I love #FollowFridays and getting to share some of my favorites with you! Today's interview is with Be the Change Boutique in Mt. Pleasant, SC. (They also have an online shop if you don't live in the Charleston area!) This is a story about two best friends who decided to help others by opening a boutique full of high quality, philanthropic items. Soooo...each purchase gives back! How cool is that?! Learn more about the owners and the boutique in the interview below!

BE THE CHANGE BOUTIQUE

Products: clothing, accessories, home goods
Owners: Ashleigh Hover & Ashley Miller    
Location: 357 N Shelmore Blvd, Suite 1B, Mt Pleasant SC

TDC: Tell us a little about your story! What led the two of you to decide to open up shop together?
BTCB: We have been best friends for 23 years. The short version is that I, Ashle(y) came up with the idea of bringing together various companies and organizations that give back, because I was purchasing from many of them, going to different sites and stores to find philanthropic items. I took the idea to Ashle(igh) and she loved it. She had owned 3 hair salons in Ohio that she built from the ground up and knew the starting and numbers side of operating a business. 

TDC: Can you share the mission behind Be the Change Boutique? How did you come up with the concept?
BTCB: Ashley studied aboard in Uganda in college and fell in love. When she came back she started purchasing items that gave back, trying to match what that person would like with something that makes a difference. 

TDC: What is one of your favorite products in the shop right now? (Or give us a few!)
BTCB: That’s SO hard. For Ashley; the Colette Sol USA James Biker Boots. I would wear them everyday all day if I could. Not only are they amazingly cute and comfortable, 100% net profits go to anti human trafficking campaigns. For Ashleigh; the Stitch kit, because of their mission. Based out of Idaho; it’s a needle and thread that you stitch onto your clothing to help conquer the stigma of child sexual abuse. 100% of the profits fund in-person, one-on-one counseling nationwide for those personally affected. 

TDC: Are all of the products available in the online store as well?
BTCB: Unfortunately, they are not. Some companies/organizations don’t allow us to sell online. That’s why it’s always best to come visit us in person =)

TDC: Since opening the boutique, what has been one of the coolest experiences so far?
BTCB: I think when people come in and really get it; like, they understand why and how a place like ours is so important and what a true and positive impact it can make. We meet people from all walks of life, and it’s so reaffirming when people can feel that it is possible to purchase with purpose.

TDC: I’m sure it was quite a journey opening up shop! What advice would you give someone who is thinking of starting up a new venture?
BTCB: Be ready for a roller coaster ride, follow your heart and give it to God. 

TDC: Favorite Charleston restaurant right now? (Hard question!)
BTCB: Is this even a fair question? I would probably have to say Crave in Mt. Pleasant strictly based on the mac & cheese and fantastic service. 

Thank you Be the Change Boutique! Love your shop and what you're about!
Head over to the shops in I'On and visit Ashley and Ashleigh!

Okay, so who do you recommend for #FollowFriday? Any instagram accounts, shop or blogs that you think I should feature? Would love for you to leave a comment below!

Best,
Emily Kirby