Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Lemmerman
Hi Nicole, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My story as a small business owner started in 2017 when I opened a boutique in Tonka Bay, MN with my friend Tara. At the same time, I started a jewelry line called Olivia Keri Designs (named after my daughter) that I sold at my boutique, Gathered Goods Company, and at a few other local shops in the Twin Cities metro area. Just before covid, our landlords decided to tear down our part of the building to build condos. At the time it felt like a setback, but in hindsight, it was a blessing in disguise. Working from home gave me time to focus on my jewelry business and grow it even further. Currently, my earrings are being sold in over 300 stores around the country and I am a top seller on Etsy. After 3 years of working in my basement, I realized I missed the energy of a storefront – the conversations, the connections, and the joy of helping people find something special. I also needed a bigger space to run Olivia Keri Designs, so after months of searching, I finally found the perfect storefront with an amazing studio space. So, in July 2023, I opened Magnolia North, a place where I could do what I love while reconnecting with the community. Now, everyday I get to welcome people into a space that feels like home, filled with pieces that inspire and bring joy.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
After running my jewelry business from home for three years, I knew it was a time for a change. I missed having a storefront, connecting with customers and having a dedicated space to create. The only challenge was finding the right location.
I started my search for a storefront with a realtor, but nothing he showed me felt quite right. It took time, patience, and a lot of prayers that the perfect space would come along. After about 6 months of searching, one night I came across a listing on Facebook Marketplace. The space for rent was in my ideal location and the right price point. I went to see the space that evening and by the next day, I had signed a lease. Everything fell into place so seamlessly that I knew it was meant to be. I always say it was a God thing and I couldn’t be more grateful.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Magnolia North?
At Magnolia North, we specialize in high-quality women’s clothing and accessories, catering to women 30 and above who appreciate timeless, well-made pieces. Though our space is small, we also offer a thoughtfully curated selection of baby gifts, kid’s items and men’s gifts. We wanted to make sure we offer something special for just about anyone.
We also take pride in supporting other Minnesota small businesses by carrying a selection of locally made products and collaborating with fellow entrepreneurs in town.
Beyond fashion, our boutique is a place of warmth and connection. We carry faith-based products, play mostly Christian music and refrain from carrying products that could be offensive. We often hear from our customers how much they feel at home when they walk through our doors. It has become more than a boutique for me. It’s a place where conversations have turned into friendships and it has given me the opportunity to not just run a business but to truly be part of a community.
What matters most to you?
Like I mentioned previously, what matters most to me is the connections I have made through owning a boutique. Seeing customers walk in and instantly feel at home, watching their confidence grow when the find something they love, and sharing meaningful conversations make the more than just a business.
This boutique has given me a chance to build friendships, collaborate with other small businesses in town, and truly be a part of the community.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magnolianorthboutique
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/magnolianorthboutique
