We all remember the hugely successful 1992 movie “Sister Act.” This beloved, inspirational film is about a group of nuns finding their voices through the unlikely leadership of a showgirl.

Today, I present three examples of sister acts in our Village.

The Hens’ Kitchen Shoppe and Cheese Cave are not just businesses; they are powerful and dynamic examples of sisters working together to create novel enterprises full of heart and a lot of soul. The third example, Aromatique, is of a business owner promoting a “sister” business, adding a unique twist to the local business scene.

You all know The Hens’ Kitchen Shoppe. And if not, you need to! It is the go-to for everything practical for your kitchen and way beyond. It was founded in Upland in 2008 by Mary O’Brien and her good friends, and they eventually found their way to a coveted spot on Yale Avenue. Unfortunately, Mary died last year, but two sisters, like real sisters to Mary, continued to carry out this delightful shop’s fine reputation and legacy. Manager Kellie Wright and Corrie Kaspardlov’s window displays are engaging, and their shop offers entertainment and cooking giftware. They also feature candles, cards, and many other unexpected treasures you might not expect in a Village cook shop. The sisters love this town because of the “small-town feeling you get when shopping here.”

Cheese Cave, too, offers more than, well, cheese. Although handmade and cut-to-order cheeses are the star of the show, they also provide a great selection of natural wines, small-batch chocolates, and heirloom beans. Locally made pottery and cheese boards are on display as well. And don’t forget their grilled cheese sandwich for takeout every Friday. Fourteen years ago, Marnie and Lydia Clarke adventured to open Cheese Cave, which continues to be a unique service, like the cook shop, for our community and valley — a sought-out destination.

When Marnie was asked why Claremont was the place for their business, she said when she was young her dad would take her to Walter’s for a birthday waffle. Little did she know that someday their business would be right across the street. She and her sister considered Claremont the perfect spot because of the town’s many small businesses and the environment supporting them. Marnie and Lydia believe “cheese is a community” and “cheese is a conversation and a relationship you have with your customers.” They also value representing and supporting the cheese makers, farmers, and their families in their way of life.

Another local woman, Lori Paley, who has owned Aromatique Skin & Body Care in the Village since 1998, strongly believes in supporting her suppliers. One such “sisters” story features Jimenez Sisters Ranch, a line of goat milk body care and soaps from nearby Riverside, where three teenagers and their parents care for their goats and create beautiful goat-milk-based products. With a history of entrepreneurship, Lori began her first job at 12 and quickly found special places in her heart for these successful young women. You are invited to meet the Jimenez sisters at Aromatique during the Village Venture on Saturday, October 26. You will not be disappointed.

Bevin Handel, the City of Claremont’s enthusiastic public information officer, again reminded us that shopping locally supports Claremont’s unique philosophy, and importantly, keeps tax dollars here. Whether you are in the Village, or shopping in the markets, filling up your tank, or eating at our many fine restaurants, she wants you to remember small and large businesses in Claremont. “If you love a Claremont business, make sure you spend money there,” Bevin said. “We have lost some great businesses recently, and the best way to keep from losing more is to patronize those businesses frequently.” Your support can make a significant difference.

We love the dynamism and passion of our Claremont sister acts, and even if you don’t revisit the 1992 movie, please give a listen to the soundtrack. “I Will Follow Him” is one of my favorites.

This may sound cheesy, but how about we all follow The Hens’ Kitchen Shoppe, Cheese Cave, and Aromatique for some out-of-this-world experiences?