Welcome to my latest newsletter series, “Spotlight On,” in which I highlight notable Coachella Valley business owners! First up is Mimi Lawhon, who, along with her daughter, Raechel, owns Mimi & Rae in Old Town La Quinta, one of my favorite local shops! The chic clothing boutique opened its doors in September 2023, filling a gaping void in the area by offering classic, stylish pieces (the kind you’ll have in your wardrobe for years) at affordable prices. No strangers to the retail fashion business, Mimi (who is also behind the La Quinta Days website) and Raechel opened the first Mimi & Rae outpost in Laguna Beach in January 2022 and it wasn’t long before they were looking to expand! Learn more about Lawhon, her shop, and favorite desert haunts below.
XO, Lindsay
What is something that. surprised you about owning a business here?
The people. I’ve been in retail and worked with people all my life, and I have never met nicer people. Every day I am grateful to get to know each person I meet.
What part of desert living brings you the most joy?
It’s a gathering place for my family, and every month, my house is full of all my kids and their partners partying and eating and enjoying the gorgeous landscape and weather.
Any plans or ideas to beat the heat this summer?
Working! We stay open in the A/C all summer, plus it’s busy season at the Laguna Beach store so I’m over there often.
What is your best business advice for newbie entrepreneurs?
It’s knowing that there really isn’t competition – it doesn’t matter if a lot of businesses are doing it, they don’t do it the way YOU do it. Ever heard of coffee shops? Pizza? Just do what you do and do it well. That being said, experience is the best education in business. I paid attention to all my mentors, jobs, employees, and customers over the years, and I use what I learned every day.
Favorite item you’re currently selling at Mimi and Rae?
All NLT. LA. Sylvia, the designer, actually got married out here. It’s a women-owned, no-waste, size-inclusive brand that stands for “No Less Than” as no woman should feel “less than.” Everything is handmade in LA. (NLT’s Parker Eyelet Vest and Cove Linen Pant are pictured here, along with a Cher Raffia bag from Melie Bianco, a premier recycled vegan leather brand and another shop favorite!)
Best meal in the desert?
Anything my son cooks when he’s here, he’s a phenomenal chef. I’m riddled with food allergies (wheat/gluten being the top meanie) and IMO the desert needs to work on inclusive places to eat. Beautiful Day (pictured) is my favorite! They have THE BEST GF hotcakes!
Other Coachella Valley favorites?
The day the desert has some quality GF dessert I will never leave! Tiffany’s Sweet Spot (pictured) really does a nice job with GF cupcakes though. I hear I need to make it over to Wildest in PD for some great allergen friendly food.
Thank you, Mimi!
Be sure to visit Mimi & Rae this summer to discover a slew of clothing treasures! You can also follow the store on Instagram at @mimiandraeboutique for all the latest shop updates and Mimi at @laquintadays for LQ news and recommendations.