Introducing 2HipChics

Special to Emmaus Patch By Chrissy Cilento, Emmaus High School Senior

2HipChics
244 Main Street
610-928-2002
“Like” 2HipChics on Facebook 
Owner: Shelly Brown 
Hours: Closed Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Hours will be extended for holidays

What you sell?
We sell handbags, scarves, clothing, gift items, candles, lotions, home furnishings -- really there’s a mix. Also, my best friend Lisa is a photographer so her work is showcased here, and some of her photos are available for sale here. 

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Why did you choose to locate your business in Emmaus?
Because I love it here! It’s a quaint little town and it’s close to my home in Macungie. I’ve been a patron to Emmaus for years, coming to the Creamery and Baked, so this is where I wanted to be. Driving past this store one day I saw that this shop was closing, so I thought, “Maybe this is where I’m supposed to be,” and there weren’t any other locations open, so I guess you could say it was like fate [that I ended up in Emmaus]!

How long have you been in business?
Three weeks, we’re starting our fourth right now.

What inspired you to start your business? 
Well, I have a full-time job as a director with Silpada designs, but I always wanted to own my own boutique. It’s been a dream of mine for about five years.

What makes your business different from the competition?
An array of products and good price points. Also, I think the character of the house is kind of neat. It’s not just a storefront -- it’s got creaky floors and shopping here is more of an experience than just going to the mall.

What is the most rewarding part of your business?
Being my own boss, living my dream job and helping women all over the Valley treat themselves or buy a gift. 

What’s the hardest part of your business?
Juggling being a mother of two active teenagers and a full-time career -- finding the balance.

Where do you hope to see your business in the future?
Well-known, well-shopped. I’d like it to be a place that people send their friends or come back frequently. In five years I hope I have a huge clientele and lots of friends in town and women that visit me often. My real goal for the store is to bring the city to the suburbs. I’m a wholesaler in New York and people always say “where did you get that top?” or “where did you get those shoes?” -- so I’m kind of hoping that I can bring those things to them.

What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received? 
If your regret of not trying it is bigger than your fear [of trying], you should try it. 

What business advice would you give to someone else?
Do something that you’re passionate about and enjoy going to work every day and the rest will fall into place. 

What do you do when you aren't working? 
Exercise, read books, shop and spend time with family.

Chrissy Cilento, a senior at Emmaus High School, plans to study journalism in college. She is a periodic contributor to Patch.