Anne Higgins owns a beautiful and unique European boutique in the heart of downtown Owensboro. In this highlight she explains her journey of becoming an entrepreneur and raising a family in this community that she would describe as having “a small town feel with big city amenities.”
Anne Higgins
Are you originally from Owensboro? If not, when did you move to Owensboro? Why did you move here?
I grew up in a small town in Kansas. While I was attending Kansas State University, I met my husband, Sean. He was active duty military and stationed at Ft. Riley. The rest, as they say, is history. He eventually landed at the US Army Reserve Center here 17 years ago and we decided that Owensboro would become “home” for us and that we would raise our family here. With the exception of two years spent in Germany, we have been here ever since!
What is your favorite thing about living in Owensboro?
Owensboro is the perfect sized city to raise a family. There is such a strong sense of community here. We have beautiful parks and outdoor spaces including Smother’s Park downtown. There are cultural opportunities such as the RiverPark Center, the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, and the International Bluegrass Museum, that are generally found in larger cities. Owensboro offers small-town living with big city amenities.
What is your favorite thing about owning a business in Owensboro?
My favorite part of owning a business here is that my customers are my friends! We are connected in ways that reach beyond the walls of my store and it is a true joy to see them walk through my doors! The people of Owensboro support their local businesses and local businesses support each other. This has been especially evident during the past month, or so, as we have been dealing with COVID19.
What would you say to someone thinking about moving to Owensboro?
I know as well as anyone that it can be hard “breaking-in” in a small, close-knit community like Owensboro. However, you don’t have to have been born and raised here for Owensboro to be “home” and to enjoy friendships and create lasting connections. My best advice…get involved in things that excite you…explore the area and all it has to offer. You will meet people and develop those relationships.
How do you enjoy spending your free time/weekends in Owensboro?
We enjoy going downtown to eat and to enjoy the park with our adult children and grandchildren. My husband and I are Owensboro Symphony Orchestra season ticket holders and look forward to their performances throughout the year.
Why did you choose to open your business downtown?
In European cities, the downtown is the heart of the city. It is where people gather and enjoy life. It is the same here in Owensboro. I love the downtown culture. People are out walking, shopping, and dining outside in the sunshine. As more people begin to live downtown, and as we continue to develop our downtown, this culture will continue to evolve. So, for me, a downtown location was the most authentic place for a European boutique.
