In the heart of downtown Fullerton, Roadkill Ranch and Boutique celebrates 20 years of business; accomplishing what most retailers can only dream.

Just like the shooting star that streaks across the title of their name, Roadkill shines bright as a one-of-a-kind store that customers can’t experience anywhere else except in Fullerton.

Humbled and excited to celebrate her store’s anniversary, pioneer and owner Julie Rasmussen continues the same passion since day one of opening her shop to cultivate the best experience and service for her customers.

“I want them to be relaxed and feel comfortable. I want it to be their therapy,” said Rasmussen. “I don’t care if they don’t buy anything, I want them to leave happy and come back.”

The vision to have a store that is unique to the culture within the community is one that Rasmussen strives for. Rasmussen’s staff adopts that same vision. Sydney Beaver, a Roadkill employee, describes the store as being hip with an artistic feel that fits uniquely into  downtown’s artistic-urban vibe.

“We bring something really different to downtown; both sides of our store is different,” said Beaver. “We always try to stand out from everybody else. We want to be the weirdest ones, in the greatest way.”

Beaver adds that customers react positively to the store and compliment on how unique it is.

Returning customer Tekeilla Peterson and first time shopper Candice Sainz describe the shop as really cute and a unique fit that is perfect for college students.

Roadkill started out as a wholesale jewelry company in 1993 that emphasized in handmade leather jewelry. The vintage inspired shop grew to a thriving retailer that offers one-of-a-kind bohemian and rockabilly outfits and products.

But the road to this celebration was not an easy one.

“There are always obstacles starting up especially from the ground up. It was a lot of hard work,” said Rasmussen. “We didn’t have the money, we had to think quick and make it cool.”

Roadkill is as original as it gets and the fruit of their labor has paid off. They strive to be a shop that is actively involved in the community. The boutique has made past donations to the Fox Theater, Fullerton School District and supports the Chamber of Commerce.

Rasmussen believes that the community supports her shop and the success of her business is the direct result of the customers she loves.

“Our customers are the independent people, the non-mall shoppers. They come here to find something different and that’s the goal,” said Rasmussen. “You can shop anywhere, but you chose to walk through our doors. How can we help you?”

Roadkill Ranch and Boutique will be celebrating their anniversary as well as their customers at their holiday party on Dec. 7. They will be offering 20 percent off purchases that day.

Roadkill Ranch and Boutique is located at 119 E. Commonwealth Ave.