shop talk
I
in every issue
Smitten Boutique shop.
Ashley Webster has always wanted to have her own But, when she was in one of Dr. Belk’s business
classes at Francis Marion University, she began thinking about the idea more seriously. Almost four years later, the dream became a reality. In January of last year, Ashley started selling clothes out of the small hall closet in her house by doing online sales through Facebook. As her business increased, she decid- ed to rent a room at a local hair salon in Dillon. Just two months later, she moved to 105 East Main Street, where it continues to thrive today. Ashley’s plan had been to start her own business before turning thirty. She far exceeded her goal by opening Smitten Boutique at age 25. Currently, Smitten primarily sells clothes for women.
Ashley would like to branch out and build her inventory with men’s and children’s clothing, as well. This will be a challenge. According to Ashley, “It’s hard to sell to men in a boutique unless they are shopping for their significant other, or if the wife/girlfriend decides to be nice and buy something for him.” Her number one goal is to make sure the customer is al-
ways satisfied. Though she tries to do this on a daily basis, Ashley has come to realize that she can’t please everyone. But, that doesn’t keep her from trying. “I believe in shop- ping for a bargain. If I am not going to pay a price for a
certain outfit, I know my customers won’t.” She features a sale rack, too. “Everyone wants to shop, but not everyone is able to pay full price.” And, in addition to regular store hours, Smitten is also open by appointment. The environment at Smitten is calm and relaxed, just like
Ashley. “I am very laid back. I hate when you can feel tension when you walk into a room or into a store.” She also likes to see what styles interest people, whether rocker, preppy, so- phisticated, or classy. Smitten also carries a variety of sizes, ranging from small to 3x. Ashley’s goal is to serve the needs of all of her current and potential customers. Ashley’s definition of a successful business is “Pleasing
the customer and moving the inventory... out the door!” She does this by listening to her customers and keeping her prices as low as possible. The most exciting - and fun - time for Smitten Boutique is Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays. Family members come home to visit everyone and they like to stop in the store to see what’s new in Dil- lon. Open House right before Christmas is her favorite time. Customers come in to enjoy snacks, listen to Christmas music, chat with friends (aſter all, Dillon is a small town and everyone knows everyone else) and shop, of course! She would like to expand the business by selling more
items in her Dillon store and opening another in a dif- ferent location. Right now, she also has a full-time job
that she loves (Client Services Manager at Sloan Wealth Management Services), which makes adding more to her plate a little difficult. However, Ashley is grateful for an understanding husband and co-workers who help her make it all happen. Family is very important to this young entrepreneur. Her
brother actually named the boutique. “He is very creative. He has his own business in Chicago called StemLine Cre- ative, and he does amazing work. When I opened my store, I asked him for a cute name for my store. He suggested ‘Smitten,’ and I loved it!” Ashley gives God full credit for all of her successes. “He has blessed me to the max!” Starting from a closet in her house to having her own shop, He has led her each step of the way. She is also grateful for her loyal customers. Smitten Boutique is located at 105 East Main Street in Dillon, in the historic section. They are open Wednesdays - Fridays from 10 to 6 and Saturdays from 10 until 3. She is open by appointment, as well. The store telephone num- ber is 843.627.3401. Ashley’s cell number is 843.632.0756, and she welcomes your call at any time for information or to schedule a private showing. “Come see us at Smitten for all of your Valentine’s Day needs. We have personalized jewelry, monogrammed items, and cute dresses for a night out with your man!”
32
February 2014
shemagazine.com
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