Bonnie Rae Boutique builds community through fashion and family roots
Courtney Biggs has always had a love for fashion — a passion that was born during shopping trips with her grandmother, Bonnie Rae Biggs. That inspiration led to the creation of Bonnie Rae Boutique, which officially launched online on August 15, 2020.
“Bonnie Rae Boutique is named after my grandmother, Bonnie Rae Biggs. She could out-shop anyone. I always say I got my love for shopping from her,” Biggs said.
Though Biggs earned a sports management degree from Western Kentucky University, she said her passion for clothing and retail always ran deep. After working at a local boutique for six years following college, she took a leap and launched Bonnie Rae during the pandemic.
“Bonnie Rae Boutique was a unique situation opening up during COVID. When we first opened all of our sales were online, but once things began to open back up, we were able to attend many markets and pop-up events,” she said. “We have been able to expand our reach and ship to 32 states. We are looking to attend more markets and pop-up events around the state.”
The boutique started with women’s clothing and has expanded over the years to include a wide range of accessories. Biggs said she focuses on offering quality pieces at affordable prices, and the store features everything from dressy work attire to casual, comfy looks. Free shipping and local delivery are part of the appeal.
“I always carry pieces that are perfect for game days. And I would say the pieces I choose for spring and summer have a beach vibe,” she said. “My three favorite things are fashion, sports, and being at the beach. I think you can tell that in the pieces I pick out for Bonnie Rae.”
Biggs is a Daviess County High School graduate who still helps coach softball at the school alongside her father. She said the boutique allows her to blend her interests and build meaningful connections with customers and fellow business owners.
“Even though we are an online boutique, I have met so many amazing people through this business. So many customers have become more like family, and other business owners have become some of my best friends,” she said. “I have been able to support many local organizations by making donations. Small businesses really are the heart of your community.”
Biggs credits her parents for helping every step of the way — from steaming clothes and packing orders to setting up booths at pop-up events.
“None of this would be possible without my parents’ love and support,” she said.
Bonnie Rae Boutique can be found online at bonnieraeboutique.com, where customers can shop and sign up for text alerts to receive early access to new arrivals and discounts. The boutique is also active on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok under the handle @shopbonnieraeboutique.
“When you shop small, you’re allowing people to fulfill their dreams along with helping the community grow,” Biggs said.
The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Chamber has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.
Today, with nearly 1,000 members, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives and serves as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region.
To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Kitty Jones, director of membership, at 270-926-1860 or kjones@owensboro.com.
By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times