Celebrating four years in March

Gwen Reiss opened Ellendale’s Two Doves Clothing Boutique in March of 2020, right before the Covid pandemic closed society down. She had owned a business for years in Albert Lea called Turtle Doves Teahouse and Gardens.

 

Her building is among the historic structures along Ellendale’s main street, which adds to its artistic personality. Although she had just opened and had to follow the guidelines for COVID, she took advantage of the extra time to fine-tune the store’s atmosphere. Ed, her husband and a local plumber, helped her tear out old carpets, expose the original ceiling beams, and repaint the walls. She took the time to add 14-karat details on the ceiling.

 

Despite the pandemic and the inflation that accompanied it, Reiss says she and her business have continued to flourish. Some of the clothing brands she carries are Joseph Ribkoff, Charlie B, Compli-K, FDJ-Jacobs, LuLu.

 

The entrance to Two Doves Boutique focuses around affirmations for women. Gwen always greets customers, so they know she is free to help them with any questions they have about her merchandise.

 

“Women need to be empowered,” Gwen said, adding that no woman should ever doubt herself.

 

At the same time, Gwen made it clear she believes in being kind, showing respect, and taking other people’s feelings into consideration. Gwen said she believes the ideas of self-empowerment and kindness toward others are complementary, since, when an individual treats herself right, she will treat others right, too.

 

She says she worked to help her daughter, Natalie, and son, Brandon, build self-esteem and kindness into their philosophies.

 

A big part of her business is helping women feel empowered, not just in the clothes they wear, but in how she talks to them and treats them when they visit her store.

 

Two Doves is a place where customers can stop in for a quick gift. The store offers candles, jewelry, hats, gloves, wall art and home decorations. She will definitely help customers with their choices and styles and gift purchases.

 

“Their wants and needs are important to me,” Gwen said. “I love making them feel good.”

 

During the spring and fall, Gwen also hosts fashion shows in Two Doves Courtyard next to her business. Local women model their style in three different outfits from Two Doves. She offers wine and appetizers with music in the background. Party lights give it a warm, romantic atmosphere.

 

In the four years she has been running Two Doves Boutique, Gwen shared how important it is to take time for herself and “be religious about it,” while also being sure the boutique meets her high standards.

 

“When you’re not here, it’s not the same,” Gwen noted. “Your employee will not care for the business like you do.”

 

Occasionally, she will donate anything that doesn’t get sold to Grace’s Place in Winona. Grace’s Place is a business that supports women going through difficult times.   

 

“I’ve got a picture of one woman who’s hugging herself,” Gwen said. “It’s important to take care of women.”

 

Gwen offers to do her best to assist people with any needs or requests at (507) 383-9831.