Folks who stop by the showroom sale at Anne Koplik Designs in Brewster over the next few days will find two things: Pieces on sale for up to 75 percent off, and a family business.
Known for antique looks and lots of crystal, the jewelry—which contestants on Dancing with the Stars have worn for ten seasons—attracts a wide range of ages, owners say. Many of the customers who visit the sale have purchased gifts for teachers, while others are shopping for formal occasions, such as prom or a wedding.
"We've been a popular lunchtime destination," Kara Garecht, one of the owners, said. People notice the balloons and sign on Main Street, she added, and make it a point to pop in.
The shop is typically closed to the public. It's where the nickel and lead-free jewelry that's sent to 1,700 stores nationwide is made. The warehouse sales are held at least once a year.
They're usually a fun few days for Jenna Garecht and Rachel Yee, first cousins whose mothers are co-owners at the shop. Their grandmother is founder Anne Koplik.
After the two Brewster High School freshmen finished classes Thursday, they headed over to the shop to help.
"There's so much variation," Rachel said as her cousin consulted with their grandmother on which piece to wear for a photo. "There's something for everyone."
Jenna and Rachel's experience at the studio isn't limited to retail. They're exposed to marketing and other aspects of the business.
"I love thinking that in a couple of months, that'll be in a catalogue," Jenna said of observing the design process.
The business was established on Long Island. It moved to Mount Kisco in 1994 and then Brewster in 2002. When asked if folks in the community know the studio is here—and that the pieces they see on Dancing with the Stars are made in their hometown—Kara hesitated.
"I don't think anybody knows we're located here," she said with a laugh.
The sale is running Friday, Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday). Prices range from approximately $4 to $75.
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