Nicole Sharon Peltier’s hands are always awash with color. From dark reds to shimmering golds, the thin lines of lipstick that adorn her skin are reminiscent of an artist’s palette that help paint her customers a vivid picture of exactly what her store has to offer.
"This really helps me learn about the products," Peltier says. "I get the feel of the lipstick, see what it looks like when it’s applied and get a better idea of who it would look good on. And that way, I can be more helpful to the customer, who comes in wanting to look her best and be beautiful."
Peltier’s attention to detail and to her customers is really half the store’s appeal. Walk into Lockhart Shopping Center on St. Thomas for just a second and you’ll immediately be greeted with a warm invitation to browse the shelves of Palettes of Cosmetics or try a sample or two. You can sit for a makeover, get some tips from Peltier about how to apply the makeup, or even shoot the breeze with some of the other customers, who can’t help but inquire about the price of a certain shade of gloss or eye shadow.
And that’s the other draw: The price is so affordable that you can get all the basics — nail polish ($3.75), powder or foundation ($22-$26), lipstick ($10) or gloss ($8) and an eye shadow — without breaking the bank. And for all those women in need of a serious Sephora fix, that’s some really good news.
Peltier’s brand of choice is Sacha Cosmetics, which she discovered on a recent trip to Trinidad.
"While I was there, I went into the Sacha boutique and I thoroughly enjoyed the product and the experience," Peltier says. "I wanted to come back and share what I discovered with everybody — a really great set of makeup, that’s affordable and available for every woman, no matter the color, no matter her taste. When you come here, you’ll find something you won’t find any where else."
Here’s just a few things you’ll discover at Palettes of Cosmetics:
— you’re allowed to try on the powder or foundation to determine what shade is best for you;
— not only are gift certificates available, but customers can also assemble gift baskets filled with thoughtful presents for a friend or coworker; and
— if you call first, Peltier will open her shop up on Sundays just so a customer can make an emergency purchase for a special occasion.
"For me, the idea is for someone who doesn’t know anything about makeup to come in and learn, to be able to get everything they need and then go home feeling satisfied with the whole experience and with what they’ve purchased," Peltier says. "I really want to offer the whole package."
Palettes of Cosmetics is located on the first floor of Lockhart Shopping Center and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and by appointment on Sundays. To contact Peltier, call 714-5411 or 690-4940, visit palettesofcosmetics.com or email palettesofcosmetics@hotmail.com.
