Club Libby Lu

Club Libby Lu was an experiential/experience-based retailer for preteen girls ages five through twelve. Founded by Mary Drolet, a former executive at Claire's and Montgomery Ward, in August 2000, the store chain operated 98 stores in 28 states in the United States before closing in early 2009.

Club Libby Lu was an interactive children's retail environment that encouraged celebrating being a girl. The popular chain was created by Mary Drolet. An experience at Club Libby always began with a wish. At the front of every door was a "fairy," who would grant the wishes of people of all ages, by sprinkling fairy dust onto guests as they walked into the store. On a typical day, girls of all ages sat in front of hot pink, heart shaped mirrors and were transformed into rock stars, princesses, and favorite celebrities including Hannah Montana and Sharpay from Disney's "High School Musical." A makeover cost between $25-$60, depending on the package of choice, and included a full up-do, nails, and makeup. In addition to playing dress up for the day, Club Libby Lu VIP's (Very Important Princesses), were guided by their Club Counselors over to various stations including a "potion bar" where a VIP could make her own lotion, perfume, fairy dust, or lip gloss, and a Pooch Parlor, where the guest could adopt an animal of their choice. At the end of every experience, each VIP was encouraged to join the free club, and was given a friendship inspired bracelet. In early November 2008, parent company Saks Incorporated announced that due to the dismal state of the economy they would be closing all 98 locations, which included the popular stores located in Myrtle Beach, Downtown Disney at Disneyland, California, and Times Square in New York. Stores closed their doors January 31, 2009. Club Libby Lu's corporate office "The Wish Factory" was closed May 2009.

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