Village Business Profile: Duchess

Duchess 77 Union Street, Newton Centre

Owner Rachel Sciaba of Brighton has owned and operated Duchess since 2009.   Duchess features women’s contemporary apparel.

What motivated you to get into business? I wanted to provide a cozy, friendly, and customer service driven environment where it’s fun and easy to shop.  I have an eye for “wearable fashion” and I wanted to bring that talent to people who don’t find shopping that easy. It sounds simple, but with all of these giant chains and department stores out there, it’s actually very difficult to find a store with personalized service and product.

Who inspires you? Anyone who paves their own way and loves doing what they do.

What is your biggest business challenge? Finding creative and effective ways to get new customers to discover Duchess

What do you know for sure? Life goes by fast so we better make sure we enjoy as many moments, days, weeks as possible

What do you do when your well is empty/you need to recharge your batteries? I spend extra time with my husband, family and friends. I try to get a little distance from work and explore a new area or activity.

What one piece of advice would you offer a new/prospective Newton business owner? Be patient, keep plugging away at what you believe in, and surround yourself with great people who will support you.

What do you want your customers to know about you? That I’m working very hard to provide them with what I believe to be the best products and fashions to suit their lifestyle and keep them looking fabulous.

Your favorite stops in Newton: I shop my neighbors on Union Street and in Newton Centre (from jewelry to sandwiches) – there are so many unique and customer service driven shops in Newton that I can’t pinpoint just one. You will have to come out to Union Street and discover them yourselves.