In 1993, a venture into the retail world led to the opening of La Cache franchise on Kent St, specializing in women’s and children’s clothing, linens, and giftware. This endeavor laid the foundation for subsequent expansions and relocations. By 1998, La Cache found a new home on Queen Street, adjacent to Norton’s Jewellers, marking a significant milestone in its growth.. The turn of the millennium ushered in further developments with the relocation of Merle Norman Cosmetics and the inception of Chameleon’s Hanger, a fresh addition offering women’s clothing and fashion accessories. This expansion was strategically positioned next to the TD Bank in the Confederation Court Mall. In 2001, the vision for diversification materialized with the establishment of Senses, an AVEDA Concept Salon and Spa, which initially operated in the present-day Vogue Optical location. The subsequent year witnessed another pivotal moment as the Dandy Duds Building on 35 University Ave was acquired, facilitating the consolidation of the three businesses under one roof. The year 2014 marked a significant transition as Senses Spa and the University Avenue Building were sold to Homburg International, prompting the relocation of Merle Norman (MN) Cosmetics and Chameleon’s Hanger to their former and present location in the Confederation Court Mall. Wellner says, ““We have sort of come full circle, back to our old location of 2000. Still retailing Merle Norman Cosmetics and skin care, alongside a diverse range of clothing and fashion accessories from renowned brands like Tribal, French Dressing Jeanswear, Charlie B, Soft Works, and Jockey.” As Wellner celebrates 40 years of operation in the Confederation Court (CC) Mall in 2024, she reflects fondly on the journey. “There were challenges early days but overall a great ride” and acknowledges the support and
ABOVE: Debra Wellner with Merle Norman Cosmetics circa 1988. (Photo courtesy of Guardian) BELOW: Debra Wellner with Merle Norman Cosmetics 2024. FACING PAGE TOP: (front, L-R) Faye Turnbull, Debra Wellner, Angela Miller (back, L-R) Paula Dennis, Susan Davis BOTTOM: (L-R) Debra Wellner, Mayor Ian “Tex” MacDonald, Paula Dennis Ribbon Cutting for La Cache grand opening 1993. (Photo courtesy of Chameleon’s Hanger)
encouragment she received along the way from her husband and Mr. Mike Arnold, CEO of CC Mall, throughout her retail career. “Retail fashion may change colour and shape year-to-year, but the business model hasn’t changed significantly.” Wellner says, “Give great service, with great products that are well priced, in the right location and keep current and enjoy your customers. But most important is having great staff, which I have had, some have been with me for over 30 years.” Be sure to drop into Chameleon’s Hanger, check out the latest fashions, Debra and her staff are looking forward to your visit.
CHAMELEON’S HANGER & MERLE NORMAN COSMETICS
119 Kent St, Charlottetown Confederation Court Mall 902.566.1063
SPRING24 www.pei-living.ca
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