Redlands Business Scene Welcomes New Ventures Focused on Heritage and Transition
Courtesy photos
Clothes get a second life at Whatever Betty on Orange Street.
By Shantell Sunderman
Redlands News Collective
REDLANDS, Calif. — The Redlands business community is seeing a surge in creative entrepreneurship as new storefronts focus on preserving history and easing life’s major transitions.
Upcycling History at Whatever Betty
Azneth Tovar and Miriam Fierro have brought their eye for vintage fashion and design to 342 Orange St.. Their store, Whatever Betty, recently celebrated its first anniversary in Redlands after relocating from Riverside.
The sisters began their journey seven years ago, purchasing vintage clothing and shoes from families looking to rehome beloved items. To prevent these pieces from ending up in landfills, Tovar and Fierro upcycle and find innovative ways to reuse old fashion.
"We have vintage from the 1940s to 10 years ago," Fierro said.
Near the entrance, a sewing machine and press sit surrounded by ongoing projects, giving the space the atmosphere of a creative laboratory where the sisters bring custom visions to life through commissions. The boutique is open Thursday through Monday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m..
Employees of Bella Reflections receive a Senate proclamation at the Redlands Chamber of Commerce.
Easing Transitions with Bella Reflections
Just as Whatever Betty finds new life in old garments, Bella Reflections has expanded into Redlands to help residents navigate the emotional process of transitioning between life phases. The business has operated in Southern California for more than 20 years and recently opened its third location to serve the Inland Empire.
Janelle Winters, head of marketing for the Inland Empire franchise, manages a team of 10 people who specialize in packing, downsizing and estate sales. They provide essential support for seniors moving into local communities such as Plymouth Village and Mission Commons.
"We've worked together for over 10 years, so it's a finely tuned machine," Winters said.
Many team members are pursuing second careers, focusing on treating senior clientele with the care they would want for their own parents. To help families defray costs, the team also photographs and prepares items for online auctions, ensuring that cherished belongings find appreciative new homes.
More information can be found at bellareflectionseniors.com.