GALION — Three local women enjoyed shopping at a local boutique so much they purchased the business.
Donnetta Lester, along with sisters Amanda Wiggins and Melissa Cornwell, took over ownership of The Topia Boutique in May.
“I loved to shop at Topia, but it was not always open when I could get here,” said Wiggins.
Wiggins said Lester worked for the former owner, Amy Hoff, and she suggested they purchase the shop, formerly known as the Couture Topia Boutique.
“Amy started the business as a children’s clothing boutique, which was very successful. She then changed over to women’s clothing and had success with that, too,” Wiggins said.
Wiggins said she and Lester had a simple conversation about taking over the business in March.
“They told me what they wanted to do and it sounded like a fun adventure and great opportunity so I came aboard, too,” said Cornwell.
The trio did a soft opening of their store, now simply known as The Topia Boutique, through the month of June.
“We tripled the sales, so that was very encouraging,” said Wiggins.
The new owners closed the store June 30 to begin renovations and re-branding.
“We have purchased clothing from the Chicago fashion market as well as L.A. (Los Angeles). Eventually we will purchase from the New York market,too,” said Cornwell.
Wiggins said the store will offer high-quality women’s clothing, in all sizes and a variety of styles, at affordable prices.
“We want people to be able to purchase high-end L.A. style clothing at Galion prices. We are making the clothing affordable for our customers,” said Wiggins.
Wiggins said clothing for men and children may in the boutique’s future.
“Down the road, we may offer men’s and children’s clothing through an online store,” Wiggins said.
Lester said she and her two partners are excited about re-opening the store Friday.
“We are having a ribbon cutting at 10 a.m. Friday,” said Lester of the store, located at 242 Harding Way East.
For more information, call the store at 419-777-1123 or visit The Topia Boutique on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thetopiaboutique/?fref=ts.
