WHAT YOU NEED NOW - CONTENT UPDATED THROUGH THE DAY -

April 9, 2005
Featured Business: Bliss, An Expression of Who You Are
(View Pictures)
 
by Steve Harrison
Huntington News Network Writer
 
Huntington (HNN) — Whether you are in the market for formal wear or fun, casual fashions and accessories, Bliss owner Rita Pike-Graham invites you to check out the new kid on the block. Located at 842 Fourth Avenue in downtown Huntington, Bliss promises - and delivers - a unique shopping experience with a decidedly feminine touch.
 
Q: "How long has Bliss been in business?"
 
A: "About two months. We opened our doors in February, and had our grand opening in March."
 
Q: "Who are your core customers?"
 
A: "We have a pretty wide range of [clientele] but our core is really the young professional, 20-45. I do have items that will appeal to 16 to 18 year olds, up to grandmothers at 60. The [most common] customers are women looking for something different, unique and feminine." Bethany Morris and her mother Robin Chamberland of Huntington can be seen here looking for just the right outfit.
 
Q: "Why did you decide on a clothing boutique?"
 
A: "In college I knew that I wanted to own my own business and thought that a boutique would be really cool. After college, I worked in outside sales for twelve years and found myself out of town a lot - and shopping at clothing boutiques out of town as well. I would get compliments all the time for my finds."
 
"My sales territory kept expanding and the company I worked for wanted me to move to Columbus. I have my family here, including my 3 year old daughter and thought I just can't move away. I'd had the concept of Bliss in the back of my mind for several years, something to do as a part-time thing. So with family in mind, I decided to jump in with both feet."
 
Q: "Any regrets?"
 
A: "No. Well, I make a lot less money now than I did before, but I'm at home with my daughter more often, and bit more stationary in a way. For me that was a much needed thing. Sometimes you have to look at your life and re-evaluate. I'm a single mom in the process of selling a house and opening a business, yet I still get out the door on time everyday. I'd say I am happier now."
 
Q: "What are your future plans for Bliss?"
 
A: "Private shopping parties. Say a bride and her friends want to come in after hours - the store would be closed except to them."
 
Q: "What advice would you give to others who would like to do business in Huntington?"
 
A: "Have a business plan. I started actively working on this in July and did not open my doors until February. Marketing strategies and being in touch with the community is absolutely essential."
 
Q: "Why should someone shop here instead of somewhere else?"
 
A: "Having the ability to come in and get a little more customer service than you would at the mall is enticing to many people. Particularly the hard to fit and those looking for something unique and fun. I'm trying to basically bring the experience back to the way it used to be. When I was young I would come downtown with my mom and shop at the Smart Shop or what have you, and that was a nice memory. So I have a play area for kids and a place to sit and ponder things - or for your guy to sit and relax."
 
Owner Rita Pike-Graham of Bliss can be found at 842 Fourth Avenue in downtown Huntington. She can also be reached by phone at (304) 523-2222. (View Pictures)
 
 Related Harrison Articles: 
– Featured Business: The Village Collection.