May 8, 2007

New Brighton gift shop breaks from the ordinary; Sales brisk as Utica-based business opens third siteBy Mary ChaoDemocratandChronicle.com

A Utica-based gift shop has opened its first store in the Rochester market.

After looking at sites in Pittsford and Brighton, Joette’s Gifts opened at 1464 Monroe Ave. in Brighton last week, filling the site of a former interior design shop.

The 1,500-square-foot shop is filled with owner Joette Mancuso’s favorite things — such as rhinestone jewelry, purses and bridal accessories.

“It’s a sensory boutique,” said Mancuso, 52, of Utica. “I sell things you can’t find anywhere else.”

Mancuso travels to trade shows to find items for her shops — many are one of a kind.

Her love of bling is evident throughout the shop, with Austrian and Swarovski crystals, and prices ranging from $8 and up for necklaces to $20 and up for necklace sets. Evening purses cost about $25. Earrings start at $3.

Read complete article.