Stephanie Merkel new owner of Shabby Chic Consignments

Story and photos by Lisa Carolin

The selection of gently used women’s clothing, shoes, purses and furniture is still available at Shabby Chic, and the consignment store is still located at Oak Tree Plaza, 12855 Old US-12 near the Fletcher Road exit 162 off I-94.

What’s new is the owner.

Stephanie Merkel took over Shabby Chic as of April 22 after Kris Vermilye, who started the store during the summer of 2011, left to accept a new full-time job.

“Kris presented me with an opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” said Merkel, who previously worked at a resale boutique in Saline. “This is a clean store with a great reputation.”

Merkel, a Chelsea native, says that she has no changes planned, and that all policies are staying the same.

“I think Chelsea needs a consignment shop,” she said. “This is a good location, and we have a variety of merchandise.”

Merkel would like even more merchandise and says she is taking spring and summer consignments as this is a busy time of year she says.

As an added incentive to visit the store, Merkel says that Shabby Chic will participate in a Purse Party Saturday, May 3 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. along with Mule Skinner Boots, The Village Shoppe and Chelsea Antiques.

“Shabby Chic will offer 20-percent off on all purses that day and will have  a drawing for a new purse,” said Merkel.

Vermilye says that she has paid off all accounts and that checks are now available for pickup at the boutique.

For more information on Shabby Chic, click here.