ASHLAND — Megan Steffen started in business 13 years ago, as a retail store manager.
She had two little boys, but when she found out she was having a girl, she taught herself how to make bows. Steffen started selling them at farmer’s markets; from there, things just grew.
Now, she says she is the “owner and creator” at Whoopsie Daisy Bowtique — and Steffen’s business just expanded again.
This time, Whoopsie Daisy Bowtique has a new space three times the size of its old one, located in downtown Ashland.
“It feels really good and really scary at the same time,” Steffen said. “We just keep growing. I’m very happy our community has supported me all this time.”
A crowd of about 25 people attended a ribbon cutting to celebrate the new space and reopening of the business on Sept. 7.
Balloons and a pizza truck were set up outside, cupcakes aplenty sat in one of the back rooms, and Disney music played throughout the store as people made purchases.
“We appreciate that you’re realizing a dream and you’re realizing it right here in Ashland, Ohio,” said Amy Daubenspeck, the president of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce at the ribbon cutting.
Sandra Tunnell, the executive director of Ashland Main Street, added she was thankful Steffen’s business is staying in Ashland as it grows.
The new space
The new location boasts a spacious storefront filled to the brim with all of Steffen’s creations. Those include bows galore, along with mermaid dolls, clothes, earrings and more.
It also has two back rooms: Steffen filled one with create-your-own spa and create-your-own stuffed animal stations. The other is set up with a space for birthday parties.
As a mom herself, Steffen said she knows places to host children’s birthday parties are a niche that could use more filling in Ashland.
She said she’s already booked several parties, and the space could be used for either boys’ or girls’ birthdays.
Steffen also said she plans to use the space to offer classes, like a stained glass class and a cookie decorating class.
Her business has always centered on community, she said. Steffen said she makes spirit wear for a slew of local schools: Mapleton, Ashland, Black River, Hillsdale and Crestview.
She also regularly does “yard carts” to raise money for community members or activities. Steffen put on the Miss Ashland contest and said she has sponsored local sports teams in the past. All of it comes back to her love for where she lives.
“I just love Ashland,” Steffen said. “And if you ask for anything, the answer is probably yes.”
The boutique’s new location is at 126 E. Main Street. According to its website, the store is open from 12-5 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, and from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.
