There’s nothing like seeing new life breathed into what once sat empty and still. Now, shoppers can open the door to a piece of Luverne history and, at the same time, step into the future as the doors of the new 61 on Main have opened for business.

The upscale clothing and gift store is located at 61 South Forest Ave. in downtown Luverne, in the former English’s building. Martha Dickey is the new owner, and Debra Jones is the store manager.

“I’m so excited about all of this,” Dickey said. “Being in the old English’s building has just been an extra bonus with opening this new store.”

61 on Main will feature women’s apparel, shoes, purses, jewelry and gift items. The women’s apparel will include pantsuits, separates, skirts, jackets, pants, and tops in sizes ranging from Juniors to small to X-large.

The store will even feature gourmet food items, such as dip mixes, baking mixes, and nuts. Other gift items include scented candles, lotions and specialty soaps, sterling silver trays, crystal, picture frames, bath and beauty sets, and even Auburn and Alabama paraphernalia. They even offer free gift wrapping.

As soon as customers walk through the doors, they will notice the sparkling chandeliers hanging from the original wood ceiling and the shiny, dark wooden floors.

“We totally renovated the old English’s building,” Dickey said. “We took the plaster off the walls so the original brick could show through.”

She even had the wrought iron that was placed around the windows taken off and made into hand railings for the upstairs shoe department. But the classic finishing touch is the original English’s sign hanging above the front door inside the store. Dickey said it added the perfect, “final touch.”

And what about her leaving “Steppin’ Out” after 20 years?

“I needed more space,” she explained. “Plus, I wanted to add a gift line, and Tammy (Allen) has worked there for almost six years, and I believe I am leaving it in very good hands.”

So, the answer to the question in everyone’s mind is, no, Steppin’ Out is not closing. It will be under new ownership.

As for 61 on Main, they will hold their Grand Opening and Open House this Saturday, Dec. 13, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Their regular hours will be from 9 to 5, Monday through Saturday. For more information, please call 335-2884.