by Ezabelle Janssen, Staff Writer
LONG BEACH (GG) — Simply Jane Clothing Co. marked five years in business on Friday, March 20th, trading in its usual day-to-day rhythm for a full storefront celebration with balloons, ribbon, and a steady flow of shoppers taking advantage of 25% off storewide.
What started as a small online boutique during COVID has grown into a recognizable part of Long Beach’s local business scene, with a brick-and-mortar space tucked above Forget Me Not Florist and a loyal customer base to match. The shop’s anniversary doubled as a reflection point for owner Courtney Cuevas-Welch, who has balanced building the boutique with her role as Community Affairs Director for the City of Long Beach.
“Celebrating 5 years of Simply Jane is truly surreal,” Cuevas-Welch said. “What started as a small online boutique during COVID has grown into something so much bigger than I ever imagined. It’s been a journey full of hard work, faith, and the support of this incredible community. I’m so grateful to everyone who has shopped with us, supported us, and helped us grow over the years.”
That growth happened quickly. Within months of launching online, Simply Jane transitioned into a physical storefront, eventually expanding its footprint with the help of family and a hands-on renovation that brought new life to the upstairs space it now calls home.
Today, the boutique offers a bright, curated mix of women’s clothing and accessories suited for everything from everyday wear to coastal occasions.
The Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce hosted the ribbon cutting at 1 p.m., adding an official note to an otherwise relaxed, come-and-go style event filled with refreshments, giveaways, and a first look at the shop’s spring collection.
Five years in, Simply Jane has settled into its role as both a small business success story and a community staple.
(Photos by The Gazebo Gazette)
