, every kind message, and every recommendation to a friend reminds me why I started this journey. Your support has allowed this dream to continue growing, and for that, I am truly thankful.

Returning Home—and Discovering Something Incredible

One of the highlights of this summer was traveling back to Italy.

Although I grew up just outside Naples, I recently discovered that one of Italy's largest wholesale districts—CIS Nola—is only about fifteen minutes from where I grew up. It felt almost unbelievable that such an important fashion hub had been so close to home all along.

I spent an entire day exploring the district, meeting vendors, studying collections, learning how different manufacturers operate, and building new relationships. It wasn't simply a shopping trip—it was an opportunity to deepen my understanding of the Italian fashion industry and strengthen the connections that allow me to bring unique pieces back to La Rella.

Finding the Right Balance

Lately, much of my focus has been on sourcing directly from Italian vendors.

It's an exciting process, but it's also a challenging one. Between fluctuating exchange rates, rising shipping costs, and changing tariffs, bringing authentic Italian fashion to the United States requires thoughtful planning.

My promise remains the same: I won't bring something into La Rella simply because it's made in Italy. Every piece has to offer both quality and value. I want every customer to feel confident that they're purchasing clothing that is beautifully made, thoughtfully selected, and worth every dollar.

Pop-Up Events Continue to Be a Favorite

Our June pop-up event was another reminder of why I love getting out from behind the computer and meeting customers in person.

Having both of my sisters there made the day even more special. My sister Anna, a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), has an incredible eye for styling and helping women find pieces that make them feel confident. Then there's my sister Teresa—the connector in our family. She has a remarkable gift for bringing people together and turning events into fun get togethers. Lastly, there is the hard work of setting up and building the spaces - none of which could happen without my husband, Jake; he's been my biggest supporter.

Watching all of us each contribute in our own way reminded me that La Rella has become a true family effort. Whether it's styling outfits, sharing stories, or simply creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere, those moments are what make our pop-up events so memorable.

I'll continue scheduling pop-up events throughout the year because they allow La Rella to become something more than an online boutique. They give us the opportunity to introduce women across Central New York to Italian-inspired fashion, offer personalized styling, and create an experience that simply can't be replicated online.

Looking Ahead to Fall

As much as I love summer, our Fall collections have officially arrived, and I have to admit—I'm excited.

Each season brings new opportunities to discover emerging Italian brands, curate beautiful collections, and continue growing La Rella. Fall fashion has always been one of my favorites, with rich textures, effortless layering, and timeless pieces that become wardrobe staples.

Inspiration Comes from the Next Generation

One of my favorite ideas this summer didn't come from Italy or the fashion world—it came from my daughter.

She recently asked me, "Mom, are you sending thank-you cards to every customer who orders from La Rella?"

While I haven't been sending formal thank-you cards, I have always tried to include a personal note whenever I can. Her question made me stop and think about how we could make every order feel even more personal.

Then she had a brilliant idea: "What if every customer received a postcard from some of our favorite places in Italy?"

I loved it. So, that's exactly what we did.

Now, every La Rella order includes a postcard featuring one of our family's favorite places in Italy. It's a small touch, but my hope is that when you open your package, you feel like you've received a little piece of Italy along with your purchase. Whether it's a stunning coastline, a charming piazza, or a hidden corner of the country that means something to us, each postcard is another way of sharing the place that inspired La Rella in the first place.

Sometimes the best business ideas don't come from a buying trip or a business meeting—they come from the people who know you best.

As I reflect on the past few months, I'm reminded that La Rella has truly become a family journey. Anna brings her incredible sense of style. Teresa brings people together wherever she goes. My daughter reminds me to never overlook the little details that make someone feel appreciated. And I have the privilege of bringing together everything I love about Italy and sharing it with all of you.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Whether you've been with us from the beginning or you've recently discovered La Rella, your support means more than you know.

Here's to a wonderful fall season, new adventures, and continuing to bring a little bit of Italy to your wardrobe—and now, your mailbox.

Con affetto (with love),
Lina
Founder, La Rella