Today we’d like to introduce you to Lorna Kennedy.
Hi Lorna, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m originally from Scotland, but Richmond has been home to me and my family for more than 15 years. My professional background is in project management and business leadership, where I’ve spent many years managing teams, building relationships and bringing complex projects to life. I’ve also been involved in the local community through my work in early childhood education. Although my career hasn’t followed a traditional retail path, I’ve always loved fashion, creative spaces and the sense of connection that a great local business can create.
When the opportunity arose to purchase Indigo Avenue, an established women’s consignment boutique in Richmond’s Tuckahoe community, it felt like the perfect chance to combine so many things I care about: thoughtfully curated fashion, sustainability, community and exceptional customer service.
Since taking ownership, I’ve been focused on honoring what customers and consignors already love about Indigo Avenue while bringing fresh energy and a new perspective to the business. We’ve refreshed the store, created a new logo and website, and have began to make some improvements to our operational processes to enhance the experience and make it more enjoyable for customers, consignors and our team.
I’m excited to continue building on the store’s strong foundation and to make Indigo Avenue a place where women feel comfortable, inspired and genuinely delighted by what they discover.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It certainly hasn’t been a completely smooth road—but I’m not sure any worthwhile journey ever is! Taking ownership of an established business comes with a unique set of challenges. You’re not starting with a blank canvas; you’re stepping into a business with its own history, loyal customers and consignors, established systems, and a team that has experienced a major transition.
One of my biggest challenges has been balancing respect for what already works with the need to make thoughtful changes. I’ve had to learn the day-to-day operations of the consignment industry quickly, while also introducing new processes, refreshing the physical space and shaping a clear vision for Indigo Avenue’s future. Even positive change can feel unsettling, so communication, patience and listening have been incredibly important.
There has also been the practical challenge of wearing many hats at once. As a small-business owner, you can move from merchandising and customer service to payroll, marketing, staffing and problem-solving—all within the same hour! The learning curve has been steep, and there are always unexpected issues that require an immediate response.
However, the support of our team, customers, consignors and the wider Richmond community has been incredibly encouraging. Each challenge has helped me understand the business more deeply and become more confident in my decisions. I’m learning to embrace progress rather than perfection and to view every obstacle as an opportunity to improve the experience we provide.
We’ve been impressed with Indigo Avenue , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Indigo Avenue is a locally owned women’s fashion consignment boutique serving Richmond and the surrounding community. We offer a thoughtfully curated selection of contemporary, premium and luxury clothing, handbags, shoes, jewelry and accessories—all at a fraction of their original retail prices.
What makes consignment shopping so special is the sense of discovery. Our inventory changes constantly, and every visit offers something different—from an everyday wardrobe staple to a designer handbag or a truly unique piece you may not find anywhere else. We want the experience to feel elevated and well curated, but never intimidating. Great style should feel accessible, personal and fun.
We serve two equally important communities. For our shoppers, we provide a more affordable and sustainable way to enjoy quality fashion. For our consignors, we offer a convenient opportunity to give beautiful, well-cared-for pieces a second life while earning money from items they are no longer wearing. That circular relationship is at the heart of our business: local women consigning with, shopping from and supporting one another.
What sets Indigo Avenue apart is the personal experience. Our team knows the inventory, understands our customers and genuinely enjoys helping women find pieces that make them feel confident. We’re not simply selling clothing—we’re creating a welcoming space where customers can explore their personal style, discover something unexpected and enjoy the thrill of finding an amazing piece at an equally amazing price.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the fresh energy we’re bringing to an established Richmond business. We’ve refreshed and redesigned the store to make it more open, modern and inviting, while remaining respectful of the loyal community that has supported Indigo Avenue over the years. We’re also continuing to refine our selection and improve the experience for both shoppers and consignors.
Above all, I want readers to know that Indigo Avenue is for real women and real life. Whether you’re looking for a designer investment piece, an outfit for a special occasion, an affordable wardrobe update or a responsible new home for the beautiful clothing already in your closet, we would love to welcome you in.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
Luck has certainly played a part in my journey, particularly in timing. The opportunity to purchase Indigo Avenue came at a point in my life when I was ready for a meaningful change, even if I didn’t yet know exactly what that change would look like. Finding an established business that brought together my interests in fashion, sustainability, community and creativity felt incredibly fortunate.
I’ve also been lucky to inherit a loyal community of customers and consignors, along with a knowledgeable team who understand the business and care deeply about its success. Their support has been invaluable as I’ve found my footing as a new owner.
That said, I believe luck often meets you halfway. An opportunity can arrive at the right moment, but you still have to be willing to recognize it, take the risk and put in the work. There have been unexpected challenges and days when things haven’t gone according to plan, but even those moments have brought valuable lessons or pushed me toward better decisions.
So yes, I feel very lucky—but I also believe that preparation, perseverance and the courage to say “yes” when an opportunity appears are what allow good luck to become something lasting.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.indigoavenue.com
- Instagram: @indigoavenueclothes
- Facebook: @indigoavenueclothes
