Mainstream Boutique

Episode Title: Building a Business with Friendship & Fashion – Mainstream Boutique’s Journey

Hosted by: Jean Geselius, Owner of Ten Oaks Design Studio

Guests:

Dawn Lippert, Co-owner of Mainstream Boutique, Elevate Graduate (Spring 2022)

Rochelle Peterson, Co-owner of Mainstream Boutique

Introduction:
In this episode of the Elevate Community Business Academy podcast, host Jean Geselius, stepping in for Michele, sits down with longtime friends and business partners, Dawn Lippert and Rochelle Peterson, owners of Mainstream Boutique in Willmar, MN. They share their journey of turning friendship into a thriving business, how the Elevate program helped them get started, and the unique mission behind their boutique.

Key Discussion Points:

🔹 Friendship to Business Partners:

Dawn and Rochelle have known each other since childhood—their moms were friends, they raised their kids together, and now they run a business together.

They describe their relationship as “family that we got to pick.”

🔹 The Entrepreneurial Journey:

Dawn transitioned from mortgage lending, and Rochelle had a background in children's mental health.

Dawn’s personal journey after losing her husband in 2017 led her to seek a new path, which resulted in the launch of Mainstream Boutique.

🔹 Why Franchising?

They chose a franchise model for the built-in support, marketing, and structured operations.

Mainstream Boutique is a Minnesota-based franchise that aligns with their values of uplifting women and building community through fashion.

🔹 What Sets Mainstream Boutique Apart?

A multigenerational shopping experience where customers feel celebrated and empowered.

A focus on personal connections and making shopping feel like an experience with friends rather than just a transaction.

Weekly live shopping events on social media to showcase new arrivals.

🔹 Challenges & Growth Opportunities:

Adapting to changing technology and social media marketing.

Understanding their local demographic and curating the right inventory.

Exploring opportunities for growth and expansion in the Willmar Lakes Area.

🔹 The Role of Elevate Community Business Academy:

Dawn shares how Elevate provided crucial tools, resources, and networking opportunities.

Connections with local business experts, including accountants and the chamber of commerce, played a significant role in their early success.

🔹 Partnership & Business Advice:

Communication and transparency are key to a successful business partnership.

Understanding each other's strengths and naturally dividing responsibilities.

The importance of shared goals and revisiting them often.

🔹 Advice for Aspiring Business Owners:

Be transparent with your business partner—discuss finances, goals, and expectations openly.

Know your strengths and weaknesses, and play to each other’s skills.

Focus on the long-term vision, not just short-term profits.

Where to Find Mainstream Boutique Willmar:
📍 Location: Bearpath Plaza, Willmar, MN (Behind Grizzlies, Next to Cub Foods)
🌐 Website: MainstreamBoutiqueWillmar.com
📱 Social Media: Follow them on Facebook & Instagram for live shopping events and updates!

Closing Thoughts:
Dawn and Rochelle’s journey is a testament to the power of friendship, perseverance, and community support. If you're an aspiring entrepreneur, take a page from their book—build something you love, stay connected to your community, and embrace the journey!

🎧 Listen now and get inspired by their story!

Elevate Program: To learn more about or participate in the Elevate Program please head to elevatesba.com!

SWIF: To learn more about or support the Southwest Initiative Foundation please head to https://swifoundation.org!