By Tahra Gribbin
Review Intern
Downtown Lake Orion is welcoming its first new business since the streetscape finished – a new upscale boutique.
Simply Marcella, a specialty boutique, with one other shop in St. Clair, Michigan is a small business specializing in pearls. Owner Marcella Costin said she is passionate about her business and customers and while the boutique focuses on pearls, they also offer a myriad of other items, all designed by Marcella.
‘All the jewelry is exclusively ours and is designed by me,? said Costin. ‘We have jewelry, sparkle belts, handbags, silk scarves, hats and an assortment of other accessories.?
Simply Marcella also offers an exclusive line of subtle soaps called ‘Le Pures.? Although Simply Marcella specializes in jewelry and accessories for women, they have a small line of men’s ties with the label ‘Just John.?
Costin’s St. Clair Shores shop is housed in a 1926 gas station which she found cozy and cute. When she was in Lake Orion recently, she found it had the same type of atmosphere and reminded her of St. Clair Shores.
Costin’s most important goals for her boutique are to provide good customer service and an experience when shopping as opposed to just a shopping trip.
‘The best thing about this boutique is that it is not expensive,? Costin said. ‘It is a place where whether you’re looking to spend $5 or $5,000, there’s something for everyone.?
Simple Marcella manages to keep prices low because Costin makes trips to Asia five to six times a year to get pearls straight from the source. Because there’s no middle man, Costin is able to sell these pearls cheaper than anywhere else.
‘I’m shocked by what Americans are forced to pay for pearls,? said Costin. ‘We have phenomenal pricing and even though we have that, we still have wonderful sales and specials. There’s even a $34 special because we’re located at 34 South Broadway in Lake Orion.?
Along with their $34 for 34 inches of pearls special, Simply Marcella offers specials for special occasions and holidays like Mother’s Day and High School Graduations.
‘We sell a really great product for a quarter of the price anywhere else offers,? Costin said. ‘And most of our jewelry is out on display to try on. We’re difference because we always encourage everyone to try things on.?
Costin has taken great pains to create an elegant but relaxed 1940s atmosphere in her Lake Orion boutique, complete with chandeliers and couches.
‘When people think about pearls, they think about weddings, funerals, and their grandmothers,? said Costin. ‘For my boutique, I don’t want that, I want people to think classy and funky-elegant.?
Costin is now open and with the help from her co-workers Beth Lofay, Tracey Manthey, and her dog, Minnie Pearl they are ready to offer their wares. The grand opening was be at 10 a.m. on April 24 where a ribbon cutting ceremony was held. Once the shop is up and running, Lake Orion residents are encouraged to stop in and greet the owners of the store and to shop local next time they need jewelry.
For more information on Simply Marcella, call (248) 814-7400 or visit simplymarcella.com