by Amber Knox
Sometimes it feels like the culture of shopping has become more about fast profit and less about customer service and quality products, but that isn’t true for Bar G Western and Casual Wear on the square in Portales. You will find the same level of commitment today as you did in 1974 when Buz and Fern Goodson opened The Tack Shop on Main Street.
For the first four years they primarily sold horse tack, roping supplies, and provided boot and shoe repair. Then, in 1978 they added western wear and became Bar G. In 1995 they moved their store to 115 West Second Street where you will still find them today.
From the outside Bar G looks like a cozy little clothing store, but once you enter those doors you realize they are much more. Greeted immediately and holding an unlimited amount of knowledge about every item they sell; Grady Goodson defines customer service. The youngest son of Buz and Fern, Grady is just one of the family members you will find working in the store. From sons to daughters-in-law to grandchildren it is a true family business.
If you tell Grady you are looking for jeans, he will ask a few questions and promptly provide you with several brands and styles to try on. My son and husband both tested his skills and walked away happy. It was impressive.
You can find everything you need from head to toe from newborn to 4X. Clothing, men and women’s jewelry, purses, duffle bags, belts, wallets, cell phone cases, underwear, socks, sunglasses, perfume, cologne, soap, gloves, gift items, and a bargain basement. With as many options as Bar G has it could be overwhelming if it weren’t for the customer service.
In men’s denim they carry Ariat, Wrangler, Panhandle Slim, and Cinch. For the ladies they carry Ariat, Stetson, Tin Haul, Wrangler, Panhandle Slim, and Cinch.
Bar G has four hundred felt hats in eighteen different colors in stock from five different hat companies. They will even crease and fit the hats for you. If you aren’t looking for a felt hat they carry caps from Hooey, Cinch, Wrangler, Bex, and Ariat.
They carry boots and shoes from nine different companies. If you have a beloved pair of boots or heels that just need a little love, they can repair heels and straps or stretch your boots.
If you are in need of a formal suit jacket or slacks, they have a vast supply of these as well. From weddings to lounging they can dress you.
If you’ve never walked in Bar G now is the time. They will be having their biggest sale of the year on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. From eight to six pm you can buy one get one half off storewide. This is the perfect time to purchase some of those higher end items. Offering free gift wrapping all year, this is a convenient place to get your holiday or gift shopping done.
The Bar G family are a strong part of the community and are supporters and huge fans of Eastern New Mexico’s basketball and rodeo teams. If you want to support business owners who live here and put money back into our community, you can easily do that by shopping at Bar G Western and Casual Wear.
While you’re there say hello to Buz, Fern, Grady, Robbie Crowley, Andrea Banister, LeeAnn Foster, Jacque Campbell, and Lori Gammill. And don’t forget to follow them on Facebook for all the sales!
