Clay Today staff
FLEMING ISLAND – Fashion life on Fleming Island has become a little sweeter – and a lot sassier -- since The Chocolate Shoe Boutique opened in February.
Co-owners Michelle Byers and Tisha Gibson have a knack for putting together colorful blends of season fashions, accessories, unique jewelry and, of course, shoes and chocolate products that appeal to women of all ages.
“That’s how we got our name,” Gibson said. “What two things do women like most? Shoes and chocolate.”
The two owners just want girls to have fun while they shop, and that’s why they take trips to Atlanta to hand-pick name brand merchandise and order items online from virtual showrooms based in Los Angeles.
“We buy clothes that we would wear and things we think our customers would like,” Gibson said. “Most of the time we’re right.”
That includes everything from Rock Revival and Miss Me jeans to Yellow Box and Corky Shoes, Rebel Spirit shirts and Glam jewelry -- all of which grab the attention of teen-agers, young mothers and grandmothers alike.
“It’s a little boutique on Fleming Island without the high prices,” customer Zinnia Runion said during a recent visit. “They have a lot of cute stuff.”
Gibson says she and Byers are having just as much fun as their customers.
“We’re definitely pleased with the business we have,” she said. “Every month seems to get better.”
There’s no doubt December will be a month to remember as well. The store is offering several holiday specials, and there are numerous items to choose from for gifts and stocking stuffers, including leather jackets, dressy tops, Big Buddha handbags, Naughty Monday boots, Twist and Pout lip balm and candles on a rope.
“We’re the place on Fleming Island to find the perfect gift for teachers, friends, moms, daughters – even yourself,” Gibson said. “We’ve got jewelry for every taste and any budget.”
The Chocolate Shoe also is home to Bits & Pieces custom-painted furniture and Miche Bags of North Florida. Customers can buy furniture pieces already in the shop or have Bits & Pieces owner Tammy Wehner recreate a piece you already own. Sara DeFusco, owner of Miche Bags of North Florida, keeps several of her bags on display for in-store purchase.
“We’ve got a very eclectic mix,” Gibson said. “We’re not stuffy at all. We even let our customers sign their names and write messages on our floor. The younger girls seem to really enjoy that.”
The Chocolate Shoe is situated beside Happy Feet between Publix supermarket and Target department store off County Road 220. Online shopping is available at the store’s Web site, www.chocolateshoebotique.com.
Store hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
For more information call (904) 269-1976.
December 19th 2009 - 9:47AM