NEW JERSEY LIFE MAGAZINE
The Best Of Issue

"Top Pick 2006"

"Start downstairs, and look for casual separates such as cashmere cardigans from White and Warren and skirts from Beth Bowley. Go upstairs for short cocktail dresses and long gowns from Kay Unger. There’s also a corner of traditional men’s clothes, including punchy Peter Blair ties printed with beach icons."

LOVE & MARRIAGE BRIDE'S GUIDE

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..."

SOMERSET MAGAZINE

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"

"FINALLY! Finding that special outfit or perfect gift no longer requires a trip to the City or weeding out the ordinary at a mall. Nan Romano brings you a very special boutique right in the heart of the Somerset Hills. In her new shop, Nan has created an atmosphere that is warm, inviting and service-oriented; an upscale, approachable environment designed just for you. You’ll come to rely on Nan’s refreshing approach to fashion and keen eye for detail in all she carries. Come in and browse or take advantage of a personal shopping day, a private appointment or a fitting in the VIP room...."

HISTORICAL SOCIETY of the SOMERSET HILLS
2007 Historical Preservation Award

In the category of adaptive use, three businesses were selected that show the positive impacts of finding new uses for old buildings.

Nan Romano Fine Apparel
432 Main Street, Bedminster, NJ

On Main Street in Bedminster, the Nan Romano building owned by Charles and Nan Romano, is a fine example of a modestly scaled house that has been sensitively converted to a women’s apparel shop, which is compatible with the historic village streetscape.