Barbara Jon’s has grown so much, so quickly it has moved across the street
Karen Murray and Robin Davis.
by Amber Schmitz, Sumner Newscow — Wanting to be part of Wellington’s downtown district, Linn and Barbara Jon Shaffer decided to open a boutique at Barbara Jon’s three years ago. This October, the Shaffers moved their business across the street to a larger location at 104 N. Washington. People may remember it from the days when it was Wellington Sporting Goods.
“We are not even three years old yet, and have already moved to a larger location,” said Karen Murray, store manager, and sister of Barbara. “We keep adding lines, and if people ask for something, we can get it.”
Murray said in the old location — located right across the street — there was so much merchandise, it was crammed into the smaller store building, and customers couldn’t see all that they had to offer.
“You couldn’t walk down the aisles without knocking stuff over,” Murray said. “We had little room in the storage room, and stuff was really packed back there.”
The store carries a variety of products, including Tyler candles, Erin London clothing, candle bowls, jewelry, cards, Fiesta Ware, home decor, scarves, purses, baby items, gift and kitchen items.
Robin Davis makes wreaths and flower arrangements to sell in the store, and also helps with customer service. Shaffer does the bulk of buying merchandise, except for clothing, purses and jewelry, which Murray takes care of.
Murray said they’d come across some really good vendors who sell really good stuff at reasonable prices.
“Wellington was in a deep need of a boutique,” Murray said. “People were having to drive to Wichita to get what they needed. We have a good inventory, selection and price.”
Before they moved, they had a big sale with discounts between 50 to 90 percent off items.
In the future, Murray would like to add more lines, and possibly add shoes and furniture, if someone else doesn’t open up a store.
“If no one else opens up a furniture store, I will do it,” Murray said. “There are so many needs for the Wellington community.”
Linn Shaffer would like to add a year round Christmas store —  and have trees, ornaments and decorations available.
Barbara Jon’s is open six days a week, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. during the week, except Thursday, when it stays open until 7 p.m. On Saturdays, the business is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
