Soleil

Soleil

by Tess Taylor

It puts food on the table, pays the bills and allows All-Americans to fulfill their duties as consumers. It is dreaded in the morning and watchful eyed stare upon the cock striking the day's end. For some it is their passion, for others it is tedious. In the end: we all have to do it do it. It takes a special person to work in retail, and you have to have the gift and talent of getting people to buy what you sell. Women want to feel beautiful not just for others, but for themselves. "Just around the corner in every woman's mind - is a lovely dress, a wonderful suit, or entire costume which will make an enchanting new creature of her." Wilhea Cushman was not lying, for as the group trekked under the hot Puerto Rican sun, over the cracked Vieques pavement, en route to the museum I stumbled upon Sol Creations boutique just around the bend. Located at Isabel II this quaint location was full of beautiful items and expensive lines. I was impressed by the taste and style of the store, the set up, the theme and decorations, the quality of the brands, and the vintage-inspired acessories. Clothing is my niche, so I was more than excited to converse with Soleil Beckedoff, the owner and main employee. She brought New York resort fashion down the coast to a major tourist attraction. Lines such as Free People and Velvet are chic, but not exactly affordable for the typical resident of the island. In fact, she admits that her store is targeted towards tourists and upscale locals. Soleil works everyday but one at the store so that everything stays as she would like it. Also, paying for labor is not cheap, and neither is finding a trustworthy employee. It seems like many of the small, local businesses keep the job opportunities within the family. It is nice that shops, restaurants and hotels the size of Sol Creations provide for friends and families as well. Like all Puerto Ricans, Soleil was very friendly, open to questions and hospitable; I enjoyed chatting with her and will definitely be in contact with her very soon!