New Boutique adds vibrancy to Deep Run. Photo: Kristy Kelly / Neuse News.

DEEP RUN — A new shopping destination has emerged in Deep Run offering a unique blend of styles and items from various vendors. The Collective Boutique, located adjacent to The Farmhouse, opened its doors on March 29th, introducing a diverse range of clothing, accessories, gifts, and more to the local community.

Co-owners Marilyn Howard and Penny Harper have brought their entrepreneurial spirit to life with The Collective Boutique. Howard, owner of Parker Grace Boutique in Pink Hill, and Harper, a local business owner from Albertson, collaborated to create a space that showcases different styles and products from various online boutiques.

"We have different boutiques that are solely online that wanted to have a storefront, but they didn't want the expense of opening a storefront," explained Howard. "So this is just a gateway for them to see how it would work, to get their foot in the door into a storefront."

Harper added, "We've got about 30 artisans in there that were in a space and it's just a small fixture kind of thing. So it's a small footprint, but it's a small overhead for them too."

The Collective Boutique offers an array of products, catering to customers of all ages and preferences. From maternity and children's clothes to women's and men's clothing, accessories, outdoor furniture, and gift items, there's something for everyone.

"We wanted a little something for everybody," said Howard. "When the husbands and wives come shopping together, there's something for him as well as her. And if they bring their kids or grandkids, there's something for everybody."

Despite a tight timeline for preparation, the grand opening of The Collective Boutique was a resounding success, drawing overwhelming turnout and positive feedback from the community.

"I would have to say probably our grand opening," remarked Howard when asked about memorable experiences in the past few weeks. "Just the amount of turnout we had was overwhelming and wonderful."

For those eager to explore The Collective Boutique, operating hours are Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with extended hours until 7 p.m. on Thursdays. Saturday hours are from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the store is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

While the boutique currently only has a Facebook page for online presence, customers can visit the physical location at 3492 Old Hwy 11 in Deep Run for a unique shopping experience.