[button color=”silver”] By Cordillera Ranch Resident Celeste McCabe[/button]
I opened my boutique in Boerne in 2005. I wanted to cater mostly to women over 30 and baby boomers, like myself, that have difficulty finding stylish clothing. We carry what I call “Hill Country Casual,” stocking clothing pieces that are perfect for a night at the country club, as well as great items for everyday wear. Celeste also has a large selection of shoes. Brands like Toms and Sam Edelman are especially popular among our younger customers. Our handbag selection is legendary; no one can beat our prices!
In 2008, my sister moved to Boerne and I talked her into becoming my partner. She’s been a real asset to the business, and takes care of all the bookkeeping. (Not my favorite job!) It’s also been really fun having her around.
How did your business get started? Describe your background.
I started in Dallas, working part time while going to school. After that, I worked in management for Frost Brothers in Corpus Christi, and later opened a store there. After a few years of that, I decided to move to Chicago and try my hand at designing. I opened a store in Chicago as an outlet for my designs. The store was successful from the beginning, but the designing became a chore, so I decided to stop manufacturing and concentrate on retailing.
What made you choose to open a business in the retail industry?
I grew up on a farm in south Texas, my mother shopped at a store called Lichtenstein’s in Corpus Christi. It was the most glamorous place I’d ever seen as a child. I was hooked; it’s all I ever wanted to do since then.
Why did you choose to open a business in the Boerne area?
When my husband retired, we decided to move to Texas. We considered the Austin and Wimberley areas and didn’t find anything. Then, while driving back to San Antonio, we happened upon Cordillera. No other place can match it for beauty or value. My husband is really enjoying his retirement, but I’m not ready to retire. I have too much fun working!
What’s the best thing about your job?
There are so many things. We travel to markets in New York, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles on a regular basis. It is always fun to find special items that bring the excitement of fashion to our store and make us unique. I also like the creativity involved in owning a store. The window displays are a pet project of mine.
What/to whom do you attribute the success of your business?
We have a wonderful staff. They are all hard workers, but we have a great time. That translates to our customers. People often tell me how much fun they had shopping at Celeste. I am also lucky to have the best store manager I’ve ever had. I’ve definitely been blessed.
Do you have advice for anyone who’d like to start a small business in this area?
Yes, do it! Boerne has grown so much since we opened. It’s a great town for business.
Any other information you want to add?
Just an invitation to everyone to shop local. Boerne has a great group of privately owned small businesses, each with their own special personality. You will be surprised and amazed!
Hope to see you on Main Street!
