Today we’d like to introduce you to Shawna Duckworth.
Hi Shawna, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
WORTH & GRAY opened in January 2023, but my journey in the retail world began when I was filing product catalogs for a promotional company nearly 30 years ago. I knew early on that helping and connecting with PEOPLE was my absolute passion … it fills me. What better way to do that than a boutique clothing store? I get to help people and make them feel good about what they are wearing. It’s my girl time in the best way.
Since day one, my goal was to build community … who knew it would be through cute dresses and fabulous tops. Whether it’s pouring a glass of wine and talking about your day while you shop or connecting through the WORTH & GRAY Facebook and VIP group, I want you to feel special.
It’s the best of my daughter (Harper Gray) & I. At the end of the day this business supports us, but it also shows her that you can do whatever you want. I want her to believe she can start a business based on her passion; create those sweet little moments (like watching her rearrange the jewelry counter 25 times); and even maybe shake things up a little in the process.
WHERE TO BUY:
- Online 24/7
- LIVE Saturdays
10am
- IN PERSON: Fridays 11-6pm & Saturdays by appointment
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
First, let me say I have grown both personally and professionally in a short time. I have been pushed outside of my comfort zone and stretched in new ways. The road has been fairly smooth but not straight. I’ve had to learn to stay flexible and open to receive feedback. When I thought I was supposed to turn left, I had to take a leap of faith and turn right. It has evolved naturally into what it is, and that is beautiful. My biggest lesson or advice is “Don’t be scared.” You have to take risks in this business – calculated risks – but risks, nonetheless. And, of course, have a little fun doing it!
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
It’s funny because WORTH & GRAY started with the necessity to create a solution for a client in my promotional business. Their female account managers were desperate to find corporate apparel outside of the normal go-to logoed polo shirts. The promotional industry, while we have come so very far, just did not have what they were looking for. I entered the boutique arena and ordered seven pieces of royal blue apparel for their team to choose from, and the rest is history. That quickly morphed into a little room in my house filled with women’s clothing and gifts and now I’m welcoming people into my home each week for a very unique shopping experience. I think we have something special here. You can just feel it when you walk in. I feel so truly blessed and believe this is exactly where I am supposed to be.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you, and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
I started WORTH & GRAY after COVID, but I opened my promotional products company in 2016. It was a struggle. I know of other businesses that struggled. It was tough. My daughter, who was three at the time, got an office next to mine that year and we just did what we had to. We just have to keep supporting each other. W&G’s commitment to this effort is inviting a woman-owned business to pop up with us each week. Plus, it’s fun and just adds to the good vibes. Business is going to have its ups and downs, but I believe it is imperative to have a community of local businesses that strive to help each other, promote each other, and just plain love on each other.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shopworthandgray.com
- Instagram: @shopworthandgray
- Facebook: @worthandgray
Image Credits
Amy Young
Payton Ruble
