By Sandy Meyer
Every day more and more large retail stores are closing their doors and taking with them the in-person shopping experience. But don’t worry – just visit Be Happy Boutique in Riverview. This quaint apparel and novelty shop is a hidden gem in the Summerfield Shoppes strip mall on Big Bend Road.
After more than 20 years of dreaming about opening her own shop, Riverview resident Tonya Antaki finally made a leap and opened the doors to her boutique in 2016. Antaki, a former E.R. nurse says she wanted to create an inspirational shop where the owner has a relationship with the customers. “I wanted to bring back the days where customers meant something,” said Antaki.
To do that, Antaki has spared no expense in creating a cozy shop filled with trendy women’s clothing, jewelry, shoes, accessories and a wide variety of novelty items that can keep you browsing the store for hours. Antaki is also constantly bringing in new items to keep customers excited about coming back. Be Happy Boutique carries sizes for everyone from Xtra Small to 3X and picks out only quality fabrics that are stylish and affordable.
Antaki puts a lot of thought into the items she chooses for her customers and has spent countless hours cultivating relationships with just the right vendors. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, Antaki will take the time to walk you through the boutique and help you find just the right item. “Customer service is my number one priority. I treat every customer the same no matter how large or small the sale,” she said.
As a way to thank her customers and welcome new ones, Be Happy Boutique is hosting a Mom’s Appreciation event at the store on Saturday, May 27 beginning at 11 a.m. Antaki is bringing in an aesthetician offering facials and botox treatments. Customers can have a mimosa while browsing the many items offered at the boutique.
For more information, please call 677-2300. Be happy Boutique is located at 11369 Big Bend Rd. Please visit behappyboutique.com for more on this fabulous shop.
