Wellness studio/boutique opens in former brewery space downtown

March 12, 2025

A new business focused on wellness with an element of retail opens this week on the east side of downtown.

Longtime downtown business owner Chelsea Giedd, who operated Chelsea’s Boutique for years, has partnered with Whitney Ullom to create Conscious Connections at 434 E. Eighth St. in the former Covert Artisan Ales & Cellars space. Covert is planning to open a tasting room at its west-side brewery.

Conscious Connections blends a workout studio with a “dynamic wellness sanctuary where individuals come to reconnect with their bodies, awaken their creativity and aliveness, find healing and build authentic, meaningful relationships — with themselves and others,” Giedd said in a statement.

“Every inch of our space has been thoughtfully designed, from the invigorating natural elements to the welcoming, cozy corners. Our space fosters an atmosphere where individuals can simply be — without judgment, stress or pressure.”

The space includes a curated boutique offering her signature boho clothing along with wellness and spiritual items “chosen to  align with our vision of holistic living,” she said.

“This boutique is more than just a collection — it’s an extension of our commitment to nurturing the mind, body and spirit, and is designed to beautifully complement your journey of self-care and creativity.”

Giedd sold her boutique in 2023 after 14 years in business. Ullom grew up in Flandreau and graduated from the University of Sioux Falls before spending many years in Los Angeles working in both the entertainment and wellness fields. She has worked as a somatic facilitator, trauma resolution guide and artist, specializing in helping individuals reconnect with their bodies, creativity and innate vitality.

“At Conscious Connections, we’re creating more than just a space — this is a living, breathing sanctuary,” Ullom said. “It’s a place where individuals can come to explore themselves more deeply in ways that haven’t been available in Sioux Falls before. This is a space for transformation — where healing, creativity and community intersect to support each person on their unique journey.”

The grand opening runs today through Sunday and offers complimentary classes:

• Awakening Breathwork to energize and center your spirit.
• Somatic Yoga to gently honor your body.
• Wild Movement to awaken and release stuck energy.
• Sacred Stretch to encourage relaxation and deep release.
• Somatic Self Discovery to calm the nervous system and invite in peace.

There also are discounts on class packages. Going forward, Conscious Connections plans to offer things like 30-minute wellness breaks during lunch hours, creative workshops, date nights, themed dance nights, and classes and workshops for spiritual growth.

“Our mission is to create a space where individuals are not only seen and heard but deeply supported in their journey toward peace, healing and connection,” Giedd said. “It’s a place where people can feel grounded and understood, and where the beauty of simply being together is celebrated.”

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