Accents Boutique returns to original ownership

Marble Falls’ Accents Boutique & Merle Norman Studio, a community favorite since 1992, celebrated the return of its original owner, Lynnette Turner, with a re-ribbon cutting earlier this month. The event marked Turner’s decision to buy back the boutique after it operated under new ownership for several years.

“I just knew it was something that I loved and wanted to do,” Turner told DailyTrib, recalling how she jumped at the chance to start her business in the 1990s.

The boutique’s home at 212 Ave H has a colorful past. Before it became Accents, the building housed a gun and ammo store, the locally legendary Burnham Brothers Sporting Goods.

“This building has a lot of history,” Turner said, noting that ammo and live rattlesnakes used to be kept at the front of the store.

Turner sold the business several years ago to retire, but under new ownership, the boutique struggled to maintain its loyal customer base. She then decided to step back in earlier this year to restore the boutique to its original charm and service.

“I love all of it and I’m glad to be back,” she said.

The boutique has survived recessions, the COVID-19 pandemic, tariffs, and other economic challenges. Turner attributes its longevity to determination and adaptability.

“Every day is uncertainty,” Turner said. “There’s longevity, but there’s also a will and determination to not let those challenges get in your way, to come out stronger, and to accept that you might have to make sacrifices along the way.”

To stay current, Turner travels to fashion markets in Atlanta, Dallas, and Las Vegas, selecting items that are durable and high quality rather than disposable fast fashion.

“I want pieces that are going to last and I pride myself on being more of a specialty store, and featuring items that are more of what you can add to the wardrobe you already have,” she said.

Accents also carries Merle Norman Cosmetics, allowing customers to try products before purchasing and receive personalized assistance.

“That’s one thing that we do offer that you can’t really get anywhere else (in the area),” Turner said.

During the holidays, the boutique offers wishlists to help shoppers ensure their loved ones find the perfect gifts, a service Turner especially enjoys, knowing it creates a “win-win” for everyone.

Being one of the older businesses in the area, Turner continually looks forward, seeing the unpredictability of retail as an opportunity to innovate and guide the boutique’s future to continue being a staple spot.

“The way things change with the times, it keeps me on my toes, and makes me anxious to see what’s next,” Turner said.

maci@thepicayune.com