Claire Ethridge, owner of the Georgia Peach, describes it as “a place for anyone who loves bows and ruffles. I specifically choose products to fit anyone’s style, regardless of age or size.”
The Georgia Peach opened in December 2022, when Ethridge pursued her dream of starting her own business, and to her delight, she was able to do so with her husband, Daniel. “We love working toward something together. We spend more time with one another, thriving on each other’s strengths.” Daniel takes on the responsibility of the finances, planning and organization of the business, which Ethridge describes as “a relief because those things are not my strong suit.”
Claire and Daniel spent the last several years living in Smithfield where they would often shop in boutiques. With their move to Newport News, Claire noticed boutiques were rare. Claire grew up in Orlando, Florida, eventually moving to Virginia and obtaining her degree through Richard Bland Community College. After completing her education, she worked at Southside Regional Medical Center as a radiologist assistant and soon after realized that it was not her passion.
Her family was a big part of her decision to open a business. Ethridge says, “Once my daughter was born, I knew opening my own business would allow me to control my time as my own boss and be there for my children.”
Walking through the boutique, shoppers will find clothes, shoes, accessories, home décor, gifts and much more. The clothing that is sold at The Georgia Peach is described as “classy, yet trendy.” Ethridge explains how since becoming a mom, she struggles to find clothes that fit her youthful style but are modest enough for her age. Finding this balance was a goal for her store. “I always loved all things bows and ruffles growing up, and the clothes sold here reflect that,” she says.
There is also a large selection of home décor and furniture. There are several choices in decoration for one’s home, leaning more toward the farmhouse and rustic themes. Furniture pieces that have recently been added include various chairs, tables and bedding.
There are eight rooms to visit, each with a different theme. The most recent addition is an entire room dedicated to babies. Gift items include candles, books, keychains, soaps and jewelry. And there is a room filled to the brim with items decorated with lemons. Ethridge says this room is a favorite for shoppers.
“The Georgia Peach 100 percent reflects my style. When stocking the store, I try to envision those items in my own home or what I would wear,” Claire says. She expresses how her faith has pushed her through opening her own business while having a daughter and being pregnant with her son, who is due in October. Ethridge explains how she is proud of herself for “stepping out of her comfort zone and taking a huge leap of faith” when it came to opening her own business. When she is not working, Claire enjoys spending hours at the beach and time with her daughter.
In the future, Ethridge wants to start planning events at The Georgia Peach because of the available ample space. She excitedly reveals that her boutique will host a bridal shower in September.
The Georgia Peach is the perfect reflection of classy Southern style. With only a couple of months before hitting the one-year mark of the opening, this boutique is thriving. Claire says, “I have always loved shopping boutiques, and now I can say I have one of my own.”
TO THE POINT:
The Georgia Peach
Address: 10377 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601
Contact: Claire Ethridge, owner
Phone: 321-276-5397
Website: thegeorgiapeach.store
