October 29, 2024

It feels surreal to say that this month October 21 marks the third anniversary of Namaste Brows and Boutique. These three years flew by, yet the journey feels so fresh in my heart, like it all began yesterday. I still remember telling my husband that I wanted to be a stay-at-home mom, to be present for our two beautiful kids. I had just left my healthcare career, a field I loved, almost four years ago now. And yet, here I am, three years into owning a boutique that has become more than I ever imagined.

In May of 2020, the world was full of uncertainty. The pandemic made us pause, reflect, and realign with our deepest intentions. For me, it was a time to slow down and think about who I was becoming and what I wanted next. Staying home with two kids under the age of three wasn’t easy. I missed interacting with people, serving others, and contributing financially to my family. That longing to connect, serve, and create led me to consider opening a small business where I could work on my terms and still be present as a mother.

Namaste Brows and Boutique became a dream I dared to pursue—a place where people could come not only for eyebrow threading but also to experience and appreciate the beauty of Nepali culture. Through our boutique, we bring a slice of Nepal to Minnesota, with every item crafted by talented artisans, especially women, whose work tells a story of resilience and creativity. Today, my kids tell me they are proud of me, and my husband says he knows even more is coming. I feel so blessed to have their support.

The celebration today was overwhelming, with over 80 plus wonderful people joining us. The St. Paul Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony that included so many inspiring community leaders. I felt honored to have Commissioner Mary Jo McGuire, Councilmember Julie Strahan, Mayor Dan Roe, and Senator Clare Oumou Verbeten with us, and their heartfelt words truly moved me. I had prepared a speech, but when it was time, I ended up speaking from the heart, overwhelmed by gratitude for everyone who believed in me—even during times I struggled to believe in myself.

Reflecting on this journey, I’m immensely grateful for my family, my mentors, and the loyal customers who continue to support us. My family, including my parents, in-laws, husband, and kids, have been my unwavering pillars. My mentors—especially those from SCORE, the St. Thomas Community Entrepreneurship Program, NEON, and MCCD—have been my guiding lights, helping me navigate the complexities of business ownership, from crafting a business plan to setting fair prices and learning the power of connection.

Being a part of this community means everything to me, and it’s at the heart of what I do. Every dollar I earn brings me closer to fulfilling my purpose: to uplift Nepali artisans, educate young people in Nepal, and give back to those in need in the Twin Cities. I am proud to share my heritage here in Minnesota, and my greatest wish is to leave a legacy of love, service, and compassion.

As we wrapped up the celebration, a moment happened that will stay with me forever. A homeless gentleman knocked on our door, asking for food. I had bags full of delicious leftovers from the event, and I gladly handed him everything I had. He looked at me and said, "God bless you, and be happy." It was the perfect ending to a beautiful day, a reminder that God is at work in this journey, and I will keep my promise to use this business for a greater good.

To every customer who visits us, every gift shop and gallery that buys from us, and everyone who has shown me kindness, thank you. Here’s to many more years of connection, culture, and community. I pray this journey continues, maybe even for 30 years and beyond, so that Namaste Brows and Boutique can touch more lives and pass down a legacy of service and love.

Jeena Gurung Vomhof