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From TikTok to Town: Mum Opens Dream Shop
17 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Mum of three opened her first permanent shop.
- Business grew through TikTok sales and social media.
- Council grant provided crucial startup funding.
Karissa Hughes, a mother of three, has successfully transitioned her online venture, the Bouji Store, into a physical retail space. Established in 2017, the business initially relied on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, to reach customers and drive sales. This digital foundation paved the way for her entrepreneurial ambition.
The opening of her first permanent shop on Crown Street in Wellington was significantly enabled by a start-up grant from Telford and Wrekin Council. This financial assistance, part of the Pride in Our High Street programme, provided the crucial push Ms. Hughes needed to invest in a brick-and-mortar location.
Ms. Hughes expressed her long-held desire to own a shop and highlighted the positive impact of the grant in making this a reality. She sought to move beyond online-only interactions to engage directly with customers, believing Wellington's vibrant atmosphere makes it an ideal location for her business to thrive.
