Paula Spiers is a former elementary school teacher with a lifelong passion for fabric and design.
She recently opened Bonnie Blue Boutique, a children’s shop located in downtown Picayune.
Spiers has been sewing for most of her life and said her mother made all of her school clothes.
“When my children finished college, my husband Lance encouraged me to open my store,” Spiers said. “He made all of this possible for me.”
Spiers specializes in custom sewn and embroidered children’s clothing. About 80 percent of the merchandise is created by Spiers.
“I love the playful and intricate aspect of children’s clothing,” Spiers said. “I have fun designing the clothes and seeing the look of excitement and happiness on their faces when they receive something that is just for them.”
Spiers said customers can choose their own fabric and she will design a custom outfit. Items can also be custom embroidered. Spiers also offers seasonal designs and local and collegiate sports designs.
The store is filled with a variety of outfit options including baby gowns, dresses, bloomers, onesies, baby ties and John Johns.
It’s a family affair at Bonnie Blue. Spiers’ mother, Pat Jones, makes customized baby quilts and her sister, Annette Smith, designs her own clothing line, KidSewCute.
Along with the handmade items, Spiers stocks clothing from Haute Baby, Mudpie and Mini Melissa footwear.
There are a number of gift items availables for babies including cups, plates, backpacks, placemats, eating utensils, suitcases, wash mitts, Aurora baby Learn with Me toys and Wubbanub pacifiers.
Spiers also sells the Bitty Boxers and pom pom shirts in local high school colors.
According to Spiers, her shop is one of the only boutiques in South Mississippi to offer custom designed children’s outfits.
“I’ve had a lot of support from the community,” Spiers said. “Patrons purchase outfits for their children to wear to the football games.”
Bonnie Blue Boutique is located at 318 W. Canal St.
The shop is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.
For more information, visit the website at www.bonnieblueboutique.com, Facebook at Bonnie Blue Boutique by Paula and by phone at 601-347-9695.