After watching her daughter successfully open her boutique in Georgia, Sherry Fortner got the self-described business "bug" to get in on the boutique world.
Today, that's exactly what she's doing.
With an opening set for this fall in Ooltewah's Cambridge Square, Barn Door Boutique is well on its way to becoming a reality.
Fortner, a former school teacher of 30 years, is excited for the change of pace.
"I love people and I love to talk to people, and I like fashion," she said, so for her, the boutique offers a perfect combination.
Fortner already knows exactly what she wants for her store.
"I want to make my place so special that when people come through the door they say, 'Gosh, I want to come back here,'" she said. "I want it to have kind of a funky, rustic charm with a real kind of classy atmosphere."
Offering merchandise that complements her dreams for the space, Barn Door Boutique will feature clothing, jewelry and decor all focusing on a bohemian, country chic style that will include a variety of Southern-related shirts and hats.
"And I loved the community feel," Fortner added of her location in Cambridge Square. "I loved that it was a gathering place for people. I love to see people gathering together and getting along."
The boutique will add a retail element to the square that has previously been missing, and everyone is excited for it to open, said Jim Cheney, marketing and communications manager for the Cambridge multi-use development.
"Retail represents a new stage in development for us, and one that we have envisioned for Cambridge for a long time," he said. "It's great to have Ms. Fortner and her team on board."
For a preview on what the boutique will be offering, visit barndoorboutiquetn.com.