Today, we’d like to introduce you to Kimberlyn Cappelletty.
Hi Kimberlyn, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hi, I’m Kimberlyn! I started Laverne + Frankie in 2019 with zero retail experience or any fashion history. I was and still currently work in the Developmental Disability field, but at the time, I felt I had a ton of free time and began to feel bored. Starting my boutique was not a plan or a long, thought-out process. I was driving home from work and thought to myself, “I could totally do a small online boutique,” and the next day I applied for an LLC to get it going.
I managed to get inventory ordered, the website up & going, and I had my first few purchases within a month of my bright idea. We have a great local community, and I was able to get involved in several pop-up events/farmers markets right away to start growing my name and getting myself out there. Speaking of the name, Laverne + Frankie is named after my wonderful Grandparents. They are my biggest supporters and have taught me to dream big and that I can do anything I put my mind to.
Laverne + Frankie has grown a ton in the last five years. I have shipped orders to 24/50 states and even had a few international orders. I started out keeping inventory in a bedroom of my house, then growing it into a warehouse, and now I am opening up my first brick & mortar location.
I hand-picked each unique style and carried it in limited quantities. You won’t see any of our items on Amazon or in other big box stores. I am extremely proud of the quality of my clothing. All of our items are durable, comfortable, and affordable. I believe everyone deserves to look and feel their best, regardless of their budget.
I have made many new friendships throughout this journey and I am so excited to see where it takes me next.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
It has been a smooth-ish road. I wear all of the hats, and running the show alone has definitely been a challenge because, at the end of the day, I am only one person.
I think what has helped me most is being honest with myself and, knowing my strengths & weaknesses, and re-evaluating them as needed. Everyone manages their day & time differently, and I have made clear boundaries for myself that I am committed to, and I truly believe this has kept me sane.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Laverne + Frankie is an online boutique established in 2019 that is opening its first-ever brick-and-mortar store in April 2024. We specialize in women’s clothing, sizes XS-XXXL. Our clothing is high quality and made to last.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Toledo is a fun city to explore. I am a foodie – so I have to say my favorite part of Toledo is the variety of locally owned restaurants. The brick-and-mortar will be in Genoa, which is an adorable historic town. I love how friendly & welcoming the people of Genoa have been to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.laverneandfrankie.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laverneandfrankieboutique/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaverneandFrankie/
Image Credits
Blake Shultz Photography and Wandering Wolf Photography
