Today we’d like to introduce you to Sara Plocker.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Sara Jane is a contemporary woman’s clothing boutique located in Old Town. I had been working at the Merchandise Mart in wholesale and worked part time at a clothing boutique in Lincoln Park. I went full time there assisting in buying and being their top salesperson. After a few years I decided to branch out on my own and open a store. I opened in Old Town with a partner in 2001. We parted ways in 2003 and I opened Sara Jane on Oak Street in 2003 on my own. The partner who kept the Old Town location went out of business within the year and I took the Old Town location back. Sara Jane has been thriving in Old Town ever since! We carry a wide array of merchandise and have something for everyone…every age, every size and every price point…there is always something or everyone.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The biggest struggles along the way were going in business with the wrong partner and navigating that situation, employees and 2008-2009 during the financial crisis. All three have been trying but great learning experiences.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
We are an independent clothing boutique specializing in unique items. We try to carry newer designers and merchandise you won’t find all over or at department stores. We have a lot of fun events and parties, wine tastings, fashion shows etc…
We want to make every person that walks through our door feel great and welcome. We have every price point and every size, so there is literally something for everyone. We also carry a lot of great gift items such as funny tea towels, makeup bags and tons of accessories.
I think what sets us apart is what we carry and how we try to make everyone feel that comes in. We play great music, we serve a lot of wine and it’s always a fun time.
What were you like growing up?
If you asked my mom, she would say I always wanted my own store. I have always been into clothes and fashion and I always had a great eye. I didn’t always have the most to spend, but I knew how and where to find exactly what I wanted. I think that is what I still do today… I seek out where to find the best value for the coolest pieces. I am not moved by labels or designers, I am moved by the piece and the value for what it is.
I have always been outgoing and a people person, so having a retail store is right up my alley. And I have always gone to the ‘beat of a different drum’ so that works for making this store unique. I have also always been conscientious of people’s feelings so I feel like that lends itself to always making people feel comfortable and welcome.
Pricing:
- Apparel anywhere from $48-$300
- Accessories from $18-$200
- Gift Items from $12-$100
Contact Info:
- Address: 1343 N Wells Street,
Chicago, IL 60610
Old Town - Website: www.shopsarajane.com
- Phone: 312-335-1962
- Email: sarajanechicago@gmail.com
- Instagram: sarajanechicago
- Facebook: Sara Jane
- Twitter: @sarajanechicago
- Yelp: Sara Jane
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
