Business Buzz
By Rich Baehrle
After 30 years Stecher Jewelers has finally closed its doors. Charles and Tracey prospered for many years at 41 Route 9 South.
Now a famous third-generation jeweler with roots back to the 1930’s, Berge Abajian, has recently renovated the store. They had a grand opening on April 29 with a very successful splash.
Bergio creations are in a class by themselves due to their subtle elegance, European flair, and unique use of fancy diamonds.
He uses his extensive knowledge of jewelry of the past to design and manufacture his fashion collections in Italy. Bergio keeps his design consistency, focusing on the classic look for the sophisticated bride.
Bergio has added a new, fresh look to his already popular bridal and fashion lines. The bridal designs still focus on the classic look for the sophisticated bride while adding some new flair. Bergio has also added some new, exciting pieces to the European-influenced fashion line.
Stop by 41 Route 9 South or call 609-938-6497. There is something for everybody.
Located right next door is Set in Stone Outdoor custom creations at 35 Route 9 South where they just had their grand opening of their second location.
With over 40 years of experience in hardscaping and landscaping, owner Bill Howard has won many awards in architecture design with travertine, natural stone, marble, and more.
They offer their customers the best in travertine design projects with all work conducted in house. They also provide custom outdoor patios, pool renovations, landscaping and retaining walls, driveways, walkways, fireplaces, fire pits, outdoor lighting, interior stone walls, and railing.
For more information call 609-938-6636 or stop by.
Going over the bridge to Ocean City on the Avenue is a new, fabulous and unique business. Shoppes at The Asbury, located at 801 Asbury Ave., also known as the Crown Bank Building.
For years people have been vocal about improvements they would like to see on Asbury Avenue, the heart of the Ocean City Downtown Shopping District. Repeatedly, customers have said that a men’s shop, upscale skincare and cosmetics, women’s lingerie, hosiery, and unique specialty food items, would be exciting additions. The brand has always found ways to support local merchants, and bring amazing products to the forefront and this will be evident at the store.
It continues to be difficult, in the current economic environment, for many small businesses to open a brick-and-mortar store. It has been difficult for businesses to be successful when rent, labor costs, and material cost have substantially risen.
The shoppes offers a business model that gives merchants the ability to consolidate their expenses and have access to experienced merchandising techniques, as well as detailed business planning. It truly is an incubator for small businesses.
Owners Raj and Yogi Khatiwala continue to provide exciting opportunities in Ocean City, and they have no doubt that this will be one of the must-sees for everybody. The new store is about local businesses pursuing dreams at the Shoppes at The Asbury, while providing an elevated, unique experience.
Just a taste of some of the businesses that shoppers will enjoy.
Sea Grass Boutiques and 8th and Crown are two entities owned by Kevin Heck and Justin Adams. They intend to offer upscale women’s wear and accessories along with much-needed men’s clothing including dress shirts and polos.
Next is Timberlane Handcrafted cutting and charcuterie boards. It is a family business which is owned by Chris and Jen Porter. Each is unique, made from Pennsylvania sustainable woods.
Gypsy Lane Home of Stone Harbor is coming as well. Owner Kelley Gardner said she will be featuring highend furniture along with accessories and gift items. The items will be highlighted with coastal flair. You will find everything to decorate your shore home.
The bottom line is you will simply have to visit The Shoppes at the Asbury and experience it for yourself. I am sure you will not be disappointed.
Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-266-6680
or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com
