Today we’d like to introduce you to Summer Schriner.
Hi Summer, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m an attorney by trade, but I’ve always loved to create and I felt like Lansing was missing more unique options that went beyond the same old department store choices. I’d been doing art fairs of my vintage inspired jewelry and creations for a few years, and decided to write a business plan. After a lot of research, hard work, building demo, and support from family and this amazing community, I opened Grace Boutique at the start of 2007. We’ve had amazing staff and have been lucky enough to earn a reputation as a place that will go above and beyond to help our clients look and feel amazing. Somehow nearly 20 years later, Grace is thriving! I still love vintage inspired pieces, and now have the chance to travel all over to bring home incredible finds for our 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?
Small business is never easy. Like the Beatles say it’s “Eight Days A Week.” And I would never have been able to do it without the help and understanding of my family, my love, and my friends. But it’s such a special honor to be trusted to help our clients (who have become friends) with the most important days of their lives. We help their partners find the perfect gift during the holidays. We get to help daughters find the perfect prom, and homecoming dress. We get to help mothers find the perfect dress for their children’s weddings. They allow us to help dress them for everything from the Emmys and the Grammys to the Fur Ball and the Mom Prom, And we are incredibly grateful for that every single day.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
We carry unique and timeless casual pieces, cocktail dresses, and gowns for every occasion; along with all of the bags and accessories to pair with them. We’re known for being size and gender inclusive (0-22/24), and for going above and beyond to make sure that our clients look and feel amazing. But what I love most about the shop are the stories I get to share. I visit artists and family owned factories and jewelers from Michigan all the way to Montreal and Paris. And I get to learn about their history and their craft. I bring that back to our clients so that they know just how special and unique their chosen piece is. And I get to share how the 3rd generation woman owned company that hand set each Swarovski crystal is still thriving because of customers like them. Then at my next visit I get to share the wedding story of that client with those jewelers. It’s really incredible.
Something that makes me incredibly proud is that women who work for department stores and bridal salons in our area are a constant source of referrals for us. They have shopped here themselves and they know that we will do everything that we can to make a wonderful experience for their clients. So many women who come here on one of those referrals will tell us “I hate dresses. I haven’t worn one in 2o years. You won’t find me anything.” Then half an hour later they are twirling in a gown that makes them feel absolutely gorgeous and are telling us they can’t wait until they need another dress and can come back! It’s an incredible feeling to be able to help someone feel comfortable and beautiful. And it’s a real source of pride that we get to do that.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
I think the most important lesson I’ve learned over the years is trite, but it’s to be kind and understanding. You never know who just lost a loved one, or who has been ridiculed for their weight, or who feels invisible. Women especially deal with so many things quietly. It’s important to let people know that they are in a safe place and with people who want only to help them. It’s what we all want when we’re struggling, and it’s amazing how often reminding myself of that proves to be invaluable.
Pricing:
- We offer pieces from just $19 so that we can have something to offer everyone.
- We also have one big sale a year (in August) where we price merchandise at 50-90% off.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.oldtowngrace.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oldtowngraceboutique
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/graceboutiqueofoldtown/
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1003134259725153/
