Alexis Bledel is Poppy Pretty

Alexis Bledel and JustJared.com help Coach launch the Poppy handbag collection at Coach’s premiere Short Hills, NJ location on Wednesday (July 1).

The 27-year-old former Gilmore Girls star wore a gorgeous yellow Lela Rose dress, Giuseppe Zanotti heels, Mawi crystal and chain bracelet and, of course, a Coach Poppy “Spotlight” bag.

Thanks to all the JJ readers who came out to the event, it was great meeting you all. Hope you enjoyed the Poppy candy bar and Poppy-razzi photobooth! And to the three $1,000 shopping spree winners, enjoy!!!

At the event, Alexis shared her Fourth of July plans while chowing down on some hamburger sliders and pigs in a blanket.

Click inside to read Alexis‘s exclusive interview with JustJared.com…

ALEXIS BLEDEL INTERVIEW — JUSTJARED.COM EXCLUSIVE

On how she’s going to spend July 4th: “I’m visiting a friend’s house to watch the fireworks and eat some BBQ. I’m from Texas, so I know how to cook everything BBQ’d. Even when I’m in L.A., it’s always nice enough to BBQ outside.”

On her favorite BBQ: “Mmm. Moist brisket! That’s the best. The really tender beef with a great sauce.”

On why she likes the Poppy collection: “It’s colorful! It’s a new style for Coach because it’s a bit more casual than their usual bags. They’re accent bags.”

On one of her favorite charities, Peace Games: “They help kids in school learn how to resolve conflicts without resorting to violence. They do different exercises and play games to learn about cooperation and conflict resolution. I learned about the charity when I attended an event that [my The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants costar America Ferrera] hosted when she was attending USC. I’ve been involved ever since.” (A percentage of sales from all Poppy purchases made yesterday will be donated Peace Games.)

On where she wants to go on vacation this summer: “I want to go through the Grand Canyon for sure! I don’t necessarily want to hike it… I just want to see it.”

FYI: Alexis and I had a bit too much fun in the Poppy-razzi photo booth. She loved doing the roller coaster pose so much, she made us do it twice! Also, one little girl who came to get Alexis‘s autograph had a broken arm. Alexis was nice enough to sign her cast (pictured below)!