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LAPLACE — There was never any doubt that Oh So Cute Monograms & Boutique would return to the community after Hurricane Ida.

Following the storm, owner Hailey Chapman Ralser went through the process of gutting the building, throwing away damaged clothing, and rebuilding the inventory from scratch at two market events.

The fashion boutique was fully restored seven months after Hurricane Ida. On May 19, a grand re-opening ribbon cutting was held at 1145 W. Airline Hwy. in LaPlace.

Parish President Jaclyn Hotard and Parish Council members Warren “Bosco” Torres and Tonia Schnyder were in attendance.

“It’s been a long process. We really do love this community and they are very supportive of us, so I was willing to come back to this area, no matter how long it took,” Ralser said.

Ralser was inspired to pursue her own business after learning the art of embroidery from her grandmother, Jane Chapman. She spent four years traveling to and from Baton Rouge and establishing a local clientele while balancing classes at LSU. Oh So Cute Monograms & Boutique opened in LaPlace in 2017, soon after her college graduation.

The contemporary boutique is reminiscent of Magazine Street shops, offering stylish clothing and accessories for women of all ages and sizes. Monogramming and gifts are available for special occasions.

While Hurricane Ida and the COVID-19 pandemic posed two major challenges to the growing business, Ralser said community support has been steady since the reopening, and she couldn’t be more thankful.

“I think it’s the convenience,” she said. “Most of the people come for the service because they know us, and it’s more personal. They know someone will help them. That’s what sets us apart.”

Store hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.