When Sarah Quinttus, 34, exchanged vows at Riverside Farm in Pittsfield, Vermont, in 2019, she was on a mission to find the perfect jewelry for her big day. She desired accessories that were unique, affordable, and practical, striking a balance between special and everyday wear. The solution? A pair of dangly earrings with teardrop-shaped pendants adorned with rainbow moonstone for $72. This iridescent gem, shimmering with colors under the light, not only complemented her bridal attire but also encapsulated the essence of Vermont. Quinttus’ quest for personalized, handcrafted jewelry led her to Elli Parr, a quaint boutique nestled in South Burlington’s Shelburne Square Shopping Center.
Elli Parr, owned by Sara Nelson, 38, caters to brides and bridal parties seeking distinctive pieces to accessorize their wedding ensembles. From DIY jewelry-making workshops to private consultations, the boutique offers an intimate and personalized experience, complete with sips of Champagne while selecting the perfect accessories. Nelson, the creative force behind Elli Parr, ensures that each piece exudes a touch of Vermont charm, with elements crafted by hand in-house and gemstones sourced from India.
“I really wanted to be able to communicate with…and feel an attachment to the person who was making it,” Quinttus shared, reflecting on her Elli Parr experience. The boutique’s emphasis on handcrafted, locally-inspired jewelry resonates with customers looking for a deeper connection with their accessories. Nelson’s designs, emphasizing minimalist aesthetics, aim to complement the bride’s attire rather than overshadow it, a philosophy that has garnered a loyal following among those who appreciate the brand’s story and ethos.
Beyond bridal jewelry, Elli Parr offers a diverse range of pieces, including rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. With a focus on affordability and quality, all items are hypoallergenic, crafted without metal alloys or nickel. Nelson’s meticulous attention to detail extends to the selection of materials, striking a delicate balance between cost-effectiveness and luxury. For instance, a brass chain necklace dipped in 14-karat gold retails for $64, offering the look of solid gold without the hefty price tag.
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, Elli Parr anticipates increased foot traffic, particularly for popular items like the heart-shaped pendant necklace priced at $72. The boutique’s appeal extends beyond its curated jewelry collection, featuring a “bead bar” where customers can create custom bracelets and earrings using gemstones, beads, and charms. From casual drop-ins to private jewelry-making workshops, Elli Parr offers a range of experiences tailored to customers of all ages and occasions.
Jude Olson, a Colchester resident, embodies the boutique’s loyal clientele, having frequented Elli Parr for special occasions like Christmas gifts and her daughter’s bridal shower. The intimate gathering, hosted at Elli Parr, underscored the store’s commitment to creating memorable experiences for its customers. Nelson’s journey from a corporate recruiter to a jewelry designer is a testament to her passion for the craft and dedication to building a brand that resonates with customers on a personal level. Her decision to rebrand as Elli Parr, a blend of her past and present, reflects the boutique’s evolution from a small jewelry studio to a thriving retail business with a national presence.
Nelson’s team, which includes four part-time sales associates and two full-time store managers, embodies the boutique’s commitment to service and craftsmanship. A recent visit to Elli Parr showcased Nelson’s personal connection to the brand, evident in her stacked bracelets and necklaces that she never takes off. The boutique’s Galentine’s Party, featuring collaborations with local businesses, highlights Elli Parr’s community-centric approach to events, offering an array of activities from floral arrangements to Pilates pop-ups.
Anne Muscarella, a bride from the San Francisco Bay area, echoes the sentiments of many Elli Parr customers who value the boutique’s local roots and personalized touch. Muscarella’s decision to gift her bridesmaids Elli Parr earrings speaks to the brand’s appeal among brides seeking unique, handcrafted pieces for their wedding parties. The boutique’s upcoming Galentine’s Party, slated for February 13, promises an evening of fun and festivities, underscoring Elli Parr’s commitment to creating memorable experiences for its customers.
In a world of mass-produced jewelry brands, Elli Parr stands out as a beacon of authenticity and craftsmanship, offering brides and bridal parties a chance to adorn themselves with pieces that tell a story. As Nelson continues to expand her brand and offerings, Elli Parr remains a testament to the power of handcrafted, locally-inspired jewelry in an increasingly commoditized market. So, whether you’re shopping for your big day or looking for a meaningful gift, Elli Parr offers a unique blend of Vermont charm, affordability, and quality that sets it apart from the rest.
