Helena's Boutique opens doors in Benton Harbor

Kathy Jennings | Thursday, September 12, 2013

Class started at 9 a.m. but Helen Adams was sitting in her seat at 8:30 a.m. That's how excited she was about learning how to run her own business. "I loved this class that much," she says.

Learning of the POWER program (Promoting Opportunities for Women Entrepreneurs) from her sister-in-law, Margaret Adams, a Cornerstone Alliance Women's Business Center program manager, was the deciding moment for Helen Adams and her dream to have her own store.

She has spent most of her life helping her family and others as a housewife and pastor's wife, married to Rev. Albert Adams. "When you're in ministry you learn how to deal with people and I can apply that skill to this business," Helen Adams says.

She has been interested in fashion throughout her life and has previously worked in a boutique, among other jobs.

When asked about her decision to go into business for herself, the excitement rises in Adam's voice as she tells of the 11-week course that taught business finance, marketing, ways to talk to customers and others in business among a variety of topics.

"I gave up three big trips -- to Haiti, Florida and New York -- so I would not miss any of the classes," Adams says.

Graduates are eligible for financing to help get their business started.

Helena’s Boutique, 155 W. Main, in Benton Harbor next door to Whirlpool and across the street from the old State Theater is now open for business. The consignment store, which also accepts donations, has new and gently used clothing. It also offers plus sizes.

The motto of Helena's Boutique is "dress to impress" and she has the fashions to help her customers do that.

Some designer names Adams offers include Coach, Louis Vouitton, J. Renee, Tommy Hilfiger, Guess, Linea, and Kate Spade.

The shop has clothing for women, men and children, plus accessories including jewelry, purses, scarves, hats, and shoes.

Writer: Kathy Jennings, Second Wave Media
Source: Helen Adams, Helena's Boutique