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Suburban Shopper: Laura Paul Gallery in Blue offers an artsy surprise

March 25, 2009 in Art, People, Products, Stores

laurapaulcompic 011.JPGLaura Paul Gallery in Blue Ash is one of those shops tucked in a suburban business strips that you might not give a second look outside appearances.

But you’d definitely miss out on a surprise – including great sculpture – if you just drive on by.

Owner Laura Paul moved her gallery from downtown to a Blue Ash office park (Corporate Woods Executive Center) about five years ago. When she first opened the gallery in 1984 it was mainly devoted to fine art work and custom framing. Over the years, as the market has changed, she’s added small gifts, designer jewelry, bath and spa products, a bridal registry and more.

“We’ve added more and more gifts, we keep reinventing the wheel to see what will roll,” said Paul, speaking like a true entrepreneur!

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Suburban Shopper: Nothin’ better than The Next Best Thing in Blue Ash

February 19, 2009 in Uncategorized

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This shop is just fun. You feel it when you walk in the door at The Next Best Thing. There you’re met by an explosion of colors, handbags, wine glasses, barrettes, headbands, flip flops and shiny jewelry. It’s where I go when I want a little bedazzling pick-me-up, but don’t want to break the bank.

“We want a variety of attractive items at a great price. We try to keep our price points down. We have a lot of people who come in here looking for gifts for friends and family,” co-owner Lana Hines said.

In fact, you can find scores of earrings, bracelets and rings for $10 to $15. The costume pieces are well-made and are – you guessed it – the next best thing to pricey baubles. Co-owners Angela Stein and Lana say they can accessorize just about any outfit for anywhere from $8 to $80!

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Suburban Shopper: Body of Light is out of this world

February 5, 2009 in Stores

bodyoflight2.jpgIt was little over a year ago that I happened upon this shop in a strip mall off Fields Ertel Road. My fiance Jason and I were going to Circuit City one night when the little storefront called me.

From the outside I thought the place looked cool. Turns out it was.

Body of Light, which healer Sara Gerhardt said offers “an alternative way to enhance well-being,” is best described as more an experience than a shop, though there are plenty of trinkets to buy. There’s everything from jewelry, essential oils, holy water, incense,worry stones, singing bowls, candles, crystals, crosses….you get the picture.

Spirtuality and well-being is at the core of the stores ambiance and the atmoshpere is quiet, bright, friendly and welcoming. In addition to the retail shop, Body of Light offers various classes and other services including tarot card and physic readings and belly dancing.

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