Small Business Saturday

From Tina, Founder of Covet + Lou:

As we enter this holiday season, I want to take this opportunity to highlight four of our friends who also operate independent retail shops in the Boston area.  Each of these talented women possess unique curatorial skills and creative spirits that embody what it means to be a small business owner.  They work tirelessly to execute their visions, are not afraid to take risks, and always dream big.

I have consistently asserted that small business owners are vital to the culture of any community.  We enhance the character of the neighborhoods in which we reside and truly value the personal relationships we cultivate with our customers.  So no matter what time of year it is, I encourage you to support your independent entrepreneurs and please shop small! -Tina

Your Name: Sara Petras
Shop Name: Cadeau 
Address: 214 Washington Street, Brookline Village + 46 Waltham Street, South End Boston
Website: www.cadeauboston.com
Opening Hours: Brookline: Tues-Sat 10:30-6, Boston Wed-Sat 11-6
What you carry: Gifts, Clothing, Jewelry and Accessories made in small batches by skilled artisans from around the world, most of whom are committed to sustainable practices.  We tend towards the colorful and ornate, sophisticated patterns and vibrant colors can be seen on our shelves. 
Item or line that you are really excited about this Holiday season: Bokja. A Lebanese clothing line with an assemblage aesthetic. Think old world tapestries patched together then printed on silk. 
Best piece of advice you've received or can give to other small business owners: Lead with kindness and a spirit of abundance and both will come back to you. 
Why shop small: There is so much character in small shops. I feel bolstered and nourished at small shops just as I do when visiting an art gallery. 

Your Name: Rebecca
Shop Name: Shop Micki   
Address: 99 Chapel Street Needham, MA 02492    
Website: www.shopmicki.co
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-6pm
What you carry: Women's contemporary clothing and accessories with gift items sprinkled in!
Item or line that you are really excited about this Holiday season: I am super excited about Z Supply's Holiday Collection. Not only do we have some comfy lounge pieces to cozy up in, but also some really nice pieces to mix and match for all your holiday events. 
Best piece of advice you've received or can give to other small business owners: Some of the best advice I have received is to make sure to find time for yourself. As a business owner, you’re on the “clock” 24/7/356 but without taking time for yourself and your family, the business won’t function as well. 
Why shop small: Shopping small is so important because it helps develop a stronger sense of community. Your Name: Natalie van Dijk
Shop Name: Lekker Home
Address: 38 Wareham Street, Boston, MA
Website:  lekkerhome.com
Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday, 10 am - 6 pm
What you carry: European furniture + decor, with a focus on Scandinavian design
Item or line that you are really excited about this Holiday season: Right now, we’re all loving Ferm Living! Ferm Living is a Copenhagen-based design house that brings rich tones and textures together with avant-garde shapes. They design everything from vases to sofas; lighting to tabletop, so there’s something for everyone — whether you’re looking for the perfect hostess gift, or looking to refresh your own space.
Best piece of advice you've received or can give to other small business owners: Stay true to yourself and don’t get distracted by what other people are doing — you end up losing focus on the things that work well for you, and that make your business special.
Why shop small: There are so many reasons to shop small! Not only does shopping small support your local community, but it also is a great way to discover unique pieces that you likely wouldn’t find in a big-box store. Sales associates at independent businesses tend to know their products inside and out, and really take the time to get to know their customers, which means you’ll end up with a piece you truly love.  

Your Name: Lori McWeeney
Shop Name: Clementine
Address: 30 Church Street, Wellesley, MA
Website: www.ourclementine.com
Opening Hours: Open Tues-Sat. 11-5; Closed Sunday/Monday
What you carry: Curated selection of women’s apparel, shoes, jewelry and accessories
Item or line that you are really excited about this Holiday season: Beautiful pieces from TWP
Best piece of advice you've received or can give to other small business owner: Love what you do and it shines through!
Why shop small: It’s the lifeblood of the community!