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“In your business, your job is not to be the hero. Your job is to make your customer the hero and help her defeat whatever her villain is.”
Welcome to Season 6! This season, we’re shaking things up. It’s time to get real and authentic because life is too short for anything less. We’re diving deep into the world of boutique ownership, exploring the challenges, triumphs, and everything in between. I’m here to listen to your stories, your questions, and your struggles, and together, we’ll find solutions that can transform not just your business, but your life. From seasoned boutique owners to newcomers in the industry, we’ll be featuring a diverse range of guests who will share their insights, experiences, and strategies for success. Get ready for interviews, mastermind sessions, and expert advice that will inspire and empower you to take your boutique to new heights.
In this episode, we’ll uncover what’s working in the world of boutiques right now. From embracing change and evolution to the power of events and building a memorable brand reputation, we’ll explore the key strategies that are driving success in the industry. Let’s get into it!

What’s Working for Small Business Retailers
Community Building
Building a community is crucial. While online giants focus on low prices, boutiques can create lasting relationships by connecting on shared values, struggles, and experiences.
One of my favorite resources for community building within your business is the book, Story Brand by Donald Miller. You can snag a copy here!
Events and Experiences
Hosting events, both online and in-store, fosters a sense of shared experiences among your customers. Make your boutique a place for more than just shopping – make it an event.
Building a Memorable Brand
Craft a brand that people recognize instantly. Consistency in visuals, voice, and values creates a lasting impression and distinguishes you from the competition.
Algorithm Training
Understand and utilize algorithms. Share more personal, behind-the-scenes content on your Facebook page to engage your audience and enhance your reach.
Psst – Need social media content ideas? I’ve got a free guide just for you, download it here!
Financial Literacy
In a shifting industry, financial literacy is non-negotiable. Boutiques must focus on inventory management, smart buying, and transparent conversations about profit and loss. It’s time to empower yourself with financial knowledge.
PS – We dig deeper into business financials in our signature course, Retail Bootcamp! Enrollment opens up again in a few short months, get on the list to be the first to know.
In This Episode
- Free Guide: 31 Days of Social Media Content
- Retail Bootcamp
- Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen
Let’s Connect #AskAshley
- Have a question or guest recommendation? Let us know your feedback directly here!
- Do you love the Boutique Chat Podcast?! Subscribe to our podcast and after that, leave us a review on iTunes Apple Podcasts here!
Must Have Resources
- The Boutique Hub: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | TikTok | YouTube
- Boutique Summit 2024
- Small Business Marketing Handbook
- Small Business Hiring Handbook
- Brand Owner Basics Masterclass
- Tradeshow Marketing Handbook
- 2024 Trade Show Calendar
- Boutique Hub Black
- Hubventory.com
Recent Posts:
- What to Do When No One Buys: Pricing, Pitching & PivotingWhat if sales didn’t have to be about being pushy or intimidating, but instead about solving problems and making life better? Join us as we explore this concept with our guest, Andee Hart, who transformed her corporate sales expertise into a flourishing candle business during the pandemic. Andee’s inspiring journey is a masterclass in differentiation and tenacity, from how she successfully stood out in a crowded market to how she scaled her business to hundreds of boutiques.
- Top 10 Mistakes Retailers Make (And How Retail Bootcamp Helps You Avoid Them)Running a boutique business can be one of the most rewarding—and challenging—adventures. Whether you’re just starting your boutique or you’ve been in business for years, it’s easy to fall into common traps that hold your growth back. The good news? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out on your own either. That’s where Retail Bootcamp comes in. This proven boutique coaching program is designed to help boutique owners like you grow smarter, more profitably, and with a clear plan in place.
- Slow Sales? Ask These 5 Why’s Before You PanicIs your cash flow feeling tight but you’re still not paying yourself? In this episode of Five Minute Friday, Sara breaks down one of the most common retail traps: tying up cash in things that don’t bring you a return. From unnecessary trips to market to unused apps, pretty packaging, and impulse inventory buys, these hidden money leaks could be holding your business (and paycheck!) back.