After nine years in a quaint, antique barn, The Red Barn of Woodbridge now lives in a modern yellow building (with a barn-red door), but the name will stay the same says owner Ellen Eisenberg.
First Selectman Ellen Scalettar attended The Red Barn’s grand re-opening in mid-September after the store moved to the popular plaza at 245 Amity Road from the corner of Route 63 and Center Road.
During the re-opening celebration, the store was abuzz with shoppers admiring the new store and its varied offerings. The Red Barn’s new location has a more open layout, lots of natural light, and a vintage feel, with black and white tile floors, schoolhouse lights and a simulated tin ceiling. Aside from the new look and location, patrons can expect to find the same quality and diversity of items. These include what Eisenberg has dubbed “boutique-unique” women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories, as well as body products, books, toys, “guy” gadgets and greeting cards.
The Red Barn is a “lifestyle boutique” says Eisenberg. The previous iteration of The Red Barn was a general gift store and Eisenberg added the boutique element to it, “but people still wanted a place to buy gifts, greeting cards and toys.” Eisenberg adds that she loves fall and is excited about her inventory of coats, sweaters and, especially, ankle boots.
Also new this fall, The Red Barn will be open for extended hours on Thursdays. Regular hours are Monday through Saturday 10am– 6pm (and on Thursday closing time is 7 p.m.), and Sundays 11am – 5pm.
Eisenberg had long been interested in opening a shop in the original, antique red barn at the crossroads of Center and Amity Roads. Though not experienced in retail, Eisenberg counted on her marketing background when the property became available in 2007. “I just went in, made a deal and then was shell-shocked. I just took the plunge,” she said.
Scalettar congratulated Eisenberg on her successful venture and the move to a more central location. “The Red Barn has become an iconic store in Woodbridge. I’m so glad that Ellen was able to keep the store in Town and continue to provide the selection and service that her customers so appreciate.”