Cleveland Entrepreneur Mary Allen Empowers Women Through Fashion at Tower City

CLEVELAND, OH — Downtown Cleveland's Tower City was the perfect setting for American Women's Business Day, where Nikkie Brown from Cleveland 13 explored a variety of small businesses owned by local women. Among the entrepreneurs she met was Mary Allen, founder of Unscript'd Boutique, who shared her journey of resilience and success, particularly during the global pandemic.

Allen opened Unscript'd Boutique in 2020, during the height of the pandemic; a time when many small businesses faced unprecedented challenges. However, instead of allowing the situation to deter her, Allen used the pandemic as an opportunity to grow. “The pandemic gave me time to focus on building my brand,” Allen said. “It allowed me to reflect on what I wanted Unscript'd Boutique to represent and how I could make it a space that empowered women.” Allen noted that the downtime allowed her to fine-tune her business model, focusing on body positivity and curating a selection of clothing that makes women feel confident, no matter their size.

Her boutique, which offers sizes ranging from small to 3X—with plans to expand up to 6X—fills a much-needed gap in the fashion industry for plus-size women. "Sometimes we, as women, are our own worst critic when it comes to our body; but we are beautiful. And I want you to feel beautiful wherever you are now," Allen said, explaining her mission to provide clothing that boosts self-esteem. She works closely with customers to ensure they find garments that fit perfectly, sending photos and options until they are completely satisfied.

In addition to her focus on fashion, Allen has built a unique space in Tower City that offers much more than just clothing. During the pandemic, she personally designed and constructed the boutique’s interior, including a custom-made selfie wall with angel wings she crafted herself. The boutique also serves as a venue for events, hosting everything from baby showers to live music and even church services. “I’ve had church services here, and I even have my birthday party coming up,” she said. The public event will feature live music, wine, and more.

Despite the struggles many small businesses faced during the pandemic, Allen’s diverse skill set allowed her to thrive. Beyond being a fashion entrepreneur, she is a singer, vocal coach, and graphic designer. "In the beginning, I couldn’t afford to pay someone to do all the work for me, so I figured it out; and now I’m doing it for other people," Allen explained. Her ability to wear multiple hats allowed her to adapt quickly and build her business even in difficult circumstances.

Brown, who owns Krazy Fit, a jump fitness facility in Parma, Ohio, resonated with Allen’s story. “As a small business owner, you end up being your own photographer, videographer, editor, content creator—everything. It’s fun, but it’s a lot of work,” she said, reflecting on the challenges faced by entrepreneurs during the pandemic.

Allen continues to create unique experiences for her customers, with her upcoming "Ladies Night Out, the Wine Down Edition" set to be a fun-filled evening of sing-along karaoke and DIY charcuterie boards. Attendees are encouraged to wear pajamas, bring a bottle of wine, and enjoy free downtown parking—a rare perk for Cleveland. “You don’t get that downtown,” Allen pointed out, emphasizing the boutique’s commitment to creating enjoyable, accessible events.

After four years in business, two of them in Tower City, Allen remains committed to her boutique’s mission of empowering women through fashion. She invites anyone interested to connect with her through her website, Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, @unscriptdboutique. She can also be reached at (216) 220-7079.