My Biz: School counselor opens boutique in Solon

SOLON — Women seeking something a little different now have a new option to check out, the Kate & Alivia Boutique in Solon.

Owner Kori Leighty said the shop offers a variety of omen’s clothing, casual to dressy, and accessories.

“We try to offer brands that other local stores don’t carry,” she said.

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The shop is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m.

“I’m also a full-time school counselor so I’m not able to open the store as much as I would like,” Leighty said. “We are starting to hire a few great people.

“And I couldn’t do both jobs without the support of my husband and kids. My parents and the rest of my family have been very supportive and helpful as well.”

As with many retailers with limited hours, Leighty said she always posts on when the shop is open on the store’s Facebook and Instagram accounts. She also posted what merchandise is coming in

She’s also launching an online store through her website in the near future.

While the online component may be new, Leighty is not new to the retail world.

“I started working in the retail world in college and. I loved it,” she said. “I bring over 15 years of retail experience, having worked for Gap Inc. I worked in customer service, sales, human resources and management.

“But I always had a desire to open my own clothing boutique and actually be a part of the buying process as well as all the other aspects of business,” she said. “I’ve researched many options in the past, but it was just never the right opportunity.”

That’s where the small-town community came in.

“I was able to connect with several other business owners in Solon a few years ago and an opportunity for a small retail space at the newly renovated Literary Hotel became available,” Leighty said. “The owners did an incredible job of renovating a historic vacant building in Solon, and I love being a part of it.”

Of course, any new venture comes with its challenges.

“One of the biggest challenges is letting people know about the retail stores in the renovated building,” Leighty said. “We are kind of hidden, unlike stores on main street.”

So Leighty keeps working on getting the word out and is thankful for her customers helping spread the word as well.

“My favorite part about the job is making connections and building relationships with the customers,” she said.

“My goal is to provide a welcoming and personalized shopping experience with products that customers will love. And I love sharing in the thrill of finding something unique and special to wear or gift to someone.”

Know a business that should be considered for a “My Biz” feature? Let us know by emailing mary.sharp@thegazette.com.

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