ENID, OK - In small towns across the country, local businesses are grappling with the harsh reality of declining foot traffic and economic challenges. The combination of economic uncertainty, competition from larger retailers, and changing consumer habits has left many small-town shops struggling to stay afloat. As these cornerstone establishments fight for survival, the fabric of small-town life is threatened, with each closed door representing a loss of local identity and community spirit.
According to the SBA’s 2023 Small Business Economic Profile US, between March 2021 and March 2022, small businesses created a net 7 million new private-sector jobs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, small businesses were responsible for 55 percent of the total net job creation in the U.S. from 2013 to 2023.
Enid, Oklahoma is filled with many small companies that donate to sports teams, hire employees and generate tax dollars. Additionally, small businesses often support other local small businesses as customers or suppliers.
Small businesses owned by local residents tend to build the character of our community. These businesses become destinations in Enid for residents and visitors alike.
The best way to keep the local economy flowing is to purchase goods and use services from businesses founded by Enid residents. Local businesses bolster the overall health of the local economy and are the backbone of our community. Below are just a few examples of great mom and pop businesses in town.
Froz'n Shakes Mini Golf
Looking for some great family entertainment? Stop by Froz'n Shakes Mini Golf, an ice cream shop and indoor mini golf course just east of downtown. They feature an 18 hole indoor blacklight minigolf course, a small arcade, 12 flavors of delicious ice cream and fresh squeezed lemonades/limeades.
Froz'n Shakes Mini Golf is located at 430 E. Maine. They are currently open Thursday thru Friday from 2:00pm to 9:00 pm and Saturday from 11:00am to 9:00pm. They have Happy Hour on Saturdays from 4:00pm to 6:00pm.
Mini golf prices for adults is $5 and children under 12 can play for $3. For more information stop by their Facebook page.
Manopolis Men's Boutique
Enid has had a shortage of men's clothing stores over the last few years and losing the local Dillard's store left men with very few shopping options. That fact looked like an opportunity to Jayme Abousultan so she opened an all men's clothing store in downtown Enid.
Manopolis carries shirts, jeans, shorts, sweats, boxers, socks, men's fragrances and more. Brands include Tommy Bahama, Flag and Anthem, 7 Diamonds, Mavi Zach, Joe's Jeans, RVCA, Silver Jeans, Billy Jealousy, Nicoby and BillyBelt.
Not to forget the ladies, Manopolis carries a wide variety of ladies perfumes, colognes, and gift sets. Brand names include Juicy Couture Couture, Prada, Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Burberry, Chanel, Dior, Calvin Klein and others.
Manopolis is located in downtown Enid at 218 W. Randolph. Visit their website at Manopolisboutique.com and order online. Call (580) 548-7878 with questions.
Thistle Creek Mercantile
Needing a gift for a special occasion? Stop by Thistle Creek Mercantile at 610 S Cleveland St. Suite 214 in Sunset Plaza. Bringing you Mountain Man Nut and Fruit Company and Oklahoma made products! They also make gift baskets! Find more info at http://www.ThistleCreekMerc.com.
Walker’s Western Store
Walker’s Western Store has made some big improvements to downtown Enid, Oklahoma. The new Enid location is at 128 W. Randolph in the former C.M. Miller building on Randolph. Many local residents also remember the building being home to S&Q Clothiers.
Walker’s Western Store carries a wide variety of products, with a good selection made in Oklahoma. Items include boots, hats, clothing, purses, jewelry, belts, fragrances and more.
Learn more about the store on their website at https://www.walkerswesternstore.com or visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/walkerswestern/.
Creative Comfort
In the heart of downtown Enid, a brand-new retail decor store has opened its doors, fulfilling a lifelong dream for Mary Classen. With an innate talent for interior design and newfound time to dedicate to her passion, Mary has brought a unique and stylish home store to life. This dream became a reality in November 2023, thanks to the support and partnership of her daughter, Conner Zaloudek, and lifelong friend, Connie Austbo.
Creative Comfort is a haven for anyone looking to enhance their living spaces. From chic furniture to stunning art pieces and unique decor, the store offers a wide range of items that cater to various tastes and styles. Whether you're looking for a statement piece to complete your living room or a subtle accent to add a touch of elegance to your bedroom, Mary's store has something for everyone.
Watch for different sales weekly in the store and on their Facebook page. The store is located at 125 N Grand. Email creativecomfortenid@gmail.com.
Costello’s Continental Cuisine
After almost 20 years of proudly serving Enid, Costello’s Continental Cuisine is freshening up its approach. Costello's is located at 610 S. Cleveland, Ste 222 in Sunset Plaza.
Under new hours, Costello’s will open Thursday through Saturday, and every other Sunday for brunch. On Thursday and Friday, lunch hours will be from noon to 2 p.m. Dinner will be 5-8 p.m. on Thursday evenings and 5-9 p.m. on Fridays.
On Saturdays, the restaurant will host its first-ever happy hours from 3-5 p.m., with affordable wine, beer, and appetizer offerings, followed by dinner hours from 3-9 p.m. Enjoy half-price wines like their Italian Placido Pinot Grigio or Hob Nob Pinot Noir from France, half-price beers like the Oklahoma-brewed Coop F5, and affordable appetizer pairings from chef’s kitchen.
Also, every other Sunday, Costello’s will host reservation-only brunches from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring beloved, limited-menu brunch items straight from chef Costello’s kitchen. Email costelloscontinentalcuisine@gmail.com or call (580) 234-7510 to reserve your spot.
Lora Leigh's Boutique
Lora Leigh's is located inside Evans Drug Center and they carry the latest in ladies fashion, gifts & home decor! Stop by 1106 W. Willow for the best in holiday fashions and decor. Discover weekly specials on their Facebook page.
Jezebel's Emporium & Tea Room
Looking for a nice cold cup of tea and a delicious scone? Dop by Jezebel's Emporium & Tea Room at 121 E Broadway in downtown Enid. Stop by and check out the new menu items. They can freshly brew over 30 flavors of tea depending on your preference. They're an emporium of the eclectic and esoteric. Visit them on Facebook.
