Today we are featuring Lauren Williams. She is the owner of the Gemma Shop in Westerville, Ohio. I have been following Lauren's inspirational journey for several years and remember when she was doing pop-up boutiques around Columbus. Lauren, like myself, was in Corporate fashion job and left it to pursue her own dreams! Now you can visit her charming boutique in historic Uptown Westerville which has 105 locally owned businesses!
Ok, it's time to get to know Lauren a little better! I had the opportunity to ask her the following questions:
Three words to describe you: mom, entrepreneur, passionate
Three words that describe your style: trendy, comfy, casual
How did you get started in your business? I have always wanted to be a small business owner but I never thought it would be achievable. During an internship in college, I met a woman and her 2 daughters at a trade show who owned their own boutique and all I could think was, "I want this for myself and my future family". Fast forward a few years, I became a buyer for corporate retail for a little under 10 years and finally decided I need to make this business happen. So I created deadlines for myself, left my old dream job to start a new dream job, and made it happen. I created The Gemma Shop as a place for women to pick up cute and trendy pieces without breaking the bank. I want the experience to feel personal and I want every person who walks out of the door get flooded with compliments on all of their special pieces found at Gemma.
What is a current project you are working on, or what's "next" for your business? Currently, I am enjoying where the business is at! I started the business as an online-only shop with pop up shops around the Columbus area where I would take over empty lease spaces and set up my shop for a weekend. I never thought I wanted a true brick and mortar but when the opportunity presented itself, I couldn't help but bring the business to the next level. We have been in our brick and mortar space for over a year and love watching it grow! My goal is to keep growing and letting more women know about Gemma!
Coffee or Tea: Coffee (BEIGE COFFEE) haha the more creamer the better!
Favorite Beach: Honestly, I'd rather float at the pool where I can see through the water.
Favorite Charity: Any charity benefiting children
When was the last time you gave someone a hand-written note? EVERY DAY! I send handwritten thank you notes in every online order!
With Love,
Jackie