A FAMILIAR VOICE carries across the boutique before the door even fully opens. Easy conversation, laughter, and the occasional clink of a hanger sliding along a rack fill the space. At Winey Chicks Boutique, shopping feels less like an errand and more like a visit with friends.
For owner Felecia Turner, that welcoming atmosphere was always the goal. When she moved to the area, she wanted a way to be part of the community and build something lasting. Retail had been part of her life before, but this was different. She wasn’t just starting a business — she was creating a space where people could gather, swap stories, and feel at home. Some come for a new outfit, others just to say “hello,” but nearly everyone stays a little longer than planned.
“I envisioned a boutique that was not only affordable but also a place where I could connect with people, foster community engagement, and, most importantly, create a welcoming space for gathering, fun, and socializing. Today, I see that vision come to life through our incredible customers,” Turner shared.
Her customers are never far from her mind. As she shops for new apparel, accessories, gift items, and other special merchandise for the shop, her eye is on the latest trends, but her customers’ tastes are her North Star.
“I can instantly recognize what certain customers will love and what may not be the right fit. While I showcase trendy pieces, I also blend them with what I call ‘timeless’ styles, ensuring a well-rounded selection. My focus is always on budget-friendly options because I cater to hardworking women who want to look and feel great without breaking the bank.”
It’s a personal touch that’s present whether shopping in-store or through interacting with the Winey Chicks app.
Turner said, “Our app allows us to stay connected with customers through weekly live sales, creating an engaging and interactive experience. In many ways, it’s like inviting them into our home each week. During these live sessions, we can chat directly with customers, answer questions, and even see friendships form among shoppers. [COVID-19] changed the way people shop, and we’ve embraced that shift while ensuring that personal interaction and outstanding service remain our top priorities.”
For Turner, Winey Chicks is a labor of love. She puts her heart into every detail, from selecting merchandise with specific customers in mind to fostering the kind of atmosphere that keeps people coming back. The work isn’t always easy, but the reward is in the connections she builds.
“The joy I feel when customers return, whether through our app or in-store, is what keeps me going,” she said. “I truly love my customers — they are the best — and I am incredibly proud of what Winey Chicks is today and what it will continue to become.”
That pride is woven into every part of the boutique, where shopping feels less like a transaction and more like a visit with friends — one that keeps people coming back time and time again. GN
Visit Winey Chicks Boutique at 1129 Thomas Jefferson Rd., Forest, on Facebook and online at wineychicksboutique.com.
