This afternoon, I had the chance to attend a press preview for The Shops at Target, a new design program from Tar-jay. Through this ongoing program, Target will partner directly with the shop owners of specialty stores and boutiques to co-create affordable, limited-edition collections for its guests. The first flight of The Shops at Target, which debuts on May 6 at all Target stores and Target.com, features five exclusive collections across five different product categories: Sweet treats from The Candy Store, beauty products from Cos Bar, pet treats and accessories from Polka Dog Bakery, home decor from Privet House and chic apparel, shoes and jewelry from The Webster. The collections reflect each shop owner's unique perspective, offering Target's guests the opportunity to experience each shop's distinct aesthetic simply by visiting their local Target store or Target.com. With prices ranging from $1 for a nail file to $159.99 for an online-only pouf for the home, the five collections total nearly 400 exclusive products.

I had the chance to meet all the boutique owners and they seemed universally thrilled to be able to share their passion with a larger audience. I will definitely be spoiling my dog with chic treats from Boston-based Polka Dog Bakery, sprucing up my home with melamine plates from Connecticut-based Privet House, and treating myself to a manicure with the amazing nail polish colors from Cos Bar. My only concern will be the execution of this ambitious plan - will the mini boutiques at my local Tar-jay look half as glamorous as the displays I saw today? I hope so!

Click through to see a sampling of products from each boutique. Mouse over any image for details and pricing.

What do you think of this concept? Yay or not so sure?