We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shawna Dalton. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shawna below.
Shawna , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today One of the most important things we can do as business owners is ensure that our customers feel appreciated. What’s something you’ve done or seen a business owner do to help a customer feel valued?
Twirls + Twigs: A Valley Gem Cultivating Gratitude
Nestled in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, Twirls + Twigs blends a snarky charm with a deep sense of gratitude, creating a shopping experience that’s as modern as it is nostalgic. Shawna Dalton, the spirited force behind this unique boutique, has mastered the art of making each customer feel not just welcomed, but truly valued.
“Last year, during the bustling holiday season, I noticed one of our regulars seemed a bit off. After a little chat, it turned out she was going through some tough personal challenges.” Recognizing an opportunity to lift her spirits, Shawna and her team decided to put together a special care package. “We picked items that we knew would bring her comfort—our best-selling candles, some calming tea, and a pair of quirky socks, all bundled with a personal note of thanks,” explains Shawna. The impact of this thoughtful gesture was profound. “She came back to thank us with tears in her eyes. It was a moment of real connection, reminding us of the power of a simple act of kindness.”
At Twirls + Twigs, the motto “Give Gratitude” is more than a catchphrase—it’s the very essence of the store’s culture. Shawna Dalton, the creative mind behind this unique boutique, has woven this ethos into every aspect of the business, ensuring that each customer interaction is not just a transaction but a meaningful exchange. “We strive to make our store a place where the laid-back, sunny disposition of the Valley meets the sincerity of our gratitude,” Shawna explains. This unique blend of local culture and heartfelt appreciation turns even the simplest purchase into a token of gratitude—a way to pass on the good vibes of the Valley to someone else.
Shawna’s approach cleverly mixes a bit of snarky humor with genuine warmth, appealing to those who appreciate a modern twist on the traditional. “We like to keep things light and fun, but we’re serious about showing our customers they’re valued,” she says. Whether it’s through a spontaneous gift, a cheeky greeting card, a heartfelt thank you note, or just a friendly chat, Shawna ensures that gratitude is not just felt but deeply embedded in the fabric of every interaction, making sure it’s both remembered and cherished. This thoughtful balance makes Twirls + Twigs not just a store, but a vibrant community hub where every visit is a reminder of how joy and appreciation can transform the everyday.
Shawna , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Twirls + Twigs: A Tale of Gratitude and Giving
Meet Shawna Dalton: From Fashion Design to Boutique Bliss
Shawna Dalton’s journey through the world of fashion and retail is one marked by creativity, sustainability, and a deep-seated belief in community. Her journey into the world of retail and design began as a fashion designer right here in Los Angeles. After a successful career in fashion design, collaborating with giants like Gap, Target, and Disney, and running a $200 million business segment, Shawna launched her own venture, Twirls and Twigs. This eco-friendly children’s wear brand was not just about clothes; it was a movement towards sustainable and mindful consumption. The brand thrived, gracing major stores such as Barneys, Saks, and Nordstrom for over a decade before Shawna decided to close it in 2017—a poignant end to a significant chapter.
The shift in Shawna Dalton’s career wasn’t the end but a profound transformation. Amid global changes accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Shawna saw a renewed importance in community and personal connections within retail. In 2021, leveraging her vast experience and deep understanding of design, trend forecasting, and customer resonance on a global scale, she opened Twirls + Twigs. This boutique extends the legacy of her clothing brand in both spirit and name, celebrating the act of giving right in the heart of Valley Village. Twirls + Twigs isn’t just a gift store; it’s a venue where each item—from artisan jewelry crafted by local women makers to custom-printed mugs that capture the essence of the community—tells a unique, personal story. The boutiques motto “Give Gratitude” carries a playful edge, embodying the spirit of Valley Village with a wink and a nudge. Here, the charm of Valley nostalgia meets a collection of gifts that are as heartfelt as they are humorously unique. Each visit offers more than a purchase—it’s an encounter with the magic of giving, celebrating the talents of local and global artisans. Whether you’re seeking a “Valley Village” treasure or a meaningful connection, Twirls + Twigs provides a whimsical, sincere shopping experience.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
In the heart of Valley Village, a unique blend of nostalgia and modern flair finds its home at Twirls + Twigs, where the ethos of the Valley girl—fun, fearless, and distinctly Californian—permeates every corner. Shawna Dalton, the store’s owner and curator, has mastered the art of evoking the past while capturing the pulse of contemporary gift-giving. Her boutique doesn’t just sell products; it sells memories wrapped in the sun-drenched, carefree spirit that defines the streets of the San Fernando Valley.
Each gift at Twirls + Twigs, playfully wrapped and bursting with personality, carries a hint of the past—like the echo of roller skates on boardwalks or the glossy sheen of a new cassette tape. Yet, Shawna’s keen eye ensures that the nostalgia never feels dated. Instead, it’s refreshed with a snarky, modern twist that appeals to both long-time locals and newcomers. This dance between eras has garnered the boutique a special place in the community’s heart. It’s a reminder that even in the ever-changing landscape of retail, some things—like the thrill of finding the perfect gift or the warmth of genuine customer service—remain timeless. Shawna’s boutique is more than just a store; it’s a revival of the Valley girl’s spirit, adapted and reimagined for today’s eclectic consumer. This magic is what has created Twirls + Twigs must see store reputation.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
Oh, the best source of new clients? It’s all about stirring up a good old Valley-style community vibe at Twirls + Twigs! You see, around here in Valley Village, we do things a little differently—think less traditional advertising and more community shindigs and support circles.Take our “Third Thursdays,” for instance—a monthly night out that’s become the talk of the town. It’s not just about shopping; it’s about bringing folks together, celebrating our local spirit, and having a blast the Valley way. It’s during these gatherings that the magic happens. People aren’t just customers; they become part of our little family, coming for the fun and leaving with bags full of uniquely curated goodies.And let’s not forget the power of girl power during our “Shop Small Saturday” pop-up markets. Supporting fellow female business owners isn’t just good karma; it’s good business. These events turn Twirls + Twigs into a buzzing marketplace where local artisans and dreamers showcase their crafts. The energy is contagious, the community support is palpable, and yes, the sales do go up!
Now, when someone finds that perfect, quirky gift and gets it fabulously wrapped (we’re talking bows that pop and paper that dazzles), word spreads faster than gossip in a hair salon. Our customers don’t just come back; they bring friends, family, and even that nice lady from the grocery store.Building community is our secret sauce—it’s what makes Twirls + Twigs a cornerstone of Valley Village. So, new clients? They’re just friends we haven’t met yet, drawn in by the stories of great times and great finds, all shared in the warm, exuberant embrace of our store.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.twirlsandtwigs.com
- Instagram: @twirlsandtwigs
- Facebook: www.facebook/twirlsandtwigs
Image Credits
Julian Quinzon – photographer
Shawna Dalton with White Los Angeles Hat
Group photo- Shawna Dalton with Olivia Dalton and Riley Valento