Today we’d like to introduce you to Eve Avery.
Hi Eve, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I always imagined myself owning my own business. People would constantly ask me, ‘When are you going to open your own store?’ Then, 26 years ago, an opportunity came along, and I realized I could either go for it or let it pass me by. So I went for it.
I opened Eve Avery’s Boutique on January 26, 2001, and we’ve been in the same location for the past 25 years. Before opening my own business, I worked for years for Hilda Godwin, who had a shop in downtown Wilmington. She was one of the best businesswomen I’ve ever known, and I learned so much from her, especially about customer service and the importance of truly taking care of your clients.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. My first year in business was 2001, so right from the beginning I experienced the impact of 9/11. Then came the 2008 recession, and years later, COVID. There have been plenty of challenges along the way, so no, it hasn’t always been easy. But through all of it, I’ve kept going because I genuinely love what I do.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I think what sets me apart is how well I know my clients. I know their lifestyles, the designers they love, what fits them well, and what they feel good wearing. When I go to market, I’m not just buying clothes for the store, I’m buying with specific clients in mind.
When new collections arrive, I’ll call or text clients because I already know there are pieces they’re going to love. I’ll even put together boxes and send them to clients who live out of town.
For me, it has always been about building relationships and giving each client a personal experience. I want them to know that when they shop with me, I’m paying attention to who they are, what works for their life, and what makes them feel their best. That personal connection and level of service is what I’m most proud of after all these years and what I’m known for in this town.
Any big plans?
My plan for the future is really to keep moving forward while staying true to what has made us successful for the past 25 years. Retail has changed so much and you have to stay creative. Today, shopping can feel less personal with all the new changes but I believe there will always be a place for genuine, personal service. As the industry continues to change, we’ll continue to evolve with it, but I never want to lose that personal connection.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eve_avery_boutique/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EveAvery1/
