The launch of a new boutique store in Dimapur caught our attention, only to discover the amazing spirit of entrepreneurial passion and vision of two young female entrepreneurs. A last minute decision to book tickets and travel to Aizawl was the result of a boutique store named “Charis” by Aten Imchen and Longtisenla Sayer
Launched on September 26, “Charis” works with designers from Aizawl in making quality and fashionable formal blouses for women. Noticing that there are so many boutique stores in town which sell apparels for young women, but very few for older women, they decided to seize this gap in the market! After much research, they also realized that there were many takers for blouses which were stitched and sold by local designers in Aizawl. Aten and Longtisenla remark, “Mizos wear lovely blouses with their Mekhalas (traditional sarongs) to Church and formal occasions. So we decided to bring the same to our clients in Nagaland.”
The two young entrepreneurs admit that the response has been good so far. With plans to expand the store in Dimapur and even branch out to Kohima in the near future, they state, “So far, we are pleased with the response. We hope that the trend continues so we can focus on giving better products and service to our customers.”
Charis owner, Aten Imchen started working at a very young age. She is the franchisee owner of Wonder Chef (Dimapur district) which she joined under the guidance and encouragement of her mother. A hard worker, she is admired for her work ethics and strong values. While, Longtisenla Sayer is a brave first time entrepreneur! In a town obsessed with government jobs, she quit hers to follow her zeal to do something different.
“Charis” they both exclaim and say, “Thinking of names for our store, we were both convinced that it had to contain the meaning grace in it. In our own personal lives, we have witnessed the grace of God so we really wanted to incorporate the word grace.” They also believe that one has to be honest in life and always take the counsel of God because he has given a purpose to each and every one of us. To young aspiring entrepreneurs, they share, “There is no substitute to hard work! And whatever you do-do not procrastinate. Also, unless you are not going into loss, profit will come slowly so patience is required very much in entrepreneurship.”
“Charis” also stocks bridal wear for rent, accessories, evening dresses, trendy apparel, bags and shoes. The store is located at Purana Bazaar, opp Gold Coast, Dimapur.