From the Editor-In-Chief

Boutique seems to be a theme in this September/October issue. A few of my favorite local retailers are highlighted further in the pages, Hyde Park Gourmet Food and Wine, and the Rug Gallery. However boutique is probably the wrong wood to try and describe either of these businesses. Both offer expansive selections and are nationally well known in their respective industries.

The Rug Gallery of Cincinnati founder Sam Presnell started quaintly, buying a rug and reselling it based on interest, which turned into an entrepreneurial passion in 1972. That passion has grown into aspirations for cutting offering the best products and customer service in the area. Cutting edge, they have stayed ahead of the curve and become nationally known in the industry for helping to lead the way in shaping new flooring styles and trends.

Similarly, Hyde Park Gourmet Food and Wine offers one of the largest wine selections in a small intimate environment. Again with a focus on highlighting specialty brands and a focus on customer service (I’m seeing a trend here), Hyde Park Gourmet has carved a large market in the small storefront on Hyde Park Square.

While I am friends and customers of both businesses, it was so much fun to work closely with both teams and help put their articles together. By the end of our issue, I think the new idea of a ‘boutique’ store will mean unique, trendsetting, customer service oriented small businesses.