Lady Asher is a new upscale boutique that opened in the Gaslamp Quarter in November. The store is the brainchild of Mahbod Ghods and Zari Godwin. Godwin said that Asher means “happiness” and “success.” The boutique is all in the family because Ghods is married to Godwin’s brother. She has a degree in interior design and, until recently, had a store with her husband selling furniture, accessories and fine rugs. Godwin lives in Houston, but comes here for one week every month. She said that after coming to downtown San Diego for nine years to visit a friend, she decided to open a business in the Gaslamp Quarter. Godwin graduated from school with a dual major as a computer programmer and business manager. After two weeks of working as a computer programmer Godwin said, “I need to be with people.” She promptly quit and opened a boutique in Salado, Texas. One of her clients was the family of President Johnson who would helicopter in a block away and shop in her store. She went on to open more stores in Houston and even dressed the Bush family from head to toe. The interior of the store is beautiful, with laminated wood and custom cabinets. The upscale merchandise is different than department stores, with much of it hand picked from Europe. New merchandise comes in every week. Godwin and Ghods said they wanted to attract customers from age 18 to 65 years old. Godwin said the difference in running a store between the two cities is that Houston is very cosmopolitan (rated eighth biggest in U.S.) with huge galas, parties and oil people. The customers are totally different. San Diego is more laid back with a casual chic attitude. People dress elegantly but comfortable. Ghods and Godwin said they are planning a grand opening in March. The store is located at 435 J St.