DaytonDailyNews.com

BEAVERCREEK — We've put together a list of questions and answers that will help acquaint you with the Miami Valley's newest fashion department store:

Q When does the store officially open and what's planned?

A The 135,000-square-foot fashion department store will hold its grand opening Saturday, Sept. 13. At the traditional clap-in, employees line up to greet their new customers and to pass out chocolates and roses.

Company president Jim von Maur is the great-grandson of founder C.J. von Maur and will spend opening day at the store, accompanied by co-chair Charles von Maur and his wife, Nancy.

Customers can submit their names for a drawing to win $1,000 shopping sprees at the store; 10 will be given out. There will also be live music and children's entertainment.

Q Are store hours the same as The Greene?

A No. Hours at Von Maur are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. Call (937) 431-8880 for more information.

Q Where can I park?

A In addition to regular Greene parking, Von Maur has parking at the north side of the store, a two-level parking deck and parking at the south side as well.

Q What categories of merchandise does the store carry?

A Von Maur sells men's, women's and children's fashions as well as accessories and some gifts. The chain is known for its shoe department and has a clearance room for shoes. The handbag collection is extensive, with bags costing $80 and more. Popular lines include Coach, Juicy Couture, Kate Spade, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Hayden Harnett, Junior Drake and Kooba.

Q Will I be able to find sales help when I need it?

A As you can see from our reader feedback (at right) from those who've patronized Von Maur in other cities, the chain does a good job with personal service. Staffers are encouraged to accompany customers throughout the store. Store manager Rebecca Surma says personnel will be on hand when you're in a dressing room to pull other sizes or garments. She says it's not unusual for customers to work with sales associates by phone and to have items sent free-of-charge to their homes. Sales associates are encouraged to develop personal relationships with clients and to keep a clientele book with information and special requests for their customers, so they can be called when merchandise arrives.

Q What vendors can I expect to find? How are the prices?

A There's a "good, better, best" merchandising philosophy. Let's say, for example, you're looking for a topper jacket, a hot item for fall. They're available from Michael Kors for $170-$190, from Jones New York for $219 and from Ellen Tracy for $598. Women's vendors include Charles Gray, AK Anne Klein, Louben, Randy Kemper. Men will find Tommy Bahama, Joseph Abboud, Polo.

Q Does Von Maur have its own line of clothing, etc?

A Von Maur does not carry its own lines but makes its own line of chocolate.

Q What about jewelry?

A The store sells designer jewelry from Lagos, John Hardy and Judith Jack. There are watches from Michele Watches and Burberry.

Q Is it true that gift wrap and mailing are free?

A Correct. All gift wrap is free and you'll have eight choices, from wedding to baby, and there are holiday options. Anything — even a $5 purchase — can be wrapped and sent throughout the United States free of charge.

Q I know Von Maur has a pianist. Does he/she take requests?

A Requests are accommodated whenever possible.

Q Are there places to sit and rest?

A The women's lounge is large and comfortable, with lots of comfy couches and chairs. Dressing rooms are spacious and there's a sitting area near the piano on the first floor.

Q Does the store do alterations?

A Some basic alterations are done free of charge. The goal is to have them done for you within three days.

Q Is it true there is an interest-free charge?

A Yes; no interest or fees are ever charged.

Q Is there a coat check or package check?

A You'll find a coat check at customer service beginning Oct. 1 through the winter months.

Q Are there motorized wheelchairs and strollers available?

A There are wheelchairs available, and a sales associate can help you get around. There are no strollers in the store.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2440 or mmoss@DaytonDailyNews.com.