- June 26, 2021
- Posted by: Stratford Team
- Category: Business
By Hannah Werle
Warren, Ohio — After spending years in Florida, Warren native Markisha Parker returned home to open Above Average Boutique, a clothing store and sewing that celebrated its grand opening Friday with a ribbon cutting.
Parker opened her first business, Sew Innovative Fashion Academy in Jacksonville, Fla., in 2018. With the onslaught of COVID-19, she moved home and decided to start another business where she grew up. Above Average Boutique had a soft opening May 25.
Parker took over the space, 2153 Youngstown Road, from her mother. She spent nearly $3,500 on renovations. She would like to extend her space in the rear of the store to provide both retail and sewing and fashion classes.
Parker’s goal is to bring her sewing classes from appointment only to walk-in ready. She currently offers intensive two-day classes by appointment for around $350. She plans to soon start regular classes for kids, starting at about $25 per…