Gen Bouchard’s career in finance includes 11 years at SAC Capital and its successor, Point72.
She loved working with “super-smart, phenomenal” colleagues. However, she notes, “in hedge fund terms, that’s a long time.”
Starting out, she wore “plain Jane suits.” But SAC brought in a stylist, offering personalized fashion tips. Bouchard realized that “how you look determines where you go in life.”
Gen Bouchard
When she began raising 2 daughters — and faced her own health issues — Bouchard realized something else: The discussions she and her husband often had about starting their own business might lead to a new direction in life.
Bouchard met Lisa Kornstein, owner of the Scout & Molly’s women’s apparel boutique. Both had multiple sclerosis.
“Her story resonated with me,” Bouchard says. “She was passionate about raising funds for MS. I am too.”
On Saturday (April 2, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Playhouse Square), Bouchard celebrates the grand opening of Scout & Molly’s latest franchise.
“We have price points for everyone,” the new owner says. “And it’s a non-snooty atmosphere.”
Scout & Molly’s newest store, in Playhouse Square.
Bouchard’s disease was diagnosed 12 years ago. She did not tell anyone at SAC. “It was an intense atmosphere, with long hours,” she recalls. “I did not want to change how people reacted to me.”
Two years ago, she suffered an intense brain infection — fatal within 48 hours. She was treated in 46.
“SAC rallied behind me,” she says. “They were very kind.”
Yet as she worked from home — with 2 small kids — she realized, “this was a sign.” Bouchard left the hedge fund world.
“I sat at Granola Bar. Everyone was friendly. The women interacted well,” Bouchard says. “This area seemed like a perfect fit for our model.”
She soon found a storefront just a few feet away.
Saturday’s grand opening features food, music and giveaways. Everyone is welcome.
Including — especially — all the women from Bridgewater.