From playing dress-up to dressing Summersville, Tennile Martin stitched her boutique dreams into reality.
written by alisha jarrett
photographed by nikki bowman mills
DRIVEN BY A LIFELONG DREAM, Tennile Martin opened Tennile’s Boutique and Formals in Summersville in 2019, bringing her vision to life as a vibrant local business renowned for its extensive selection of formal and casual wear. Her inspiring journey from dreamer to successful business owner is a testament to her determination and entrepreneurial spirit.
Martin’s flair for fashion began in childhood, influenced by her seamstress grandmother, who crafted beautiful, handmade garments. Inspired by these early experiences, Martin developed a keen eye for style and quality. In 2015, she began offering alteration services to fulfill a local need, quickly building a reputation for her skill and attention to detail. As her client base grew, so did her ambition to open her own boutique.
“Many girls told me they wanted a local shop where they could buy prom dresses,”Martin recalls. “I made it my mission to listen and deliver exactly what my customers were looking for.”
Today, Tennile’s is a one-stop shop for fashion lovers, featuring jeans by Judy Blue and Risen, bridalwear from Lillian West and Christina Wu, and formal dresses from leading designers like Jovani, Alyce Paris, Rachel Allan, and more. The boutique also stocks men’s wear, West Virginia–themed merchandise, and locally made items, ensuring there’s something special for everyone.
Martin’s creativity truly shines through her custom work, including personalized cowgirl hats and one-of-a-kind wedding gowns. Her willingness to experiment with new designs has cultivated a loyal customer base that appreciates her unique touch.
A signature advantage of Tennile’s Boutique is the on-site alterations service. “I’m here every day to ensure a perfect fit and a stressfree experience,” Martin says. This hands-on approach makes sure every client leaves feeling confident and assured.
Beyond clothing and alterations, Martin strives to inspire women and girls to pursue their own dreams. “This boutique is my wish come true,” she says. “Sometimes I have to pinch myself to believe it’s real.”
For more information on Tennile’s Boutique and Formals, including store hours and new arrivals, visit the website or stop by the store on your next trip to Summersville.
866 Broad Street, Summersville, tenniles.com, @tenniles on FB
READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S FALL 2025 ISSUE
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