A new fashion boutique is open at 313 Manufacturers Road.
Latina Navy veteran, mother of three and nonprofit board member Josselyn Nielsen is the founder of North Star Boutique. Nielsen never expected to be an entrepreneur, but as a person of faith – Nielsen is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – she says she felt called to open a body positive boutique in Chattanooga.
“A few years ago, I went prom dress shopping with my oldest daughter. We went through store after store at the mall and were unable to find age-appropriate attire,” she recalls. “I had a pit in my stomach and heard God say, ‘Do something about this.’ And here I am.”
Nielsen is not thinking about only her daughters.
“Women of all ages face issues with body shame,” says Nielsen. “I have a sense of stewardship. I need to do something to help the younger generation and all women know inner beauty is what matters.”
And that is the feeling North Star Boutique is trying to create, adds Nielsen.
“When you enter the store, I want you to realize you’re divinely made. That your talents, attributes and personality make you who you are. You are what makes an outfit look fabulous. What matters most is how you feel about yourself,” says Nielsen.
Nielsen wants everyone who enters North Star Boutique to leave with one thing – and it’s not a bag of merchandise.
“I want you to see the confidence – the smile and the light in your eyes – that has always been there.”
Store hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Visit North Star Boutique on Instagram at northstarboutique.chattanooga and Facebook at Northstarboutique.Chattanooga
Source: North Star Boutique