Hats, Heart, and Haute Couture

The first thing that captures your eye is the playful hats lining the store’s entrance, a signature touch of owner Shauna Natalie Pascucci. With a background as a hairstylist for seventeen years, Shauna made a bold pivot, trading scissors for style in a journey that transformed her shopping obsession into a thriving boutique.

When Natalie’s Boutique first opened its doors as an online venture pre-pandemic, it quickly evolved into a consignment gift shop. From a humble two-by-seven-foot table, Shauna has built a space where women of all shapes and sizes can find stylish, comfortable clothing.

Stepping inside the boutique, you’re greeted by a warm atmosphere. Each piece in the store is curated with care—Shauna personally wears everything she sells, ensuring that quality and comfort reign supreme. With sizes ranging from small to 3XL, her commitment to inclusivity shines through, helping women feel confident and beautiful.

The story of Natalie’s Boutique isn’t just about fashion; it’s about passion, resilience, and a desire to uplift others. Shauna invites everyone to discover something special in her store, encouraging women to embrace their unique styles.

Continue reading →

A Leap of Faith: How One Midlife Revival Sparked a Thriving Business

At 45, some might think it’s too late for a major career change, but for one former educator, it was the perfect moment for a midlife revival.

After years of working in early childhood education and teacher training, the pandemic shifted Ellen Andrick’s path, leading to a bold leap of faith into the world of sustainable business. What began as a simple experiment working in a local store soon blossomed into a full-fledged entrepreneurial venture. Now, her mission-driven store not only reduces plastic waste but also builds a sense of community, offering products that help customers live more sustainably.

But what does it really take to reinvent yourself in midlife? And how did she overcome the fear of failure to build a thriving business from scratch?

Continue reading →

The Potter’s Encore: Community Through Clay

The old M&M Bakery has transformed from a hub of baked goods to a vibrant center for creativity. Now home to the Dover Pottery Studio, founded by Kim Hanson, this new space invites the community to explore the art of pottery. With classes ranging from beginner to advanced, the studio offers a place for hobbyists and aspiring artists alike to connect and create, all while honoring the building’s rich history.

Continue reading →

Milk And Music

Milk Street Studio is an emerging, vibrant center for musicians and artists. I had the pleasure of touring the facility and speaking with Sebastian Franks, the studio’s assistant manager. Our conversation revealed not only a passion for music and community, but the innovative reuse of an industrial space that defines Milk Street Studio.

Continue reading →