About us

If there were three fundamentals of owning and operating a women’s boutique, fashion-forward, friendly, and fun certainly come to mind.  Pam Ellis possesses these and more.  For more than a decade, she has made her mark in the fashion retail industry from owning and operating to selling and marketing, she’s made the business of making women look and feel beautiful her passion.

Now, Pam has stepped in to continue the legacy of another great woman, Jeanne Rush.  Jeanne started The Secret Ingredient in 1979.  The mission was always service with a smile and style.  So, when Jeanne wanted to retire, who better to pass the torch onto than Pam.

“Jeanne had a vision more than 40 years ago,” said Pam. “From one store to three, she grew her business and gave women a place to find their style and top-notch service.  I couldn’t be prouder to step in now that Jeanne is ready to retire.  It’s such a special boutique.”

Pam owned and operated Roger’s Boutique in Terre Haute, Indiana for more than 6 years.  When life took her to Florida and she had to give up her boutique, she knew how important it was to find the right fit. “When you create an atmosphere of serving women’s fashion needs and building a trust, you have to know that they will be taken care of in your absence,” Pam said. “I am honored that Jeanne believes in me and we share a similar desire to do our best to make women shine.”

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Pam admits, she has gained so much and been empowered from working along side other great women in the fashion industry.  Juetta West Clothing hired Pam while in Florida to oversee operations, work with wholesalers and build a business of “trunk shows” in remote cities to promote an incredible line of women’s active wear.  “You build a better understanding of owning and operating a boutique by learning from successful businesswomen.  I have certainly been fortunate to work with a few.”

 

 Pam plans to continue to grow The Secret Ingredient at 5631 North Illinois St. in Indianapolis.  She’ll be adding some new items, offering special events and fashion shows, and making sure customers who have come to expect great service continue to see that every visit. 

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We are committed to offering the largest selection of Fashion and Accessories by some of the highest quality brands :

 
  • Joseph Ribkoff

  • Generation Love

  • Frank Lyman

  • Kozan

  • The Boys Showroom

  • French Kande

  • Shana

  • Krazy Larry pants

  • I.C. Collection

  • Clara Sun Woo

  • Michael Tyler

  • Pure

  • Ethyl

  • Elan

  • Vintage Couture

  • EB shoes

  • Jess & Jane

  • Snoskins

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