Laura PytlikIn the competitive world of women’s retail, boutiques open and close on a regular basis and success can be elusive. But one local boutique, Peyton & Peppy Boutique, has just celebrated its first year of success, and plans to be around for years to come. The shop is tucked into an attractive gray building with turquoise trim, on Grand Central Avenue not far from Scot’s Landscaping. The exterior is just a teaser of the fashion and accessories you’ll find inside, all of it on trend and appropriate for women of any age or size.
Owner Stephanie Langlois learned the retail ropes by working for Limited Co, then left retail when her husband’s job brought her back to the MOV. After seven years in the oil & gas industry, Stephanie realized she missed the retail business. During those years she had also become a mother of two, and recognized how difficult it was to find comfy, trendy, “mom” clothes. She decided to dive back into the business on a part-time basis, by starting a mobile boutique. Spotting a used retro style camper, Stephanie knew right away it was destined to become her “glamper” and the renovation began.
In 2016, the Peyton & Peppy glamper began showing up at outdoor markets, events and festivals. The name is a combination of her daughter’s name and the affectionate name her niece has for her. When I first spotted the glamper at an event, I was immediately drawn by curiosity and by the racks of clothing in its shadow. The clothes are “right now” styles featuring asymmetrical lines, lace, lightweight fabric and pretty prints. Women of all ages fell in love with the products and soon Stephanie was attending many events while she established the brand and developed a following.
Running a mobile boutique has its pros and cons, and while the customer interaction was fun the traveling could be stressful. Last year, Stephanie was ready for more stability and a regular schedule and moved Peyton & Peppy into its current location. The décor is a nod to her interior design background—from the painted furniture and draped fitting rooms to the silver frames that highlight glittering jewelry. Customers have described the shop as “cozy” and “inviting” and it truly has a comfortable vibe. In addition to the clothing and accessories, attractive displays feature bath products by Perfectly Pink and candles by Heartmade Candle Co.
Although Stephanie is the sole owner, she does have a staff of part time employees who are ready to help you find the perfect outfit or accessory. They greeted me with a warm welcome and offered their help without making me feel pressured to buy. It’s the human element that Stephanie enjoys most about owning the boutique: “The thing I have enjoyed most about being a small business owner are the relationships I’ve made with my customers, staff and other small business owners.” Stephanie also knows the value of social media, and you can follow the weekly Peyton & Peppy live pop-ups on their Facebook page. She features the newest arrivals on live models, and it’s hard to resist the outfits when you see them on women with whom you can relate.
As the owner of a retail boutique, I know first hand the long hours and dedication required to stay in business. I asked Stephanie if she could offer any advice for others considering the leap into owning a business- “For anyone considering opening a retail business, I would tell them to determine what customers they are marketing to and stay true to the brand they create.” It seems that formula is working well for Peyton & Peppy, based on the growing number of loyal customers.
Congratulations to Stephanie, and Peyton & Peppy, for a successful first year—cheers to many more!