Starting a small business is the ultimate leap of faith, the acceptance of enormous risk in pursuit of a dream. Especially now, those companies that have not only survived, but thrived, due to their desirable products and services, excellent customer service and positive impact to the community should be celebrated. We received dozens of nominations and are pleased to announce your picks and nominees for the Coast’s Best Small Businesses.
OVERALL WINNER
Sara Kate Boutique
‘Look cute, feel cute’
Sara Kate Boutique promotes confidence through fashion
Especially after the turmoil of the past year and a half, Sara Reymond says women need to feel cute and stylish.
“Whether you are a mom who has been sitting behind a computer for the last year at home instead of her workplace, or a high school student who has not been able to be with her friends as much or in school with a normal schedule, it is more important than ever that I help them regain confidence,” says the owner of Sara Kate Boutique, “and a big part of that is through fashion.”
The wife and mom of two received her fashion merchandising degree from The University of Mississippi and has lived on the Coast since she graduated in 1994. She launched Sara Kate Boutique nine years ago, and with the store’s motto of “Look cute, feel cute,” Reymond tries to have something for everyone at her Pass Christian store.
“My mission is to have a fun, light and airy place to shop and visit …,” she says. “I always have loved that three generations can come in and find something to take home.”
Having fun with fashion is key, she says, and to look great, she advises finding styles and colors that work for you.
“When you put on an outfit, just make sure it makes you smile,” Reymond says. “If it makes you smile and feel good, I say get it.”
Judging by the online reviews, numerous customers have had smile-worthy experiences at Sara Kate. Shoppers rave about the quality of the clothing, the friendliness of staff and the positive atmosphere.
“Sara (the owner) is so genuine in the way she wants to help you find the perfect item for whatever occasion you’re shopping for,” writes Annie Harvell. “They offer a great selection of apparel, jewelry, shoes and even a few can’t-miss gifts.”
Abby Mills writes that Sara Kate is her go-to for business, casual and special occasion statement pieces.
“This precious little store is where you get THAT top, earrings and wedges that you throw on with jeans …,” she says. “Every time I wear a Sara Kate piece, I get grumbles from the admirers because they can rarely be replicated, making my fashion trendy and unique.”
Even with a renovation completed at the beginning of the year, Reymond says the boutique’s biggest future goal is to somehow expand into a bigger space, as the store could benefit from a bigger showroom floor and more dressing rooms. More immediately, she’s looking forward to the holidays.
“Everyone is craving a ‘normal’ holiday season, and with that comes family gatherings and Christmas parties,” she says. “The store will be stocked full of trending styles, outfits and accessories for every occasion, as well as perfect gift ideas.”
Any time of year, Reymond says she wholeheartedly enjoys what she does.
“I love picking out the merchandise, and I love displaying everything when it comes in,” she says. “And, of course, we love our clients, many of whom we now consider like family.”
WINNERS BY CITY
Biloxi
Champagne, Art & CBD
Bleu Organic
Bay St. Louis
Mon Amie Boutique
Fleurty Girl
Diamondhead
The Lazy Gator Sports Bar and Steamer
Tiki Bay Daiquiris
D’Iberville
Pepe’s Bosque Mexican Grill
Steel Magnolias Salon
Gautier
That Gumbo Life
Magnolia Occupational and Physical Therapy
Gulfport
Alpha Lit MS Gulf Coast
Brushes Salon
Kiln
Jourdan River Steamer
Lazy Magnolia Brewing
Long Beach
Forget-Me-Not Florist
Dolce Bakeshop
Moss Point
Burnham Drugs
Southern Oaks Realty
Ocean Springs
Sweet Southern Party Co.
Cheryl’s Steak House
Downtown Yoga Ocean Springs
Pascagoula
Brady’s Steaks and Seafood
Maxem Health Pascagoula Urgent Care
Pass Christian
Sara Kate Boutique
Robin’s Nest in the Pass
Vancleave
Georgia’s Corner Market
Crazy Sisters Catfish Cabin
Waveland
Rum Kitchen
J’s Restaurant