Business & Tech
The Bling Thing Keeps a Pulse on the Trends
Owner Anne Brandon travels the country to keep her shoppers current.
If you are gift shopping for something blingy and fabulous, The Bling Thing in downtown Saline might have just what you are looking for.
Anne Brandon, owner of The Bling Thing, opened her shop in 2008 to complement her online retail boutique. A visit to her store is always an adventure, as she keeps right on the pulse of the latest trends. To do that, she goes “to market” four to six times a year. Her latest trip was to Atlanta over Super Bowl weekend.
“I am at the apparel mart,” said Brandon. “Trends include the charms, leggings and long sweaters and dresses. Also the animal prints are still strong in everything.”
One step inside Brandon’s store and it is apparent why her store is called The Bling Thing, as shiny baubles, bags and bracelets are everywhere.
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“Big statement jewelry is still carrying, as well as layering the jewelry,” Brandon said.
Brandon prides herself in offering merchandise that is current, of high quality, and affordable. She's always happy to offer advice.
“Scarves are an inexpensive way to accessorize, and we bought 24,” she said.
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Brandon has 25 years experience as a personal shopper and keeps close tabs on what her customers are looking for. During her recent trip to Atlanta, she kept in contact with her customers via her company Facebook page. There she posted pictures of what she had purchased and took requests on what to keep an eye out for.
One excited shopper posted, “Those are mine! I want them now!” after seeing a photo of a necklace purchased by Brandon for her store. "Like" her Facebook page here to keep up with merchandise trends, store specials and events.
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Brandon is offering a free ball chain with purchased of a charm. She also offers wish lists, which come in handy for husbands and others to walk in and select a gift from a list. No guessing necessary.
The Bling Thing is located at 131 E. Michigan Ave. in Saline and is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday-Thursday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday-Saturday, with special hours for community events.