Member Spotlight: Edgewood Outfitters

Our Member Spotlights are a great way to learn more about different Retail Alliance members and their businesses. Twice a month, we feature different members to highlight their accomplishments and everything they do for the community. We hope you enjoy getting to know our members better through these spotlights!

If you’re interested in being featured in a future Member Spotlight, please fill out this form. In the meantime, enjoy learning the story behind an adorable clothing store in Williamsburg — Edgewood Outfitters, owned by Karen Hampton & Gabby Mueller!

Written by Abby Schiano

What is Edgewood Outfitters?

 
Edgewood Outfitters is a fashion outfitter. We cater to women from ages 16-40 and the young at heart. Our clothing has a rugged American vintage influence, from our jeans and graphic band tees to our boho-inspired tops and dresses. EO is a lifestyle brand, and our goal is to help every woman find outfits that will build their self confidence that will empower them to find the daily inspiration to live life to the fullest.

How did you two get started with your business?

 
We’re two best friends that both have a background in the retail business, but this time, we wanted to make the decisions and build something new all our own. Karen has a background in retail management and Gabby has a background in fashion marketing and retail.

What have been some business challenges and how have you dealt with them?

 
Our biggest challenge was doing all the research into every detail and then putting it all together. When we felt we were ready, Karen quit her job to work at it full time, with Gabby to follow shortly after. Two weeks later, the pandemic shut everything down, and the country went into quarantine. After some soul searching, we decided to move forward with our dream anyway. Eight months later, we opened our doors. We’ve had a lot to learn in the past year and a half, and we’re still learning.

What has been your greatest business success?

 
Our greatest business success is sticking to our dream and not giving up in the face of hardships, bumpy roads, and a pandemic. We are continuing to grow and build our brand.

What are your future goals for the business?

 
Our future goals involve expanding to more locations across Hampton Roads, growing our online presence, and continuing to build our brand.

What advice would you give to others who are interested in starting their own business?

 
Work hard and never give up on yourself. Research, research, research!

How do you connect with the community?

We have actively gotten involved with organizations like Retail Alliance to help other aspiring entrepreneurs and businesses just starting out. We are also working to become more involved with nonprofit organizations to help those that are in need in the community.

Get in contact!
Karen Hampton & Gabby Mueller
Edgewood Outfitters
5709-62 Richmond Road Ste 62
757-808-6388