Click here to subscribe today or Login.
KINGSTON TWP. — Back Mountain business owner Mary Bartos has noticed consumers in Northeastern Pennsylvania are shopping more at local businesses instead of at big box stores.
For over two decades, Bartos has owned Amoré – Bridal Trinkets at 29 W. Center St. in Shavertown.
As business and fashion trends evolved, she, in turn, changed her merchandise and services to accommodate her customers. The flexibility to quickly meet consumers’ needs is a trademark of small companies that their big box store counterparts struggle to overcome, she said.
Bartos opened her shop to provide a sparkle for area brides through a selection of customized wedding jewelry, veils and accessories.
Driven by a creative spirit, Bartos also offers a variety of invitations and unique gift items to celebrate any life milestone.
Living up to her commitment to offer exceptional customer service, Bartos noted her clients’ need for quality career-related accessories. She expanded her shop’s offerings with a broad selection of daily-wear accessories that include scarves, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more.
As her business card states, it is like having “two shops in one stop.”
Where did you go to college?
Misericordia University in Dallas.
What was your major?
Business Administration.
What was your first job out of college?
I opened my own business – Bridal Trinkets.
What has been the best advice you received in business?
Customer service must be exceptional. I embrace the philosophy to under-promise and over-deliver.
If your business had a limitless budget, what would be three things you would do differently?
1. Advertise more;
2. Hire more help so I can travel and sell at more craft shows; and
3. Have a much larger web presence.
What are our area’s biggest strengths and weaknesses?
I noticed (the region’s greatest strength is) the amount of people who shop locally. (I believe the area’s weakness) is the winter weather.
Where did you grow up?
Brooklyn, New York.
Tell us about your family.
I am very proud of my two grown sons.
What’s the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?
I make the sign of the cross and thank God for another day.
What’s the last thing you do at night before you fall asleep?
I meditate and reflect on my day.
Where’s your favorite place to go on vacation?
Italy.
What’s your biggest fear?
The large big box stores will continue to (grow and) hurt small businesses.
What’s your favorite restaurant and/or meal?
Eggplant and lasagna.
What do you want to do when you retire?
I plan to travel and do volunteer work.
