Local women recently gained an option to purchase clothing, jewelry and other items close to home.
A retail store called Sugar & Spice Boutique & Gifts opened its doors April 10 in the McCloud Center on U.S. 63 south of Houston.
“We offer a small, intimate place where ladies can come and look for an outfit for an evening out, casual wear, or just something to make them feel good,” said owner Brigette Wilson.
Sugar & Spice has an upscale appearance and carries several designer lines, including Tru Luxe Jeans and Nicole Richie’s House of Harlow Jewelry. But Wilson said the store can cater to people on virtually any type of budget.
“We offering things in various price ranges, so that anyone can come in and buy something,” she said.
Wilson is a long-time Winona resident whose retail background includes working as a pricing coordinator for a grocery store in Winona. She moved to Houston about a year ago after getting married, and is assisted in her new venture by local employees Katy Thurman and Dusti Turner.
“It has been going very well,” Wilson said. “We’ve had more traffic that I actually thought we would. I don’t really have experience in selling and clothing, but this is a passion I think every female has – the love of clothing and jewelry.
“I’m new in town, didn’t know a lot of people, and did some looking for a job but didn’t find one. I had the opportunity to be my own boss and do something I’ve always wanted to do, so I thought I’d better do it while I have the chance.”
Sugar & Spice is conducting a give-away in June for soon-to-be brides. To register to win a gift basket, women can bring in their wedding announcement or save-the-date card. A drawing will take place in July.
Store hours at are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“We offer quality clothing at an affordable price,” Wilson said. “New shipments come in all the time, so you won’t see the same thing every time you come in. And I only order a certain amount of each article of clothing, so not everyone is wearing the same thing.
“We try to make people feel comfortable when they come in. Dusti and Katy are both very people-oriented, and we’re willing to assist with whatever someone might need, whether it’s putting together and outfit, shopping for gifts, or anything else.”
For more information, call 417-967-7107.