Nestled on a serene acreage just outside Plamondon, Straight and Arrow Boutique, owned by Allison Dupre, is more than a shopping destination—it’s an experience. From its beginnings as a professional photography studio in 2015 to its transformation into a women’s clothing boutique in 2019, Allison has created a haven where customers can escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a peaceful shopping getaway.
The inspiration for this transition came as Allison’s photography career, which she began in 2006, became physically demanding. Wanting to repurpose her beautiful studio space, the idea of starting a boutique emerged. What began as a passing thought has grown into a thriving business, offering an experience unlike any other.
Straight and Arrow Boutique specializes in women’s clothing, focusing on business casual styles, everyday comfort pieces, and unique designs not commonly found elsewhere. To complement her apparel offerings, the boutique also stocks accessories, footwear, and carefully selected gift items, ensuring customers always find something special.
Allison Dupre - Owner of Straight and Arrow Boutique
While the boutique’s serene location on Allison’s acreage provides a unique charm, it also presents challenges. Without everyday foot traffic, she’s worked tirelessly to expand her reach by building an e-commerce platform and traveling to markets several times a year. These efforts not only increase visibility but also allow Allison to connect with new customers who discover her brand at these events and continue to shop online.
What sets Straight and Arrow Boutique apart is Allison’s genuine passion for connecting with her customers. Every visit becomes a personal experience as she encourages customers to explore styles that complement their bodies and personal tastes. “It’s a blessing to see someone’s face light up when they find something they feel amazing in,” Allison shares.
The boutique has also become a hub for community connection under Allison’s leadership. Through events like the annual Summer Sale and Market, Styled Night Out, and a Perimenopause support evening, Straight and Arrow Boutique creates spaces where women can connect, share, and feel supported. These events not only celebrate community but also give back. For instance, the Perimenopause event raised $1,100 for Hope Haven, a local women’s shelter.
Allison credits Community Futures Lac La Biche for their role in uniting local businesses and promoting the value of shopping locally. “The workshops and support they provide inspire me to continue growing and contributing to our vibrant business community,” she says.
Her advice for fellow entrepreneurs is simple but powerful: “Never lose sight of your ‘why.’ Understand the business side of your craft and always pay yourself—it’s the key to balancing your passion with the demands of running a business.”
Looking ahead, Allison plans to continue offering unique shopping experiences, such as private appointments and special events, while steadily growing her presence at markets. For her, the joy lies in loving her space, her job, and every customer who walks through her door or adds to their cart online.
Through her dedication and creativity, Straight and Arrow Boutique has transformed into more than a retail space—it’s a community. Every piece sold and every event hosted reflects Allison’s mission to inspire, uplift, and connect.
