Former Social Worker Inspired by New Career as Emmaus Boutique Owner

Special to Emmaus Patch by Chrissy Cilento

Business: Deja Vu Resale Boutique
1328 Chestnut St., Emmaus
610-965-8100
www.dejavuresaleboutique.com
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Owner: Janys Bronstein

What inspired you to start this business? 
I was actually a social worker working a lot with kids, so I was just burnt out. My cousin owned a consignment shop and I started helping her. I just loved it, so I decided to open my own business, get out of social work and do something completely different.


What you sell? 
Really a little bit of everything. Clothing for men, women and children, home decor, jewelry, shoes, toys, books, CDs -- basically everything.

Why was this business located in Emmaus? 
Honestly I really love my landlord. That was one of the reasons I chose this location. Also with RiteAid next door and the variety of stores in the area it was a good spot. 

How long have you been in business? 
Since September.

What’s the most rewarding part about this business? 
I like talking to the customers and getting to know them. I have a lot of people that come in and give me compliments about everything from the way the store is organized to the way it smells even, so that’s the most rewarding part for me.

Where do you hope to see this business in the future? 
I’d love to be able to open two locations. I haven’t really thought about it so much yet, but maybe another location in Whitehall.

What makes this business different from the competition? 
It’s much more organized and not as cluttered. I think a lot of other consignment shops tend to be really cluttered where you back up and you hit another rack. A lot of compliments I get are that it’s easy to find things and walk around in here. We also do a lot of name brands and designer clothes, not so much the lower end.

What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received? 
Cater to the needs of the clientele. To do that I ask a lot of questions and keep a wish list for people who want something that isn’t here, then I can contact them if I get it. Basically cater it around them, not what you would assume people would want.

What business advice would you give to someone else? 
Be prepared. Do your research about advertising and basic things like utilities and credit card services. There’s so much out there -- that was something I had to learn right off the bat. You can’t just pick the first person that walks through your door. 

What do you do in your free time? 
I’m a single mom, and my daughter is on a gymnastics team, so it’s basically taking her back and forth to the gym and back and forth to the gym. I really have no spare time whatsoever! 

Anything you’d like to say to the community about your business? 
Come shop! I have a little bit of everything and prices that are reasonable for everyone, so come stop in!