GIFTS | CARDS | SKINCARE | JELLYCAT & MORE
BY SHALEEN DESTEFANO
Erica’s Boutique is one of those neighborhood gems that feels like a true find. Tucked in Englewood, this thoughtfully curated boutique is entirely rooted in making people feel cared for the moment they walk in.
You’ve been part of this community for a long time. What originally drew you to open your business in this neighborhood, and what has kept you here?
My career originally brought me here after spending eight years in the skincare department of salons in Washington Park and Cherry Creek. I then moved to Englewood to work alongside a plastic surgery office, helping clients care for their skin after procedures.
My facial business grew, and I always carried skincare products, and over time began adding gifts and boutique items. In 2001, we built our own building to create a truly unique space that combined skincare and boutique shopping. What has kept me here all these years is the community, the relationships, and the joy of helping people feel good.
Your space was intentionally designed with flow, calm, and even elements of Feng Shui. How important is the environment to you?
I’ve always understood how color can affect mood and how thoughtful placement of architectural elements can create a special experience. We intentionally incorporated those ideas into the space.
The building itself has a strong exterior presence, while details like the etched glass include auspicious elements. Inside, the colors were carefully chosen to feel calm, warm, and welcoming. I wanted people to feel something positive the moment they arrived.
There’s a really unique mix in your boutique, from skincare to gifts to baby items. How did you land on that blend, and what do you love most about curating it? What are your top sellers?
My skincare business always included products, but clients began asking to purchase the wraps they wore during facials, then the earrings I had on, then other things they noticed in the space.
As the business grew and I moved into a larger location, I added body care, clothing, and more gifts. When we built our own building, we created 1,500 square feet of retail space and continued growing into a one-stop shop for our clients.
What I love most is curating all the different vignettes throughout the store. I especially love the baby boutique, but honestly every department brings me joy. Creating displays has become my creative hobby, and customers love seeing what’s new. Our top sellers are always gifts, baby items, skincare, cards, and seasonal treasures.
You’ve served multiple generations of families over the years. What does it feel like to see longtime clients now bringing in their kids, or even grandkids?
It’s one of the most meaningful parts of what I do. Some of my clients I’ve known since I first started in 1980. Now they come in asking for skincare advice for their children or grandchildren.
I even remember clients who were pregnant the first time I met them, and now I’m helping the next generation. That kind of connection is very special and something I never take for granted.
For someone walking in for the first time, what do you hope they feel the moment they step through your doors?
Many people walk in and immediately begin wandering because there is so much to discover. I always invite them to explore and let them know I’m there to help, whether they’re shopping for themselves or searching for the perfect gift. I love sharing stories behind certain products and interacting with customers. When friends come in together, it often turns into laughter, conversation, and that fun girlfriend energy you just don’t find everywhere anymore.
You have a sign out front reminding people shop small and local. What would you like to add to that conversation?
I’ve proudly participated in Shop Small events since they began. I think many customers miss the intimacy and personalized attention that larger stores can’t offer. They want to find things that aren’t everywhere else.
So many new customers come in because a friend recommended us, and that means everything to me. It allows us to connect in a more personal way. Most of our customers are repeat customers, and there’s something special about walking into a store where someone knows your name.
The idea of slowing down and treating yourself can feel hard for a lot of people. What would you say to someone who feels like they “don’t have time?”
I would say, let me help. Customers are always welcome to call me and shop by phone. I can FaceTime, send photos, or help pull ideas together quickly. I did that throughout COVID and still do it today. If someone says, “Send me ten funny birthday cards,” I’m happy to make it easy. I also offer complimentary gift wrap, so busy people can still give something thoughtful without the stress.
Over the years, how has your business evolved, and what has stayed true no matter what?
The store has grown and changed over the years, but what has always stayed true is kind, caring, and honest service. Listening to customers has always come first.
Helping people feel confident in their skin has been my passion for 46 years as a licensed esthetician. Although I am not doing services any longer, by client base still comes to me for skin care advice and products but also to shop the boutique. Erica’s brings together so many things that help people feel good, look good, and enjoy discovering something special.
What are some of your personal favorite products right now, the ones you can’t stop recommending?
Jellycat in the baby section is a favorite. They make the softest, cutest stuffed animals, and honestly they appeal to all ages. You can’t help but smile when you see them.
For adult gifting, I love the Chirpy Top—it aerates, pours, and sings while serving wine. It’s one of my favorite hostess or thank-you gifts.
Beekman 1802 goat milk hand and body products are wonderful for Colorado’s dry climate, and always appreciated.
For skincare, SkinCeuticals remains my top line for antioxidant and corrective science-based products. Their innovation speaks for itself.
Customers also love our greeting cards, Michel Design Works foaming soaps, and our Men’s Corner, especially the shave cream from Portugal, which is my husband’s personal favorite.
What’s in store for you in the future?
As long as my husband Robert and I stay healthy, we hope to continue doing what we love. We truly enjoy discovering new treasures for our customers.
We love offering an eclectic mix of items from diverse sources that keeps people coming back. One of our favorite things to hear is someone walk in and ask, “What’s new?”
To learn more, visit ericsboutiqueandskincare.com!