See inside: Mum turns pop-up shop into stunning new boutique

One mum’s side hustle and big dream has been transformed into a thriving business on the fringe of Toowoomba’s CBD. Check out the brand new store and her inspiring story here.

Inspired by her parents who ran their own businesses in their hometown of Warwick, Lani Weston, 28, always dreamt of owning her own start-up venture.

After tragically losing her dad to cancer, Lani decided to shave her head for the Leukaemia Foundation in 2019 – a heartfelt gesture which only ignited her business drive further.

“From a really young age I spent a lot of time by my Mum’s side at her (fashion) shop and going to Brisbane each season to order new stock … mum is definitely where I got my passion for fashion,” she said.

“After shaving my head I quickly realised that earrings are a girl’s best friend when you don’t have hair to style.”

Lady Lou owner Lani Weston in the new Herries St retail store. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Launching her own jewellery line Lady Lou, it wasn’t long until Lani outgrew her modest home-based business and opened a small pop-up shop on Ruthven St.

As her collection of costume jewellery, handbags and headpieces continued to grow, so did her client base, forcing Lani to look for a new place with more space, to call home.

With the help of her husband Corey Weston, who owns Toowoomba building company Weston Building Group, Lani has now opened her Lady Lou boutique in leafy East Toowoomba.

“I always dreamt of having a little boutique on the CBD fringe … I just honestly never thought I would be lucky enough to snag something so perfect,” she said.

“As soon as I walked into the space I knew it was the one – it has the most amazing street exposure and has carparking which was a huge bonus.”

The building which previously housed a digital marketing agency, had been vacant for some time and took about eight weeks to renovate.

With a vision to create a bright space to showcase her stunning jewellery pieces, the once navy blue premises were painted white with upgrades made to create a more boutique-type feel.

In addition to her jewellery range, Lani has also teamed up with her friend Janae Windsor to start women’s fashion hire business LJ Dress Hire, with clothing available to try on in-store by appointment.

Lady Lou is at 84 Herries St, East Toowoomba and is open Wednesdays, Fridays and most Saturdays.

For more information click here.

Lady Lou owner Lani Weston in the new Herries St retail store which is also the home of LJ Dress Hire co-owned by Lani and Janae Windsor. Picture: Kevin Farmer