By Cristina Bagozzi
When it comes to shopping, nothing compares to the indie boutique experience. The surprise and delight of discovering something perfect for you that you never dreamed of typing into a search engine. The spontaneous conversation with the shop’s owner. The thoughtfully curated selection of products you can touch, smell and experience with all your senses. All in a space you can feel was created with love and intention.
Whether you’re searching for a special gift or simply browsing for something new, consider doing it the old-fashioned way – in person, at your local shop around the corner! The memories you create are part of the experience and fun. (Plus, you are supporting your local community, which is priceless.)
Below are a few of the wonderful, fully independent boutiques* that carry EMMOTIV fragrances. While they are all different in theme and location, they share one thing in common: the owners (who you will likely meet if you pop by) are all inspiring humans who have created truly unique, welcoming and memorable experiences through their spaces and curations.
If you live nearby or are traveling to one of their cities this summer, be sure to visit!
*Family owned and operated with one brick & mortar location. Listed by state, in alphabetical order.
Georgia
PARIS LAUNDRY | SAVANNAH
The creation of Kelsey Bucci – breast cancer survivor, wellness advocate and mom of four – Paris Laundry is a sanctuary in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. Blurring the line between luxury boutique and spa, Kelsey blends clean beauty – including her own collection of luxury skincare essentials that meet the strictest criteria for safety and transparency – conscious apparel and spa services in a airy, relaxing space at 220 Whitaker Street.
Massachusetts
JUNEBUG CHARLESTOWN | BOSTON
This whimsical floral studio, plant shop and gift boutique in one feels and smells like walking into a fairytale in the heart of Boston’s historic Charlestown neighborhood. Owner Amanda Mitchell and the team of talented floral designers are the friendliest faces on the block, often busy creating their next works of floral art in their charming space at 211 Main Street.
WHISPER BOUTIQUES | HANOVER
This thoughtfully curated boutique on Boston’s South Shore is a must-visit for effortless wardrobe staples, accessories and select apothecary finds from local independent brands. With an eye towards contemporary style, owner and stylist Anna Brown and her team will help you unique pieces that express your individuality in their 2055 Washington Street location in Merchants' Row.
New York
FOUNDRY 42+ | PORT JERVIS
In case you were wondering, yes, there is a place where you can indulge in gourmet coffee and home baked treats, catch a live performance, and discover unique indie brands, all under one roof. The one-of-a-kind destination and creation of owner Renée Meola has garnered numerous retail innovation awards and quickly catapulted to local cult status in the heart of Port Jarvis at 42 Front Street.
GALLERY 3040 | OLD FORGE
For nature lovers planning their next Adirondack hike, this seasonal art gallery and boutique (now open for spring!) captures a slice of history in the heart of Old Forge. Co-owners and mother-daughter duo Paula and Linda Weal have curated a unique selection of art, handmade jewelry and consciously designed indie brands at 3040 State Route 28.
MAISON 10 | NEW YORK CITY
Part art gallery, part event space and part concept store located in the heart of NYC, Maison 10 is the brilliant creation of co-owners Henri Myers and Tom Blackie. Centered around the number 10, the curation changes every 10 weeks, featuring 10 artists and 10 brands across 10 product categories, so there is always something new to discover at their 4 West 29th Street studio.
North Carolina
LALA & ELM | WILMINGTON
Mother and daughters owned and operated, this elegantly curated conscious beauty destination offers a thoughtful selection spanning skincare, haircare, makeup, and fragrance. Hand-selected and individually tested by owner Erica Mearns and her team, each brand and product in the curation meets the strictest criteria for ingredient safety, performance and in-use experience – often supplemented with fun skincare and makeup masterclasses in their beautiful space at 1437 Military Cutoff Rd #105.
Pennsylvania
PARABELLO | CLARK SUMMIT
The moment you walk into owner Milena DelVecchio’s boutique 336 S State Street #2, you instantly feel the warmth, passion and care that she has put into her curation of consciously designed goods – from homewares and apparel to wellness and gifts – including the in-house, hand-poured, refillable soaps. And, depending on the day, you might also get a friendly greeting from Sunny, her adorable Bichon Poodle sidekick who fully lives up to his name.
South Carolina
KATE MILES DESIGN | MOUNT PLEASANT
Contemporary style meets classic elegance at Kate Mile’s full-service interior design studio and boutique, located in beautiful Mount Pleasant. Kate’s background in art history and decorative arts allows her to pull from several aspects of design which brings a fresh and energetic approach for a variety of styles and tastes. The product curation at her 125 Pitt Street boutique features one-of-a-kind, thoughtfully designed objects, candles and fragrances to complement and elevate your space.
For a full list of our brick and mortar locations, please visit our Stockists page.
About the author
Cristina Bagozzi is the founder and owner of EMMOTIV, a brand dedicated to amplifying the beauty of human emotion through the art of scent. Learn more at emmotiv.com.
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