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

Hi Michelle, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
You know, I thought I was busy two years ago with my husband, three kids and a full time career but boy, was I wrong! Running a small business on top of that has truly taught me that I can do anything! It’s a ton of work, a ton of juggling and a ton of reaching out for help when I really need it! As a mom, I want my kids to see what hard work is! I want to look back and think, “my mom crushed it and was still there every time we needed her!”. I believe in my business and I want to be successful but my family is my number one priority! I’m lucky to have some awesome women who work one or two days a week at the boutique when I must be home with my family. They are truly my life savers and allow me to be the best Wife, Mom & Boss Babe!

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?
I’m Michelle! The lady who said “why the hell not!” and bought Bella Grace Boutique in February 2023. I wanted to do something bigger with my life, something to be proud to tell people about so I added “Business Owner” to my long list of titles – wife, mom of three & terrible dancer!

Bella Grace Boutique is a Small business boutique in the heart of downtown Lowell, Michigan! We sell unique women’s clothing and accessories with our tag line being “Fashion for the big-city, trendsetter gal living in a small town”! I believe every woman is Fabulous and should feel fabulous! In our store, you will find a mix of bright colors, comfies for on-the-go ladies and sparkles! We also LOVE supporting other women-owned small businesses so you will see us hosting all types of events at our store, from crafting to cookie decorating, even a yoga class!

I jumped into this business with an open mind and open arms! With little to no retail or business experience (I’m a health major and have a full time career in the health industry) its been a challenge I’ve had to take head on! Sink or swim, baby! I learn something new every day and ask a ton of questions! Our local Chamber of Commerce has been a lifesaver. They are a bundle of information and regularly hold lunch & learns to keep us all up-to-date on any city changes or state laws that may affect Small Businesses.

One of the most important things to me as a business owner in a small town, is supporting our growing community. Lowell, Michigan is a small but mighty town! On our Main Downtown strip you can find clothing boutiques, antique shops, gourmet restaurants, fishing shops & consignment shops! Did I mention Lowell is right on the Flat River, which is the home to the Famous Lowell Showboat? You can find us all kayaking, enjoying outdoor concerts and once a year we all come together to support Pink Arrow Pride, a nonprofit that raises money to support people with Cancer in our community. The whole town turns PINK and Bella Grace Boutique is so proud to be a part of this community!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Lowell, Michigan! Located east of Grand Rapids off of I-96, Exit 52! Bella Grace Boutique created custom Exit 52 merch so everyone can rep Lowell wherever they go!
Lowell has so many things to do throughout the year, we would need multiple trips! Summer is the best time and we would catch a Summer Concert on the Flat River! Free to everyone and located in our “social district” aka grab a drink and dance!
Fall is also a fun time! Head to Heidi’s Farm stand to grab a warm, fresh donut and apple cider! Then tour the corn maze and grab a pumpkin!
End of the year, we would hit up Christmas Through Lowell! A huge weekend event where we bring in hundreds of crafters, makers & small businesses for a 3-day shopping extravaganza!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband. He works his butt off to make sure we are taken care of and giving me the courage to take the leap to Business Owner. Also, for being my sounding board to make sure I don’t do anything cringe on social media! 😉

My mom. For supporting the store in every way possible! From buying all the clothes when she definitely does NOT need any more clothes to commenting on every single social media post. Even just hanging with me at the store! She’s my bestie!

The “Mom’s Night” Crew. Thank you for always showing up!

Website: https://www.bellagracelowell.com

Instagram: bellagraceboutiquestore

Facebook: Bella Grace Boutique

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