In 2010, sisters Cristie Merritt and Laura (Merritt) Walker made their dreams a reality and started ShopbellaC, a clothing boutique in Searcy.
While Laura Walker had just graduated with her marketing degree, Merritt was finishing up her degree in fashion merchandising at Harding, according to their website. Putting their degrees, work experience and love for fashion together, they set out to create a one of a kind shopping experience.
“The decision to launch the store in Searcy actually had a lot to do with Laura and her husband David,” Merritt said. “Right before we launched the online division of our company, David was given the incredible opportunity to become the assistant basketball coach for the Harding Lady Bisons. We realized that there was a need for more boutique shopping in Searcy so we took the leap of faith and opened our ShopbellaC storefront.”
Junior Madeline Walker, a former ShopbellaC employee, said she enjoyed her time and experience working at the boutique.
“It was really nice working in such a Christian environment,” Madeline Walker said. “I loved working with Laura and Cristie; they are both very sweet and genuine people. We had fun employee pizza parties.”
To stay connected with their alma mater, this past fall, Laura Walker and Merritt partnered with the Campus Activities Board to launch a ShopbellaC Homecoming tailgate.
“We … gave out tank tops, koozies and different discount cards to people,” Merritt said. “We are always looking for things we can do to connect with Harding and the girls on campus.”
Harding alumna, Madison Stephens, said she enjoyed her experiences with ShopbellaC.
“It’s refreshing to have a boutique here in town with affordable prices,” Stephens said. “I think Cristie and Laura’s kindness and ability to make everyone feel welcome in their store is something that plays a vital role in their success.”
Merritt said she has high hopes for the future of their company.
“Whether it’s in expansion to other cities or focusing our efforts towards expanding our nationwide online with more brands and larger customer base, our first priority is to make sure to glorify God in any and all new endeavors ShopbellaC takes on,” Merritt said.
ShopbellaC is located on the Beebe Capps Expressway and their merchandise can be purchased online. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram (@ShopBellaC), Twitter and Pinterest.
