If you’ve been searching for a children’s boutique in Salem, Oregon that carries something different from what you’ll find at the mall, let me introduce you to Tara Connor and Mint Children’s Boutique. Tara runs a western-inspired kids boutique that pops up throughout the Mid-Willamette Valley, from Salem to Albany to Turner and beyond, and I’m excited to introduce you to her and her boutique.
Meet Tara Connor
Tara is a mom of two, Paige (17) and Peyton (10), and she’s married to her best friend, Casey. Her path to owning a boutique started long before Mint existed.
“I’ve always been an entrepreneur and actually went to school for fashion accessory design, which is where my career began as a jewelry designer. Then I slowly started moving into other interests I had, like designing t-shirts. I always knew I wanted to be in the fashion industry. When I was young I would draw designs of what my boutique would look like and design clothes for it. I worked many areas of the fashion industry throughout the years, from selling to merchandising and more. So when the opportunity came for me to have my own boutique, I had to jump on it.”
From Vendor to Children’s Boutique Owner
Tara didn’t start Mint from scratch. She was actually a vendor for the shop before she ever owned it.
“I actually wasn’t the first owner of Mint, I was a vendor of theirs and would help in the shop sometimes. Eventually I took over ownership and started rebranding it to more fit my personality and lifestyle. Today Mint is more of a western-inspired baby and kids boutique.”
She’s owned Mint Boutique for almost six years now.
What You’ll Find at Mint
As a children’s boutique serving the Salem, Oregon area and beyond, Mint carries sizes from newborn up through youth 10/12. While the western influence runs through a lot of the collection, Tara keeps things balanced.
“Although there is a strong western inspired feel to my boutique, we do carry items that are more modern and traditional as well.”
Tara’s Current Favorites
Right now, two things are flying off Tara’s shelves: indestructible books and a new line of stuffed animals called Hug’ems.
“My favorite things I carry right now would definitely be the indestructible books and stuffies. I have a large selection of indestructible books that are always a top seller and such an affordable gift for any baby or mama. The stuffies we have right now are called Hug’ems. They kind of remind me of beanie babies back in the day because they have a bean-filled bottom, and they come in the cutest animals like cows, pigs, roosters, and fawns.”
An Outfit (or Gift) for Every Occasion
Whether you’re shopping for a birthday, a new baby, or just building out a wardrobe (or my favorite, family pictures!!), Tara has it covered, including custom pieces.
“You can find something for just about any occasion at Mint. I have great suggestions for new baby must-haves, and we also do custom t-shirts in house so I can customize birthday shirts, etc.”
If you’re expecting or just welcomed a new baby, Tara’s go-to gift recommendation is one I support 100%:
“One of the top things I suggest to all new mamas, or gifts for new moms, is our baby gowns. They make changing diapers so easy with the tie bottom. They are super soft and even come in fun prints.”
It’s been a bit since my own boys were small, but baby gowns were a lifesaver on those sleepless nights! So much better than zippers and snaps in the middle of the night.
Why Shop Small
I asked Tara what she thinks sets a local boutique apart from big-box shopping, and her answer is exactly why I wanted to feature her.
“When you shop at Mint, you are getting items that you don’t typically see at your local Target or Walmart. I spend a lot of time picking each item we carry so that it’s the perfect fit for our boutique and customers. Plus when you shop Mint, you’re supporting my family and my dream.”
Find Mint Boutique Near You
Mint isn’t a single storefront. Rather than operating out of one children’s boutique location in Salem, Oregon, Tara runs it as a traveling boutique, with pop-ups throughout the Mid-Willamette Valley.
“I actually live in St. Paul, Oregon now, but I am a ‘traveling boutique’ that does pop ups all over the surrounding areas like Salem, Turner, Albany, Silverton, Aurora, and my now hometown St. Paul, where I set up at the famous 4th of July St. Paul Rodeo.”
The best way to catch her next pop-up is through social media, where she posts new arrivals, event locations, and behind-the-scenes updates:
- Instagram & TikTok: @mint_boutique26
- Facebook: MintBoutique26
- Shop online anytime at Home | Mint Boutique
Support a Local Children’s Boutique in Salem, Oregon (and a local mom!)
Tara has spent almost six years building Mint into a boutique that feels personal, and it shows in every piece she picks. If you’re looking for a children’s boutique in Salem, Oregon, or anywhere nearby in Albany, Turner, or Silverton, keep an eye on her pop-up schedule and follow along on social media so you don’t miss her next stop. It’s a great way to support a small, family-run business right here in our own backyard. Even if you’re not currently looking for a particular item, take a second to follow her socials-as a small business owner I know how much I appreciate every new follow!
Ready to Capture Your Own Family’s Story?
Building a wardrobe your kids love is one part of the puzzle, and having photos that actually capture this season of your family’s life is another. If you’re local to Salem, Albany, or Corvallis and it’s been a while since you’ve had portraits done, I’d love to help. Get in touch here and let’s talk about what a session with your family could look like.
