Starfish Award Winner: Little Anchor Boutique

Retail therapy is self-care — and anything that makes customers feel “meh” (scratchy denim, itchy sweaters) isn’t in the mix at Little Anchor Boutique in East Falmouth, Massachusetts. “You belong here,” says owner Ariana Kerrigan, who started the business 11 years ago from her guest bedroom.

Today, the boutique’s community outreach is just as defining as its beachy kaftans and local gift selection. Nestled in Bishop’s Plaza, Little Anchor is “local famous,” living up to its namesake’s maritime symbol of stability and connection.

“Being based on Cape Cod, we have made it our mission to give back to this community.”— Ariana Kerrigan

Memorable moments

Kerrigan’s efforts to anchor in the community include an annual prom dress giveaway, offering up to 60 dresses to high schoolers. The event includes the full boutique experience, with dressing room fanfare and heartfelt moments. “These dresses can cost $400 to $600, and that didn’t sit well with me,” she says.

Locals donate gently used gowns. “It’s a wildly emotional day,” Kerrigan adds. “There are mothers and girls in tears.”

One note from a resident struck her deeply: “I wish you were around when I was in high school. I was a girl who couldn’t afford a dress. This means a lot.”

On a mission

Kerrigan also hosts monthly “shop for a cause” events and an annual “adult prom” that raises funds for Tommy’s Place, a nonprofit that provides magical Cape Cod vacations for children with cancer. Little Anchor’s events have raised nearly $100,000.