Opened in 2020 during the height of the pandemic, So Obsessed Boutique is a testament to the power of friendship and determination.
Located on Route 61-South in Schuylkill Haven, this fashion destination is owned by Kelly Bowers and Karin Riegel. Drawing on over 16 years of shared experience in high-end retail, the duo offers a curated selection of women’s clothing, shoes, and exclusive accessory brands.
In this Showcase Q&A, Kelly and Karin discuss their transition from co-workers to business partners, their rapid growth, and their famous “Women in Business” events.
What inspired you to start this business, and how did your personal journey lead you here?
Both Karin and I have an extensive background of customer service, working for Murphy Jewelers for over 16 years. We have always had a love for fashion and we were constantly complimented on our style. What was once a work relationship quickly turned into a friendship, and we decided to take our love of fashion into starting our own business. We opened in 2020 right at the beginning of COVID, but that did not stop us from hitting the ground running. We opened in a 500-square-foot space and within five months we quickly outgrew it and began the search for a new building.
What unique products or services do you offer that can’t be found elsewhere in our community?
We offer a wide variety of fun, trendy, unique, and affordable clothing for women. We offer brands like Kendra Scott, Hydrojug, and Sorrelli that are brand protected, which means you will not find them anywhere else in our surrounding area. Our customer service is second to none due to our extensive background and training. We also host fun events and allow other small businesses to showcase their products.
Can you share an interesting fact or story about your business that most people may not know?
Karin and I worked together at Murphy Jewelers for over 16 years. I always called her my “work mom” and most who shop at our store think that we are actually mother and daughter.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a small business, and how did you overcome it?
Our biggest challenge was opening in 2020 at the beginning of COVID. We were absolutely terrified! We had so many doubts and we were afraid of failure, but it was such a dream of ours so we dove right in. We have no regrets and a successful business.
How does your business contribute to the local community or participate in community events?
We host a “Women in Business” event every year at Roman Delight to highlight and show support for all of the amazing business owners in our area. We also donate to local churches, schools, and fire companies, and we are a sponsor for a T-Ball team in New Philadelphia. We also have several giveaways throughout the year.
What do you want customers to experience when they interact with your business?
We want them to leave our boutique knowing they truly had a fun and unique shopping experience that will make them a returning customer. We believe our customer service sets us apart, building relationships that turn into friendships.
Why should someone consider visiting or patronizing your business during the holiday season?
Obviously our unique clothing choices and gifts! This year we are featuring our newly added stocking stuffer bar. Also, check out our holiday events. We are featuring other small women-owned businesses the entire month. We recently had photos with a real-life llama, and we have two upcoming events featuring our tradition with the highland cows, one being a Toys For Tots event.
What are your future plans or dreams for your business?
We have some new and exciting things in the works. We will just leave it at that 🙂
What advice would you give to someone wanting to start their own business in our community?
No matter what obstacle comes your way, remember this is your dream. Go in with no regrets and a positive attitude and don’t give up.
At A Glance
- Business Name: So Obsessed Boutique
- Location: 574 Rt 61 S., Schuylkill Haven, PA 17973
- Services: Women’s clothing, shoes, accessories
- Exclusive Brands: Kendra Scott, Hydrojug, Sorrelli
- Hours:
- Tuesday & Wednesday: 11 AM – 5 PM
- Thursday & Friday: 11 AM – 6 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 10 AM – 4 PM
- Phone: 570-292-7008
- Website: soobsessedboutique.com
- Payment Methods: Cash, Credit/Debit cards, Mobile/Online payments, Checks, Gift cards
- Social Media:
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