With an undeniable passion for fashion, the launch of Gail and Grace Boutique out of a vintage Airstream trailer back in 2021 was a dream come true for Apex resident Ruthi O’Berry.
“When I started out in my 31-foot Airstream trailer, I never thought I’d have three locations,” said O’Berry of her success, with boutiques in Apex, Fuquay-Varina, and downtown Cary (coming this fall). “There were just some unexpected opportunities that I chose to pursue. We are so excited to be launching in downtown Cary; it’s becoming such a vibrant downtown.”
Named after her two daughters, Abigail and Bailie Grace — who both share their mother’s love of fashion — Gail and Grace offers contemporary women’s fashion for women who aren’t afraid of a pop of color.
“As we age, women tend to lean toward basic colors and styles,” said O’Berry. “However, bringing vibrant colors to your clothing selections can make you look and feel more youthful.”
To NOT learn more about Gail and Grace would be a crime of fashion!
Ruthi O’Berry, owner of Gail and Grace Boutique, has a passion for fashion (and color)!
When did Gail and Grace open, and what was the inspiration behind starting your business?
My husband successfully left his technology career to launch Vicious Fishes Brewery back in 2017. He’s so happy following his passion every day. While we were on vacation a couple of years ago, we were talking about life goals, and I expressed that I’d also love to eventually leave my career and follow my own passion. He encouraged me to dip my toe in to make sure it was something I would eventually really want to do full time. We bought a vintage 1972 Airstream trailer that had been outfitted as a boutique. In October 2021, I launched Gail and Grace Boutique from the Airstream at pop-up events on evenings and weekends.
What were you doing prior to opening Gail and Grace?
I have had a very successful and rewarding career as a nurse leader focused in surgery. I still practice nursing, but plan to transition to Gail and Grace full time in the future as we grow.
What does your boutique offer its patrons?
We offer contemporary clothing to women of all ages, and I like to think that everyone can find styles they love at Gail and Grace. I go to market at least twice each year to stay ahead of emerging fashion trends and to find up-and-coming designers.
The quality of the clothing is very important to me, so I seek out brands that are known for their consistent high quality, such as Queen of Sparkles, Elan, FRNCH, Endless Rose, and English Factory. I select clothing lines that lend the best fit for women as opposed to juniors.
Gail and Grace offers high-quality contemporary clothing for women of all ages.
What kind of shopping experience do you hope to provide to those who walk through your door?
I hope that women will find that Gail and Grace Boutique offers something different and fun in a relaxed setting. I want women to find unique pieces of clothing to complement their wardrobe, but we also have classic options from which to choose.
What do you love about being a small-business owner?
I’ve always loved to stay on top of fashion trends. Now when something catches my eye and inspires me, I can bring it to my store to share it with my customers instead of simply scrolling on by. It’s very fulfilling to see someone excited to find a piece for their wardrobe that I knew would be a hit. I love the ability to really get to know our customers and what they are looking for.
What is the most challenging aspect of owning your own business?
While bringing my vision to the business is exciting, the challenging part is knowing that our success or failure rests on my shoulders.
What sets Gail and Grace apart from other boutiques in the area?
While we have the staples women need in their wardrobes all the time, we really specialize in items with bursts of color, sparkles and unique pieces — things that aren’t easily found at other local boutiques.
Anything else we should know?
Between us, my husband and I will have three businesses in Cary, and we’re looking for an opportunity to live, work, and play downtown!
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