Jessica Van Artsdalen is an EveryHome agent serving Greater Philadelphia. Below, she shares her favorite local boutique as part of EveryHome’s Buy Local campaign:
“I love Wayne, PA for it’s character, charm, & walkability. I worked in Wayne for many years and enjoy returning to visit some of the small shops and restaurants. I just recently stopped in to see my dear friend, Paige Sullivan, owner of Christine Shirley located at 104 E. Lancaster Avenue in the heart of Wayne to see what she loves about running her business here.
Upon walking in the door of this cheerful shop, you are instantly met with a warm welcoming energy and this is just what Paige had intended for this space. She wants everyone to feel special and incorporate faith and hospitality into a retail and educational environment. Christine Shirley didn’t originally start out as a retail shop in September of 2015 when Paige and Dina Previti began this adventure. Dina shares the space with Paige and has a counseling office here. Both Paige & Dina love to care for people, and they are able to combine their talents in one intimate space. The original concept was a sewing and design studio developed with a culture to create, mentor and build confidence for youth (and adults, too!) in the community. Paige told me that creating for some people is their therapy. Sewing and craft workshops, classes, & camps built the foundation and it has been growing ever since.
This past July was the Grand Re-Opening and expansion into the space next door. When I asked Paige why she chose Wayne, PA for her business, she said that she understood that this community would be interested in sewing, it is an area that supports the arts & education and there is a very generous nature about this community. She always envisioned this exact space to start her dream, and one day it became available and she jumped on the opportunity… and the rest is history! Another goal that she strives for is to always make her employees feel appreciated and valued. Without hesitation, Paige expressed that the favorite thing about being a business owner is FREEDOM in every way! Having power over her life to make her own decisions and that every day is new & exciting. There is so much texture, color and whimsy to explore in this adorable store and adjoining studio. Handmade pieces made in-house and from local artisans adorn every nook of this sanctuary. Paige said “I want people to return and feel comfortable here, so I carry comfortable and affordable clothing and accessories, 95% of the items in the store are less than $60.00. I want to be able to shop in my own store and for it to be approachable to everyone.”
When Paige isn’t at the store or teaching a class she is out and about selling her treasures at local and out-of-state shows such as the Clover Market & Artscape.
As a Realtor, word of mouth and referrals are so important for my business and I know how important it is to shop local and support small businesses. Next time you are in Wayne, stop by Christine Shirley to meet my amazing friend and business owner, buy yourself something pretty, sign up for a class, pick up a hostess gift, or plan a birthday party or girls night out!”