Pacer Entrepreneur Busy as a Bee Downtown

Aiken, SC (10/22/2020) — One business management major at the University of South Carolina Aiken decided to get to work long before graduation.

Brooke Thomas, a recent graduate, started her own jewelry company almost three years ago when she was a freshman. Friends who loved the pieces she wore encouraged her to share her talents, so she did.

"I have been making jewelry for sale since October 2017," Thomas said.

"I first started making it for myself, but then all my friends were asking them to make them different pieces, so I decided to sell from an Instagram account."

Now, she's expanding even more. This summer, Thomas opened Ginger Bee Boutique in the center of Laurens Street, in the heart of her hometown of Aiken. For the past several years, Thomas saved her profits from her jewelry sales to invest in the entrepreneurial, store-front venture.

"I always had a special love for Downtown Aiken, even when there wasn't an 'alley' like we have today," Thomas said.

"Downtown Aiken is such a thriving area. Who wouldn't want to be amid all the excitement and entertainment venues that attract new walking traffic every day?"

Owning a boutique for women has been a dream of Thomas' since high school.

"I knew I wanted to open a women's clothing boutique. I grew up watching my mom own her own business. Everyone always assumed I would work for her and eventually take it over," the former UofSC Aiken cheerleader said.

"However, that was not my dream, and I wanted to create an impact on the community in a special way."

This budding entrepreneur has a love - and a creative knack - for fashion and accessorizing. Her goal is to offer striking pieces in myriad styles that appeal to all ages, all available at reasonable prices.

Thomas always keeps an eye out for items with a distinctive flair. She purchases a lot of her material from markets in Atlanta. But fellow fashion lovers don't have to travel far to acquire Thomas' unique treasures.

In addition to Instagram and Facebook, her jewelry was available at Aiken's Indie Market and other local markets throughout the CSRA. Thomas' talent is recognized throughout the Aiken community. She was named Entrepreneur of the Week by Aiken Blend, which helped boost her profile as a jewelry maker in the area. She looks forward to expanding her brand.

"I will always sell jewelry," Thomas said.

"My first fashion attraction was jewelry, and it will continue to be since that's how Ginger Bee got started. Ginger Bee Boutique will consist of women's apparel, jewelry, handbags, shoes, hats, and some gift items."

Thomas credits the university for much of her success.

"Attending USC Aiken has opened many doors for me. Many individuals have graciously helped pave the way for me," the Class of 2020 alumna said.

"One of my favorite classes so far has been entrepreneurship, with Professor [Brent] Hoover. This class opened my eyes to what it takes to start a business and operate successfully."

As her business grows, Thomas says she hopes to hold exclusive sales and events for UofSC Aiken students. She's considering hosting a "Pacer Shop Weekend" with discounts and other special surprises.

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