Sisters turn dream into Morinville boutique

By Shelley Winger
For sisters Sarah Guenette and Melissa Depape, opening Louie & Lola Boutique wasn’t
simply about starting a business. It was about bringing a long-held dream to life in the
community they call home.
The boutique began as Sarah’s vision, starting with local markets where she sold graphic
tees, sweaters and accessories. While the markets were successful, owning a storefront in
her hometown was always the ultimate goal.
“When the opportunity came up unexpectedly, it just felt like the right place at the right
time,” said Sarah. “We took over the previous shop, renovated it and reopened it as Louie
& Lola. It’s been our passion project ever since.”
Even the boutique’s name has a personal story behind it. Louie and Lola are Sarah’s
bonded pair of cats. While brainstorming ideas for the business, Melissa suggested
naming the boutique after them, and the name immediately felt like the perfect fit.
The sisters officially opened Louie & Lola Boutique on Sept. 20, 2024. Since then, the
shop has become known for offering customers something a little different. Rather than
stocking large quantities of the same items, they intentionally order only one or two of
each style.
“We always say we’re kind of like Costco,” they laughed. “If you see it and love it, grab it
because it might not be there the next time you come in.”
The boutique also focuses on carrying inclusive sizing whenever possible, offering sizes
from small to XXL when available from suppliers. The sisters say customers are often
pleasantly surprised by the boutique’s affordable, mid-range pricing.
“People sometimes think ’boutique’ means expensive,” they said. “We want to offer
stylish clothing at prices that make people feel comfortable shopping here.”
Being located in Morinville has been one of the most rewarding parts of owning the
business. Both sisters grew up in the area and enjoy seeing familiar faces while also
welcoming new customers through the doors.
“The community has been incredibly supportive,” they said. “The other local businesses
have welcomed us with open arms, and collaborating with them has been one of our
favourite parts of this journey.”

Earlier this year, Louie & Lola celebrated its first anniversary, a milestone the sisters
describe as one of their proudest accomplishments. The celebration included a birthday
bash and photo shoot, with members of the community joining in the celebration.
Like many entrepreneurs, Sarah and Melissa say owning a storefront has come with a
steep learning curve, but they remain excited about the future. Their next goal is
expanding the boutique’s online presence so customers can continue shopping beyond
regular store hours, while also growing their popular Hat Lab experience through new
events and offerings.
As Louie & Lola Boutique continues to grow, the sisters remain grateful for the support
they’ve received from the Morinville community. Their focus remains the same as when
they first opened their doors: helping women feel confident while creating a welcoming
shopping experience with a small-town feel and a little bit of sass.