❤️ Hello/Goodbye

“Endings are the saddest part,
So just give me a happy middle
And a very happy start.” 

                                                                             ― Shel Silverstein, Every Thing on It

Over 13 years ago, when I worked at a little store and dreamed of owning a shop, I bought myself a very special necklace engraved in microscopic script, “Whatever you would do, begin it. Boldness has courage, genius and magic in it.” When opportunity finally came along, I wore the talisman every day while Tom and I created Momo, from musing about the would-be mission, to painting the 17’ walls with a borrowed scaffold. After all, opening a boutique was an intrepid move for two folks with little retail experience — I needed as much pluck, brilliance and miracle making that I could muster.

 
Now I must once again don my silver touchstone, as the time has come to move on from Momo.
 
There are so many reasons beyond the challenges of this current climate. Originally, the plan was 10 years. We surpassed that mark successfully and I charged ahead, with Tom by my side, but not without his kvetching. And my folks, who a few of you have met, are growing very old and my heart yearns to sit with them in their backyard watching the birds while talking story.
 
We did what we set out to do. And it was more fulfilling than we could ever imagine. Opening a shop seems to be about designing an environment and buying cool stuff. But really, it’s about the people who support us, over and over again. And that comes from all sides — from the best landlord, to loyal staff, to talented, reliable vendors, to a community that’s got your back, to appreciative customers who become friends.
 
As for our timeframe, just like so much these days, we’re taking it as it comes, with the aim of closing completely by end of September. I’m not sure of what’s in the cards for me … I might metamorphosize as Mini Momo, you never know. If you have any insights, share them! And you’ll find Tom in our garden, working on the house, and loving retirement.

What’s regrettable is that our paths may not cross again. Oh, how we’ve enjoyed hearing of your worlds outside of Momo! We wish you long and contented lives, and that the children we’ve met grow up to be smart, healthy and joyful, and that all your wishes come true.
 
So, thank you — you made Momo the happy • lucky place it’s been for the last 13 years. Here’s to the final few Aloha Fridays, and life’s next adventure.

xo Lala & Tom
ps: Thanks to Thomas Barwick for the photo, click on it for a fun farewell song.

So ... The Good Fortune Sale Continues!

We’re heading into the last week, yet there are still quite a few fabulous picks on the rack. Here’s a peek at what you could score with bonus fortune cookie discounts at Momo!

Body Bag by Jude open-backed dress features low-maintenance fabrics ... and pockets! Momo has this easy-to-wear piece in pale pink (shown), black, navy and wine. Go ahead, show off that tattoo.

Direct from France: this flattering piece by Deca, perfect to pair with leggings. Available in black. We’re down to only one of each size, so get one before it’s gone!

Aloha-esque Japanese fabric, what's not to love! Short-sleeved cotton camp shirt from Naked and Famous. This one is particularly suited for petite women, as it runs a tad small.

We only have two of these Me & Arrow dresses left! Soft, drapey fabric in a lovely shade of camel. Momo Girl Alyssa wears hers often! Come fall, you can layer it over a long-sleeve tee and pull on the boots — it’s the color of the season.

Another Me & Arrow catch! Eggshell-colored cotton gauze tank goes with pretty much everything. We also have this in the same camel color as the tent dress.

Let’s face it: Cop Copine knows how to perfectly balance “playful yet elegant.” This side silhouette is available in sizes Small (38) and Medium (40). A conversation starter at your next cocktail party.

From Portland designer Bridge and Burn, this sassy, versatile dress can be worn with the V-neck in front or back, or the belt can be tied in the front or back. And ... wait ... it ... has ... pockets!

A simple, neutral zip-back shell from Caara dresses up or down with equal ease. And it goes with black, of course.

For the indigo girl, blue ikat tee via Prairie Underground, available in Small and Medium.

And last but not last (there’s more in store): Wom&Now: a silky tunic adorned with leaves and colorful birds. Also available in sky blue and candy pink.

Confucius say, if you don’t come to Momo to take advantage of our Good Fortune sale:
 

Uh oh, take heed of cookie! The clock is winding down, but you’ve still got time to pop in and try your luck. Remember, everyone is a winner!

Call for Entries: Spam-O-Rama Returns!

So, think you make a pretty mean musubi? Meet your match during the revival of the Momo Spam-O-Rama Musubi Making Contest!

What: 4th Not-So-Annual Momo Spam-O-Rama
When: Part of Hai! Japantown, Saturday, August 25 at 6:00 pm
Where: Chiyo's Garden at 6th and Jackson in Japantown
How (to Enter): Email lala@momoseattle.com or call 206-329-4736 with name/contact info by August 22
Why: Cuz you love Spam Musubi!

Here’s the two-scoops on contest rules:
1) You must use three key ingredients, Spam, rice, and nori. Otherwise, add what you like.
Your creation will be judged on three criteria:
- Taste (more ono, more better)
- Presentation (too pretty to eat!)
- Originality (whodda thunk?)
2) Make at least four samples for the judging (and more for the hungry crowd!)
3) Make presentation tray for the crowd to ogle (and sample, afterward)
4) Bring your musubi masterpiece to Momo, ready to eat by 4:00 pm, Saturday, August 25th
5) Check FB: MOMOseattle and Japantown Seattle for future details on the day.

Traditional, wildly creative and everything in between: we want to see it all! Just as long as it’s super ono.

Fancy.

Hello Kitty in her tastiest form.

Totoro musubi? Yes, please!

Hawaii-tastic pupu platter.

For the uninitiated, here’s a link to a classic musubi recipe: http://www.mylilikoikitchen.com/2015/08/12/spam-musubi/

See you (and your delectable musubi) in a month!