The Blenders celebrates 40 years of success
The mother-daughter team of Barbara Lewin, right, and Lori Alpert, owners of The Blenders in downtown Paso Robles, are celebrating 40 years of serving the local community. Photo by Meagan Friberg
Owners Barbara Lewin & Lori Alpert invite community to open house Nov. 5
It takes dedication, business savvy, and passion to run a successful business – and there is perhaps no one who understands this more than the mother-daughter team of Barbara Lewin and Lori Alpert, owners of The Blenders in downtown Paso Robles. Now, as they celebrate 40 years in business – The Blenders was established 40 years ago on Nov. 1 – Barbara and Lori are inviting their loyal customers, friends, and the entire community to their open house on Wednesday, Nov. 5 from 1-6 p.m.
“The open house is our way of thanking the community for tremendous support us over these 40 years,” says Barbara. “We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for our amazing customers.”
Throughout the month of October, The Blenders held drawings every Friday and gave away beautiful products including a Holly Yashi necklace, a Baggallini touring tote, a pair of stylish Onex shoes, and an exclusive Tribal outfit.
“Our final drawing takes place during our Open House for a very special Mary Frances purse,” adds Barbara.
A bit of Blenders history
When Barbara opened The Blenders back in 1974, she introduced the Paso Robles community to her Merle Norman Cosmetics studio. Alongside the cosmetics, she sold women’s apparel and fashion accessories as well as fresh coffee beans, teas, and Jelly Belly jelly beans. Because of this unique “blend” of items sold in her store, The Blenders was an easy name choice.
“It’s really incredible to think that 40 years have passed since that first day,” says Barbara, “I still love what I do – I consider this my passion.”
Later on, the downtown area would be home to other coffee houses and candy stores, so Barbara scaled down her inventory and – at the request of many long-time customers – expanded her offering of women’s clothing, accessories and Merle Norman cosmetics and skin care products.
“We have changed up the mix as the community has changed,” says Barbara. “The format, but we are still a boutique – and we listen to what our customers want.”
Lori joined forces with Barbara and the two became business partners in 2004. Growing up with a mom who had a love of fashion, Lori had ventured in the fashion industry and, after a successful career outside of Paso Robles, decided it was time to move back to the area she so dearly loved. Since then, she spends her days keeping up-to-date on fashion, her Merle Norman training, and working alongside Barbara while juggling a busy home life with her family.
“Lori has a keen eye and, having been in the fashion industry for years, she is used to handling everything at our boutique, from the manufacturers to the customers,” adds Barbara.
Evolving inventory & holiday gift ideas
Step inside The Blenders on any given day of the week and find this dynamic duo bustling around in their service-oriented boutique. Friendliness and personalized service is key to everything they do – and it shows as customers are greeted by name and treated like family.
“Our customers have become our friends and part of our extended family,” says Lori. “For those who have never stopped in, or if it has been awhile since their last visit, I think they will be pleasantly surprised at what we have to offer. It is always evolving in here.”
Whether a trip to The Blenders includes time spent with Barbara, Lori, or long-time employee Judy Bryan, one thing is certain – customers will be find a unique selection of a mix of products in a warm, inviting environment when shopping for themselves or looking for a gift for that special someone.
“Think of us as your holiday gift quarters, says Lori. “We have easy-to-grab gift items and gift certificates, and we offer an assortment of items in all different price ranges that work well for Secret Santa gifts or holiday gift exchanges.”
Complimentary makeovers
“We also offer complimentary makeovers using our Merle Norman Cosmetics,” says Lori. With over 50 shared years of experience in the fashion and cosmetic industries, Barbara and Lori have the know-how to create just the right look for each individual customer. “It’s our way of giving customers a ‘try before you buy’ experience.”
Need a new look for the winter months? Ask how The Blenders can help with dazzling makeup tricks that will take you from the work day into those evening parties and gatherings.
Find a full line of Merle Norman cosmetics & skin care products at The Blenders — and be sure to ask about a complimentary makeover. Photo by Meagan Friberg
In search of a new skin care routine? Merle Norman skin care products include cleansers, moisturizers, serums and more. In addition, Merle Norman has recently launched its Retinol Night Complex – perfect for rejuvenating the skin. Let the experts at The Blenders help you find just the right combination of products to fit your lifestyle and personal needs.
Open house November 5
Barbara and Lori are celebrate 40 years — stop by The Blenders on Nov. 5 during their open house, 1-6 p.m. and share a glass of cheer!
The Blenders is located at 538 12th St. in downtown Paso Robles. Call (805) 238-5554 or check out theblenderspasorobles.com for more information.
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