Dani Hanicz, 519 Boutique - Sarnia, ON.
What is 519 Boutique?
519 Boutique is a one-woman owned, online clothing boutique aiming to help women find trendy, affordable fashion! 519’s clothing is a curated collection of women’s and young contemporary brands.
What made you start a clothing boutique?
519 started just over a year ago out of frustration over the lack of trendy, budget conscious clothing in town. Assuming others had to feel the same way, 519 Boutique was born!
What is your favourite part of running your own business?
Owning my own business has been one of my most rewarding yet challenging experiences. There was definitely a lot of self doubt and tears in the beginning stages BUT watching my boutique grown and getting positive feedback is such an amazing feeling. I also love how being a business owner has introduced me to so many amazing people!
Do you have a favourite season you like to promote?
Fall is definitely my favourite season for fashion. Warm and comfortable are two of my favourite things!!
When you aren’t working, what are you doing?
Spending time with my husband and two daughters is my number 1 priority when I’m not working! Getting out for bike rides and spending the day at the beach are two of our favourite activities!
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
One thing most people don’t know about me is that I have my black belt in karate! I haven’t kept up with it since high school but I always get quite the reaction from people when they find out.
What does Girl Gang mean to you?
Girl gang has been amazing for me. Without this awesome group if women boosting my confidence, offering advice, and bringing so many exciting opportunities to my business I wouldn’t be where I am!
Having two young daughters, it feels good to show them that be a part of a team of girls supporting girls opposed to competing with other women is cool.
What are your goals for 519 Boutique in the next year?
I really hope to be able to extend our sizing range so we can accommodate a wider range of shapes and sizes!!
Who is a female role model to you and why?
My mom is my #1, hands down. She is always selflessly helping and doing for everyone around her. She is so supportive and always there to lend an ear, even when I text/call her 900 times a day (sorry mom).
What is one thing you would tell anyone looking to start their apparel shop?
Before starting any business, make sure you have a great support system. My husband has been so supportive of me. There were times I wanted to give up but he encouraged me to keep going and put my all into it. I couldn’t have done any of this without him.