Lynbrook's Zaraz More Than Just a Boutique

When Zaraz first opened its doors in Lynbrook in 2006, owner Rebeca Greif turned her lifelong passion into a profitable business endeavor.

"I've been in the jewelry business for 24 years and I always liked the idea of having a business, but I never thought I would open a store," she said.

Over the past four years, Zaraz has steadily gained customers through word of mouth in the community. "My friends and other local mothers started shopping here and spreading the word," Greif said.

Located on Broadway at Sunset Avenue, Zaraz sells an eclectic variety of jewelry, accessories and gifts, including watches, evening bags and handmade cards. According to Greif, the sterling silver jewelry pieces that she always has in stock are among the store's best-selling items. As a courtesy to customers, Greif does jewelry repairs on site for any pieces purchased from the store.  

Ellen Page, a Lynbrook resident and frequent Zaraz shopper, said that the store's boutique atmosphere provides a pleasant and relaxing shopping experience.

"I particularly like the freedom to browse without pressure to buy," Page explained. "The selection is elegant and casual, and the price range is quite reasonable considering the quality of the merchandise."

As a way of reaching out to the Lynbrook community, Greif recently began inviting artists to display and sell their work in the store. Grief also hosts receptions for the artists that attract potential customers.

"I just had a reception, and all the girls who attended bought scarves, gloves, fashion wallets and cocktail rings," said photographer Jennifer Creed Aly. "[Grief's] stock is always changing with the season and style, so of course I bought myself something too."

Zaraz is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

"There are not too many stores like mine in the area and the prices are right," said Greif.