Press Release:

What started as a dream has officially become a one-year milestone.

Dear Laney, the women’s fashion boutique known for its bold, colorful style and “The Raddest Girls on the Planet” spirit, is celebrating one year in its Jenkintown storefront with a special anniversary celebration on Saturday, October 3,from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Founded by local entrepreneur and designer Cali Shabazz, Dear Laney opened its doors in October 2025, transforming a 700-square-foot space into a colorful, feminine boutique designed to feel less like a traditional clothing store and more like a destination for women to express themselves.

Now, one year later, Shabazz is celebrating not only a business anniversary, but the community of customers, family, friends and supporters who helped make the dream possible.

From Sheetrock to Storefront

The story behind Dear Laney’s first year is just as meaningful as the celebration itself.

The boutique’s transformation was truly a family affair. From building the fitting rooms and installing floors and bathroom tile to painting, decorating and bringing Shabazz’s vision to life, family members played an important role in turning an empty space into the Dear Laney boutique customers know today.

Throughout the anniversary countdown, Dear Laney has been sharing behind-the-scenes moments from that transformation—giving customers a glimpse at just how much work, creativity and love went into creating the store.

“It’s emotional to look back at where we started and see what Dear Laney has become,” says Shabazz. “There were so many moments when I had to believe in the vision before anyone else could see it. Seeing women walk through those doors, find something they love and feel good about themselves makes every late night and every difficult moment worth it.”

A Year of Big Moments

Dear Laney’s first year has been filled with milestones well beyond the storefront.

The boutique has been recognized as a local destination for women’s fashion, featured by FOX 29’s Buying Black, highlighted by local media and embraced by the Jenkintown and surrounding Montgomery County community.

The brand has also continued to grow its presence through fashion events, community events and pop-ups, while Shabazz has pursued opportunities to showcase her designs beyond the local community.

But for Shabazz, some of the most meaningful moments have happened right inside the boutique.

“People come in for the clothes, but they become part of the Dear Laney family,” she says. “That’s the part I’m most proud of.”

Mean Girls Meets Dear Laney

To celebrate the milestone, Dear Laney is throwing an anniversary party with a “Mean Girls” theme, bringing the playful, nostalgic energy of the iconic movie together with the boutique’s signature bold and feminine aesthetic.

The anniversary celebration will take place Saturday, October 3, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Dear Laney, 721 West Avenue in Jenkintown.

Customers can expect anniversary festivities, shopping, photo opportunities and plenty of the fun, colorful energy that has become synonymous with Dear Laney.

The celebration is also a thank-you to the customers who supported the boutique through its first year.

“One year ago, I opened these doors hoping people would come in,” Shabazz says. “A year later, I’m looking around and realizing that people didn’t just come in—they showed up for me, for my brand and for this dream. I’ll never take that for granted.”

Looking Ahead

As Dear Laney enters its second year, Shabazz says the goal is bigger than simply selling clothes.

She wants Dear Laney to continue creating opportunities for women to feel confident, have fun with fashion and support a locally owned business.

“One year down, and we’re just getting started,” says Shabazz. “I want Dear Laney to continue growing, but I never want to lose the heart of what made me open the doors in the first place.”

About Dear Laney

Dear Laney is a contemporary women’s fashion boutique located at 721 West Avenue in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania. Founded by designer and entrepreneur Cali Shabazz, the brand celebrates bold personal style, individuality and confidence through fashion and accessories.

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