5 Questions with Moe Rouse of Mannequin Boutique
Moe Rouse is a bundle of energy. She has a lot going on and means to get even more done. One would have to have all of her energy to run a non-profit, up-scale, woman’s boutique that raises money to support 7 different charities. And then – just to add an interesting new twist…she decided to move the boutique to OTR and open it 52 times more often that it was in it’s last location.
Moe Rouse in her Boutique Mannequin at 1405 Vine
What do you do in Over-The-Rhine? I run an upscale woman’s boutique where all the profits go to charities…many in OTR: Tender Mercies, Foodstore Foodbank, Emanual Center
Why did you decide to set up business/work in OTR? I had to leave the location I was currently in, and my landlord, Rick Kimbler of Northpointe, introduced me to my current location. At 1405 Vine. It was such a marvelous renovation that I decided to go to 2 days a week instead of just 2 days of sales a year.
Is there anything that has surprised you about working or having a business in OTR? Let me count the ways!! The friendliness of those who live in OTR, the support of the other merchants, the activity of young professionals, the vibrancy of everything in OTR is amazing. And watching the changes in Washington Park, the SCPA, Music Hall and the old wonderful buildings getting new life as condos and apartments…well, it’s thrilling.
Do you have a favorite place you like to go in OTR? I do Jazzercise at Emanuel Center, love the food and energy of the Senate and Lavomatic, don’t miss a production of Ensemble Theatre and adore shopping at the many boutiques in the neighborhood.
If you had a magic wand what would you change in OTR? Obviously, I’d like to change people’s misguided perception of the area. Yes, we have some crime, but to dismiss a major section of downtown because of a few incidents…well, I wish people had more faith.
