Three years ago, Main St. didn’t have too many things going on. A few businesses lined the street. Most of them were hoping and waiting for other shops and boutiques to join them. Local residents needing gifts or clothing often had to drive out of town. In November 2013, things changed. Jenny Holmquist opened Random Boutique and Main St. continued it’s transformation.
Jenny’s husband Billy fell in love with Superior after working on the movie U-Turn. When they finished filming he began purchasing properties and fixing them to rent the buildings to other businesses and agencies. Jenny was reluctant to believe Billy’s enthusiasm but then she began to see the opportunities growing in Superior and she found the building that she wanted for her boutique.
The Random Boutique building once housed a jewelry store, an accounting office and trophy engraving store. Eventually the owners of the building sold it to Billy and Jenny and he set off to remodel and restore the building to become the Random Boutique. Everyone watched and waited to see what would become of the old building which was painted green and purple. During the construction process Jenny was talking with local residents on what they might want and need from a clothing store in Superior. She researched vendors to find clothes that not only would sell in Superior but would also be affordable for just about all budgets.
Random Boutique features an assortment of women’s clothing and accessories for all shapes and sizes. Scarves, earrings, socks, necklaces, sun glasses. You never know what you will find to complete your outfit. In addition to clothing and accessories, Random Boutique has an eclectic assortment of humorous signs, home decor, candles and accessories for pets. For the Superior Panther fan, she has blinged out shirts, visors, hats and car stickers. Local residents of Superior also receive a five percent discount on their purchases.
Jenny has worked in various retail establishments throughout her career. She always wanted to open a store that would reflect things that she thought people would like. She also wanted the freedom to use her creativity in her boutique, not just design someone else’s vision. Jenny has been instrumental in collaborating with her fellow business owners to organize and promote the Second Friday events in downtown Superior.
Jenny’s advice to her fellow entrepreneurs and future business owners: “The locals are your best customers, treat them well and listen to their suggestions. Most importantly listen to other’s points of view, even if you don’t think you can use it,” she explained.
The “In Your Biz” column is sponsored weekly by the Superior Chamber of Commerce in an effort to further promote their business members. To learn more about the Superior Chamber of Commerce you can visit their website www.superiorarizonachamber.org or call them at 520-689-0200. The Chamber meets the third Wednesday of every month at their building 165 Main St. in Superior, Arizona. Those planning on attending the Chamber luncheons do need to RSVP prior to the meeting, please call Deb McKee to RSVP at 520-827-1773.