Simply Sassys

Geneva native showcases unique items in her specialty shop

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October 28, 2009

In her first retail venture, Simply Sassys' owner Dawn Suppinger makes good use of her limited space to showcase unique gifts.

One item that particularly caught my eye was a line of photo inspired products by Carolee. Suppinger showed me a throw pillow with 16 individual portrait photos of family and friends on the face of it ($60). On the back side of the pillow, crocheted in red, was "Counting My Blessings." A photo could be applied to most anything, said Suppinger. A set of four coasters ($50), each with an individual photo of a person, would be a great idea for a wedding party. Guests could take them home as party favors.

At Simply Sassys, you'll find antique, vintage and new jewelry. "We sell a lot of flashy bling," said Suppinger. "Jewelry is such an emotional buy. It all depends on how a person feels that day." Suppinger is bringing in a line of Coco Chanel jewelry such as a long, glass bead necklace with diamond inspired emblems ($100).

The store also offers Coach and Jimmy Choo purses; Ed Hardy Bangles; a few select paintings; crocheted beanie hats for children; Fenton milk glassware, and more, more, more. A hair bow holder from Laura Hansen ($28.50) is something little girls are sure to like. Cut in the shape of a little girl's frilly dress, colorful ribbons stream from the waist for attaching hair bows.

Suppinger, 38, is a Geneva native, who also has a home-based hair salon and make-up business. She opened Simply Sassys in February.

"I didn't want a corporate run business. I wanted a family business. And I wanted to be in the Berry House. It's like coming home (here). Everyone gets along and works together." Including Suppinger, Simply Sassys employs five. She selected the store's name because she wanted a name that was, well, "simple but sassy," she said.

Acknowledging it's a tough time to start a new business. Suppinger said, "You have to believe in yourself. We do a lot of networking on Facebook, the Chamber (of commerce). We always offer a free gift with purchase. If you can make it in tough times, you can make it."