The Blaine County Journal News-Opinion - We've Got The County Covered

Last Wednesday at ten o'clock in the morning, Prairie Pieces Boutique opened at 330 Indiana Street in the former location of All Dahl'ed Up to celebrate its soft opening. Under the proprietorship of Emilee Unruh, the new shop will hold a Grand Opening event on Saturday, June 24 from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Unruh became the official owner of Prairie Pieces Boutique on May 23. A 2016 graduate of Chinook High School, she claims that owning her own business is something she has always wanted to do. "This is such a great opportunity, and I look forward to meeting the clothing needs and wants of people in the area," Unruh stated.

In her new role, Unruh has been especially grateful for all of the support, encouragement, and positive feedback from other business owners. "I so appreciate the support system I have-not only from friends and family but from other business owners who are willing to answer questions and provide advice and suggestions."

Although Unruh purchased the inventory that Kadie Wilderness Dahl had acquired, she rearranged the store and has supplemented with additional home décor, as well as hand soaps, lotion, body wash, and diffusers. Unruh also hopes to continue developing her clothing/apparel line for "outfits that look good, feel good, and inspire confidence. I want to help everyone feel as beautiful as they are," she said.

When asked what expertise she brings to her new venture, Unruh explained that she has not only lived on the Hi-Line all of her life-spending time in the Turner, Harlem, Havre, and Chinook communities-but that she has developed a network of ideas based on the Western and conservative style, getting a feel for people's preferences. "I sold out on several items during my soft opening, so that was really exciting," she commented. "Knowing that I am investing in myself and in my community is also rewarding."

Unruh went on to add: "I'm a people pleaser, and I hope to play to a wide range of ages and styles, as well as to offer homey and Western-themed items-things fitting for the area. I want to carry clothing that is comfy, classic, and chic."

While considering a name for her boutique, Unruh tossed around several ideas, including Wild Worn, but says she kept returning to the idea of Prairie Pieces. "We're surrounded by prairies and wheat fields, so grain stalks had to play a role in my logo," she said. "That name just rang true to me. I'm part of this place, and this place is part of me."

According to this ambitious young woman, she has a lot going on. "I will marry Chet Shrauger this fall, so I'm in the middle of planning a wedding for September 23."

Unruh is also the mother of two sons: Kaysen, who's one, and Keevin, who is six. In the words of their mother, both boys are "rough and rowdy" and love being outdoors and playing in the dirt.

"Keevin's favorite things are riding dirt bikes and doing chores on the farm for Lesli. Whether it's cleaning the chicken coop, gathering eggs, or working with the sheep, Lesli has nothing but good reports on Keevin's help and interest."

Married to Scott Snider, Lesli is Unruh's aunt. Together the couple runs Snider Cattle Company near Turner, Montana.

After being prompted to share words of wisdom about business ownership, Unruh laughed and said: "I don't think I have acquired any yet."

On a more serious note, she suggested: "If you have something you want, just go for it. Starting and owning a business is hard; it takes a lot of confidence. But you have to take the opportunities in front of you and follow your dreams."

Her biggest challenge as a business owner so far has been the decision-making demands. "I'm basically indecisive, so making a decision and going with it has been difficult, but I'm getting better," Unruh claims. "My fiancé will testify to that character trait, as he moved a lot of furniture and several displays repeatedly before I decided where I wanted things!"

Unruh invites the community to come in and see the store's new look and inventory during her grand opening on June 24. Wine Mimosas, as well as orange juice, soft drinks, and sparkling water will be provided by the Pastime Bar, and Debbie Ramberg will be making hors d'oeuvres.

"If something interests you and you don't find it in the inventory, let me know, and I will do my best to locate it," Unruh concluded.