Boutique goes to prove that Women Ride, Too

Women Ride Too! on Park Meadows Drive in south Fort Myers sells feminine helps for women looking for something different.

Sexy, sophisticated and feminine are just a few words Casey Taylor uses when describing her Women Ride Too! boutique in south Fort Myers.

The 1,500-square-foot shop on Park Meadows Drive is attracting the attention of bikers throughout the area, especially women.

“Riding is such a passion for so many women riders in this area who are professionals and want something classy,” said Taylor, who opened the shop in October. “I want it to be a place where people can come and talk about riding or anything they want.”

The boutique offers a wide selection of shirts, leather bags, patches and feminine motorcycle parts.

“I’m working with a lot of companies now to manufacture parts that are specifically for women ... there just aren’t many to buy,” said Taylor referring to the popular Harley Davidson designs that are most commonly seen. “People come here and are surprised by the variety.”

The atmosphere of the boutique is warm and inviting and area riders are noticing as they continue to hear about it.

“I love it! I’m glad there is something out there for women ... it’s a fun place to go and get gifts,” said Debbie Ladd, 45, of Cape Coral, who doesn’t ride herself but has purchased several presents for the holidays. “It’s got a really big selection of things that you can’t find in other shops.”

Ladd has even purchased clothing items for her 15-year-old daughter and a few items for herself.

“We have a little of everything like bandannas with Swarovski crystals and leather chaps and gift ideas,” Taylor said, adding that the items she selects are not all pink or include skulls and spikes. “Some of this just doesn’t exist and (companies) are just starting to realize that it’s a big market for women.”

Men are welcomed at the store and Taylor offers a customized gift basket service and can special order items for customers.

“I work with them and can even help out the men pick something for their lady,” said Taylor who spends time showing customers how to wear bandannas and customize their bikes.

Beginning next year the shop will be offering rides for locals looking for a day trip or just a few hours on the road.

“I picked this store because it’s convenient for bikers to get in and out of and I hope that it will grow,” said Taylor who has been riding bikes for more than two years and opened the shop after being a medical office administrator for 20 years.

“Down here you can ride all year long and the weather is just beautiful ... it’s exciting to see the riders enjoying the boutique so much.”