Local boutique gives back in memory of owner

Catering to the many needs of women, a new boutique in Vermillion is keeping its consumers in mind while also trying to give back to the community.

In business since July this year, Lori Lee’s is working to transform the shopping scene in Vermillion. Located on Cherry Street, store owner Nick Long has created a shop that caters to all beauty essentials in one, quick stop.

The store’s inspiration is in memory of fashionista and business partner Lori Lee Layhee, Long said. With Layhee’s passing in January from cancer, he said her bright personality and passion is still evident throughout the store. With five percent of all proceeds going to charities, Lori Lee’s is giving back, something Long said Layhee was passionate about.

“Lori gave to a lot of charities, so I wanted to do the same,” Long said.

Donating to organizations for cancer research, Long said Layhee’s legacy lives on.

With a nail salon located within the boutique, Long said Lori Lee’s has something to set them apart from other local shops. This extension to the store is something Long hopes will bring relaxation and elegance to those enjoying it.

“We have items you wouldn’t find in other stores,” Long said. “The boutique is all about being unique.”

With new shipments arriving every two days, Lori Lee’s is always offering something new, he said.

Whether that be finding the right accessory for an event or putting together a whole outfit, Long said he aspires to “make every visit personable and comfortable.”

The company is working to appeal to University of South Dakota students as they offered a September discount opportunity to sororities. Long said he is looking to do something similar in the future to promote the store.

Long said Lori Lee’s hosts many events that offer discounts throughout the store. On Oct. 9, Lori Lee’s held a parking lot party, delivering discounts and opportunities for shoppers to have fun with “rockin’ music and prices.”

First-year Sophia Gebauer attended the sale where she bought more than she had originally planned.

Upon entering the boutique, Gebauer was approached by an associate who helped her pick out the perfect pair of leggings.

“They even gave me pizza. I cant wait to go back,” Gebauer said. “Overall, it’s a really cute place to shop, and the workers are super helpful.”

The multi-purpose store is something surprising and exciting to Nikki Stammer, secretary of University Housing.

“It’s a really cool idea,” Stammer said. “Would I go in to take a peek? Yes, solely based on the concept.”

(Photo: Amber Harkness, a sales associate at Lori Lee’s, attends to the shopping needs of first-year University of South Dakota students Callie Jarman, left, and Sophia Gebauer, middle, Oct. 9 at the boutique’s parking lot party. Malachi Petersen / The Volante)