By: Mike Rhodes—
Muncie, IN—When Debbe Caine, owner of the Hayloft Boutique, decided to open her store downtown, she really did not know what to expect. Originally from Middletown, IN, Debbe moved to Florida in 1980 and spent time in the real estate business. Debbe moved back to Indiana and opened up the Hayloft Boutique a little over 2 years ago.
“One day I went shopping for fall clothes, and found prices to be a little high,” said Debbe. “So, the idea of the Hayloft Boutique was sort of born out of that experience. I wanted to do something different. I looked around at towns surrounding Muncie, and finally decided to start my business downtown. The downtown area seemed like it was growing, and I was excited to be part of the downtown experience.”
Debbe describes her inventory as being BOHO with a country flair. “BOHO” is a Bohemian, loose-fitting, free-flowing style of clothing. Debbe describes it as being very comfortable and casual, yet appropriate as business attire also. Especially her tops.
The Hayloft Boutique is also unusual as far as pricing goes. Debbe’s clothing is very affordable, even without discounts. Every week the Hayloft Boutique offers new inventory because they go through their inventory so quickly.
The ultra-comfortable sofa is just outside the fitting rooms, making it a favorite place for the men to hang-out, too.
“Everyone in Muncie has been very supportive of our shop,” she said. “We are very casual and laid back here. We just have a lot of fun. We have coffee going all the time and everyone loves the couch. I post many outfits on our Facebook site, so if you see something on our FB, just call us and we will ship it out the next day. We don’t charge for shipping.”
In addition to The Hayloft Boutique’s clothing offerings, Debbe also offers handbags, shoes, hats, and a variety of jewelry. Plus, they do after-hours parties for six or more women. There is no fee. “Just schedule with us, bring your friends over for 1-2 hours and have fun trying on all the clothing. We’re always happy to help put outfits together for you. We’ve had as many as 40 women in here at one time during an after-hours party.”
Debbe said, “I didn’t know how well we were going to do here in Muncie, even though I did have a store in Florida. Overall, it has been a great experience to be downtown. All of us work together to really promote each other’s businesses. When customers are in my shop, I try and point out other downtown businesses my customers might want to check out. We all help each other out and promote the downtown in general.
“I love the way we all work together downtown.”
Here’s what people are saying about the Hayloft Boutique:
I just stopped in to check out the store. And I had a wonderful conversation with the owner. We chatted over coffee (that she offers for free) for nearly 45 minutes. The atmosphere and the products are very nice! It’s a must see store in a great location in Downtown Muncie. Best of luck to the success of The Hayloft Boutique!—Charissa
I love this place – Literally just stopped in for a few things that I saw on her Facebook/website, and ended up staying a lot longer! Debbe is very friendly and helpful. I was amazed how everything just “fit” me perfectly. The Hayloft Boutique is a true gem to Muncie and the downtown area. As another small business owner, I appreciate the concept of shopping small and keeping business local. We will be back for sure!—Lauren
This is a TRUE GEM in the heart of Muncie’s downtown. My first time in, and I was amazed not only at the incredible, unique, and completely classy selection of clothing … but the personal attention, and top quality customer service given by the owner, Debbe was fantastic. Prices are totally affordable, and the quality of ALL the inventory she offers is by far above anything you’d find in a mall. Thank you, Debbe for sharing your vision and dream with the downtown community.—Lorri
