Carol Johnson, Southern Indiana Business Report
WASHINGTON – Alyssa Wagler started Top Notch Boutique in a mini-barn at her grandparents’ farm. She was fresh out of high school and her only business experience at the time was gained from working part-time jobs in retail and managing the Indiana Theater in downtown Washington.
Fast forward seven years and Wagler’s boutique has grown in size and selection. Now in its third location in downtown Washington, Top Notch Boutique carries women’s and men’s clothing and accessories, footwear, purses and a big selection of gifts.
Being a part of the downtown retail scene as well as serving customers are important to Wagler as her shop prepares for Small Business Saturday on Nov. 30.
From casual tops with a Western flair to dresses, Western boots, on-trend jewelry and graphic tees, Top Notch carries items that appeal to all ages and styles.
“We have a little bit of everything,” she said. “Whether you’re shopping for a granddaughter, yourself, or a last-minute gift, you can find something.”
Wagler moved to her current location at 423 E. Main St. two years ago. In addition to the storefront, Top Notch also has an online presence, a segment that has really taken off, she said. The boutique makes its own graphic tees and recently added embroidery services. Wagler said her husband has taken over that business segment.
In preparation for Small Business Saturday, Top Notch will have a stocking bar of stocking stuffers, a sale on shirts and graphics and customers will receive a free logo T-shirt with a purchase of $25 or more. Wagler will also have a selection of permanent jewelry.
By shopping small, consumers not only support that business, but also ensure that the store can maintain a staff of employees.
Wagler said she regularly supports local organizations such as athletic teams.
“It’s a great time to be in downtown Washington,” she said. “The farmers market brought a lot of people downtown and with the new Commons, that will bring more people downtown.”
Top Notch store hours
Top Notch is open 10-5 Tuesday through Friday, Saturday 10-3 and closed Sunday and Monday.
Shop Small Saturday
Discover Downtown Washington encourages shoppers to come downtown and shop small on Nov. 30. For every $10 spent in a participating store, shoppers will earn a raffle ticket for great giveaways and gifts.
The first 50 people to turn in a ticket will receive a Discover Downtown Washington T-shirt, sponsored by Shake Broadcasting and Sherwin-Williams.