THE NEWEST DESTINATION FOR WOMEN’S FASHION ADDIE & GRACE Boutique OFFERS ANOTHER GREAT REASON TO VISIT ESSEX
11/21/2023 02:43PM ● By MERYL SIEGMAN
Soft wool scarves from Germany complement
festive soy candles, bespoke jewelry by local and
regional designers, and handbags made from
responsibly-sourced materials. Located at the fabulous Essex Experience, the Addie & Grace Boutique offers a refreshing oasis. This gem has been making waves in the world of fashion since its opening in October 2022. Named after the owner Jennifer Graham’s daughter, Addison, and grandmother, Grace, the venue is more than just a clothing store, it’s a destination, and it’s changing the way women shop for fashion in Chittenden County. Come along as we visit this unique boutique to explore its history, offerings, and the exceptional services it provides.
Addie & Grace features world-class designers such as Joseph Ribkoff, Johnny Was,
Nic+Zoe, Velvet, and AG Jeans. FOLLOWING A PASSION
With a background in marketing and longtime desire to start her own business, Jennifer found herself thinking about new possibilities after Covid-19 hit. While for many people the pandemic was a showstopper, for Jennifer it was a game changer. “I really had time to think about life and what the future could look like.
It felt right to jump in and take a leap of faith,” she explained. In January 2022, she decided it was time to follow her dream, coming up with the idea of opening a women’s clothing boutique. Soon after, she signed a lease for a 2,000-square-foot space at the Essex Experience, previously home to a Bass outlet. After a charming remodel, the boutique opened in October 2022.
Jennifer hired Samantha Sleeper as Addie & Grace’s store manager later that summer. An experienced store manager and senior account executive with over two decades of experience in the fashion industry, Samantha has proven expertise in fashion buying, trend analysis, and building customer relationships. According to Jennifer, “Sam has an expert understanding of fashion and styling, a degree in textile design, and above all else, she’s phenomenal at building relationships with our customers. It’s unusual to find someone with her background and talent.”
“Being at the Essex Experience is a huge draw,” Samantha said. “There’s a concert venue, movie theater, resort and spa, tons of restaurants, and lots of parking. At the store, women can find designer brands and high-touch styling services.”
THE ADDIE & GRACE EXPERIENCE
The boutique’s mission is clear: to offer women expert styling for everyday, office, and special occasions from the designers they know and love. With a focus on offering a wide variety of styles and price points, there’s something for everyone.
The inventory caters to a diverse range of clients, ranging from women in their 30s to their 70s. Jennifer and Samantha attend four buying shows each year that include the renowned COTERIE international fashion event in New York City. “We walk the shows, get a firsthand look at upcoming styles and trends, and scout new lines, always keeping in mind our customers’ preferences while following trends and how we see styles performing in the store,” Samantha shared. “Our goal is to put together a mix of things that we love and really excites people when they walk through the door.” With an eye toward lines that are aesthetically timeless, they work hard to bring in pieces that are special and unique.
Beautiful accessories surround a chic
cream-colored sweater and vegan suede pants.
A cognac-colored handbag, gold shimmer wallet, and rich-toned scarf complete the look.WHAT YOU’LL FIND AT ADDIE &
GRACE FEATURED DESIGNERS
In addition to a warm, welcoming interior
and attentive staff, the boutique showcases
an array of more than 45 designers that
literally range from A to Z, starting with AG
Jeans, ASKK, ASTR the Label, and Autumn
Cashmere all the way through Z Supply. The
meticulously curated selection ensures that
every woman who walks through the door
will find high-quality pieces that resonate
with her style. And, new to the boutique is a
line of organic and sustainable makeup from
Denmark called (M)anasi 7. “It’s exciting to have some new makeup and skincare
offerings at the store—our customers are really
embracing it,” Samantha said.
FASHION FOR ALL SEASONS
Jennifer and Samantha’s fashion philosophy
aligns with the diverse seasons and lifestyles of their customers. Their commitment to timeless aesthetics ensures that every piece they offer
will stand the test of time.
Among its range of styles is casual yet high-quality clothing. One standout aspect of the store’s collection is its stock of urban- inspired items. Chic fleece, cashmere with an elegant twist, and versatile designs make their offerings ideal for the Vermont climate while adding an elevated touch to everyday wear.
The center island with a sustainable quartz
waterfall top, 200-year-old reclaimed Vermont
wood inlays, and barn doors lend to the warm,
welcoming space. UNPARALLELED CUSTOMER SERVICE
At Addie & Grace, excellence in customer service is at the heart of everything. The focus on customer relationships doesn’t end at the register. The team provides a high level of one-on-one attention, asking questions to understand individual preferences and building long term connections. They go the extra mile by reaching out to customers when new arrivals align with their tastes.
Addie & Grace offers an outstanding concierge service. Building on their in-depth knowledge of their clients’ preferences, they create personalized style packages. This concierge level of shopping simplifies the fashion experience for individuals with busy schedules. “We have faithful customers that trust us to build custom packages that suit their style and preferences,” Samantha said. “We create and deliver style packages to a select group of customers. Whatever they don’t like or doesn’t fit, we pick up. It saves them a lot of time.”
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
As the boutique enters into its second year, Jennifer and Samantha envision continued growth. They see the boutique becoming a destination not only for Essex shoppers, but also for those from all of Chittenden County and beyond. With word-of-mouth recommendations already drawing customers from other states and Canada, the boutique is quickly becoming a premier destination on par with downtown Burlington and even larger cities.
In a world where going shopping can feel impersonal and clothing is disposable, Addie & Grace Boutique is redefining the shopping experience. With its commit- ment to excellence in customer service, curated collections, and an unparalleled concierge service, the boutique is poised to remain a fashion forward staple in Essex for years to come. Whether you’re seeking a wardrobe refresh or a unique piece for that special event, Addie & Grace is where you’ll find it.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ADDIE & GRACE BOUTIQUE
Jennifer Graham
Addie & Grace Boutique
21 Essex Way, Suite 414 Essex, VT
