Starfish Award Winner: Little Anchor Boutique

By Kristen Hampshire

Little Anchor Boutique finds many ways to connect and give back to its Cape Cod community.

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.


Customers feel at home with the store’s selection of coastal slippers, drinkware and more.
Photos: Bryan Stearns

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.


“Being based on Cape Cod, we’ve made it our mission to give back to this community,” Kerrigan says. “I’m just happy to be a small part of it.”



Starfish Awards recognize retail stores in our industry that are making a difference through charitable donations and efforts. Is your store worthy of an award? We’d love to hear from you! Complete an entry form at www.seasideretailer.com/starfish-award.