In the heart of Mount Airy, a treasure trove of creativity and diversity awaits you. Meet Vera Doyle, a local gift shop boutique located at 7118 Germantown Ave FL 1, Philadelphia, PA 19119. Vera Doyle isn’t just another retail space – it’s a celebration of artistry, identity, and community. Founded by the visionary Lori, a creative force with an inspiring background, Vera Doyle is more than a store; it’s a platform for BIPOC and women-owned brands and artists to shine. Lori named the store after her mom, Vera Doyle, in honor of her because of her individuality, her grace and her style
I had the opportunity of meeting with Lori and learning more about her boutique.
Vera Doyle is not your typical gift shop – it’s an embodiment of passion, purpose, and meticulous curation. Stepping into the boutique feels like entering a world of carefully selected wonders that encompass apparel, accessories, home décor, and gifts. What sets Vera Doyle apart is its focus on showcasing predominantly BIPOC and women-owned brands and artists. With each piece carefully chosen, the boutique becomes a living gallery of talent and creativity.
Lori’s dedication to highlighting the stories and skills of these makers is a testament to her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within the world of design and commerce. The shelves of Vera Doyle are adorned with pieces that carry not only aesthetic value but also a narrative that transcends borders and backgrounds.
From Visual Display Artist to Quilt Designer
The mastermind behind Vera Doyle, Lori, has a history as captivating as the boutique itself. Growing up in Long Island, NY, Lori’s fascination with fashion and design led her to pursue a degree in Fashion Merchandising/Design from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. Her journey through the world of design saw her honing her skills as a visual display artist and merchandiser for renowned retailers like Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Brooks Brothers for over 12 years. Lori’s creative journey didn’t stop there. Since 2012, she has been designing and selling handmade quilts and plush items online and at local independent shops throughout the Philadelphia region. Her artistic pursuits have always been driven by the belief that beauty, art, and design can be found in every facet of life.
What makes Vera Doyle truly exceptional is Lori’s vision to bring people together. She envisions the boutique as more than a place to buy beautiful items – it’s a bridge that connects individuals, an oasis of discovery and welcome. Lori’s commitment to creating a space that fosters connection and mutual appreciation is evident not only in the carefully curated products but also in the atmosphere that envelops visitors as they explore the boutique.
While passing out back to school flyers within the neighborhood, Lori reached out to me to see how she could help make this year’s back to school drive successful.
Lori agreed to collaborate with my non-profit organization ITAVFoundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting underserved communities. Vera Doyle became a catalyst for change by raising funds and collecting items for our back-to-school drive. This collaboration showcases the boutique’s commitment to empowerment, education, and social responsibility.
In a world where stories are often untold and talents go unrecognized, Vera Doyle emerges as a beacon of hope, celebrating diversity and creativity. Lori’s journey from visual display artist to quilt designer, and now the visionary behind Mount Airy’s beloved boutique, is a testament to the power of passion and dedication.
Whether you’re seeking a unique gift, a piece of artistry to adorn your home, or simply a space to connect with the creative spirit, Vera Doyle welcomes you with open arms. Step into a realm where design knows no bounds and the power of community resonates in every corner. Visit Vera Doyle in Mount Airy and become part of a movement that elevates artists, embraces diversity, and unites hearts through creativity.
Vera Doyle is located at 7118 Germantown Ave FL 1, Philadelphia, PA 19119. They offer in-store pick ups, shopping and online ordering. www.veradoyle.com
- Closed Mondays & Tuesdays
- Wed-Sat 11 am to 5 pm
- Sun 11 am-4 pm
Visitors can donate school supplies at this location until the end of September 2023.
Phot Credit: Maquis Wright-Lee
