Susie Blackwell sold products out of her basement for five years before taking a chance and opening Splurges Boutique. Now with two locations, the most recent of which opened in September in Kernersville, Blackwell’s ambitions are firmly a reality.

Splurges carries unique fashions, accessories, and gifts, all of which are arranged in an orderly, yet artistic way throughout the store. As soon as a customer walks in, they’re offered water or a free cup of chai. To complete the welcoming atmosphere, the walls are lined in original artwork by Blackwell’s father, Bill Coyne.

“My grandmother had a store, my daughter had a store, so it’s a generational thing for my family,” Blackwell says.

Many of the items in Splurges can’t be found anywhere else. “A lot of the artists we feature give us an exclusive on their products in the Triad,” she explains.

For example, Splurges carries Liquid Time & Co., which is one-of-a-kind jewelry made from glass that is more than 100 years old.

“We aren’t the typical boutique, and we try to be off the beaten path. We are affordable, but at the same time, we offer boutique touches, such as free gift wrapping and really knowing our customers,” she says.

Blackwell concludes that she’s blessed to have Splurges, adding, “The best part about owning a business is that it’s yours no matter what. It’s all a dream for me; it’s
my passion.”

Splurges is in The Factory in downtown Kernersville (210 N. Main St.). To learn more, go to splurgesboutique.com.

Splurges Top-5 Valentine Ideas

1. LINX & MORE LOCKETS
Fun because they are buildable.

2. B&G ORGANICS BATH AND BODY PRODUCTS
All the lotions and soaps are luxurious.

3. CUSTOM T-SHIRTS
Created by Splurges with inspirational sayings.

4. IWEAR … DO YOU? NECKLACE
Specialty jewelry made out of hardware.

5. SCARVES
Boho or burnout scarves are great. You can just throw them on with anything.