Contributor: Jamie Richardson
Carolina Mall (Concord)
đź“Ť 1480 Concord Parkway North, Concord, NC 28025
Website
If you’re looking to support local this holiday season, you won’t want to miss the latest Carolina Mall Pop-Up Winners of Hull Property Group’s American Dream Project!
- This initiative has been empowering small businesses by offering local entrepreneurs space in high-traffic retail centers, giving them the tools and opportunities to bring their dreams to life.
Among the 2024 winners are two standout shops that are now open at Carolina Mall: Vigueur Fragrances and Busy Bee Couture. Let’s dive into the stories behind these unique businesses and what they’re bringing to our community!
Vigueur Fragrances: Crafting Non-Toxic Wellness and Self-Care
One of this year’s American Dream Project winners is Lee Valle, the founder of Vigueur Fragrances, a line of non-toxic, eco-friendly self-care products. Vigueur Fragrances grew out of Lee’s desire to create products that combine wellness and sustainability, aiming to provide healthier, luxurious options for everyday self-care.
Originally, Valle started Vigueur Fragrances as a rebranding of Vigorwicks Candle Company, which she began during the pandemic. Seeking to expand beyond candles, she saw an opportunity to bring something new to the market—a range of products that would enhance people’s well-being without compromising on quality or environmental responsibility.
Photo Credits: Vigueur Fragrances
Being recognized as a winner of the American Dream Project has been nothing short of transformational. “It feels incredible to be recognized as a winner,” she shared. “This achievement is a validation of my hard work and vision, both personally and professionally. It’s a huge motivation to keep pushing forward and a reminder that I’m on the right path.”
What to Expect at Vigueur Fragrances
At Vigueur Fragrances’ new pop-up shop, customers can explore a variety of non-toxic candles, soothing linen sprays, and self-care essentials. She is excited to offer in-person experiences that weren’t possible through her online store, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the scents and sensations of her products.
One of the highlights of her new store will be a Candle Workshop Experience, which will be held on Saturdays and Sundays, where participants can select their own scents and create personalized candles in a hands-on experience. You can sign up for a workshop ahead of time at www.vigueurfragrances.com.
The pop-up will also offer the “reP O U R & reL O V E” Sustainability Program, where customers can bring back their used candle jars or linen spray bottles to be refilled, helping to reduce waste and keep their favorite items in rotation. These workshops and services align with her commitment to promoting sustainable living while encouraging customers to take time for themselves.
Valle’s long-term vision includes expanding Vigueur Fragrances into a full lifestyle brand, with more in-person experiences and a broader line of products. She also hopes to introduce children to candle-making workshops as a fun way to learn about science and creativity.
“I pour my heart into this business not just for myself, but to show my children what’s possible. Every step I take is a testament to hard work, resilience, and dreaming big,” said Valle. “I want them to see that, with faith and determination, they can create a life that reflects their passions and purpose. Through my journey, I hope they learn to believe in themselves and know that anything they set their hearts on is within reach.”
Be sure to visit on Black Friday weekend for a special event that will include coffee, mimosas, and charcuterie!
Busy Bee Couture: Style for the Hustling Mom and Her Family
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For Ashley Cummings, founder of Busy Bee Couture, life as a mom of four and a paramedic has always been, well, busy! When the pandemic hit, Ashley grew tired of the limited options for shopping. She wanted something different—a place for affordable, stylish clothes that didn’t require a trip to big-box stores. Enter Busy Bee Couture, a boutique that blends style, convenience, and family-friendly shopping.
The Road to a Storefront
Ashley started Busy Bee Couture as an online shop and mobile boutique, setting up at events across the Charlotte area. When she heard about the American Dream Project, she knew it was the chance she’d been waiting for.
After winning, she quickly pulled her team of family and friends together, transforming her storefront at Carolina Mall in just five days! Ashley says “none of this would have been possible without the love and support of my husband. He truly has done so much, from painting to decorating, for me.” Even her kids helped get the store ready to open. It was truly family affair.
What to Expect at Busy Bee Couture
Busy Bee Couture offers an array of women’s and children’s clothing, accessories, bags, and jewelry. From classic kids’ pieces like smocked dresses and cute bow ties to chic women’s styles, Ashley curates items with a “boujee on a budget” philosophy. She’s dedicated to making sure that everything in her shop is not only stylish but also practical, with many kids’ pieces made from durable, washer-and-dryer-friendly materials.
A Unique Shopping Atmosphere
Ashley describes her boutique as “Love Shack Fancy meets Bridgerton.” Customers are welcomed with classical music and Disney movies to entertain the kids while moms shop. She’s also planning to host monthly “Sip & Shop” events with non-alcoholic mimosas, bringing a touch of elegance and relaxation to the shopping experience.
Local Finds and Special Features
Busy Bee Couture proudly carries products from local artisans, including handmade jewelry from Anna Banana and unique, custom cups by Gabby. The boutique also supports first responders by offering them a 10% discount as a small gesture of appreciation for their service.
Future Plans
Ashley’s ultimate dream is to expand Busy Bee Couture into a full-service boutique with an in-store coffee bar, making shopping an experience for moms to unwind while their little ones are entertained. She’s determined to make Busy Bee Couture a local staple, providing Cabarrus County with stylish, quality clothing for women and kids.
Catch Them While They’re Here
The American Dream Project is helping make small-business dreams a reality and giving our community a unique shopping experience. Both Vigueur Fragrances and Busy Bee Couture will be open at Carolina Mall through the end of the year. Be sure to stop by and experience what these unique brands bring to Cabarrus County this season!
Planning to visit? Tell ’em Cabarrus Weekly sent ya!
