Blue Bell’s therapy boutique

A retail dream come true.
By Alina Makhnovetsky

The road to therapy, located in Blue Bell, actually started in Lafayette Hill. Jacqueline Konin and Lisa Kodish were friends and began an accessories start up business, selling belts, purses and jewelry, wherever possible, from synagogue bazaars to church events.

Their biggest competitor in the area was Judy Abramowitz. Also in retail, Abramowitz was often selling at the same shows, with her own merchandise. For a small community, the competition was intense, but also highly profitable. To savor the neighborly bond and to remain friends, the three decided to make retail—a joint venture—while three proved to be a very lucky number.

With a set list of clients and regulars the business stay at home moms could count on, the next logical step was a space to house their merchandise, as well as, expand into apparel. In March 2008, therapy opened its doors. Inside, were wisely chosen pieces from New York trade shows all three owners travel to regularly, and of course, accessories. “We have a two out of three rule,” explains Konin of how the women choose the jeans, tops, blouses, cocktail numbers and even t-shirts to sell in the boutique. “Having the three of us makes these decisions really easy for us, if two like it, it goes in the store and vice versa,” explains Kodish.

Almost two years ago, Konin started jotting down potential names for a business she would soon open with her neighbors, Kodish and Judy Abramowitz. Konin wanted a one-word title that would some how encompass all of their many hats; mother, wife, and fashion enthusiast. Then, one word suggested by Konin’s husband suddenly made perfect sense—therapy. Retail therapy was, after all, the best kind of therapy they knew of. That’s how the therapy boutique in Blue Bell was born.

The driving force behind the clothes the women selected for the store is actually
themselves. “When we thought about who was going to be our customer, we thought about ourselves,” says Abramowitz. The boutique is geared to mothers in their 30s to 40s, their teenagers and even their mothers. “Here you can pick out a great top and a pair of trendy jeans for that night out with your husband,” suggests Abramowitz. In truth, the store is accessible to anyone. “We try to pick items that are fashionable and we pay great attention to style, price and quality of our selections,” says Kodish.

The choices all three owners have made, so far have paid off in great success of the boutique. therapy continues to build their clients, expand and try new designers and satisfy their beloved regulars—many of whom the self admitted chatty women know by name.

While running an around the clock business as full-time moms, the three owners are very understanding of each other. “If someone has to go to their kid’s basketball game, we make it work,” says Konin. “We can always count on each other,” admits Kodish.

At therapy, what you can count on are fashionable, new and exciting lines, those famous accessories and service with a smile.

Mention this profile for 10% off an entire purchase at therapy boutique.

therapy is located at 1201 DeKalb Pike in Blue Bell. For more information, call (610) 277-3526.