"Kenzie & Hope is more than a store - it's a lifestyle. We're intent on carrying brands that fit our mission. I'm open to partnering with my customers to support great causes, particularly ones that directly involve kids & teens in a meaningful way."
Shani DeFina, Owner
Wellesley Hometown Weekly October 2018
Shani DeFina purchased the successful, 30+ year old Kenzie Kids just three months ago after the former owner announced her retirement. After over a decade of shopping at this beloved boutique, Shani's young teens were no longer fitting into the 8-14 sized styles offered and they weren't interested in 'women's styles'. Shani recognized an opportunity, purchased the business and developed a plan to reinvent the brand and expand on Kenzie's offerings. After years in Human Resources, Corporate Communications, PTO Executive roles as well as working in the community, Shani opened Kenzie & Hope in August with a new look, a new name and many new brands!
"The Hope in the new name, Kenzie & Hope, is honor of my grandmother, an everlasting inspiration to me in fashion and in giving back to my community" says DeFina. Hope was a mail carrier for the USPS for over 60 years. A ray of sunshine and a hard worker, she hand-delivered mail to her 'friends' on her 29 mile long route. "Dedicated to volunteering for her church and her community, you would find her 'dressed to the nines' in the pews. Genuine, personable, a fixture in her community, and always in style, this is the 'Hope" I'd like for people to experience at the store. Whether you are 8 or 80, there's something for you."
Kenzie & Hope offers stylish apparel, gifts & accessories for young girls and the young at heart. From fuzzy pajamas to sophisticated dresses, this is a store like no other. It's a boutique where both mothers and daughters can shop together with is often hard to find. "At Kenzie & Hope we know that girls and teens want 'soft and cozy' yet parents want quality products that will last. Popular brands include Vintage Havana, Mayoral, Me.n.u, Rails and Tractr.
"We also carry dressier brands such as Sally Miller, Milly Minis, Miss Behave, David Charles and Un Deux Trois to name a few. Teens will begin to see exciting lines such as Pistola, Honey Punch, Dance & Marvel and She & Sky. For women, we are offering beautiful new lines like Generation Love, Misa and Sen. We'll continue to offer some of our favorites - Bogner, Ecru and Lilla P."
Having the right mix of merchandise is the first step to pleasing Kenzie & Hope customers. Step two is providing the best service. "Most of our staff has worked with our customers for many years ... we know their names and their style preferences. We keep notes and reach out to customers when we see something we think they may like. Also of importance, we have the passion and the patience for working with our youngest customers who can frequently change their minds!"
What's more, customers shopping Kenzie & Hope can be assured that they offer quality products at a variety of price points. Prices in store range from $3 to $500 and everything in between. "It's important to me that I create a store where everyone can shop. I'm a big a believer in putting together outfits that are a mix of 'splurge and save'" says DeFina. "I want my customers to know that I only stock the best for them, in quality, fashion and price. We adore our customers and we want them to adore us."