03 Jun More Than Just a Store: My Journey to Connection
Opening a boutique in the village of Pawling has brought some of the most rewarding moments of my life, though it didn’t begin as I’d imagined. What felt like a bold but exciting decision in November 2019 quickly turned into an unexpected challenge when, just ten days after opening my doors, the world shut down.
My journey in fashion began after graduating from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. From that point on, I never looked back, aside from the meaningful years I devoted to raising my five children. While I built my career working for corporate companies, the dream of owning my own boutique was always there, quietly waiting. The lingering question was whether I should take such a significant risk in a small rural town.
Over the past five years, that risk has required constant reinvention. Through every pivot, I discovered that my passion extends far beyond fashion; it lies in philanthropy, community connection, and supporting others, including local artisans. My earlier experiences as a Girl Scout leader and CCD teacher shaped my desire to give back, but I never imagined how deeply those values would become intertwined with my business.
Soon after opening, I joined the Pawling Chamber of Commerce and was honored to serve as an Executive Board Member. This role has allowed me to help organize and promote community events while supporting local businesses through challenging economic times. I’ve sponsored Marist interns, welcomed visits from local middle school students, organized donation drives for the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie, contributed to local elections, written fashion articles for Pawling Living magazine, and partnered with the BOCES CTI program as a career mentor. I served as a judge at their fashion show, and I look forward to hosting a student intern in my shop this summer.
My involvement with the Chamber has grown from board participation to active leadership in events such as the Bunny Trail, Mother’s Day Stroll, Yard Sale, Trick-or-Treat Trail, and Champagne Stroll. I’ve also helped organize visits from the Maine Lobster Truck and facilitate the Pawling Community Foundation grant over the past two years.
One of the most meaningful pivots in my business has been creating space in my boutique for talented Hudson Valley artisans. With the decline of craft fairs, many makers lost vital opportunities to sell their work. By showcasing their products, we not only support local creativity but also offer our customers something truly unique, collections that cannot be found online or mass-produced. Pawling’s own Nikita Fine Art is one of our newer additions.
Everything in the shop is thoughtfully curated for the community we serve. When you walk through the door, you’re entering more than a retail space; you’re stepping into a welcoming hub. It’s a place where people feel seen, supported, and inspired. Recently, we’ve expanded our offerings to include Wardrobe Color Analysis, elevating the shopping experience by helping clients understand their best colors, fits, and styles. From measurements to personal style, we guide each individual toward a wardrobe that truly works for them.
What began as a dream has evolved into something far greater than I ever anticipated, a space rooted in connection, creativity, and community.
Join us as we continue this journey.
–by Nicol Furlong
NicólJoë NY Boutique
23 E Main Street
Pawling, NY
845-855-5707
www.nicoljoeny.com
IG: @nicoljoe_ny
FB: @nicoljoeny
SUMMER HOURS:
(June 21-September 21)
Sun.-Mon. CLOSED
Tues.-Sat. 10:30-6:00