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Behind every thriving small business is a story filled with passion, resilience, and heart. That’s exactly why I launched the Women Business Owners Who Are Making a Difference series… to shine a spotlight on incredible women who are not only building successful businesses but also making a meaningful impact in their communities.
Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Alissa Gold, the owner of Club Boutique in historic Downtown Portsmouth, NH. What started as a leap of faith quickly turned into a beloved local business where Alissa does more than just sell fashion… she makes every customer feel seen, special, and beautiful.
From styling breast cancer survivors to giving back through fundraising events, Alissa has built more than just a boutique, she’s built a community-driven space where fashion meets heart. Keep reading to learn more about her journey, her passion for supporting local businesses, and her best advice for fellow women entrepreneurs.
Lynn Davey: Tell me a little about yourself! Where are you from, and what inspires you every day?
Alissa Gold: I moved to the Seacoast in 1994 with a husband and 2-year-old son. It’s a beautiful place to raise a child and as he grew up, we added a daughter to the family. Kids grow up too fast and it was time for me to find a passion that would be fun and flexible. My daughter wanted to be a fashion designer and the next day Le Club Boutique was advertised on the front page of the Portsmouth Herald. I thought, “WOW! It’s a SIGN!” It’s been an incredible journey that brings me great joy and personal fulfillment.
LD: How would you describe your business in one sentence?
AG: My goal is to make EVERYONE that walks through the shop door feel SPECIAL and beautiful.
LD: What does your business do, and who do you serve?
AG: I am a women’s dress shop specializing in formal occasion attire, dresses, and everyday wear. My demographic is anyone from ages 30-99. I like to think of my boutique as the “Neighborhood Store” where people who shop with us come back frequently and know that they will be well taken care of. We have a huge population of breast cancer patients and survivors. It’s such a privilege!
LD: What inspired you to start your business, and what was the moment you knew this was the path for you?
AG: I needed a JOB! Never did I imagine that this would be my path. I come from a computer sales background. Once I dressed my first Breast Cancer Survivor, I was HOOKED!
LD: What’s one thing you wish more people knew about your industry or the work you do?
AG: I think it’s really important for people to know that they need to shop local. By shopping local you support the people that will support you. I can’t tell you the number of gift certificates and merchandise that we give out to organizations, schools, and other fundraisers. I like to think that we make a difference by being contributory to these events.
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Club Boutique is located at 10 Pleasant Street in downtown Portsmouth, NH.
LD: What do you love most about running your business?
AG: I love the people. I love making the women that come in the store feel special and happy. I love making them feel beautiful. I love hearing about their events that they’re buying a dress for and I love it when they come back and show me pictures. Christmas always brings a boatload of wonderful notes and Christmas cards of families together for the special occasions.
LD: How does your business make a difference, either in your community, industry, or for your clients?
AG: I think we’re known as being community-based and very focused on helping you find the perfect outfit for whatever your occasion is. I think that having a local store with local people running it makes a difference in every community. I love going into a store and saying hello to the owner. I know that the owner is invested in what they’re doing and that they really care about their customers.
LD: What’s a project, initiative, or moment in your career that you’re most proud of?
AG: I’m most proud of the fact that we’re able to support the community by the work that we do. We are very big supporters of fundraising and love doing fashion shows so that people can see what we have to offer. I love it when people come in and are wearing something and they say see I got this here. It makes me really proud.
LD: Are there any causes or organizations you support that align with your mission?
AG: We are very involved with My Breast Cancer Support. Every April we participate in a fashion show where the proceeds go to this amazing organization. We also support The Chase Home, Gather, and Our Place, as well as other local organizations.
LD: What’s one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a business owner, and how did you overcome it?
AG: It’s always a big challenge to buy almost a year ahead of a season. I find that challenging because you’re never quite sure what the fashion or the color scheme is going to be, so a lot of of its guest work and intuition. As a business owner, I truly appreciate and love our local customers. It’s important to me that we are able to offer well-priced clothing with great customer service. Shopping local is very important. I’m hoping that by providing great customer service, that people will continue to shop with us.
LD: What’s a piece of advice you’d share with another woman who is thinking about starting her own business?
AG: I think it’s important when you start a business that you really have a passion for what you’re doing and stand behind your product. You also have to love your customers and make sure they feel that love. And be prepared to work the hardest you’ve ever worked!
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A sample of the gorgeous items you’ll find at Club Boutique.
LD: Coffee or tea? How do you take it?
AG: Neither. I’m a Diet Coke chick… with LOTS of ice!
LD:What’s one song that always gets you motivated or in a great mood?
AG: Celebrate. I love dancing around to that style of music.
LD: Is there anything else you’d like to share?
AG: Yes! I hope when you come in that you’ll feel the love. Most of us have been working together over eight years and we truly are a family. There’s always a lot of options in the store, so get ready for that. Our cell phone numbers are even on the front windows of our shop. Feel free to call!
As you can see, Club Boutique isn’t just a store…
it’s a place where women walk in as customers and leave as friends. Alissa has created something truly special: a fashion destination rooted in connection, confidence, and care. Her unwavering dedication to her customers and her community is what makes her a true difference-maker.
If you’re ever in Portsmouth, be sure to stop by Club Boutique. Whether you’re looking for the perfect dress or just want to feel fabulous for a day, Alissa and her team are ready to welcome you with open arms (and plenty of fashion advice!).
Know another inspiring woman business owner who should be featured? Send me an email! I’d love to share more stories like Alissa’s.
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Hi, I’m Lynn!
I help business owners and solopreneurs create websites that truly reflect who they are, attract their right-fit clients, and make them feel unstoppable. But beyond design, my passion lies in helping people feel heard, seen, and supported… because when your brand aligns with your purpose, confidence follows.
I believe in the power of creative problem-solving, fearless innovation, and purpose-driven design. My goal? To craft a strategic, impactful website that empowers you to grow your business and make a difference in the lives of your clients and community.
✨ My superpower? Inspiring curiosity and empowering personal expression.
✨ My approach? A mix of creativity, strategy, and fearless determination.
If you’re looking for a website that makes you feel confident, inspired, and empowered, I’d love to connect and hear more about your vision!