In celebration of Women’s History Month, we reached out to local, woman-owned business The Eclectic Chic Boutique. Located at 547 Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair, this shop is a collective of over 30 local artists, makers, and small businesses from mainly the NJ and NY area. Since 2018, owner Kristen Zachares has been operating the boutique with the goal of supporting makers and creatives while offering shoppers a unique opportunity to shop high-quality, handmade goods. Read on to learn more about this one-of-a-kind shop, The Eclectic Chic Boutique in Montclair.
About the Owner
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The Eclectic Chic Boutique was opened by Kristen Zachares on July 15, 2018. Prior to becoming a brick-and-mortar space, Kristen had a booth at craft shows and vendor events in Montclair and all over New Jersey. The booth was filled with goods from other makers, similar to the current inventory of the boutique. Each weekend Kristen, her boyfriend, and her family would go out and be asked the same questions, “Where is your store? Where are you located?” Then, it clicked. They realized it was time to start looking for a permanent space for the business.
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Kristen grew up in Woodland Park and has lived in Montclair for 10 years. The area was the perfect place for her store. Kristen’s goal for the business was to, “…make sure that every item in our store has intention, is unique, or creative.”
Being a Businesswoman
(Photo credit: @theeclecticchicboutique)
When asked about what it’s like to own and operate a woman-owned business, Kristen says it’s been an interesting journey. She continues, “In the past, I have personally experienced bias in business circles as a woman. Things have changed so much in the last few years and being a female business owner is not only more accepted but also celebrated. There’s more support out there as well as communities and organizations that support female entrepreneurs.” This change can be credited to women like Kristen who had the courage to take on the difficulties posed when opening a business as a woman.
As for the future, Kristen offers advice to any woman looking to open a business saying, “My advice to young female entrepreneurs is to not be afraid to think outside of the box and get creative with your business idea. Retail has changed so much, and it’s going to continue to evolve. Don’t worry about competing with big businesses out there, focus on your niche and create your own space.”
The Shop
(Photo credit: @theeclecticchicboutique)
The Eclectic Chic Boutique was voted the Best Gift Shop in Essex County by Suburban Essex Magazine in 2019 and 2021 and for good reason. The shop sells so many great items such as clothing, jewelry, CBD, housewares, chocolates, and bath and body items. All of the goods are produced by independent makers, designers, or small companies.
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It carries items that are handmade, locally-sourced, originally-designed, and upcycled or repurposed. The store’s combination of items makes it stand out from other shops, according to Kristen.
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The store also offers custom and personalized items. As a result, each gift is sold in limited quantities, ensuring you are giving your special someone something special.
The Classes
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Besides selling exceptional products, The Eclectic Chic Boutique offers over 25 different in-person craft classes. The idea stemmed from Kristen’s desire to support the independent makers she worked with in a different way.
The store has classroom space for birthday parties, bridal showers, corporate events, and sip-and-create classes. The Eclectic Chic Boutique also works with local schools to provide after-school enrichment programs. The most popular classes are candle making, cookie decorating, pet portrait painting, and hot cocoa bomb-making.
(Photo credit: @theeclecticchicboutique)
When the pandemic shuttered the business’ doors in 2020, the business pivoted to hosting online craft classes. Kristen says, “We had to create a system for our teachers to teach out of their homes and studios. We coordinated online events, shipments, and created new ways for teachers to interact with clients. We have taught classes all over the world. We have taught a craft class in all 50 states and in 10 different countries virtually.”
(Photo credit: @theeclecticchicboutique)
The Eclectic Chic Boutique is so much more than just a store. It’s a place for learning, fun, and connecting with small businesses and friends alike.
Shop in-store or online at www.TheEclecticChicBoutique.com. The shop offers curbside pickup, in-store pickup, local delivery, and nationwide shipping. Keep up with the shop on Instagram @theeclecticchicboutique.
