BACK WHEN she was a student, Jennifer Jordan Thompson examined every detail of the photo in her marketing book. The overhead spotlights illuminated a stage where rows of picture-perfect models were debuting the latest fashion trends. Vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and the daring cuts of the designs mesmerized Jordan Thompson. She noted how the fabrics sparkled beneath the flashes of dozens of cameras across the audience. Her breath caught in her throat as she marveled at the creativity and innovation of the designers. Oh, to one day be seated in that audience as a buyer herself.
Though she earned a degree in fashion merchandising, she spent 15 years in finance and accounting before moving back to Shelbyville in the spring of 2005. She longed for something beyond crunching numbers and studying bank ledgers. Jordan Thompson’s friends and family routinely questioned her, “When are you going to open your own boutique?”
“As a child, I wanted to be a designer and buyer of women’s clothing,” Jordan Thompson recalled. “I was fascinated with all aspects of the fashion world, and I wanted to do it all.”
At the insistence of those who knew and loved her, on Aug. 1, 2005, she opened J Jordan Boutique at 104 Public Square E. across from the historic Bedford County Courthouse.
“Thanks to a great team of employees and family members, this year we will celebrate 25 years in business. This is a milestone to be celebrated for sure! The Shelbyville Woman’s Club hosts the spring and fall fashion shows at the RiverBend Country Club, which is a wonderful opportunity to show the latest trends and fashions.”
Now that she’s achieved her own dreams, she helps others to look and feel beautiful as they work to achieve theirs.
Jordan Thompson said, “My favorite part of the job is helping customers pick out an outfit for a special event or putting together a wardrobe for work or travel. My mission is to help women feel good and confident about themselves in what they are wearing. When I go to the market, I keep my customers in mind, as well as the season and events coming up. I like to visualize my customers wearing the latest trends to their special event.”
The location of J Jordan Boutique places the boutique within the buzz of near constant activities such as seasonal festivals, late night walks around the square hosted by the chamber of commerce, Halloween trick-or-treaters, monthly cruise-in car shows, the Christmas and Veterans Day parades, and other festivities that bring the community right to Jordan Thompson’s doorstep.
“I’ve always loved having my own business and being part of a small community. I especially love being on the square where there is a hometown atmosphere,” said Jordan Thompson. “It’s so much fun when lots of people are strolling around. There are special fun times when the merchants give back to the community, such as handing out candy at Halloween. Each year, we give out over 1,500 pieces of candy to the kids who come by. Christmas is fun, too. First Community Bank sponsors Small Business Saturday on the square. They present opportunities for people to win gift certificates. I remember as a child shopping on the square at Castner Knott and Mrs. Christian would help me, my sisters, and mom pick out our dresses for Easter. Mrs. Christian was an inspiration to me with how pleasant she was. She seemed to love helping people.”
J Jordan Boutique offers the latest trends in women’s clothing, shoes, purses, jewelry, gifts, and more. GN
Stop in today, follow the boutique on Facebook and Instagram, or go to www.jjordanboutique.com.
