Young entrepreneur opens boutique in downtown Camas

In Italy, Bella Vita means “beautiful life.” Locally, it means a new business has opened in downtown Camas. Tanya Gutierrez opened the doors to her boutique Feb. 1. Since then, she has been selling purses and women’s clothing next to the Camas Hotel. Gutierrez, 23, has also been creating window displays. “It’s still a work in progress,” she said. “I’ll add more racks as inventory comes in.” Gutierrez plans to add a second dressing room within the next month. She is looking forward to getting spring clothing in, with bright colors. Gutierrez sells jeans, dresses, tops and accessories. That includes camis and leggings in assorted colors and long sleeved T-shirts with finger holes. Bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings are also available to purchase. Clothing sizes range from extra small to extra large. Pants are available from sizes 25 to 30 inches, but Gutierrez can usually accommodate special requests to get larger or smaller sizes. She estimates 80 percent of the clothing in the shop is made in the U.S. Some of the other items are sustainable and eco-friendly. “Some of the brands are made in places like Egypt and the Dominican Republic,” Gutierrez said. “Those brands use products that are manufactured with organic cotton, recycled polyester and man-made fibers derived from sustainable raw materials such as rayon. “They also operate in the spirit of Fair Trade,” she added. Gutierrez grew up in northern California, where she spent time working in clothing boutiques. “I learned a lot at the boutiques, and I’m applying what I learned there now,” she said. Gutierrez was studying business administration at Washington State University-Vancouver, when she decided to go ahead and start her own business. “I was so eager to open,” she said. “I had a business plan and the money.” Gutierrez looked for a store site in Washougal, Vancouver and the 192nd Avenue area of Camas. She talked with Dawn Stanchfield regarding the possibility of leasing the space previously occupied by Fleurish, in the 192nd Plaza. Stanchfield, former owner of Fleurish, mentioned to Gutierrez that she should consider opening her boutique in downtown Camas. Stanchfield sells clothing at Lily Atelier and shoes at Luxe, at 237 N.E. Fourth Ave. Gutierrez said Bella Vita and Lily Atelier compliment each other. “The more shops that are down here will attract more people,” she said. Bella Vita boutique, 407 N.E. Fourth Ave., is open Monday through Saturday, from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Sunday, from noon to 5 p.m. Gift certificates are available. A grand opening celebration will be held Saturday, March 23, from 6 to 8 p.m. It will include complimentary appetizers and martinis. For more information, call 844-5847 or email tanya@bellavitaboutique.com.

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