Ten years ago, Ramona Welch took a leap of faith, transforming a vision into reality. What started as a small custom printing business has evolved into Urban Mills Boutique, a premier shopping destination in Lebanon. As the boutique celebrates its 10-year anniversary, Ramona reflects on her journey—one filled with hard work, dedication, and a deep love for fashion and community.
A lifelong resident of Hartsville, Ramona spent 15 years as a teacher in the Trousdale County School System before stepping away from education to become a local trendsetter in 2015. Urban Mills Promotions and Boutique, initially focusing on custom screen printing, embroidery, and promotional products, but her business quickly grew, and in April 2017, she moved to the Historic Downtown Square. This shift allowed her to expand into a carefully curated boutique featuring one-of-a-kind brands that reflect her unique style.
Urban Mills Boutique carries one-of-a-kind clothing, stunning jewelry and accessories from local artisans, and will soon introduce the Brighton Jewelry line. Beyond fashion, the boutique offers gift items, home décor, and cowhide rugs, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Ramona and her team specialize in helping customers find the perfect outfit for any occasion—weddings, vacations, parties, a night out in Nashville, or even the Kentucky Derby, complete with statement-making Derby hats. But beyond the stylish clothing, what truly sets the boutique apart is its warm, personalized shopping experience. Over the years, Ramona has built lasting friendships with her customers, many of whom she considers family.
"I love hearing their stories, celebrating their milestones, and being part of their lives,” she shares. “They’re way more than customers—they’re my people.” Events like Ladies’ Nights and special gatherings make Urban Mills more than just a boutique—it’s a place where women can connect, celebrate, and feel their best.
This is all possible because of Ramona’s incredible team. “I hear it all the time—our customers love my team,” she says, “They’re family.” Alongside her dedicated employees, her husband, Andy, has been by her side every step of the way. After 41 years of marriage, he’s even developed a keen eye for fashion, often accompanying Ramona on market trips. She also credits her daughter, Carly, for encouraging her to expand into boutique fashion. When she’s not at the shop, Ramona enjoys gardening, relaxing by the pool, and spending cherished time with her four grandchildren.
Ramona’s greatest inspiration is her mother, a 90-year-old powerhouse who still drives, works a few hours a day, and never stops praying for and supporting her family. “She is so precious,” Ramona says. “I hope I inherited her good genes!”
Recently, Ramona was shocked and deeply honored to receive the Woman of Excellence Award at the Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce Banquet. Though she still lives in Hartsville, Wilson County has embraced and supported her business in incredible ways. “I love being part of this community and giving back to it,” she says.
As Urban Mills Boutique celebrates 10 years, Ramona says she’s overwhelmed with gratitude for the customers, employees, and family who have supported her journey. To say thank you, the boutique is hosting a 10-Year Birthday Celebration during the first full week of May, with special events, exclusive promotions, and exciting surprises.
“Looking back, I can’t believe it’s been 10 years,” Ramona says. “Looking forward, I’m excited for many more. Thank you, God—I am so grateful and blessed.”