genovese jewelers
Founded in 1981, Genovese Jewelers opened in a space that was just 900 square feet. Since then, the family-owned and -operated jewelry store has grown into one of the largest in the Midwest, offering both fine and fashion jewelry. One of the benefits of the store, according to president Joe Genovese, is its large inventory. He notes that there are beautiful items for any budget, with pieces starting around $50. Genovese Jewelers also has in-house jewelry artisans that can create one-of-a-kind pieces for customers. “We are unique because we offer a combination of both manufacturing and retail to a degree I have not seen anywhere else,” Genovese says. “We are so proud to be making jewelry not only in the U.S., but here in St. Louis.” He is grateful for the loyal friends and customers throughout the years. “St. Louis takes care of its own,” he says.
the refind room
After years working as a lawyer, Suzanne Woodard was ready for a second career. She decided to follow her passion for interior design and decor, opening The Refind Room in October 2012. “I wanted to bring a curated selection of unique, high-quality furnishings at affordable prices to St. Louis,” Woodard says. To make her vision a reality, she decided against sourcing products from abroad and instead chose to work with high-end, previously owned local items to create the store’s unique, eclectic mix of products. The Refind Room is hardly the typical shopping experience. It hosts events like art exhibits, cocktail parties and classes. Woodard refers to the store as a lifestyle that pays homage to the past and embraces the present while encouraging beautiful, individual style. “We loving owning our business in St. Louis,” she says. “Its history means that customers appreciate heirloom quality, and its size means that everyone who walks in the door becomes a friend.
marketplace at the abbey
After 23 years of managing the marketing, advertising and finances for her husband’s business, as well as staying home with her kids, Laura Wilson decided to turn her passion for interior design into a profession—and she went big. Rather than starting with a small retail space, she was inspired to sign the lease of a 6000-square-foot space on Manchester Road. Marketplace at the Abbey opened in 2014, offering a wide array of home decor and custom furniture made from architectural salvage. The Abbey now also offers a new line of upholstered furniture, CR Laine. But beyond the products is the experience of shopping here. Wilson is proud to be a part of St. Louis and enjoys the close-knit community, which has allowed her to build strong relationships with clients. The store hosts events year round and regularly has snacks and drinks to share with customers. Wilson and her teammates are always happy to talk to shoppers and make them feel at home at the Abbey.
leslie hindman auctioneers
With its original location in Chicago, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers has been the nation’s leading fine art and antique auction house headquartered in the Midwest for more than 30 years. It regularly holds sales for prominent estates and collections, including Oprah Winfrey’s Chicago home, fashion designer Lilly Pulitzer’s Palm Beach estate, and the estate of local writer and collector Louis Daniel Brodsky. In addition to the Chicago headquarters and the St. Louis office, which opened in 2014, Leslie Hindman has six other regional offices and offers 60 auctions annually across 20 categories. It also provides appraisal services throughout the year. “There is a rich history of art in St. Louis,” says Kara Kelpe, director of business development for St. Louis. “Since opening this office, Leslie Hindman has been committed to recognizing and promoting locally significant collections within our community, as well as exposing them to a broader international audience.
taubman prestige outlets
Taubman Prestige Outlets in Chesterfield opened four years ago, bringing a unique mix of globally recognized brands and local merchants. General manager Colleen O’Neill notes that St. Louis was a perfect fit for the mall. “We love that something is always happening here that draws in shoppers from across the region,” she says. “From Cardinals weekends to the balloon race, the civic energy feeds our excitement and fills our stores!” St. Louis benefits from the eclectic array of stores Taubman offers. Major chains like Brooks Brothers and J. Crew are just a few steps away from local produce and flowers from the Boone’s Crossing Farm Market. The Emerge Pop-Up Boutique also features locally owned stores during the holiday season. “Having local businesses in the mix has been a huge part of our success this past year,” O’Neill says. “We’ve attracted a new customer base to experience what we offer.
savvy
Filled with an eclectic assortment of fine furniture, accessories and art, Savvy’s showroom is a hub for great design ideas. The business was launched in 2009 primarily as a residential interior design firm, but owner Diane Fogerty says it has expanded to now include a boutique of fine gifts and accessories. During the holidays, the showroom is transformed into a winter wonderland with hundreds of ornaments and unique gifts. Fogerty says the popular holiday pillows and tabletop trees are top sellers. The trees come in traditional and modern styles, and are made from ceramic, acrylic, wood and metal. “They literally fly out the door the minute they arrive,” she says. “So you really have to grab the ones you like early!” As for this year’s holiday trend, Fogerty says blush is a hot color. “The holidays don’t have to be just red and green,” Fogarty notes. “There are so many stunning color combinations for the holidays or any day.”