Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Lynn.
Hi Jennifer, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
3yrs ago I found myself starting my life over… Living in a completely new town I decided this was my opportunity for a fresh start, and to do something that I loved. So took a gamble, cashed out my retirement, and opened Bohemian Rhapsody Boutique. Being in a small town, I knew I needed to keep things fresh to keep my customers engaged. To do this, I have weekly products drops and I don’t reorder any of my clothing items… once they’re gone they’re gone! I also post on social media 5 days a week so my followers are always seeing something new. I have developed a signature scent, which is produced locally, that you can only get in the shop. It has quickly become a favorite, and I have customers from out of town that will stop by and get it any time they are driving through.
Some fun facts about me… I have a Merchandise Marketing Degree from the Fashion Institute Of Design and Merchandising. I’ve been in retail for more than 30yrs, and spend many of those as a stylist. When you shop in my store your not just getting to see all I have to offer, you are getting free fashion tips and styling tricks! I love to empower women to feel good about themselves. I have also designed and produced my own clothing and accessory lines, and in my free time I have started to incorporate items I make into the boutique.
Bohemian Rhapsody Boutique is more than just a name… I am passionate about supporting local. I live downtown, so I can support other businesses downtown. I also have 7 local artisans that consign their goods in the boutique, besides my signature scent most of my jewelry and home goods are locally made. I also host pop ups for local businesses… this brings more foot traffic into my shop, and more exposure for their businesses. I am equally passionate about being a part of the community. I host monthly craft nights at the boutique. It has been a fun way to branch out into my community, and it have made many friends. I am excited about a recent partnership with Thrive Umpqua and Vacant to Vibrant… I am hosting a free craft night to make art for vacant store fronts downtown, and cant wait to see the installation at the end of July! I have been at ground level to get a downtown association going again. I am happy so say that Destination Downtown Roseburg is finally here, and we are a part of the Main Street America Program. I am also an active member of Woman in Business Douglas County. I cant say enough about this group. I feel like I have taken them all on this journey with me. Starting with the first field trip during a meeting to my boutique when it first opened. This field trip has now turned into an annual shopping event downtown including many additional businesses.
As for future plans, I am committed to bringing you cute styles! I am trying to get a website going so my out of state followers can shop the boutique. I would love to source more locally made goods. And I just joined the planning committee for Destination Downtown Roseburg. So, I look forward to planning more events and making our downtown a thriving community!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Getting the word out that I am Here! This article will hopefully bring more awareness. Not second guessing myself… I have to stand firm behind my decisions, but like most people I have moments of wondering if people are going to like something that I bring into the shop.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’ve had people my whole life comment on my style. It has been very rewarding to have my boutique reenforce this. I was scared to open a shop based on my aesthetic, but I believed in myself and this life long dream. As i said earlier, when you shop at my boutique you have a personal stylist at your fingertips… I think this definatly set me apart from other boutique owners.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Roseburg is definitely a hidden gem. The Umpqua Valley is beautiful in every direction… from the wineries, the coast, to the mountain ranges. The people here have been so open and friendly, I have really enjoyed becoming part of the community! The only downside, is I feel like we are the last city along the I-5 corridor that has not revitalized their downtown. We are trying to, but it takes a Village… there is so much opportunity. I would love to see the city get behind it!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bohemianrhapsody.shop/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bohemianrhapsodyboutique/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Bohemian-Rhapsody-Boutique-100094465695852/
