Big River Running Co., a local specialty running shop owned by St. Louisan Matt Helbig, recently was recognized by Running Insight and Competitor magazine as one of the Top 50 Best Running Stores in America. The store, which has been honored with the distinction every year since opening in 2006, was rated on service, product knowledge, merchandising and community service. There are four locations in the St. Louis region.
[flirty and functional]
Susan Piontek, who grew up in Clayton, recently debuted Sassy Chassis, which she calls ‘flirty, functional and fiercely feminine’ undergarments for women of all ages and every shape. Made in St. Louis and inspired by vintage fashion, her first creation is a silky, lacy combination of slip and panties that comes in two lengths, the Bloomer and Boomer, and multiple colors. It was launched at an unveiling at Bar Les Freres in Clayton and can be found at The Designing Block and online at sassychassisusa.com. Matching tops will be available soon.
St. Louis resident Salman Shah and his two brothers are bringing the natural beauty of wood to watches. Their innovative company, JORD, offers its first collection of more than 30 luxury wooden timepieces for men and women. The brothers travel the world, handpicking their woods to create accessories they describe as playful and functional. The watches are available online at
woodwatches.com.
[fresh food]
Specialty grocer The Fresh Market opened its first location in Missouri at 11557 Olive Blvd. on Feb. 25. A gourmet supermarket chain based in Greensboro, North Carolina, the store’s philosophy focuses on offering specialty, quality products and expert customer service. The more than 25,000 square feet include a bakery, full-service meat counter, ready-to-serve entrees and fresh seafood. The market has chosen Operation Food Search and St. Louis Area Food Bank as ongoing partners in its food donation efforts and will feature products from local and regional growers and producers.
[charitable styling]
The Aveda store at the Saint Louis Galleria is looking out for Mother Earth. It’s offering haircuts for $25 and bang trims for $10, with all proceeds donated to support preservation of the Missouri River Wetlands, which improves water quality and habitats for fish and wildlife. Guests can call the store or email galleria.stlouis@aveda.com to book an appointment with Emily, an Aveda professional stylist.