UPDATE: Local retail businesses in Southwest Louisiana are experiencing a surge in community support as they continue to rebuild and thrive after the challenges posed by the pandemic and Hurricane Laura. Two inspiring owners, Mia Mouton-René and Brittany DeRouen, exemplify the resilience and dedication that define the local shopping experience.
Mouton-René, owner of Mia’s boutique in downtown Lake Charles, transformed her career from photography to retail following the devastation of Hurricane Laura in 2020. With her photography studio destroyed, she found an empty space on Pujo Street and opened her boutique, initially as a side venture. “I never thought I would open a boutique,” Mouton-René stated. “But every customer who walks in reminds me of the importance of supporting local businesses.”
The boutique is not just a store; it embodies the spirit of community resilience. Mouton-René emphasizes the urgency of personal connections in retail, stating, “When you shop local, it means I get to open tomorrow.” This week, she will expand her successful business by opening a second location in the Prien Lake Mall, increasing her staff from five to eight employees. “I want to reach a crowd I haven’t touched yet,” she explained.
Meanwhile, DeRouen took over Sway Boutique & Gifts in Moss Bluff in 2019 and quickly adapted her business during the COVID-19 pandemic. With innovative strategies like a car-hop service and “Run-A-Gram” deliveries, Sway became a lifeline for many in the community. “We came to them when they couldn’t come to us,” DeRouen said. The response was overwhelming, as customers craved connection during isolation.
Through her boutique, DeRouen fulfills her childhood dream of being a personal shopper, providing personalized service and unique home decor. “Shopping local means you receive tailored attention,” she noted, emphasizing that every dollar spent at Sway impacts the local economy.
Both women highlight the significance of local shopping, not only for their businesses but for the community as a whole. Mouton-René and DeRouen are committed to giving back, whether through donations to local programs or supporting schools. “When you choose local, you support dreams, families, and your community,” DeRouen stated passionately.
The success stories of these business owners resonate deeply within the community, reminding everyone of the critical role local shops play in fostering connections and ensuring economic stability. With their continued growth and dedication, Mouton-René and DeRouen are proving that when the community supports local businesses, everyone wins.
As the holiday season approaches, local businesses are urging residents to shop small and support their neighbors. By choosing to shop local, customers are investing in the character and resilience of Southwest Louisiana.
