Page 104 - Play Coastal Mississippi - Spring, 2024

SHOPPING
Chandeleur Outfitters
story by Cherie Ward
CHANDELEUR OUTFITTERS
When Sydney Bentz acquired the iconic Chandeleur Outfitters and then moved the boutique to the historic Lovelace Drugs building, she knew she had something completely unique to Downtown Ocean Springs.
As a retail specialist and entrepreneur, Bentz was excited the renowned building offered higher ceilings and 3,000 square feet of retail space for all the clothing, shoes, hats, and accessories. She wanted to modernize the building while preserving the integrity of the landmark. Since the 1940s, this historic site has been an Ocean Springs staple, with old-school residents telling stories about the former soda fountain café, frequently visited by Elvis Presley, who reportedly loved the cream soda.
“We have met so many wonderful customers and tourists since being downtown,” she said. “Gaining the Lovelace Drugs building was definitely the icing on the cake. I feel so blessed that I get to do this every single day.”
Since being in the bigger building, the Washington Avenue boutique has added additional merchandise and has something for anyone headed for an exciting escapade or just a leisurely stroll. You’ll find brands such as Southern Tide, Southern Marsh, Patagonia, The North Face, Olukai, Kuhl, Maui Jim, Coasta Del Mar, Ray Ban, Vineyard Vines, HUK, Over Under, and more!
“We can buy a lot more inventory and merchandise in this better location,” she said. “Our numbers have skyrocketed with the amount of inventory and brands we offer. Sometimes I feel like I can’t keep up.”
Thankfully, she has lots of help. “I feel really blessed to have the group I have,” she said. “I think I can speak for many business owners on the Coast. Finding good help is hard. I feel that I have a really good team, and they are always ready when I throw a new project or idea on them.”
And she has her family involved, too. Her mom helps with outgoing payments and merchandise reorders while her stepmother takes care of employee payroll and tax preparation. She credits her faith in God for her success, and she’s eager to see what blessings her future holds.
So if you’re a hiker, fisherman, or just hitting the beach, check out Chandeleur Outfitters for all the ways to style your next adventure.
CHANDELEUR OUTFITTERS
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