Akalu Marquis

History

Originally from Ethiopia, Lele has carefully selected a variety of handmade linens, baskets and jewelry from her home country, focusing on highlighting female artists and entrepreneurs. Elle grew up in the sprawling desert of Arizona and has incorporated many aspects of her southwest roots into the stores aesthetic, including cactus, crystals, and even sourcing a few items from women owned businesses south of the border. Lele and Elle were co-workers before they were friends and then business partners. Having worked together for 5 years, they eventually decided to join forces to create Akalu Marquis. Choosing a nonspecific name was an intentional move on the girls' part. Rather than being locked into a set business model, they wanted to allow room for their store to evolve over time with the needs of the community.

Specialties

Akalu Marquis is an eco-friendly lifestyle boutique where one can find high to medium end vintage clothing, ethically sourced bags and purses, unique house plants, crystals, home decor and even macrame and natural body products handmade by the founders Lele Akalu and Elle Marquis. They also offer come free yoga and meditation classes along with the occasional DIY workshops.