Not Just Surviving but Thriving – Tapestry Boutique in Clinton Celebrates 34 years
August 18, 2020
Laurens County residents have come to know the ladies at Tapestry over the past 34 years. almost like family.
Photo: Megan Kauble Knight, Leslie Anne Cooper Jackson
It was actually a family idea back in 1984 that launched the store. At the time, Leslie Anne Cooper (now Leslie Anne Cooper Jackson) was selling copiers for a company based out of Columbia and not enjoying her work. In a discussion with her father (Lynn Cooper of Cooper Motor Company) one night, he said, “You know what this town needs is a clothing store.” He owned the vacant building that would become the location of the store one year later.
Looking back, Jackson says, “I have always felt that this area needed a fine clothing store and 34 years later we’re not just surviving, we are thriving. So, I guess I was right.”
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about two-thirds of businesses with employees survive at least 2 years and about half survive at least 5 years. Tapestry has far exceeded these early “at risk years” but not without challenges.
In the early years the mindset of locals was to shop in the bigger cities or large department stores, then there was the onset of catalog ordering and then of course the internet and online shopping.
Jackson and her staff have worked hard over the years to maintain the uniqueness of the lines they sell and the service they provide. Their efforts have paid off as they have grown a loyal customer base and continue to provide a unique shopping experience that can’t be matched by online shopping or big box retail stores.
The most recent adaptions include an increase use of social media and special events. Store manager, Megan Cauble Knight, who been working at the store since 2010 says the increase use of social media has helped to connect with customers and promote events. During the pandemic Knight created Facebook Live events to showcase feature items in the store. And the ideas keep coming, Tapestry Tuesdays are kicking off this month.
The store is known by its customers for great clothing lines, super sales and some really fun special events including the annual 12 Days of Christmas Sale with promotions and fun events during the holiday shopping season, trunk shows, seasonal sales and the very popular $19 room filled with great buys. This year they added the 6 Days of July Sale and based on its success you will probably be seeing it again next year.
Running a small retail business comes with challenges but Jackson is always up for a challenge.
As she likes to say, “underestimate me and that will be fun.”
Her vision for the store, determination and innovation over the years has enabled Tapestry to defy the odds and thrive for 34 years and counting. Laurens County is the better for it – better dressed for sure!
Tapestry
Tapestry is a boutique clothing store for women located in Clinton, SC. Opened in 1986, Tapestry is known for their unique clothing lines, accessories (including jewelry, shoes and bags) and personalized customer service. The store is located at 316 East Carolina Avenue and is open Monday – Friday 10-6 and Saturdays 10-3. For more information go to www.shoptapestryinc.com.
