People of the `90s are getting back into the swing of entertaining. And those who like to entertain but cringe at the thought of coming up with decorating themes should stroll into Hopes and Treasures of Geneva.
Owners Debbie Szechowycz and Cathy Anderson are more than ready to give recommendations and all of the necessary ingredients to boot.
”We help our customers with `lifestyle entertaining,”` said Szechowycz. ”We`re not just a party shop.”
One look around the femininely decorated store proves just that. From paper products, gourmet foods and recipe books to candlesticks, floral arrangements, decorative containers and potpourris, the store seems to have everything that could be used for parties.
The merchandise in the airy store, located formerly in St. Charles and currently at the northeast corner of State and 3rd Streets in Geneva, is grouped according to color. For instance, all party and gift items in lavender are displayed together, next to a display of items in a blush-tone, next to those in teal, and so on. ”Customers are more attracted to color groupings,” said Anderson. ”It helps them think about what they want and see how it will look.”
The specialty food items appeal not only to those giving parties but also to those looking for unique gift items. English teas, cheddar cheese and beer bread mixes, preserves, flavored sugars and mayonnaises are among the attractively packaged foods that will be arranged in gift baskets or boxes that generally come to about $30.
Trying to appeal to patrons` five senses, the shop also sells audio tapes and CDs of attractive background music. While the merchandise and displays in the spacious main room change with each season, a smaller back room is dedicated year-round to merchandise that reflects the image of the Southwest. Candles, hot and spicy food items, table decorations, rugs, home furnishings and small furniture are featured.
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Hopes and Treasures of Geneva, 229 W. State St., Geneva, is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday. 708-513-6964.
