With a ‘passion for fashion’ 25-year-old opens IWARELOVE clothing boutique
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Ever since Sara Abouhegab, 25, can remember, she has had a “passion for fashion” and dreamed of owning a clothing boutique.
“I remember shopping for clothes in different stores since I was a little girl; it was my favorite thing to do as a child. I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to live out my dream just minutes away from where I have lived for most of my life,” she said.
Abouhegab opened IWARELOVE in her home community of Dongan Hills in February. She said she handpicks all her items in order to offer her loyal clientele a unique selection of trendy, chic apparel.
“I love selling ‘statement pieces,’ but I also know the importance of a great basic piece of clothing. … I try not to stock more than 10 of any one item,” said Abouhegab. “I like to sell items that will work with multiple outfits, giving buyers freedom to incorporate their own style with each piece.”
“I believe every piece in your closet you should love. [Everything should be] something that makes you feel confident and beautiful. That’s how I came up with the name IWARELOVE,” said Abouhegab. (Courtesy of IWARELOVE)
IT’S ALL IN THE NAME
Abouhegab recalled how she also came up with a name for the boutique that she feels is meaningful.
“I believe every piece in your closet you should love. [Everything should be] something that makes you feel confident and beautiful. That’s how I came up with the name IWARELOVE,” she explained.
“Having my own boutique was always a dream of mine. I remember shopping for clothes in different stores since I was a little girl; it was my favorite thing to do as a child,” recalled Abouhegab. (Photo courtesy of Alexandra Salmieri)
Her merchandise for women of all ages is sourced from different vendors located all over the country, but mainly in California.
“I make purchases online and through trade shows, then sort through the clothing, making sure each piece is top quality,” said Abouhegab.
The store has merchandise for women of all ages and is sourced from different vendors located all over the country. (Photo courtesy of Alexandra Salmieri)
“I want everyone to be able to come in and find something. I search for clothing that younger women would like, as well as shirts moms would like to wear. I try to be versatile when I’m deciding what I want,” she added.
A model showcases clothing from IWARELOVE. (Photo courtesy of Alexandra Salmieri)
INSPIRATION
While fashion was her first love, Abouhegab’s said her desire to own a business was fueled by watching her entrepreneurial father run Future Limo since 2008.
“Someone who has been a huge influence on me while living out my dream of being a business owner is my dad. He owns his own company, and I’ve seen how hard he had to work to get to where he is,” she said. “This motivated me to want to do more and be more.”
However, she said she knew that running her own business wouldn’t be an easy task. So she gained experience managing Foxy Lady, a retail store in the Staten Island Mall, New Springville, for six years while also attending the College of Staten Island. She has also worked locally for Le El New York
“I believe every piece in your closet you should love. [Everything should be] something that makes you feel confident and beautiful. That’s how I came up with the name IWARELOVE,” said Abouhegab. (Photo courtesy of
Alexandra Salmieri)
GETTING STARTED
Abouhegab first launched her business online and through Instagram to see if she could develop a clientele.
“Shortly after that, I felt the most courage I’ve had in a long time and opened my boutique. Something about the location just felt right,” she said of the Richmond Road store.
Abouhegab first launched her business online and through Instagram to see if she could develop a clientele. (Photo courtesy of Alexandra Salmieri)
A model shows off a dress from IWARELOVE. (Photo courtesy of Alexandra Salmieri)
“I want everyone to love what they wear, especially if they’re shopping in my boutique. I notice when I have a nice outfit on I feel so much more confident and like myself, which is why I love what I do. I love making people feel confident, even if it’s just through their outfit,” Abouhegab added.
Abouhegab said she handpicks all her items in order to offer her clientele a unique selection of trendy, chic apparel. (Photo courtesy of Alexandra Salmieri)
IWARELOVE AT A GLANCE
Address: 3173 Richmond Rd.
Website: iwarelove.com
Facebook: iwarelove_boutique
New Businesses in Focus is a weekly column that relates the stories of new Staten Island businesses owners.
If you have a new business on Staten Island, e-mail [email protected].
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