By Moses Leos III

After twenty years of teaching, Karla Sonnek and Jeanne Jordan realized they needed a change of pace from the classroom.  

Opening a unique clothing boutique that appeals to the masses was their next venture. As a result, Wink Boutique on Main Street in Buda was born. 

“We have done a lot of research in trying to decide (to open a business),” Sonnek said. “We talked about it, and it was, ‘let’s just do it.” We are both at the end of our first career. This was the beginning of our next one.” 

Their trek toward becoming business owners began with finding their location. After searching the Austin area, they settled on a small house at 606 Main Street in Buda. 

However, a remodel was necessary to turn the house into the business of their dreams. Part of the remodel involved replacing the wall facing Main Street with panes of glass to make their merchandise visible. 

To fund the remodel, Jordan and Sonnek enlisted the help of Jordan’s husband, who shared their dream. The three pooled money to get the project off the ground. 

But there were obstacles before the clothing boutique could open. It took approximately one month to obtain permits to begin construction. 

Then, the construction itself was a struggle.

“The construction part was frustrating, because neither one of us (went through a remodel),” Sonnek said. “I went through building a house, and it was frustrating.” 

The next stumbling block was keeping to their initial budget. Start-up costs were “significant,” according to Jordan. That included purchasing merchandise for their boutique. 

“We have a sizeable investment in this building,” Jordan said. “It’s not a cheap process at all.” 

Despite the challenges faced, the duo’s vision of a hassle-free clothing store never waivered. 

Bringing a more intimate shopping experience to Buda, while not overwhelming their customers, was their goal.

They also strayed away from following customers around – a tactic some department boutiques employ. 

“We couldn’t do that kind of a store. We wouldn’t be happy,” Jordan said. “We are constantly looking for different ways to be a little more unique.” 

The exterior of the shop, particularly the manikins – nicknamed “the girls” – that are featured in the windows, bolsters the uniqueness. 

All items in the store are part of the fair trade movement. Visiting the World Trade Center in the Dallas Market Center helps keeps things fresh. 

It’s also where the two gained insight into the ins and outs of their venture. Talking with those in the boutique business provided critical information. 

“Everyone there has the same interest as you,” Sonnek said. “Those who have worked in boutiques for 30 years share their expertise.” 

Sonnek and Jordan decided they wanted to draw clientele of all age ranges and income levels. 

“We want a broad base, we don’t want to focus on age brackets or income brackets,” Jordan said. “We want it to be fun for everyone.” 

Their venture is now drawing clientele from as far away as Cibolo and New Braunfels. 

The two new business owners hope their business contributes to the revitalization of Main Street. 

“For some people it’s important that we are from Buda. They think we see promise in Buda. They are okay with that. It’s a big thing here,” Jordan said. “If people are going to Buda to shop (here), they are going to eat in Buda and go downtown. That’s something we can contribute from those other people coming in.”