Inspiring Conversations with Lauren Augustino of August Ash Boutique

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Augustino.

Hi Lauren, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Lauren Augustino, and I am the founder of August Ash Boutique. My passion for fashion started when I was young, when I discovered how fabrics, prints and textures could inspire creativity and confidence. I knew I wanted a life surrounded by style and creativity.

That dream lead me to study Apparel Merchandising at Colorado State University, where I learned how to forecast trends, connect with vendors, and build a brand from scratch.

I opened my boutique online in 2018 and have since, transitioned to a shared brick and mortar location in Loveland, CO. I hand pick every piece for August Ash Boutique at markets in Las Vegas and LA, curating styles that feel unique, thoughtful, and exciting to wear.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t always been the easiest road. Starting an online boutique came with challenges I didn’t expect–building trust with customers who couldn’t see, touch or try on the clothes in person, competing with larger brands that had an online presence and trying to stand out in a crowed online space after COVID.

But refusing to give up, I showed up at pop-up shops so I could meet my customers face to face to create that relationship. I had to stay consistent and true to my vision of August Ash Boutique and the brand I was building. Every challenge has shaped me into a stronger business owner, and makes it that much more grateful for every customer who chooses to support my boutique.

We’ve been impressed with August Ash Boutique, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
August Ash is for the contemporary woman who embraces style as a form of self-expression. She is fashion forward, original and confident in making her own statement. I carefully handpick pieces that are timeless enough to last beyond the season, yet playful and trendy enough to fit her fun, flirty lifestyle. The amount of pieces I carry in the boutique is limited so it’s rare to find someone in the same outfit.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
The thing I like best about this city is it has so many local business and restaurants that you can’t find anywhere else. It makes this location unique and a travel destination.

Surprising, I least like the lack of surrounding boutiques in the area. I think when there are more boutiques, in the area, it can drive more foot traffic because customers have more of a reason to shop in an area where they have more options.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://augustashboutique.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/augustashboutique
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/augustashboutique