photos by: JODIE BRIM CREATIVE
As both a mother and an enthusiastic entrepreneur, Michele Mathias loves that her Winston-Salem boutique carries mostly small-batch brands which means that typically only about one thousand pieces of each design are made.
Many are exclusive styles which you won’t find anywhere else and, as a bonus, Gretchen’s Treasure Chest is supporting other mom-owned small businesses and many manufacturers who “give back” to a worthy cause with every purchase from their collections.
Happy clients of Gretchen’s Treasure Chest – who also love adorable outfits – are in full agreement with that community-focused mission!
Cute Meets Quality
Michele explains that her journey as a mother taught her how quickly her daughter’s clothes sold when she took them to a local consignment store. Often, those outfits that Gretchen had loved but outgrown sold the very same day. It was clear that quality and wearability were very much in demand, and other customers were asking where she found these adorable children’s clothing pieces. As she was realizing the need for more kids’ clothing options in the area – and once her daughter was off to kindergarten – Michele and her husband, John, entertained the idea of opening their own boutique. The timing was right for a new adventure, and Michele could revisit her background in textiles, retail and management. So, the two decided Harper Hill Commons Shopping Center was a perfect location to launch the new business last March.
As it turns out, Michele’s own shopping hits-and-misses as a mom nudged her to follow her intuition. “I realized that, unlike outfits from the big box stores, the clothing I had found at several online boutiques held up much better after much wearing and several washings!” she shares.
As her small business continues to grow, Michele is always on the lookout for outfits that both children and parents will love – while at the same time, keeping their prices affordable.
Bring On Holiday Shopping!
As you’re out and about completing your holiday shopping list, remember that there’s always a “kids’ corner” at Gretchen’s Treasure Chest where children can color and play while their moms and dads shop. And, in addition to amazing outfits your children will love wearing for all your holiday outings, you’ll find some perfect gift ideas.
“We’ve been intentional this year about carrying lots of stocking stuffers that are made in the USA by other mom-owned small businesses,” said Michele. “Be sure to browse the All Natural Lip Balm, LippyClips to carry your lip balm and hand sanitizer, hair bows, jewelry, bath bombs and slime. We also have non-toxic Piggy Paint Nail Polish, fidget toys, fun socks, stuffed animals, dolls and more!” (Secret shopping hint: Lip Balm, LippyClips and candles make great teacher and co-worker gifts!)
After even one visit, you’ll see that every item at Gretchen’s Treasure Chest is unique and carefully selected, and shopping on the website is a breeze. Their rewards program offers you points for every purchase with different levels of rewards available. Sign-up to begin receiving rewards on the website or in the boutique.
Make Gretchen’s Treasure Chest in Harper Hill Commons Shopping Center part of your holiday shopping game plan – and be ready to launch a new year with adorable outfits that suit your child’s lifestyle and your family’s budget! The boutique is located at 4916 Old Country Club Road in Winston-Salem, 336.306.9930. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Sign up for emails at gretchenstreasurechest.com to stay up-to-date on special offers, first-looks, markdowns and any upcoming events. Follow the boutique on Facebook and Instagram @gretchenstreasurechest for an update on expanded hours – coming soon!
