retail profiles // classy // a world of pink

Q&A with Christine A. Guarino, RDH, CMF, Cfm

Ted Vayos, BODY: Describe your retail bsuiness for our readers.

Christine Guarino: I chose to open a business in Suffolk Plastic Surgeons, P.C. because I recognized the desperate need on Long Island for women who have undergone reconstruction due to breast cancer. Asymmetry is something that all women suffer from, even the best surgeons cannot create complete balance when women go through breast reconstruction. Partnering with Suffolk Plastic Surgeons enables me to put the finishing touches on the outstanding work that these surgeons have done for these women, creating balance and beauty while promoting healing hearts. A World of Pink provides supportive bras to all women for all kinds of breast surgeries, as well as prosthesis for balancing and options for women who choose to not undergo reconstruction following a single or double mastectomy. A prosthesis can offer a bridge before they choose to go with a more permanent solution down the road.When entering the World of Pink offices, we encourage an atmosphere of comfort and support. We have our products on display so women can see their possible options before starting their fitting appointment. We have a television screen that displays our wide product line, as well as before and after photos.

Ted: What makes your business special?

Christine: A World of Pink is the only Mastectomy Boutique located in a plastic surgeon’s office on Long Island. We also cater to women who undergo breast augmentation and who need properly fitted bras for the best support during recovery and longevity. Mass manufactured bras do not comfortably fit and support breast implants. As a dental hygienist with 22 years of experience, I have witnessed many of my patients who suffer from the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. I am able to incorporate this experience into my new venture in A World of Pink, offering an overall compassionate healing environment.

Ted: What do you look for in a brand?

Christine: For intimate apparel, I look for a good supporting, top quality bra that’s both sexy and functional. I have many vendors that I have undergarments that I truly love, such as ones by Anita, Ameona, Ana Grant, Triumph, Fit Fully Yours & Kris Line. Anita has absolutely unbelievable prosthesis. My patients truly feel naturally whole thanks to their innovative, compassionate services and line. I recently came across American Breast Care (ABC), who are a United States-based manufacturer that has wonderful products for breast aftercare that expands beyond just lingerie, and am looking forward to bringing them into A World of Pink! This is a great option as well for people who want to support an American company.

Ted: Describe the popular styles or trends in your store.

Christine: The BRCA Gene has brought many young women to A World of Pink. They are young, courageous and are still looking for popular, sexy and trendy bras, as well as athletic garments that will support them for years to come. These women are probably some of the most incredible women I have come across as they take the necessary steps to support their health and decrease the lifetime risk of developing breast cancer.That being said, with so many young women coming through our doors, we strive to keep up with the latest trends in undergarments and provide ones that meet these fashion statements while keeping the integrity of a well-fitting, supportive bra.

Ted: Describe your price points and size ranges.

Christine: My price points range from $50 - $95 for bras, and $200 - $250 for prosthesis.

Ted: What is your typical or average customer size?

Christine: While we offer any size for any woman, we typically see an average size of 36 C-D, 38 C-D-E & 40-42 C-D.

Ted: What does your average customer spend per visit to your store?

Christine: We try to keep our products affordable, yet on average a customer who is coming in for an appointment and to shop will spend between $200 and $500. They often return for more!

Ted: Describe your customer.

Christine: We see women of all ages, from a wide variety of lifestyles, which makes A World of Pink all that more exciting—there is no threshold for the type of woman who can benefit from the services and products we offer. Women will often refer their family  members with various breast procedures who will immediately like our Facebook and visit our website, which is the biggest compliment A World of Pink can get! After all, breasts are universal… they are the first signs of womanhood.

Ted: What has impacted your business the most over the past year?

Christine: Being that we are a new company who just opened our doors in January, each day is a new exciting part of our journey. We have grown tremendously very quickly due to the growing need on Long Island for a new generation of breast care. The outstanding support I have received from Suffolk Plastic Surgeons, P.C. as well as other hospitals across Long Island has not only shown the care doctors have for their patients, but also shows the passion our community has for supporting women who are going through one of the most difficult transitions they can face. Additionally, the surgeons and their staff who have reached out and opened their doors for A World of Pink’s education has had the most profound impact on me personally, and I cannot thank everyone enough for their endless support. A World of Pink is truly a dream come true, for myself and each patient who experiences our mission: to achieve beauty, balance and healing hearts.