Edgewood Outfitters
A Hampton Roads Home for Inclusive Style
Where: Newport News
Industry: Fashion/Retail
In 2021 best friends Karen Hampton and Gabrielle Mueller opened the doors to Edgewood Outfitters, a size-inclusive boho-inspired boutique. For Karen and Gabrielle, opening the business was about more than just entrepreneurship. Combining a love for fashion and creativity, Edgewood Outfitters also gives the friends a chance to uplift other women in the community.
“For us it's all about making people feel confident. If you're dressed good, then it'll make you feel good for the rest of the day.”
Opportunity for Impact
Best friends since college, Karen and Gabrielle had always dreamed of opening a business together. In 2018 they officially filed for their LLC, then took the next 2 years to prepare for running the business full time. The friends had a strong vision for what would become Edgewood Outfitters. They were committed to offering a full range of sizes, which is uncommon among brick-and-mortar retailers, so women of every shape and size could shop with confidence.
Despite unexpected setbacks from the COVID 19 lockdown, Karen and Gabrielle persevered, opening Edgewood in November 2020 at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets. By 2022 the shop had already outgrown that space and moved to a larger location in Patrick Henry Mall.
Our Partnership
In 2023 Karen and Gabrielle were considering how to capitalize on Edgewood’s growth. They reached out to Bridging Virginia after reading about another Bridging Virginia client’s journey. BVA partnered with the friends to find the right type of loan that would fit their needs and their goals. With that infusion of capital, Karen and Gabrielle were able to invest in Edgewood’s long-term growth and sustainability. A year later Edgewood’s sales have already grown 50% and the founders are hoping to open a 2nd location.
"The infusion of the capital we were given really supercharged where our business is heading and the direction it's going, and we are 50% up last year which is amazing. I feel like it has given us the resources and the inventory level we really needed.”
Beyond Capital
Edgewood’s success is a testament to Karen and Gabrielle’s determination and commitment to building a supportive community. The team continues looking for new ways to empower women in Newport News and beyond, like casting all local women in their marketing and highlighting other retailers in the area.