Use this search box to find articles that have run in our newspapers over the last several years.
Date: 11/26/2021
AGAWAM – Mixing a boutique vibe with resale, Soul Shine Consignment Boutique offers like-new women’s clothing, shoes, accessories and jewelry out of its two-story shop.
Soul Shine officially opened its doors at 360 N. Westfield St., Suite 7, Feeding Hills, on Sept. 1. Katy Shea, the shop’s owner, said she always had a passion for fashion.
“My early career [was spent] in retail and my degree is in fashion,” she said. For some time, Shea was a district manager at J.C. Penney, calling for her to travel all over the country. However, all of that suddenly stopped when Shea chose to be a mom.
“I worked part-time and got into consignment,” she said.
Over the years, Shea used consignments to take care of her family and obtain their essential needs. Yet, it wasn’t until recently that Shea acted on her passion.
“I took a leap of faith. In 2020, I started a blog on Facebook called Soul Shine 365.” Here, Shea posted and continues to post a daily dose of inspiration. To encourage people even more, she decided it was a perfect time to open her dream shop.
In June, Shea discovered an empty suite in a plaza on North Westfield Street. For her, this was the perfect location and an easy commute from her home in Westfield. On Sept. 1, Soul Shine Consignment Boutique came to life. At the end of September, the town hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to welcome Shea and her shop to the community.
When entering the consignment boutique, customers can see that Shea has everything set up in an engaging way.
“I didn’t want everything congested – there is a vast variety of things,” she explained.
As the merchandise changes with each season, some of the current clothing options include sweaters, cardigans, jeans, winter jackets, work attire for both at home and in the office, and more. To pair well with any outfit, Shea has several pairs of fall boots, fall toned bags, jewelry, belts and hats.
Clothing sizes range from extra small up to triple-extra-large. Shea described this as “multi-gen,” meaning there is something for everyone. Soul Shine Consignment Boutique’s motto is “all about beauty from the inside out.”
Shea said all the jewelry and belts cost $7, as seven is her lucky number and the shop is in suite number seven. Similarly, with all other items, Shea said she offers low prices for “lovely” and “affordable” fashion. Everything is marked down seasonally.
Located upstairs in the shop is additional attire, along with a unique space. Shea called this her “Soul Shop” – a place for customers to sit, relax and either enjoy a book or read guidance cards. She even offers a variety of willow tree figurines. The books, cards and figurines are all priced at $7, as well.
In the two months the shop has been open, Shea said she has had “a good mix between shoppers and consignors.” She went on to say, “One of my favorite things is seeing mom and daughters shopping together.” Whether they’re pre-teens or in their 80s, she believes shopping is fun for all. “Fashion isn’t variety. It’s about expressing authenticity. You can have fun with it.”
So far, Shea said she has had nearly 60 consignors. “I humbly and graciously accept donations,” she added.
Anyone can drop off a maximum of 20 pieces, whenever the boutique is open. Shea said she pays them 40 percent of the sales from their items.
When she is unable to take the clothes for a variety of reasons, if the clothes have not sold, or they’ve gone out of season, Shea offers the consignors to take their clothes back. For those who don’t want them back, Shea donates the clothes to Dress for Success, a nonprofit organization that provides women with professional clothing they could not otherwise afford.
In addition, Shea said she always tries to highlight a certain charity.
“Every few months, I have a donation jar at the register,” she said. Currently, donations are being put toward ALS, as Shea knows someone who is affected by this disease. Although she does not drive customers to donate, the jar is placed for them to see. “Giving back is such good karma,” said Shea. “People can buy and be authentic, and they can also give back.”
When anyone leaves the store, Shea will, however, always ask if they want a positive affirmation. “It’s like a fortune cookie,” she said with a smile. Even if they don’t purchase anything, she claims she does this to lift their spirits and send a positive message.
To attract customers, Shea has hosted a few events at the shop, including a “Fri-Yay Ladies Night.” Here, they had a discussion all about feeling good. “It was a good turnout,” said Shea.
She also hosted a holiday collection launch party and fashion show on Nov. 14.
As time goes on and the business grows, Shea said she may need additional assistance, but in the meantime, she will continue to accomplish her dream, all on her own.
Soul Shine is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours until 7 p.m. on Wednesday. For more information, visit www.soulshineconsign.com, www.facebook.com/soulshineconsign or @soulshineconsign on Instagram.