By Cara Beth Smith
This Elizabethtown small business recently celebrated its one year anniversary. For the last year, the shop has offered nursing uniforms, accessories, hair and beauty products, clothing, and more, in honor of owner Melissa McKoy’s daughter, Shena – the namesake of the store.
Melissa McKoy shared, “It was Shena’s dream to own a store. She loved clothing and all aspects of fashion. So, to keep her dream and memory alive, I decided to open Shena’s Place Uniforms and Boutique.”
The goal was originally to offer uniforms, but upon opening the owner realized her customers had a need for other items, so she added these things to her inventory to better serve her customers. McKoy added, ”The response has been extremely supportive.”
The first year of business has brought both success and challenges. McKoy explained, “Operating a business has been very challenging. I have been to the point where I wanted to close down, but I have some wonderful customers, praying people, and a great support team by my side. I thank God I didn’t give up and close the doors of Shena’s Place Uniforms and Boutique.” She continued, “Some days, I might make $500.00, and then there are days I might only make $20.00, but something is better than nothing, and I keep going.”
Supporting small businesses is so important because these local businesses contribute to our community in a positive way. When asked how Shena’s Place contributes to the community, owner Melissa McKoy responded, “I contribute to the community by donating to area fundraisers and charity events. I do this by donating items for raffles and through monetary donations. I also do random acts of kindness for random people. I try to inspire other minority women to become entrepreneurs.”
A message from the owner:
“On behalf of Shena’s Place Uniforms and Boutique, we want to thank the Town of Elizabethtown for all the support you’ve given and allowing us to be a part of the business community here in Elizabethtown. We want to thank our customers for their support and for coming to shop with us. Also, I would like to thank my staff for a great year. I couldn’t have done it without you all.”
Shena’s place is not hiring at this time. However, as the business continues to grow more positions will become available.
Hours of operation:
Monday – Friday, 10am – 6pm
Saturday – 10am – 5pm
Sunday – closed.
Location: 162 South Poplar Street Elizabethtown NC 28337
Website: Shena’s Place Uniforms and Boutique
Facebook: Shena’s Place Uniforms and Boutique LLC
Contact store: 910-991-3023. Cell number: 910-918-0917.
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