Higher Vera Bradley Prices Starting in July

I hate to be the one to bring bad news, but starting in July 2011, prices on all Vera Bradley products are set to rise five percent.  According to the Fort Wayne News Sentinel, "company executives said they plan a 5 percent increase in prices with the fall collection, which will be released July 7."  According to the article, "older patterns will be 'retagged' at that time, too, in line with the price increase."  Here is a link to the full article:

http://www.news-sentinel.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110602/BUSINESS/106020322

Although the company's net revenues were up in the first quarter, its net income was down, due to an increase in the amount of income tax it paid ($200,000 this quarter last year compared to $7.5 million this year - ouch!).  I am no tax expert, but I can't help to wonder if all this has something to do with the company recently taking its stock public.   [Read more...]

Looking for a Diaper Backpack?

As many of you know, Vera Bradley does not make a diaper backpack.  Sure, they have the baby bag - and if you are lucky enough to own one, then you know it's loaded with lots of space and pockets, both of which are must-have necessities for every new parent. 

However, I know many people that pass on it because they really want a diaper bag backpack.  For anyone who has ever had to lug around a fifteen pound baby in a carrier car seat, it's no secret why this style is proving to be very popular with the new mommy (and daddy) crowd.  With little ones, you need an extra set of arms.  Of course, we were born with only two, and that's the way it stays (even when we really need more)!  So, if you can throw your bag behind your back and forget about it until you need it, well, that's one less worry.  And that is just one of the many reasons that more expecting and new parents are favoring diaper backpacks over the traditional styles.  [Read more...]