Sep 29, 2008

Gift shop owner enjoys being her own bossBy Sara KennedyBradenton.com

Debbie Wentzell had been selling insurance for years when it occurred to her that there was something missing from her professional life.

She wanted to own her own business.

It was a big step but in 2006, she opened Images Home Decor & Gifts in West Bradenton. On Wednesday, she will celebrate her second anniversary as a small-business owner.

“I’m very creative, I wanted to create from the bottom up,” she explained. “I love owning my own store and everything that goes along with it. It’s very satisfying, a real sense of pride. I’m working with things I love.”

The business sells a variety of home decor items such as lamps, accessory furniture, wall decor, gift items, inspirational books and jewelry, said Wentzell, 50, of Bradenton.

Her business slogan is simple, tasteful, elegant.

Wentzell’s primary focus is excellent customer service since her clients tend to be active, busy women who lead full lives and who are frequently short on time.

She enjoys pampering them.

“We try very hard to offer what the customer needs,” said Wentzell. “People come with pictures of a shelf or room they want to accessorize, and we go around and give them advice.”

Among the most popular items is a line of handcrafted aluminum serving pieces from Mariposa, such as barware, trays and napkin baskets. Handpainted wine glasses also are popular with her clients, as is the gift-wrap service the store provides.

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