Opening a boutique can be a daunting task. Add a global pandemic into the mix, and most small business owners would want to throw in the towel.
For Heidi Malone, owner of Sugarbabes Boutique in Pittsboro, Indiana, she was up for the challenge and even recently moved to a new, larger location.
How It Began
After many years in the racing industry, which brought Heidi Malone to the Indianapolis area, she dreamed of a change of pace from the corporate world. Heidi had a desire to be a small business owner, which would also allow her more flexibility with her daughter, Cali.
Her love of fashion led her to open an online clothing boutique. To test the waters in the community, she also attended local markets. These steps led to the founding of Sugarbabes Boutique.
Sugarbabes Boutique, named after nicknames Heidi’s grandfathers used, quickly gained a following online and in Hendricks County.
The popularity led to Heidi opening a small storefront on Main Street in the heart of Pittsboro.
Popularity Earns Sugarbabes Larger Storefront
Comfortable, casual clothing at an affordable price is what attracts customers to the boutique. Heidi's hope is to provide fashion for teens and women of all ages.
After three years in its original location, a more spacious storefront became available just down the street with better visibility for Sugarbabes Boutique.
The extra space has enabled Malone to add additional sizes to her women's apparel options. Sugarbabes now carries women's sizes adult extra small through 3x.
My favorite part of the shopping experience at Sugarbabes was that I could touch and feel the mix of fabrics from fleece to flannel to denim. KanCan and Judy Blue jeans are popular pieces at the boutique, along with graphic tees and athleisure wear.
Shopping online can't compete with an in-person shopping experience like Heidi offers.
With Heidi's daughter, Cali, now a middle school cheerleader at Tri-West Middle School, Sugarbabes has become the go-to small business for Tri-West apparel and hats. Offered in sizes youth through 3x, Heidi creates the designs and does the embroidery work for the shop.
More than Apparel
In addition to the gorgeous clothing offered at Sugarbabes, Heidi has partnered with Midwestern moms with small businesses of their own.
The Earring Shoppe, based out of Hendricks County, sells a variety of seasonal earrings, with something for all the shoppers on your list.
Heidi is also working with the Pittsboro Candle Company on a signature scent for Sugarbabes. This locally-based candle company also sells smelly jelly air fresheners in the storefront.
Thistle Farms essential oil roll-ons are a new offering at the boutique. Thistle Farms gives back a portion of their sales to help women who have faced life traumas.
Giving Back
Heidi and her family love being a part of the Pittsboro community. This love for small town is evident as Sugarbabes Boutique is seen throughout the county at events such as the Pittsboro Fourth of July parade and the Pittsboro Farmers Market.
Their booth display brings the appeal and accessories to the customers. You'll often catch Heidi at most Tri-West athletic events. The Malone family gives a percentage of the profit back to the schools.
Whether you are looking for a personal shopping experience with local roots or the perfect gift for the special someone in your life, Sugarbabes Boutique is a great option for your shopping needs.
