Longtime formalwear shop in Somerset changes hands
Photo: Greg and Barbara Walker (center) celebrate a ribbon cutting at Larena’s in Somerset.
Larenas has been rooted in the Somerset community for nearly 40 years selling dresses and renting tuxedos for formal events, from homecoming to prom and everything in between. After building a successful business, the shop’s second-generation owner Marcy McVicker decided it was time to step away.
Barbara Walker said, “I have wanted to own a business for a long time and by luck I saw a post on Facebook saying that the shop was going to be sold.”
“People in the community—friends, neighbors—are all so supportive. So many people are being supportive… it wasn’t expected, and it warms my heart.”
Startup Alleghenies’ coach Matt Reckner worked with the Walkers to make their goal a reality and has been there every step of the way—including the October 14th ribbon cutting ceremony. Reckner attended along with JARI’s Lauren Thompson. JARI has also played a key role in the Walkers’ journey to business ownership.
Reckner said, “Sharing in these milestones is just one way we get to come alongside our entrepreneurs. We offer business guidance throughout the whole process. For some that starts with the idea, for the Walkers that started with the ins and outs of acquiring an established business.”
The community has rallied around the new owners. “People in the community—friends, neighbors—are all so supportive. So many people are being supportive… it wasn’t expected, and it warms my heart,” Barbara Walker said.
Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.
