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Encore Apparel in Motion has moved from their previous location at 104 East German Street to a new, larger location at 108 E. Washington Street in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. Along with the relocation and expansion, the shop has also added new clothing lines, extended their hours, and hired an additional full-time staff member, Julie Peterson.

The new shop has the same theater-style design as the previous location, with an added marquee which will advertise local theater and art events. A dancer and a performer herself, owner Mercedes Prohaska created the shop’s look to showcase Encore’s commitment to the performing arts. “The store was created by performers for performers,” says Prohaska. “I want it to have a fun, friendly, and comfortable atmosphere, but also be a place where the customer leaves feeling well informed about their purchase.” Encore is complete with lights, dance barre, and mirrors so performers can get the full effect. “The only way to really test out performance apparel is to move and put it in motion on stage,” says Prohaska. “We are very excited about this next step and hope that this expansion will help us in furthering our goal to be the shop of choice for performing arts apparel in the region.”

To celebrate the opening, an Open House will be held November 6 from 1 pm to 4 pm. Spenser Wempe, the current Miss West Virginia, will be on-site to sign autographs. A portion of the day’s sales will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Encore provides apparel for gymnastics, dance, cheerleading, skating, and theater. They also do personal fittings for show choirs. Encore offers character shoes and group discounts for these groups.

Encore Apparel in Motion is located at 108 East Washington Street in Shepherdstown. They carry brands such as Capezio,Bloch, Mirella, Bunheads, Paws, Pillows, Grishko, Freed of London, Sansha, Chacott, Suffolk, Harmony, DK, Body Wrappers, Motionwear, and Tia. They also carry organic cotton yoga apparel by Blue Canoe, as well as Dasha brand bags and a variety of gifts, such as keychains, earrings, ornaments, and hair ties. Store hours are Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 am to 7 pm, Thursday and Friday from 10 am to 5 pm, and Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm. To learn more, call (304) 876-3040.