I love a good idea. I love the excitement, the unknown and the challenge of making it happen. And I also love clothes...so there is that. In my early 20's I watched the movie “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” and I was hooked. I told myself I was going to get a job like Kate Hudson had in that movie. I just loved the fast pace and glamorous nature of it all. Fast forward a few years and there I was....living in NYC and working in advertising alongside major magazine and fashion/beauty brands.
Over a decade later (how am I this old) and many major life events and moves along the way, my family and I relocated from Hingham, MA to Duxbury, we were drawn to the quaint coastal feeling of the town and laid back intimacy of the community. I fell in love quickly and soon found myself longing to establish roots in the small business arena of this town.
I adore nothing more than watching an idea come to fruition, be it an al fresco lobster dinner party with close friends, a fun filled birthday celebration for one of my three daughters, or my latest venture - Strand, the Boutique, a clothing boutique in the beautiful seaside town of my home, DUXBURY, MA.
True to form, as my husband would agree, once the idea was planted, we were full steam ahead. After finding the perfect location, an exciting buying trip to market in New York City, and (perhaps most important) establishing the name Strand, my shop vision became a reality.
And then the pandemic hit.
For a moment I asked myself if I was crazy; was it prudent to continue with my boutique in the middle of a world wide crisis? I came to the decision that YES, not only was it important to persist, but it was paramount.
During a time where nothing felt certain or stable, I felt the need to find joy. I started sharing my products on social media - beautiful pieces of clothing which sparked hope of carefree beach days or evenings at our favorite local restaurants. Soon friends, acquaintances, and even strangers began to buy, and want more. So I decided to pivot and Strand became FIRST, an online boutique. I built a website from nothing and began to ship all over the country.
I was and still am completely blown away by the support and enthusiasm for my little slice of happy. Strand means beach in German, and the beach has always been my happy place. I am thrilled that the pieces I carry have been able to spread joy and allow women to treat themselves a bit during these crazy times. Maybe you're a cozy sweatshirt kinda gal or maybe you're drawn to our ethereal dresses or beaded clutches. Whatever it may be, I truly hope my customers LOVE their Strand purchases.
As a business owner I was forced to pivot and so far it has been one of the best things to happen to me both personally and professionally. I feel deeply connected to my community, I've reconnected with friends new and old, and I've set an example for my three daughters to never give up on a dream. I am proud of what has been accomplished.
Soon Strand, the Boutique will open it's doors in the Duxbury Marketplace, and I look forward to welcoming my customers in person. I can't wait for that day. I'll never forget, however, the support for my venture from customers near and far from the very beginning. I owe it all to you!
Xo,
Caroline