This month, we sat down with Veronica Wilson, the owner of Wisp and Willow Boutique in Downtown Rowlett. During our conversation, Veronica opened up about her journey, the unique style defining Wisp and Willow Boutique, the challenges and rewards of boutique ownership, and what motivated her to establish her boutique right in the heart of Downtown Rowlett.

Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to start Wisp and Willow Boutique? I graduated with a marketing degree from the northeast and have always wanted to open my own boutique. I have had a passion for fashion and design since I was very little. This was a bucket list dream of mine and figured now is better than later. :)

How would you describe the style and aesthetic of your boutique? My boutique's style is more modern Boho with a touch of whimsy.

What do you hope customers feel when they walk into Wisp and Willow? I want my customers to feel warm and welcome. A place that they can shop and know the pieces they choose have been hand selected from local artisans and wholesalers.

How do you stay updated on the latest fashion trends, and how does this influence your inventory? I am on all the social media platforms and follow some wonderful influencers as well as keeping an ear to the ground on what my high school to 30 something girls are in to. I shop Market as well as small town businesses to keep up with what's trending locally for our state.

Are there any specific fashion or style trends that you are currently excited about? I am loving the bright vibrant colors that are making a comeback. I think we are kinda over the sad beige life and I'm all here for it.

What challenges have you faced as a boutique owner, and how have you overcome them? I opened my boutique as the pandemic lifted and am in the middle of the roughest year boutiques have seen in decades all the while trying to help my small town build their Main Street. Foot traffic and being seen on social media has been the biggest challenge. I just keep my focus forward moving at all times.

What made you want to open your storefront boutique in Downtown Rowlett? I love that Rowlett is up and coming. We are on the cusp of greatness and I love being at the start of that.

Are there any characteristics of the downtown area that you find particularly advantageous for your business? I feel Rowlett has that Hallmark charm that fits right in with what I envision my boutique being a part of.

Can you share some of the most rewarding experiences you've had as a business owner in Downtown Rowlett? The people are amazing here. Clients are so supportive and my fellow small business owners are like a small family. We look out for each other and boost each other's businesses whenever we can.

Are there any changes or developments in the Downtown Rowlett area that you are particularly excited about? Yes, I am excited for new housing developments coming to our Main Street. I feel like they will be the catalyst for more restaurants and boutiques.

If you could offer one piece of advice to aspiring business owners looking to establish themselves in Downtown Rowlett, what would it be? Just do it! You only get one chance at your dreams in life so just go for it. Do your homework and go all in! Have realistic expectations and don't give up.