After the support they received for their pilot store which has now been open for nine months, The Grateful Boutique has secured a new boutique centred in the heart of Carrington.
Following a social enterprise model, the business has raised over $4,000 for local charity, Got Your Back Sista as part of their everyday operations.
They attribute much of their success to the support they’ve received from the local community and businesses who have leapt at the opportunity to get involved with their cause. The Grateful is a one-for-one pay it forward happiness project that provides a platform and an easy solution for individuals and businesses in the local community to give to those around them.
The store front boutique offers flowers, but also modern clothing for ladies, men, and kids, as well as gifts, homewares and accessories. Over 90% of suppliers they stock are local, many of which are social enterprises too, and either create products to protect the environment and/or give back to a charity. For every $0 to $25 spent in-store, The Grateful pay forward $1 on behalf of their customer to Got Your Back Sista, which goes towards sponsoring women from domestic violence to take critical self-defence classes.
The business has also paid forward close to 4,000 bouquets to the John Hunter Hospital and Ronald McDonald House on behalf of local businesses and individuals.
Lead Founder and Driver of Happiness, Jessica Shuwalow said the support from local businesses has been overwhelming.
“Not just those that have chosen to shop with us and participate in our programs as part of their social responsibility involvement, but there’s also been a wealth of professional businesses in the legal, marketing, coaching, health, human resources and other industries that provided us with complimentary, promotional, pro bono and discounted services and support,” Jessica said.
“We really do live and operate in the most amazing city in Australia.”
IMAGE | The Grateful Boutique’s new shop in Carrington. Photo credit: Jessica Ross Photography