A Chatham woman with an eye for fashion trends and an understanding of everyday stresses has officially opened the doors to more formal wear options.
Stephanie Owen, the owner of Status Dress Rentals is celebrating the official opening of her boutique in Chatham, located at 8613 Eberts Line. Owen said she also recently launched an official website on September 27 where customers can order dresses to rent online with an option to ship or pick-up at their location.
Owen said she was inspired to start the business in Chatham after noticing a gap in options for shoppers in the area.
"I was attending a couple of formal events in 2018. I had a new baby and two other kids at home and I didn't have a lot of time to travel and find a formal gown," she said. "Living in a smaller city, we are limited to shopping options... so this idea came up based on the research of similar companies around Canada and in the U.S., but I definitely think there's room for more."
Before launching a website and opening a local boutique, Owen said the business started appearing through social media platforms in April. Since then, people have been booking appointments to try on dresses and see what's in stock, which will now be easier with the business' official website.
"It has actually been very incredible," she said. "We have people renting locally for if they're attending a wedding, a fundraiser, or a gala, or even maternity photoshoots or engagement photoshoots."
As for where the selection of dresses come from, Owen said although they do consider purchasing never or barely worn gowns from residents, the majority of their dresses are purchased at large functions.
"Most of our dresses have been purchased from warehouse sales where the dresses are brand new but they maybe have overstock from different formal dress companies," she said.
Prices range, depending on different factors, but Owen said on average a four-day dress rental can cost approximately $75 plus tax and shipping. The business does offer shipping to different parts of Canada but local residents may go straight to the location. The boutique runs by appointment only. Owen said residents are encouraged to book in advance, especially with upcoming holiday parties and galas, dresses will hopefully be flying off the hangers.
