DESTREHAN — Renae Decker wants to touch women’s lives, bringing joy to her River Region customers through fashion.

“A woman’s day can change in an instant when she puts on an article of clothing that makes her feel good about herself,” Decker said. “I want to make sure to continue to do that in this community. Seeing a woman come in, try on new clothes and her face light up because you know she looks and feels good makes me happy.”

Decker, the owner and operator of Onyx Boutique in Destrehan, just celebrated a year in business and is ready to take 12 months of lessons into year No. 2.

Located at 1970 Ormond Blvd., Suite C in Destrehan, Onyx Boutique sells casual and everyday wear, along with cocktail attire, dressy casual outfits, prom dresses and Mardi Gras ball choices.

Decker said most dresses are ready for purchase, and special orders can be arranged on specific dresses. She plans to carry more shoes in the fall. Available accessories include purses, necklaces, hats, earrings, bracelets and more.

“I felt the area was lacking something and, after praying about it, I knew I had to open a fashion boutique,” Decker said. “We don’t have a boutique in a 15-mile radius. Here I am 12 months later celebrating my 1-year anniversary and super excited.”

According to Decker, she chose to name the boutique Onyx because it is a powerful gem that promotes prosperity and wards off negativity.

It was a challenge to build a store and clientele from scratch, Decker said, adding trial and error dictated a lot.

“I know Onyx has time to grow and will only get better,” she said. “I really have my family, friends and the community to thank for always helping and supporting me along the way. I am a single mom and business owner and without them, I could not have made it through this first year.”

Onyx Boutique is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. For more information, call 985-725-3224.

— Candace Hemelt

contributed to this report.