Every small business has a story and Megan Balaban’s is a good one. BRuSH Boutique, located at 8920 Mentor Avenue, was born from a deep desire to create something meaningful. Something that blended fashion, faith, and community.
The boutique is named after her four daughters whose initials make up “BRuSH”. Balaban envisioned a place where women feel confident, seen, and celebrated – whether they’re shopping for a new outfit or stopping in to leave a prayer request on their wall.
We caught up with Megan recently and asked her to tell us more about her journey. Here’s what she had to say:
What is BRuSH Boutique all about and what makes it unique?
BRuSH is more than a clothing store – it’s a community. We focus on curated pieces for women who want style without stress. But beyond fashion, it’s a space filled with heart. From our prayer wall in the dressing rooms to the personalized service we give each guest, we’re proud to offer something more than retail – we offer “connection”.
Is this your first business?
Yes, this is my first brick and mortar business and it’s been the most fulfilling adventure of my life – I continue to learn more every day.
What made you choose Mentor?
Mentor felt right from the beginning – it’s where I’ve built relationships, very close to where I have raised my family, and found an incredibly supportive community. Opening a boutique here just made sense.
Did you work with anyone in the city in order to help get your business opened? At the time that I opened, the entire world of entrepreneurship was brand new to me and there was so much I didn’t know – such as the amazing resources that the City of Mentor offers new businesses. Had I known all that was offered I absolutely would have used it, but I am grateful for the Chamber and other city members I have met since then that have been very helpful. I did utilize city inspectors prior to opening, who were some of the kindest people!
How long has BRuSH been open?
We have been open since November 2021 although daily we are asked if we are new! Time has flown.
What can a new customer expect when they walk into your store?
Warmth, welcome, and wardrobe magic. We greet you by name when we can, offer honest styling help (think best friend, not pushy salesperson), and always want you to leave feeling a little better than when you came in – whether or not you made a purchase.
What has been the reaction from the community?
Incredible. The support, encouragement, and love we’ve felt from this community has been beyond anything I imagined. We truly have the best customers – many of whom have become friends.
What has been your most pleasant surprise?
How deeply personal this work can be. I never expected to cry with customers, pray over requests, or hear how a single outfit changed someone’s confidence. It’s humbling and beautiful.
What’s next? Where do you see BRuSH Boutique in the future?
We’re always evolving! While we’re not expanding locations right now, we’re growing online, hosting more events, and finding new ways to surprise and delight our customers. Think curated collections, exclusive collaborations, and even more meaningful connection.
What’s something people don’t realize about owning a boutique?
That so much of the work happens when the lights are off. People see the pretty storefront and the styled mannequins—but they don’t always see the late nights at home researching new vendors, processing inventory, answering customer messages from the carpool line, or posting new arrivals from the softball fields. There are buying trips, backend logistics, livestream prep, tech hiccups, and about a million decisions behind every cute outfit on the rack. It’s a 24/7 job, but when you love it, it doesn’t feel like work – it feels like purpose.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Just a huge thank you – to the city, to our loyal customers, and to every woman who’s walked through our doors. You are the reason we do what we do.
BRuSH Boutique is located at 8920 Mentor Avenue (between Malley’s and Manhattan Deli). You can shop online as well as get additional information including hours by visiting www.brushboutique.shop. Customers can also shop on their mobile app (search “BRuSH Boutique” in the app store). Also, be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram @shopbrushboutique for new arrivals, fit videos and event info.
We thank BRuSH Boutique for their investment in our community and wish them much future success.