Back in the Spring of 2009, my friend, Sandi announced that she would be selling a line of clothing called CAbi, which stands for “Carol Anderson by invitation.” The concept behind this unique line is the way in which it is sold; friends, old and new, gather at someone’s home, view a presentation of the collection, and then proceed to try on the items. To me, it sounded like a Tupperware party, but when clothes are involved, count this girl in! I remember sitting with 10 of my closest friends along with 2 full racks of clothing, crammed into Sandi’s living room while Sandi proceeded to show us the line. The next thing I recall was clothes flying in and out of rooms as we tried on item after item. There was a lot of laughter, kinship and just plain fun.
I was instantly smitten with the entire idea and volunteered to host a party.
Fast forward 6 years and 12 seasons later, I am still hosting CAbi parties and we are still shopping, laughing, and styling each other. My friend, Sandi, switched careers, and I began hosting parties for my new friend, Lois Kolker. Lois is very adept at fashion, styling and selling and she creates a relaxed atmosphere in which the women feel comfortable and motivated to shop.
I must admit that I have been fascinated with Carol Anderson’s story ever since I googled her 6 years ago. She was a fashion designer whose label was being featured and sold in department stores. It was her business partner and husband, (yes, a man), who gave birth to the idea of women shopping together at someone’s home. And what an idea he had. The company is incredibly successful with hundreds of “consultants” across the nation; it has mushroomed into a competitive clothing line that is both reasonably priced and on trend.
