With the rise of online shopping, many big-box department stores and mall chains are choosing to downsize or close up shop altogether. This shift in consumer spending habits has freed up space at many malls, allowing smaller businesses an opportunity to make use of empty stores.
One such business is Perfect Pick, a trendy boutique located in the Castleton Square Mall. Ebony Dycus, who is the visionary behind the shop, got the idea for opening the store after visiting her brother in California.
“I went to a mall on a layover and at that mall, there were no major stores; every store was a boutique. The mall was so huge, and people were still shopping, and I was like, ‘Let me see, I can do this,’” said Dycus.
The clothing at Perfect Pick was hand selected by Dycus and is inspired by street fashions that she witnessed in California. She started selling clothing last year at small business bazaars and other events that allowed her to create pop-up shops, but she is excited to bring her wares to the mall. Though unique clothing is the highlight of her shop, she also sells soaps, candles and many one-of-a kind items made by local business owners.
“I think it’s important to spotlight other businesses in the shop. I like to give others an opportunity. If it fits with my shop, I will have them in here to highlight their business, because we all have to start somewhere,” said Dycus.
Regarding the shift in mall culture, Dycus feels the impact it will have on small businesses is two-fold. On one hand, it helps local businesses receive more foot traffic and get their name out there. But the trade-off is that small, sometimes struggling businesses have to pay high fees.
“I think overall it will help small businesses. It helps those just trying to branch out because it’s hard to get in the malls, and the fees are different from selling out of your house or doing an online store. But it’s automatic foot traffic and you never know who will see your stuff.”
In addition to her mall shop, Dycus sells clothing online at perfectpickbyebonynicole.com. Stay up to date with the latest styles as they become available by following Dycus on social media at facebook.com/PerfectPickbyEbonyNicole.
Though unique clothing is the highlight of her shop, she also sells soaps, candles and many one-of-a kind items made by local business owners.(Photo/Keshia McEntire)
“> Though unique clothing is the highlight of her shop, she also sells soaps, candles and many one-of-a kind items made by local business owners.(Photo/Keshia McEntire)
