URGENT UPDATE: Two local boutiques in Southwest Louisiana are surging in popularity, showcasing the resilience and spirit of community in the face of adversity. Mia’s, owned by Mia Mouton-René, and Sway Boutique & Gifts, led by Brittany DeRouen, are redefining local shopping and connection as their businesses continue to grow.
As of November 9, 2025, both shops are not just providing unique products but also fostering relationships that matter. Mouton-René’s boutique, located in the heart of Lake Charles, has expanded its offerings and is set to open a second location at Prien Lake Mall next week, increasing her staff from five to eight employees. She emphasizes the critical role local shopping plays in community support, stating, “When people shop local, it means I get to open tomorrow.”
DeRouen’s Sway Boutique is thriving after overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic. In 2020, when the world shut down, Sway launched innovative services like a car-hop delivery system to keep customers engaged. “We created a Run-A-Gram,” DeRouen explained. “It just blew up.” This approach not only kept the business afloat but also solidified Sway’s reputation for personal service.
Both owners stress the importance of community engagement. Mouton-René noted that shopping locally contributes to the local economy, impacting vital services like libraries and parks. “A community is not a community without local support,” she remarked.
The emotional connection these shop owners cultivate with their customers is palpable. Mouton-René celebrates each visitor, saying, “Every time a customer walks in, I’m like, ‘Wow.’” This sentiment echoes through DeRouen’s shop as well, where customers often seek personalized help in designing their homes. “When you shop with us, you’re supporting dreams and families,” DeRouen added.
As both boutiques grow and adapt, they highlight the power of local business in maintaining community ties and providing jobs. Mouton-René and DeRouen are committed to giving back, contributing to programs like Water’s Edge homeless initiative and supporting local schools.
This development in Southwest Louisiana underscores a vital trend: as larger retailers dominate the market, small businesses are proving they can not only survive but thrive by prioritizing customer relationships and community involvement.
With both boutiques on track for continued success, the message is clear: shopping local is more than just a transaction; it’s a lifeline for community spirit and resilience. “We are blessed every day to be able to do what we do because people come in and shop and support us,” DeRouen stated, reflecting the shared gratitude of local business owners.
As we witness these remarkable developments, the importance of supporting local businesses becomes more evident. Through their efforts, Mouton-René and DeRouen are not only enriching their own lives but also revitalizing their communities.
