Leaving her home
There’s a new girl on the block.
Jacquie Clarke of Butterfly Threads is joining the ever-growing number of entrepreneurs who are choosing to relocate to the buzz and bustle of the downtown core.
After 25 years operating a successful home-based business, Clarke’s new venture has led her to open a store on Specialty Avenue at Fourth and Dominion.
The grand unveiling – which features exciting renovations – takes place Nov. 22.
“I love fashion and I think my best skills are dressing women in comfortable, elegant, practical clothes,” she said. “My home boutique has just become so busy that I haven’t been able to accommodate my customers. Now with the new store, they won’t have to make an appointment, they can just walk in and shop.”
She is very excited about being able to put her own uniquely “Jacquie” decorative touch on the downtown space.
“I know I’m going to enjoy my new bright location and I’m really looking forward to decorating my store I way I want it. My new location is being renovated to surprise and delight women who want a first-class boutique.”
Just two hints: there will be sparkling chandeliers and stylish change rooms.
Clarke is known for her easy smile and positive attitude. Her philosophy of life comes, she says, from working on a chemotherapy ward for many years.
“I learned from that experience not to procrastinate, to grab hold of your dreams, do what you want and have fun. Every day for me is a blessing. I have always lived my life that way.”
As proof of that, Clarke visits Mexico twice a year to recharge and reinvigorate.
“Last year I took two of my girlfriends and we watched from our beach house as the turtles come up on the beach to lay their eggs. It was amazing to see.”
Her biggest fan and supporter will join Clarke in her downtown venture.
“My mother, Elsie Stobbe, has supported me for 25 years and at age 85, she’s still very feisty and encourages me daily. She models in my fashion shows, she unpacks boxes, she does inventory, she cleans, lectures, organizes. I appreciate her and her unconditional love so much.”
The Butterfly Threads boutique carries fashions in a myriad of colours, styles and range of sizes from four to 3X. Special orders, private consultations and alterations are provided.
“I dress people, I am a design consultant,” Clarke explains. “I provide clothes for all their needs and even pack their suitcase. I’m a personal shopper. For example, if someone is going on a cruise, I’ll pick out easy-care clothes and must-have basics.”
The move downtown is the right choice, right now, she says.
“My customers are my friends and their encouragement to do this has been overwhelming. I always give 110 per cent when it comes to customer service.”
Clarke says she plans to carry clothes that are practical as well as elegant.
To mark the special occasion, Butterfly Threads is having a moving in, Blow Out sale Oct. 23 to 27 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. The grand opening for the new location at 421 Dominion St. is November 22.
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