Phoebe Cates, a name that brings back memories of 1980s Hollywood, is not just an actress who charmed audiences with her roles in iconic films like Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Gremlins. In recent years, Cates has shifted her focus from acting to a different kind of business venture—owning and managing a boutique store in New York City.
From Hollywood to Retail
While many fans remember Cates for her memorable roles on the silver screen, she has taken a step back from acting to dedicate more time to her personal life and other interests. In 2005, Cates opened her boutique store called Blue Tree, located on Madison Avenue in New York City’s Upper East Side. The store has become a reflection of Cates’ personal style and taste, featuring a curated selection of clothing, jewelry, home decor, gifts, and more. Blue Tree is often described as a “general store,” but with a twist—offering unique and often hard-to-find items that are chic, quirky, and eclectic.
The Concept Behind Blue Tree
The idea behind Blue Tree stems from Cates’ desire to create a space that felt inviting and special. She wanted the store to have an atmosphere of discovery, where customers could walk in and find something unexpected. The store’s name, Blue Tree, was inspired by a type of tree that Cates had seen in a children’s book, and the concept was to create an oasis of calm and creativity in the bustling city.
In interviews, Cates has mentioned that she loves the idea of bringing people joy through the things she sells. Her store is known for its eclectic mix of products, which range from high-end fashion items to quirky and whimsical gifts. Blue Tree offers everything from luxurious cashmere sweaters to unique candles, vintage jewelry, and even select children’s toys. The store’s eclectic mix is a direct reflection of Cates’ own personal tastes, and she is often involved in handpicking the items that are sold there.
A Personal Passion
For Cates, owning Blue Tree is more than just a business venture—it’s a passion project. She has expressed how much she enjoys the creative process of curating the store’s inventory and creating a space where people can find something truly unique. Cates is known for being very hands-on with the business, and it’s not uncommon for customers to find her working in the store, helping with sales, or engaging with shoppers.
Cates has said in interviews that she never intended to create a large retail chain. Instead, Blue Tree was meant to be a small, personal project that she could pour her creativity into. It’s a reflection of her personal style and interests, and she enjoys the intimate nature of running a boutique store where she can interact directly with her customers.
The Store’s Appeal
Blue Tree has garnered attention over the years, not only because of Cates’ Hollywood fame but also because of the store’s unique appeal. Many shoppers are drawn to the store for its eclectic mix of products, which includes items that you wouldn’t typically find in larger retail chains. The store offers a wide range of products, from high-end designer pieces to quirky and affordable gifts, making it a place where customers can find something for everyone.
The store’s location on Madison Avenue also adds to its allure. Nestled in one of New York City’s most upscale neighborhoods, Blue Tree attracts a diverse clientele, including locals, tourists, and celebrities. The store has been featured in numerous magazines and online publications, and it has built a loyal customer base over the years.
Balancing Work and Family Life
One of the reasons Cates stepped away from acting was to focus on her family. She is married to actor Kevin Kline, and the couple has two children together. Cates has spoken about how important it was for her to be present for her children as they were growing up, and this was one of the main factors in her decision to take a break from Hollywood.
Owning a boutique store like Blue Tree allowed Cates to strike a balance between her professional and personal life. She could channel her creative energy into the store while still being able to manage her own schedule and spend time with her family. Cates has mentioned that she finds the work she does at Blue Tree to be both fulfilling and flexible, allowing her to pursue her passion while also prioritizing her role as a mother and wife.
A Different Kind of Fame
For many celebrities, stepping away from the spotlight can be challenging. But for Cates, her transition from Hollywood to retail seems to have been a natural one. She has embraced her role as a store owner and enjoys the creative freedom that comes with it. While she may no longer be gracing the big screen, Cates has found a new kind of fulfillment in running Blue Tree.
In some ways, Cates’ store has become an extension of her own personality. The items she chooses to sell reflect her tastes, and the store’s ambiance is warm and welcoming, much like Cates herself. While she may no longer be in the limelight, she has carved out a new niche for herself—one that allows her to express her creativity and connect with people in a more personal way.
The Future of Blue Tree
As Blue Tree continues to thrive, Cates remains committed to keeping the store true to its original vision. She has expressed that she has no plans to expand the store into a larger chain, preferring to keep it as a small, curated boutique that reflects her personal style and interests. The store’s success has been driven by Cates’ passion and dedication, and she shows no signs of slowing down.
In a world where many celebrities venture into business for the sake of profit, Cates’ approach to Blue Tree feels refreshingly genuine. For her, it’s not just about making money—it’s about creating something meaningful and personal. Blue Tree is a labor of love, and it’s clear that Cates takes pride in the store and the joy it brings to her customers.
Conclusion
Phoebe Cates may no longer be a regular fixture in Hollywood, but she has found a new way to express her creativity and connect with people through her boutique store, Blue Tree. Located on Madison Avenue in New York City, the store is a reflection of Cates’ personal style and interests, offering an eclectic mix of products that range from high-end fashion to quirky gifts. For Cates, owning Blue Tree is more than just a business—it’s a passion project that allows her to bring joy to others while also maintaining a balance between work and family life.
While she may have stepped away from acting, Cates has found a new kind of fulfillment in running her boutique, and Blue Tree continues to thrive as a beloved shopping destination in New York City.
