Allison Shannon’s affirming words honor women as they walk to the door of Allison Clothing Company. “Your soul glows with Divine Light. Hold your head high. You are beautiful just the way you are. You are loved here.” Upon entering, a feeling of love and calm greets guests as aromatic scents waft through the air and pink terra cotta walls reminiscent of Tuscany cast a soft glow on the beauty within. This shop invites leisurely attentiveness so as not to miss any of the lovely, handcrafted, artisanal items imaginatively displayed.

Shannon, artist extraordinaire, owner and lover of life, fills her shop with love and her love is felt throughout each collection and arrangement, making its way inside the hearts of visitors. One moment in her presence is enough to feel the joy she radiates as she tells the story of Allison Clothing Company.

“We opened with the goal to support local artisans and display their handmade items in the shop, rather than go to the big trade shows to fill our shelves,” explains Shannon. “Our inventory is always fresh and updated weekly by our creative artisans.”

In the studio, Shannon carves patterns onto rubber stamps, creating exquisite designs. She works with intention, infusing love into the garments as she stamps, dyes and creates, so women feel love through the clothing, like they are getting a hug from her when they wear it. The clothing comes in a variety of sizes ranging from extra small to plus sizes.

“We encourage positive self-talk and don’t allow any negative self-talk, especially when trying on clothes in the dressing rooms,” notes Shannon. “From the beginning, I wanted women to be able to walk into the store and feel good about themselves. Our space is a safe place to be the beautiful you that you are.”

Nurtured by a mother and father who were both artists, Shannon was encouraged to be true to her own gifts and talents. “I have fond memories of how much my mother loved to cook and bake,” shares Shannon. “She infused her love into her recipes for soups, breads, cakes, cookies and more, and she inspired me to do the same with my own works of art.”

Attending The Museum School of Art in Boston was empowering to Shannon. She learned to hold herself accountable for her own learning and artistic talent. This led her to discover, express and apply her skill using various media to fashion jewelry, work with clothing, paint on canvas and uniquely arrange an array of items.

One of Shannon’s favorite things about being an artist is creating a new project or product with other artisans. “When we come together to exchange ideas, we are like a big family, and so much love and creation comes from the imaginative and innovative interaction––it’s like a waterfall of pure joy,” Shannon enthuses.

“Honoring the artists as artists helps them unveil what else they can create and grow,” affirms Shannon. Noteworthy pieces bring artisans money, which is a welcome side effect. According to Shannon, it can be as simple as creating new packaging that enhances the distinctive quality of a piece.

A perfect example of evolving an artistic idea are the fabulous new monthly Goddess Necessities subscription boxes curated by Shannon that ship worldwide and allow subscribers to be the first to see and receive new goodies coming to the shop. Exclusive products from current and new artisans and designers, such as textiles, pure bath and beauty, leather goods, jewelry, crystals, yummy treats, baubles and bits fill the boxes.

The seed of an idea to share beautiful art grew to become a place where women are celebrated, empowered and encouraged to express themselves, bask in the artistic expression of others and enjoy the pleasure of living a joyful life.

“If you have the opportunity to visit our store, you will be greeted with hugs. The air is sweet with the intoxicating scents of our essential oil soaps and incense. The music playing is Portuguese and you can’t help but sway your hips to the melodic rhythm. The clothing racks are draped with saturated hues of hand-dyed dresses, tops, leggings and skirts,” describes Shannon. “Everywhere you look you will find handcrafted jewelry of exotic styles. We also offer unique accessories for your body and home as well as delectable treats for your taste buds. You can breathe easier here. It is a place where you can slow down and indulge your spirit with love and beauty.”

Allison Clothing Company is located at 522 Penn Ave., in West Reading. For more information, call 484-709-2563 or visit AllisonClothingCompany.com.

Gisele Rinaldi Siebold is a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings magazine. Connect with her at [email protected].