Millie’s & Co. owners decide to close shop
A shopper peruses dresses at Millie's. Roanoke Times file photo by Sam Dean
The trendy, girly clothing boutique Millie’s & Co. in downtown Salem will close Tuesday.
The owners, mother and daughter Ann Wolfer and Sarah Wolfer-Ferguson, said running the store just became too much for them.
“Any small business takes a lot out of you, and you’re always worrying,” Wolfer-Ferguson said.
They contemplated selling the business, but decided they weren’t willing to stick it out until a buyer came along.
The pair bought the business more than six years ago. They frequently shopped at the store together and talked about how fun it would be have their own store. That opportunity came during a conversation with Millie’s former owner, who told Wolfer-Ferguson she was looking to sell.
The store is having a sale now, and much of the merchandise has already been sold, Wolfer-Ferguson said.
January 27, 2012 - 9:00 AM
That’s so sad!!! I loved that place!!
There’s a lot more to running a retail establishment then the casual observer can comprehend. Especially someone who’s never worked retail!
It should be a requisite for everyone to work retail some time in their life. Attitudes would sure change!
Hating to see any business person having to close, and wishing them a smooth transition.
Noticed today that the Sprint store at Oak Grove Plaza was being gutted. Are they closing or just remodeling?
@david: They closed today for renovations and will reopen Feb. 3 at 9 a.m.
Best of luck to the couple in their transition into something new. Running a retail business or a restaurant is extremely hard, lots of people just would never understand HOW hard. Let’s hope their dreams were realized and they enjoyed the experience…
I wish someone would open an Olive Garden in Salem.
I always thought that Mama Maria’s was far better than any franchised Italian themed restaurant. Their salads might not be as huge and filling, but their entrees are always very good. Really, I don’t know what more you could want in Italian dining in the RoVa than you get at Mama Maria’s.
Millies & Co. was quite high-end. I enjoyed browsing the unique items offered there but couldn’t afford to shop there on a regular basis.
#7 abdnva –
I absolutely concur….you hit the mark right on target! LOVE Mamas!!
LOL @abdnva… not a couple… mother and daughter.