Meet Angeline Pratt | Owner/Founder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Angeline Pratt and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Angeline, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own lifestyle and beauty boutique was a journey that blended my passion for aesthetics with my desire for flexibility as a mom. With three little boys, I wanted to create something that allowed me to balance family life while pursuing my love for beauty and style.

I noticed there was a gap in the market for a space that catered to busy women looking for quality products that made them feel good without being overwhelming. I wanted my boutique to be a haven—a place where women could find items that fit their lifestyle, whether it’s a quick pick-me-up or a special treat.

I also saw it as a way to inspire my boys about entrepreneurship. I want them to understand the value of hard work, creativity, and following your passion. Plus, having my own business means I can involve them in little ways.

Ultimately, it was about creating a space that reflects my values—style, quality, and community—all while being there for my family. It’s been a balancing act, but every challenge has been worth it!

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Starting my boutique in 2020 was a whirlwind experience. I opened my doors just before the COVID-19 lockdown hit, which turned everything upside down. At first, it felt like a dream come true, but then I faced challenges I never expected, like almost getting sued for trademark infringement. Navigating that legal scare was intense, but it taught me the importance of doing thorough research and surrounding myself with a solid support network.

What sets my boutique apart is the sense of community I strive to create. I cater to busy women like myself, offering products that are both stylish and practical. I want my store to be a place where people feel seen and heard—a welcoming space to connect and share. I’m especially proud of how I’ve pivoted during tough times. When the pandemic forced me to close my physical store, I quickly adapted by enhancing my online presence and hosting virtual events. This flexibility has been key to my survival and growth.

I’ve had to close stores and open new ones, learning valuable lessons about resilience and adaptability along the way. Each setback pushed me to think creatively and stay focused on my vision. I’ve learned to embrace change and view challenges as opportunities for growth.

I want the world to know that my brand is built on authenticity and the belief that it’s okay to be imperfect. As a mother of three little boys, I juggle a lot, and I share that journey with my customers. I’m excited about fostering a community where we can all support each other, celebrate our wins, and navigate motherhood together. My story is one of perseverance, and I hope it inspires others to follow their dreams, no matter how daunting the path may seem.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Ann Arbor, we’d begin the day with breakfast at Zingerman’s, enjoying fresh bagels and coffee to fuel our day. After that, we’d stroll through Kerrytown, exploring the unique shops and the bustling Ann Arbor Farmers Market. For dinner, we’d cozy up at The Dixboro Project.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Growing up with such a strong support system had a huge impact on my decision to start my lifestyle boutique. My grandpa was a real inspiration; he was always trying new things and encouraging me to embrace creativity and adventure. His fearless spirit taught me that it’s okay to take risks and explore my passions.

My mom worked incredibly hard, instilling in me the values of dedication and resilience. She always made time to support my dreams, whether it was helping me brainstorm ideas or cheering me on through challenges. Her work ethic has been a guiding force in my own journey as a business owner.

And then there’s my grandma, who exemplified kindness and nurturing. She taught me the importance of community and connection, which I’ve woven into the fabric of my boutique. I want my store to feel welcoming, just like her home always did.

In more recent years, my amazing husband has been my number one fan and unwavering source of support. His encouragement has been instrumental in my journey. He’s always there to lift me up, celebrate my successes, and help me navigate challenges.

Together, these influences shaped my vision of creating a space where people feel inspired and supported. I want my boutique to be more than just a shop; I want it to be a community hub where everyone feels encouraged to express themselves and try new things. It’s a reflection of the love and support I received growing up, and I hope to pass that on to my customers.

Website: https://www.bohmeybeauty.com

Instagram: @bohmey.beauty

Linkedin: Angeline Pratt