OKO, the beloved 30A-based retail brand known for its elevated, timeless style and purpose-driven roots, is celebrating its 10- year anniversary with a special in-store event on Thursday, May 14, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the 30Avenue storefront, located at 12805 US-98, Suite H101. Guests are invited to enjoy caviar and champagne while commemorating a decade defined by growth, meaningful relationships, and community impact.
Founded in 2016 by sisters Abbie Boatwright and Katie Frankum, OKO began with a simple but intentional goal: to build a local business together that reflected both their style and their values. Through prayer and a shared heart for the Dominican Republic — shaped by their father’s nonprofit, Global Effect — what started as a dream became a reality, one step at a time.
Shortly after opening, their mother, Vicki Steelman, joined the business and quickly became an integral part of OKO’s day-to-day operations and growth. Together, the family has built a brand that reflects not only their shared vision, but also their commitment to working side by side.
That early vision continues to define the brand today. OKO’s in-house clothing line is hand-cut and sewn in the Dominican Republic, creating meaningful employment opportunities while offering customers thoughtfully made pieces rooted in quality and purpose.
“Celebrating 10 years is a clear reminder of the Lord’s faithfulness and provision for our business, our families, and our employees both here and in the Dominican Republic,” said Boatwright and Frankum. “When we look back, we can see God’s hand so clearly in every season of this journey — it’s not something we could have created on our own. This gives us so much confidence and excitement for what’s ahead.”
Over the past decade, OKO has grown in both scale and impact. In its first six years alone, the brand expanded through five different store buildouts, ultimately finding its home in Rosemary Beach and 30Avenue — locations the founders say feel exactly right for their business.
While the storefronts have evolved, the heart of OKO has remained the same: people. The brand has cultivated a deeply loyal community, with many customers returning year after year. What began as customer relationships has often turned into genuine friendships—and even family, including one customer who later became a husband.
“From the beginning, we took a leap without knowing how any of this would unfold,” they said. “But one thing has always been clear—this business is about people. We want every person who walks through our doors to feel valued, appreciated, and confident. That has guided everything we’ve done.”
In an era dominated by fast fashion and online shopping, OKO has continued to stand out through its personal approach and commitment to customer experience. By listening closely to its customers, the brand has evolved its offerings while staying true to its signature elevated, timeless style.
That same intentionality extends beyond the store. OKO regularly gives back through financial and product donations, supporting organizations both locally and in the Dominican Republic—an ongoing reflection of the mission that first inspired the brand.
As OKO looks to the future, the focus is on thoughtful growth, including expanding the brand’s reach and enhancing its online presence, while preserving the personal, community-driven experience that has defined its first decade.
The anniversary celebration on May 14 offers a moment to reflect on the journey so far and celebrate what’s to come. Guests are invited to join OKO at 30Avenue for an evening of gratitude, connection, and celebration.
