The Pink Tulip

Creativity runs through Letty Algren’s veins. She calls her 94-year-old mother, Helen Stewart, not only her best friend but also “an all-around Martha Stewart.”

Letty channeled her mother’s creativity directly into her store, The Pink Tulip, right down to Stewart’s distinct calligraphy on the store logo. In fact, it was her mom who helped her and husband, Duff, furnish the first Pink Tulip boutique when it opened in fall 1986.

The Pink Tulip, named after Letty’s favorite flower, began as a home furnishing and gifts store in Birmingham’s Southside. The couple added clothing over time, and now the boutique carries ladies clothing, accessories and seasonal décor in its downtown Homewood and Cahaba Village stores.

Each piece in the store reflects Letty and Duff’s knack for finding detailed novelty items.

“Even basic tees have something unique about them,” Letty said. “Whether it’s small ruffles on the sleeves or the fabric, we pay close attention to detail.”

To avoid seeing fashion clones, The Pink Tulip goes as far as to refurbish thrift shop items. At the store, customers can find cheese graters turned into light fixtures, hand-painted frames and handmade jewelry. 

The owners try to make the store a place of enjoyment, not just a place for purchasing. Letty likes when customers notice the uniqueness of a piece and ask her how it was created.

And others have taken notice. Cooking Light and Southern Living magazines have featured the store’s furnishings to accentuate food in photo shoots.

The store took on a new customer base when Letty and Duff’s 19-year-old daughter Hadley became a teenager. It was then that Letty gained a new perspective on fashion to add to her selection. Since then, the boutique has featured a blend of casual, feminine and rustic-styled clothing that is playful enough for teens and conservative yet fresh enough for women.

“We want to help them find things that make them feel fabulous,” Letty said. “We love to hear about when our customers get compliments on their outfits.”

The Pink Tulip also features a wide selection of scarves, a must-have piece in every female’s wardrobe according to Letty. She also said boots, leggings and novelty tops are essential for every girl’s closet.

Nearly 30 years after first opening, the Algrens have gained much experience and developed a niche style for their boutique, but it did not come with ease.

 “Our success has been a blessing from the Lord,” Letty said.