Here at The Bedford Mom we love sharing about and celebrating local businesses! This month we are excited to feature Lo Tide Clothing Co., a small women’s clothing boutique in town. It’s owned and operated by Lauren Perrault, a Bedford resident who is bringing coastal living to Bedford. Learn all about her and her business below!
Tell us about yourself!
My name is Lauren Perrault and I am the owner of Lo Tide Clothing Co. I grew up in Southern NH and graduated with a Business degree from Saint Anselm College where I also met my husband, Zak. Zak and I recently got married, have an adorable golden doodle puppy named Ollie and bought a house in Bedford! I love spending time with my husband and puppy and family and friends no matter what the activity we do! I love trips to the beach– to surf or just hang out, visiting other local businesses in the area (like my sister’s cafe- Cafe la Reine), shopping, theatre and really any other activity just enjoying time with others! I have always had a love for fashion growing up and honestly did not know it would lead me here today opening my own clothing shop but I am so glad and grateful it did! I love working with people and I love helping women feel confident and comfortable in what they are wearing! Surfing is just so fulfilling in my eyes so I am happy I get to share that feeling with others through fashion!
Tell us about your business!
Lo Tide Clothing Co. is what I love to say a combination of my love of the beach and surfing as well as “surf inspired”/boho clothing! Lo Tide actually started out as an online only shop during Covid and after about a year and a half of being online and using social media as the creative outlet for it, I found a space in Bedford that I thought was perfect for a brick and mortar! I thought, why not bring a little bit of the beach inland—closer to home than being directly on the coast!
What does a “day in the life” look like for you?
A day in the life for me typically looks like arriving to the shop to open, setting up new merchandise and displays and ordering from my favorite clothing/accessory brands as well as searching for new ones. I love that in particular because of all of the relationship building that occurs–It’s always nice meeting new people, especially those with similar interests! More of my day consists of working with my awesome customers and continuing to build my brand on social media! I love being able to help them find that unique item that just gives them confidence or makes their day!
What are your goals for your business in the next 3-5 years?
My goals for the next 3-5 years are to basically be one of the local businesses that makes people happy to go visit and feel proud to have in town. I hope to continue to provide on-trend and unique items, help people feel their best and make new friends along the way! I also hope to one day maybe expand to carrying men’s clothing as well or even surfboards/gear—we are only 50mins from the coast! — not too bad in my eyes! LOL
What are your favorites local spots in town?
Local spots in town I love: Vine 32, Cafe la Reine & Cafe la Reine North End (Manchester), Inside Scoop, Pressed, Elle & Co. Hair (technically Merrimack), Furry Friends Oasis, Terracotta Room, Trader Joe’s, Wicked Good Butchah, Wholistic Pet.
What is your best piece of advice for people looking to start a business?
My advice for those looking to start a business is don’t be afraid to talk to other people and ask questions! My family (2 other sisters who also have their own businesses) were a huge help! Sometimes you just have to learn to trust yourself and do what you love even if it’s starting out by taking the smallest of steps because then you at least give what you love a chance to grow.
How can people connect with you and follow your business?
Find me on www.shoplotide.com, Instagram @shop.lotide or Facebook and in store in the Bedford Grove Shopping Center, 7 Colby Ct. Unit 4, Bedford, NH! I love social media so don’t hesitate to send any messages!