By Sonja J. Keith
Women in the market for a special frock are in store for the royal treatment at Downtown Conway’s newest boutique – the Royal We. The business, which opened its doors Sept. 15, is the collaboration of owner Shelley Kelley of Jonesboro and designer Laine Berry of Conway. Owner of Clark’s Formal and Bridal, Shelley was looking for a Central Arkansas location for another store.
The full service boutique – located on Locust Avenue – is only about 700 square feet but Laine and Shelley have maximized the space with a great selection of dresses for a variety of occasions – from beauty pageants and homecoming to cruises, weddings and galas.
“We have special occasion clothing, including everything high school and college-age girls need for prom and formal,” Laine said.
The name of the boutique is taken from the approach that monarchs take when speaking of themselves as if they are actually speaking for an entire kingdom or country. The name also identifies some of its clientele – beauty pageant royalty.
“We thought that play on words would be fun,” Laine said.
Laine’s husband, Kevin, actually came up with the name for an online business the couple owned. They have since sold it to Shelley. “She thought the name was cute and kept it.”
The boutique represents a dream come true for Laine, who had hopes of designing formal attire for many years. A communications major at the University of Central Arkansas, Laine’s interest was sparked after spending “more hours than I can count” working on costumes for theatre productions on campus.
“I loved it…I dreamt of doing it on a professional level and God opened doors and presented this opportunity. I feel very blessed.”
Laine’s dream has already had tremendous success, with two dresses worn by contestants who were in the Top 5 in this year’s Miss Arkansas Pageant. “Miss Arkansas Outstanding Teen was also wearing one of our custom, one-of-a-kind pieces.”
Clients looking for pageant gowns have the benefit of Laine’s experience and expertise when selecting just the right piece.
In addition to pageant dresses, Laine also hopes to do custom bridal gowns for clients, and encourages brides with a picture or something in particular in mind to contact the store.
“We already have one-of-a-kind dresses from the couture line from our manufacturers.”
Clients wanting custom pieces are encouraged to call the boutique at 327-1555 to schedule an appointment. Information about the shop will also be available at www.royalweonline.com.
With the royal theme carried throughout the boutique’s décor, one wall may sum it up best for clients – “Yes, you are the fairest of them all” at the Royal We.