10 questions with children’s boutique Gathered Box
Casey Ashley is bringing affordable and fashionable children’s clothes to Baton Rouge. After earning a degree in fashion merchandising and having two kids of her own, Ashley discovered that finding fashion-forward pieces that didn’t break the bank was a rarity. Thus, Gathered Box was born. Keep scrolling to find out more about this local children’s clothing boutique.
1. What was your inspiration for opening Gathered Box?
I have always had a passion for fashion. I went to school for fashion merchandising and have always wanted to fulfill my dream of having a clothing store. I have two small kids, and finding stylish clothes for both girls and boys is hard, so I started Gathered Box to share my passion for stylish, reasonably priced children’s clothes with those who share the same love!
2. What is your professional background?
I graduated with a B.S. in fashion merchandising. I have been working in sales—from retail to medical sales—since I graduated, and have run Gathered Box online and at various pop-up events for a little over two years.
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3. What is the overall style/aesthetic of the brand?
I try to focus on stylish and timeless pieces that are reasonably priced. Think nicer “play clothes” that can be worn for multiple occasions, along with some of those timeless “dressier” pieces for more formal events.
4. What is one thing you think customers should know about Gathered Box that they might not be aware of?
We are a locally owned business located here in Baton Rouge.
5. Where can customers find Gathered Box?
Currently, we are online only, but be on the lookout for some very special news coming at the beginning of the year. Make sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to be the first to know!
6. What makes Gathered Box stand out from other children’s boutiques?
Most customers tell me that they love the personal touch they get with the shop. I am the face behind the business, and if you are local, I usually try to deliver in person so that I can meet my customers. I can also personalize anything from my store, whether it’s monogramming or any type of vinyl work on gifts. I have it covered!
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7. What is the story behind the name?
Funny you ask, I get that a lot. I started as a party planning business. I love hosting any type of event, and I love to put it all together. I had so many people reaching out and wanting me to plan their events for them, so that’s how that business began. When you throw a party, you spend so much time getting everything together for it, but once the event is over, what do you do with all of your décor? You throw it or tuck it in a cabinet and hope one day you can use it all again. So, my business started as a “gathering in a box.” You could tell me what your theme or inspiration was, I would get it all together for you (along with pictures of how to set everything up), you rent it all for your event, open your “box,” set it up, party, and then simply package it all back up and send it back! That opened the doors to starting my own business, and before I knew it I had made the switch to children’s apparel and I couldn’t be more thrilled!
8. What are your best-selling products?
Pajamas are always a great seller! They’re a perfect gift for all kids, and who doesn’t love clean-smelling kiddos in some cute PJs? But believe it or not, my boys’ clothes are my major sellers. Cute, non-character-themed boys’ clothes are so hard to find. I have moms that message me all of the time asking me to let them know as soon as I get a new boy shipment in, and it is usually swiped up very quickly!
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9. Where do you find inspiration?
I do a lot of research by talking with other moms. I am constantly asking other parents what they think the major needs and wants are. I don’t focus just on children’s clothes either. When it comes to gifts, the age range is endless. I want you to have a one-stop shop! When you go to my website, I want you to be able to get the kids dressed in some great pieces, but also be able to snag a few gifts for a few of your gals or guys!
10. What can we expect in the future for Gathered Box?
My lips are sealed! All I can tell you is that it is super exciting, and I cannot wait to spill the beans!
For more information, visit gatheredbox.com.
