CLEAN SLATE: A New E.C. Boutique For All Things Stylish
Slate Boutique & Gifts emphasizes fashion through a local support system
Kelly Carlson, photos by Andrea Paulseth |
Renee O’Donnell, owner of a new boutique called Slate, had worked in healthcare for over 20 years before COVID-19 changed life in that field. O'Donnell spent time reevaluating her career and how she wanted to live her day-to-day life, and thus, Slate began its journey.
“I knew I loved shopping at boutiques and supporting local vendors,” she said. “I needed to go to a place that I loved working for every day.” And just like that, with the help of friends and some online selling experience, this south side boutique began to open its doors to something fun, unique, and supportive of the local community.
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I knew I loved shopping at boutiques and supporting local vendors. I needed to go to a place that I loved working for every day.
RENEE O'DONNELL
OWNER, SLATE BOUTIQUE
“We focus mainly on women’s and girls’ clothing,” O’Donnell said. “Our sizes run from small to 3X just to give everybody in Eau Claire, pretty much, an option.”
While Slate emphasizes all types of apparel, they also sell bath and body, home goods, handbags, jewelry, and other little gifts that are sure to make everybody smile. “We just got some new corduroy jackets that are reversible that seem to be everybody’s favorite,” she emphasized.
After long, laborious months of construction and getting things in order with the current scarcity in the labor industry, Slate opened with a more-than-ready support system. Located right between Shook Family Dental and Kahvi Coffee, their official grand opening was Friday, Oct. 7, and it brought in hundreds of interested locals looking to find something stylish in the fall season. “But don’t worry,” she said. “We’ve restocked!”
Slate has entered into the community as an eager local participant working directly with the Chippewa Valley Snow Angels which is an Eau Claire nonprofit that helps kids get snow pants, hats, and mittens. They also are hoping to work with other boutiques and local vendors in the area to support other businesses alongside their success.
Make sure to stop in at 3834 Talmadge Road in Eau Claire (just off Highway 93), and grab something cute for you and a friend.
To learn more or to look online, visit slateboutiqueandgifts.com.
