#BossBabes

Meet Amanda
from Mainstream Boutique

Can you tell us a little about you?

I'm co-owner of Mainstream Boutique with my wonderful mama, Penny. I'm 27 years old and obsessed with all things fashion. I grew up in the small town of Coal City and currently live in Wilmington with my boyfriend and our two crazy bulldogs. Starbucks is my first stop basically every morning. On my spare time, you can catch me getting a drink with friends or posted up on the couch watching tv with a glass of wine in my hand. 

Can you tell us a little about your business?

Mainstream Boutique is a multi-generational women's clothing boutique. We customize in personal styling, and offer on trend fashions. We strive for every customer to have a fun, loving experience while finding an outfit that makes them feel fabulous! MB is a franchise, founded in Minnesota by Marie DeNicola in 1991. There is 80 locations nationwide, and our store is currently the only one in Illinois!

What made you want to start your business?

In 2018, I relocated back to Illinois after living in Sioux Falls, SD. I was unsure what I wanted to do with my career but knew I wanted to open my own business. My mom knowing I've always loved fashion + clothes, she mentioned to me opening a clothing boutique. I jumped at the idea but with no previous experience in retail, I began to look into retail franchises and that's what brought me to Mainstream - the best choice I could have made. 

Why do you think it is important for women to support other women?

The encouragement. For me - sometimes it's harder to take the criticism from another woman than it is a man. Judgment hurts and when women are supporting each other, you feel empowered and like you can concur anything. 

If you could go back in time and tell yourself one thing when starting out, what would that be?

Perfection doesn't exist, and no one will notice the tiniest imperfections that you notice yourself. Take a step back and enjoy the moments/events instead of being stressed about them - you won't get those moments back. Delegate tasks - you can't do everything yourself, you'll drown in work and it's okay to let go of control. I'm still learning but being a young business owner, it comes with time. 

What were some obstacles/challenges along the way?

We opened right in the midst of Covid-19. We originally had planned to open in spring of 2020, but for obvious reasons that got pushed back to July.... and then to September 2020 - when we finally opened. 

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Bora Bora or Fiji - I watch too much of the Bachelor/Bachelorette haha.

Which babe in history would you want to have lunch with, and why?

Kristin Cavallari - I started following her when I was young and have watched her grow and create killer brands. She's an inspiration and a #bossbabe

Why is it important to have a personal brand?

It allows you to have your own complex and grow how you want to. It reflects who you are and what you have to offer. It's different from anyone else. 

A big thank you to Amanda for giving us a tour of her amazing space and her story. We know first hand how difficult opening up is during the pandemic. We are thrilled at their success even with the set backs of opening. Your journey this far has been a great one and we love seeing you shine through it all. Your space is amazing and we love everything that you offer especially your brand. Congratulations, Amanda!