The day was beautiful. Unlike most winters in the Midwest at the beginning of January this day was full of sunshine and the breeze that hit me when I got out of my car in front of the Shana Marie Boutique was refreshing and pleasant.
Nestled on a small side street in downtown Lafayette, Indiana Shana's boutique is not like other's in the area. Passers by wore short jackets and smiles as they looked at the different designs in the small store front window where unique clothing and handmade jewelry are sold. With her artistic background owner, Shana Scoggins, hand picks each article of clothing she displays in her boutique and also uses the boutique as and headquarters for BMe fashions (a line of clothing started by Shana's two adoptive son's ages 8 and 9). "I believe in wearing a modest apparel...since that's my personal conviction I try not to bring anything in the store that I wouldn't feel comfortable wearing" Shana explains as she proudly looks around the boutique at the different displays.
Seated behind her counter with the spiritual sounds of gospel music lightly playing in the background Shana gave me a warm welcome as soon as I walked in. I was very nervous and if Shana was feeling the same way she definitely didn't show it. There was something there behind her smile that eased my nerves and seemed to connect us in a spiritual way almost immediately.
After some brief chit chatting we eased right into the interview. The dialogue that followed can only be described as blessed and inspiring.
Born a Pastor's daughter and growing up in South Central, LA Shana's mom saw her artistic abilities and at the age of 13 and put Shana in charge of the praise ministry behind her dad. Year's later Shana is still using that artistic gift, that she says is "God given," to motivate and inspire others. "I believe people have helped me out and I'm a firm believer in helping others. The knowledge I have I want to give it away. Why would I keep that to myself? That's being stingy" (smile).
More than just a boutique owner Shana is also a well known photographer in the area who got her start at the age of 12 "I believe God gave me a gift in the artistic ability with all kinds of things and I just had a passion for it (photography)." It wasn't long before family and friends encouraged Shana to turn her hobby into a career and Shana answered the calling on her life when she began Shana Marie Photography which she also incorporates into the services offered in her boutique and at outside events.
When asked about her faith and the role it plays in what she does and who she is Shana throws her head to the side, closes her eyes, and invites you into her praise with her smile. In a low but excited tone Shana explains "it's everything...I knew what He was telling me to do but I want to display him through what He's given me." With different jewelry pieces and accessories, that can only be described as one of a kind, Shana says that they are "must haves" for both men and women.
You can visit Shana at the Shana Marie Boutique Tuesday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. and for those of you who can't visit her, at 322 Ferry Street in Lafayette, Indiana, Shana will come to you via her online shopping option.
Wrapped up in God's spirit and grace Shana delivers elegant and striking jewelry and will take you on a journey with her subtleties and artistic eye through her photography. Shana Scoggins...Lafayette local and entrepreneur on the rise.
