LOVE & MARRIAGE BRIDE'S GUIDE, Fall 2006

Feature Article

"Fashion Trends for Bridesmaids and Mothers of the Bride & Groom"

"...Nan Romano of Nan Romano is noticing mothers-of-the-bride and groom are more current than ever before. “More strapless, less jackets, more drama,” and she adds “something they can wear again to a black tie affair is the more popular choice.” Bridesmaids are looking for a sleeker, more “can wear again” type dress. Color coordination continues to remains a priority; however, there is more flexibility in individual style so that the bridesmaids’ personalities are not compromised..."

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SOMERSET MAGAZINE, May/June 2006 

New and Noteworthy

"You Look Great... Honest"

"When was the last time a boutique owner advised you not to buy something because it didn't flatter you?  Nan Romano, proprietor of the Bedminster shop that bears her name, does it all the time.  "I won't lie to get the sale, " she says.  "I'm honest because I want you to be happy with the purchase and come back again.  I've even had people buy the item and then come back and say, 'You were right.'"

Romano's charming shop, located in a converted Victorian home on Main Street, is filled with fine apparel and distinctive gifts for both men and women.  The women's department is extensive with casual clothing, jewelry and other accessories on the first floor and formal attire upstairs.  "There aren't a lot of places to buy evening wear around here," Romano says, "and I try to buy things that you don't see everywhere else."

Customers seem especially drawn to her unusual jewelry.  This spring, she's sold lots of necklaces from a small design shop called Shari Dixon, which uses real, pressed flowers in combination with semi-precious stones.  Romano carries jewelry ranging in price from $12 to over $100.  A similar variety of prices can be found throughout the store.  "There's something for everyone here, from casual, up to black tie," she says.

A former educator, Romano worked with her husband, Charles, to open the store.  "It was something we wanted to do for a long time.  He designed the layout and the fixtures; I did the buying," she says.  But before they had time to savor their success, Charles was on his way to Iraq with the Navy Reserve.

Nan's pulling double duty, but she still manages to remember the names of almost all her customers.  "I think that's important," she says."

NEW JERSEY COUNTRYSIDE MAGAZINE

"Where To Find It"