LADERA RANCH – A new pet boutique – Hala’s Paws – is set to open in Mercantile East this week.
Aliso Viejo resident Hala Allouche, who owns the store with her boyfriend Justin Helstien, said her boutique will offer food, treats, trendy collars, leashes, apparel and beds for cats and dogs.
“Pets are my children,” Allouche said. “They love unconditionally and I can only hope that they feel comfortable and happy.”
Q. Why did you want to open in Ladera Ranch?
A. I have lived in Laguna Hills and Aliso Viejo for the past 15 years and when this idea came to me to open my own shop, I thought Ladera Ranch would be perfect because they do not have a pet store. I’ve always loved the small-town feel of Ladera Ranch with the rolling hills in the background. It’s so peaceful.
Q. How did you choose your boutique’s name?
A. Actually, my mom had a dream one night and that was the name of my business and it kind of just stuck. Hala means ‘welcome’ in Arabic.
Q. What is your professional background?
A. I have worked in the pet industry for almost 10 years now from a family owned pet store to an upscale pet boutique.
Q. What sets your pet store aside from others?
A. Well, I focus entirely on dogs and cats and since I have a lot of experience in the industry, my product knowledge gives me a leg up. I genuinely care about my clients and their owners and will personally make sure everyone leaves satisfied.
Q. What do pets mean to you?
A. I feel like I was born to take care of animals. They make my life a million times better. I currently own two adorable pugs, Shia and Shelby, and a gorgeous tabby cat named Kyler. I’ve had many pets such as various reptiles, Parrotlets and freshwater fish.
Q. What has been the biggest challenge to start your business?
A. Well, it seemed like every step was a challenge. There are so many steps to opening a business that you really have to stay focused and keep on track with everything – obtaining the lease and going back and forth with the landlord, obtain federal tax ID number, a seller’s permit, business insurance, a use and occupancy permit with the county, a lighted sign for outside the building and floor plans for the landlord.
Q. What are your interests outside of work?
A. I love the outdoors and traveling. Hiking, camping, and fishing are the highlights of my life. My boyfriend and I love to fish. We’ve been together for seven years and have been on seven road trips to various national parks and many camping trips.
Q. What are your goals with your business?
A. My biggest goal is to just be the friendliest, ‘funnest’ pet store around. I want clients to come and hang out in my shop with their dogs and I want to provide an atmosphere that creates good bonding times between pet owners and their pets.
