Mother, daughter team to open boutique near St. Armand’s Circle

Ginger O’Connor and her daughter, Melanie, will open Apricot Lane Boutique just off St. Armand’s Circle.

Ginger, an 8-year resident of Longboat Key purchased 464 John Ringling Blvd., a one-story retail building, for $1.2 million on Feb. 9.

The current tenant, Touch of Africa, will move out in one month, according to O’Connor, to make way for the new boutique.

Apricot Lane, a 23-year-old franchise based in California, is unique, O’Connor said. Each store is tailored to its location and the needs of local consumers.

She said half of the merchandise in Apricot Lane will be recognizable brands such as Good Works jewelry, Tom’s shoes and analili clothing. The remainder, she said, will be items and brands that appeal to women of all ages.

“The store will be a mother-daughter shopping experience,” she said.

She said she hopes to open in May.

“I’ve been shopping on the circle since I was 12,” O’Connor said. “I know there are a lot of boutiques on the circle. I think each … is a little bit different. I’m going to bring in a lot of different items – something for everyone.”