A self-proclaimed clothes-aholic, Jenny Roskelley opened The Hang-Up Boutique in 2018 to bring “a little retail therapy” to downtown Havana. The shop offers women’s clothing that is comfortable, stylish, quality and unique, along with shoes, jewelry and gift items.

What is your biggest challenge as a retailer in 2020? 
Right now the coronavirus is having a major effect on retail and doesn’t seem to be slowing down. Things could change big-time if the virus continues to spread, especially in the United States. Another huge challenge is the State of Illinois in general. There’s so much pressure on small businesses in the first place, and the constant taxing and other enforcements of the legislature are killing us.

How is the internet impacting your business?
The internet plays a HUGE positive impact on our business. Our Facebook group is our biggest selling point—with live sales every Thursday and being able to post new arrivals anywhere, anytime, it’s amazing how much it helps us succeed.

Have you seen a sustained impact from recent Shop Local campaigns?
I think so. I am guilty of not using it as much as I should. We have only been in business for a year and a half, so we are still trying to grow and see what’s working. PM

*Editor's Note: Since this interview took place, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced most retailers to close their doors, making a tough industry even more difficult. When we emerge from this crisis, local retailers will face all of the same challenges… and then some. Now more than ever, we must support them by shopping local.

Check out the rest of this series: “Exploring the Retail Landscape,” in the April 2020 issue of Peoria Magazine.