After 18 months in business, Brando Boutique (107 1/2 E. Argonne, 314-984-9114) is closing its doors on Sunday, February 17. However, owner Randi Chervitz says the primary reason is not financial.
Chervitz opened Brando as an extension of her existing business, Uncommon Threads Jewelry. She hoped the store would be a way to expand her business without having to spend as much time away from her sons.
“My original plan called for a salesperson to manage the store while I designed,” says Chervitz. “But I found that the only way to really capitalize on what was happening in the store was to be there. As I spent more and more time in the store, I lost flexibility with my family.”
Chervitz plans to continue to sell her hand-crocheted silver and gold jewelry, which she designs and manufactures in her Kirkwood home, at art fairs, through retailers around the country, and via the Artful Home catalog and website. She also hinted at new designs she has in the works, thanks to inspiration gained from interacting with her customers at Brando.
In addition to the Uncommon Threads line, Brando carries an assortment of handmade accessories and home décor items. In preparation for Brando’s final day, many of the remaining handbags, candles and jewelry have been marked down 50 percent. Chervitz also is offering a discount of 20 percent on her 18-karat bamboo ring with five diamonds or her oxidized sterling silver and 18-karat gold ring with three diamonds. The discount will be applied to rings purchased in-store or online now through February 17.
Brando Boutique will be open Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.
