By Kimberly Hopson
L’Observateur

LAPLACE – Boutique owner Shirah Ray was recognized as an Outstanding Millennial during last weekend’s Millennial Awards, hosted by Spears Consulting Group.
Ray, who has been in business for seven years with her store David Lee’s Boutique, said the award’s show was well-attended and that she was surprised to have won. Ray was up against seven other nominees in the fashion category, including Fluerty Girl’s Lauren Thom.
“I went in with very little expectations to win because it was a tough competition. I just was honored to be part of the event,” said Ray. “It does feel good to know where you stand in the grand scheme of things, so I was totally surprised.”
Ray said the fashion category was the only category with two winners.
Nominees were ultimately considered based on the impact they had on the Gulf Coast region. According to Spears Consulting Firm, the awards show was meant to honor dynamic young professionals like Ray who have contributed to the community through public service, made strides in the business sector, or served as cultural ambassadors. These young professionals have helped make New Orleans a “cool place” to work and live.
Ray said that retail is a tough market. Although the boutique has experienced some set-backs during its operation, Ray said she has always been able count on the support of her loyal customers and family.
The young entrepreneur said she hopes to make David Lee’s a household name in the future, and is open to franchising opportunities.
“I just feel like its God’s favor, honestly. It really was a tough category, and it feels good to know that your work is not in vain and doesn’t go unnoticed. I’ve seen them come and go, but it’s because of my customers and my family and their neverending support,” she said.
The Millennial Awards was the second in a series of four annual events called the Social Renaissance. The third event, the International Festival, is scheduled to take place in October. The consulting firm aims to use the events to attract more young professionals to the region and add to the New Orleans experience.
For more information about the Social Renaissance, visit the website at http://thesocialrenaissance.com.