The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is pleased to shine a spotlight on Alisha Cadoret-Sturges in our "Community Proud" series sponsored by Charter Oak Credit Union.

Behind every small business is a story of passion, perseverance, and purpose. For Alisha Cadoret-Sturges, owner of Valomie Boutique, that story begins with two little girls who continue to inspire everything she does.

A mother of two daughters, Valarie and Naomie, Alisha created the name Valomie by combining their names, ensuring that her business would always reflect the people who mean the most to her. What started as a dream of building something meaningful for her children has grown into a successful fashion business that serves women throughout Southeastern Connecticut and beyond.

Alisha has lived in the area for the past 15 years and has become deeply rooted in the community through both her personal and professional life. She credits the strong sense of connection, support, and kindness found throughout the region as one of the reasons she feels so at home here.

Fashion has always been a part of Alisha's life. With a background in fashion merchandising and extensive experience in customer service and sales, she was naturally drawn to the industry from a young age. She also credits her grandmother, Virginia, as one of her earliest inspirations, helping spark a lifelong love of style and self-expression.

Before launching her own business, Alisha built a successful career that evolved from the corporate world into modeling and influencer marketing. Those experiences gave her valuable insight into the fashion industry while helping her develop the confidence and entrepreneurial mindset needed to start her own brand.

Today, Valomie Boutique is a brick-and-mortar women's clothing store located in Stonington, Connecticut, as well as a thriving online boutique offering something for everyone. But Alisha's journey to get there wasn't overnight.

She began with a simple table and tent at local pop-up events. From there, she expanded into a 7-by-14-foot mobile boutique, bringing fashion directly to customers throughout the region. Her business continued to grow, eventually leading to two storefront locations. While closing her Westerly location was a difficult decision, Alisha viewed it as an opportunity to refocus and strengthen her business. Today, she proudly operates her storefront at the Velvet Mill while continuing to expand her brand.

"What I'm most proud of is how far I've come," Alisha shared. "From starting small to building something that continues to evolve. It hasn't always been easy, but every step has been part of the journey."

What sets Valomie Boutique apart is the personal connection Alisha creates with her customers. Whether through her storefront, online presence, mobile boutique, or community events, she strives to make every shopping experience welcoming, authentic, and enjoyable. Her approach is built on honesty, consistency, and genuine relationships.

"I truly care about how my customers feel in what they're wearing," she explained. "Over time, that real connection and reliability is what keeps customers coming back."

Community involvement has also played an important role in Alisha's success. One partnership that stands out is her long-standing relationship with Stonington Vineyards, where she has participated in events and connected with local residents for nearly six years. Those experiences have allowed her to meet new customers, build lasting relationships, and become an active part of the local business community.

Like many entrepreneurs, Alisha has faced challenges along the way, particularly during periods of economic uncertainty. Through adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to make difficult decisions when necessary, she has continued moving forward. She believes growth is not always about expansion. Sometimes it means knowing when to pivot and making choices that support long-term sustainability.

Above all, Alisha says her greatest inspiration is her daughters.

"My children inspire me every day," she said. "They are the reason I keep going, work hard, and stay focused on building my dreams and creating a better future."

When she isn't working, Alisha enjoys spending time with her children, relaxing at the beach, taking walks along the Niantic boardwalk, and unwinding with a glass of red wine. Being near the water provides a sense of peace and balance amid the demands of entrepreneurship.

Being recognized through the Chamber's Community Proud series is especially meaningful to Alisha because it reflects both the personal relationships and professional journey that have shaped her life.

The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Alisha Cadoret-Sturges for her entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to her family, passion for fashion, and commitment to the community she proudly calls home. Through hard work, authenticity, and perseverance, she has built more than a business. She has created a legacy for her daughters and an inspiring example for other women pursuing their dreams.