Hey there, welcome back! I’ve been meaning to share for a while—a breakdown of what it takes to get a boutique up and running. Let’s dive in.

First off, inventory for a space around 1,000 to 1,300 square feet? That set me back $30,000 for this boutique and $25,000 for my first store. It’s a substantial but essential investment.

Now, let’s talk displays. I got creative, utilizing DIY displays crafted from modified IKEA furniture, including this neat cash wrap made from an IKEA kitchen island and cement top.

Then there are the clothing racks—we found these at hardware stores and repurposed old wood for some rustic charm. Oh, and that dining table? Snagged it at a furniture store’s going-out-of-business sale, a real steal.

Building dressing rooms was a bit costlier, around $500 in materials. However, a clever hack using sheets to create room dividers saved me from pricey drywall expenses.

Mannequins? Wow, they’re pricey! Ranging from $50 to $400 each, they’re a substantial investment, but they truly help showcase outfits and boost sales.

Essentials like hangers, mirrors, and seating areas outside dressing rooms are key for customer comfort and engagement.

Tech-wise, an iMac, label printer, credit card reader, and other gadgets are essential. But the real star is the POS system from Shopkeep—it’s a game-changer for analytics and inventory management.

All these costs might seem overwhelming, but remember, starting small is possible. I began this journey from my apartment and gradually expanded.

Hey, here’s the grand total of everything mentioned. It’s not a small number, but don’t be discouraged. You can definitely start a boutique on a budget. I didn’t focus on budgeting initially, but it’s all about finding your path.

Running your own business is an incredible feeling. Trust me, I’ve been through various jobs, and now being my own boss is priceless. I believe in you—keep pushing forward, and success will follow.