Katie Reilly’s Brooklyn Boulevard, a women’s clothing boutique, is set to open this spring on Rehoboth Avenue in Rehoboth Beach.
Reilly grew up in Sea Girt, New Jersey, went to West Chester University and spent the last three years in Nashville, where she got her start in business.
“I had a mobile boutique. I did pop-ups all around the city and had a lot of success doing that,” the 26-year-old said. “I’ve been working in retail my whole life and it’s always been something I’m really passionate about.”
Reilly’s degree is in social media marketing, which has proven to be a vital part of her business plan. She has over 39,000 followers on Instagram and over 8,000 on the truth.
“I think storytelling is one of the most important things you can do to build your brand,” she said. “I don’t have the funds to go out and buy a billboard … but what can do is go on TikTok and promote my business in a fun way.”
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Reilly has always wanted her own storefront, so when her boyfriend’s job brought them to Rehoboth Beach, she purchased the blue 149 Rehoboth Ave. building, which was last home to The Pelican Loft.
Brooklyn Boulevard will offer “timeless” women’s clothing, with “pieces that are designed to last in your wardrobe forever,” Reilly said. Clothing prices will typically range from $80 to $150.
“It’s a mid-luxury storefront, where you can get that luxury experience but not have to pay hundreds of dollars for designer pieces,” she said.
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Reilly will stock jewelry and gift items, as well.
She hopes to open by Mother’s Day, depending on permitting. In the meantime, she’s updating the interior of the store and plans to paint the exterior, too. She’s still deciding whether she’ll stay open year-round.
Shannon Marvel McNaught reports on southern Delaware and beyond. Reach her at [email protected] or on Twitter @MarvelMcNaught.