A thing of beauty:
What began as a small beauty salon in downtown Guthrie more than four decades ago has grown into one of the city’s most beloved boutiques. This fall, The Heritage Collection is celebrating 43 years of business — and the perseverance that built it.
Owner Linda Rice grew up on a cotton farm in western Oklahoma, where money was scarce and hard work was a way of life. De- termined to create her own opportunities, she waited tables until she could afford to attend beauty school and earn her cosmetology license.
In 1982, Linda rented a small space in Guthrie’s historic Victor Building, opening her first salon. For seven and a half years, she built her clientele there before she and her husband, Boyd Rice, purchased the building where The Heritage Collection still operates today.
What started as a beauty salon soon grew into something more. Linda began selling jewelry and handbags alongside her salon services, and over time those side items became the heart of her business. The couple continued to expand the store, running a salon in the back and a boutique in the front until 2016.
A fire in 1999 destroyed much of the shop, but instead of giving up, the couple rebuilt and restocked — this time focusing on higher-quality products and home décor. Her husband built many of the store’s displays himself and continues to refinish and restore furniture pieces sold in the shop.
“No matter how difficult things got, I just wanted to keep pushing forward,” Linda said. That mindset helped her overcome challenges that included two major back surgeries and the struggles of keeping a small business alive during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, The Heritage Collection is known for its inviting atmosphere, timeless home pieces and personalized service. Linda said what keeps her motivated after 43 years — and seven-day workweeks — is simple: “I love talking with customers.”
To thank the community for its continued support, The Heritage Collection will host its 43rd anniversary celebration on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 118 W. Oklahoma Ave.
After 43 years, Linda shows no signs of slowing down. She plans to continue offering new merchandise from around the world, including pieces from Oklahoma artists. With help from her granddaughter Cherokee Rice and now great- granddaughter, Grace, the family-owned and -operated business will continue providing friendly customer service and keeping the Guthrie storefront filled with creativity and care — the same values that have carried the business from a single salon chair to a downtown mainstay.