We first met Ashley Bradford of Anchored Designs Boutique two years ago. We were referred to her after admiring tee shirts she printed for a local business in her former location on Main Street. Ashley (Acker) was born and raised in Onekama and graduated from Onekama Consolidated Schools.
What was your retail experience/background before you opened Anchored Designs Boutique?
I grew up in retail. My family has owned a retail store in Manistee for over 33 years. I worked alongside my dad and aunts in our family store, Townline Unlimited Bargain Barn, sorting and stocking merchandise.
What drew you to the retail business and store ownership? Why a boutique?
I grew up in a family where we were raised to work for what we want in life. My dad is the most hard-working man I know, and he inspired me to open my own business.
When and why did you choose to open your boutique in Onekama?
I decided to open a boutique in Onekama because I love our little town. There were some great little shops in town but not many, and I saw a need for a store that was different and unique.
Last year, you moved to a new location in the village, 4857 Main Street. What was the inspiration for the move?
I do many pop ups and events with Patina and Yellow Dog Café (neighboring businesses). I have always wanted to be in more of a business district, as my previous location was not very visible. Before the pandemic, I decided it was time to make a move, as my business had outgrown its previous location. When I walked in the door at this new space, next to Onekama Building Supply, I saw the original high tin ceilings and I knew this was the perfect location. During the shutdown we remodeled ⸺ the interior had not been touched in years ⸺ and made it our own.
What do you like best about owning a boutique?
I love meeting new people! I also love finding unique brands and styles for my customers of all ages. I work with many local artists and give them a place to showcase their art.
Tell us about the lines of merchandise you carry. How do you choose them?
I try to carry as many Michigan-made products as I possibly can. I love supporting local! I also always try to carry lines that no one else in the area has. I want to be unique.
The Michigan merchandise looks popular. Several items offered online are out of stock. Did this take you or your supplier by surprise? Has Michigan merch grown in popularity since you opened?
Michigan merchandise is very popular! Tourists every summer love to bring home a little piece of Michigan, so I always try to offer a variety of items and clothing with Michigan themes. This year has been hard with the pandemic, with shipping and stock. Many styles I usually order are out of stock or take months to get, so I have been adapting and finding some fun new brands. I like to change up my styles every year to keep my boutique fresh.
What are some other popular boutique items?
People love to come in and look at Carole Porter’s Lake Michigan Beach Glass Artwork. She does little nature scenes using beach glass, twigs, pinecones, petoskey stones, etc., and keeps them so simple and beautiful that they appeal to everyone. Customers return summer after summer to add to their collection of her artwork.
Do you have customers who return each season?
Yes, I have customers/families that have been in every summer since I opened more than six years ago. It has been fun meeting new people, and some I have developed friendships with over the years.
What do your children think of your boutique?
My children ⸺ Emma, 9, Carson, 12, Caden, 14 ⸺ have grown up in my boutique. When I first opened, my preschool-aged daughter would come to work with me every day. The kids often come in after hours to help me with various projects and help us renovate our new location. They also are my inspiration for my children’s section and help me choose the perfect brands. I hope to instill in them the work ethic that I was raised with.
You’re open 7 days a week in summer. Do you have an opportunity to take a few days off? What do you like to do to unwind?
Since the business has become more established, I am now able to step away a little more in the summer. I’m fortunate that my husband is a teacher and has the summers off. When I am not able to be with the kids, he is, and we can spend some time together on my days off. In the summertime I love to go to the beach and go on hikes with my family. I also love being a tourist and visiting other little Michigan towns!
What is your goal for the boutique/yourself in the future?
Keep evolving and becoming a destination boutique for Manistee County.
Anything else you would like to add?
I was blown away by the support I received this year. My boutique was just voted one of the top three Red Hot Best places to buy a gift in Manistee/Ludington/ Cadillac by Traverse Magazine readers. I appreciate the recognition, knowing that years of hard work can and do make a difference. Thank you, Dad.
Follow Anchored Designs Boutique on Facebook and Instagram. See more about Anchored Designs Boutique in our story, “Bracelets, Baby!” on page 8 of our Sept. 20, 2023 issue found HERE.
