Downtown Picayune is bubbling over with the opening of its newest specialty boutique, Bubbles and Bliss.
For 18 years, Picayune native Kristy Bryant owned the K&T Texaco and Spur gas stations. Two-years ago she decided she was ready for something different and sold them.
Last summer, the mother of four children, Ashton, Drake, Lexie Belle and Kiley, Bryant decided to open a store filled with bath products.
“I love bath bombs and always wanted to open a store in downtown on West Canal St.,” Bryant said. “A number of shops have closed in this area and I wanted to find a place to rent before it was taken.”
Bryant is also following in her grandmother’s footsteps, who was the former owner of Beebe’s Boutique.
From bath bombs to soaps and robes, Bryant offers an array of items designed to soften the skin and relax the mind.
The boutique is stocked with soaps and bath bombs from Pass Christian Soap Company and Swanky Sweet Pear, who manufacture cupcake shaped bath bombs.
For muscle and feet aches, Bryant offers products from Aromafloria. Freshen up the bathroom and vehicle with a satchet filled with aroma beads or a Primal Elements candle.
An order from New Orleans based Sweet Olive Soap Works is also on its way, Bryant said.
Sticking with her theme, Bryant also sells bathrobes, cosmetic cases, towels and laundry bags. These items can be monogrammed. Soon, Bryant will feature in store monogramming by Gwen McCrory’s Lady Bugs Monogramming.
After soaking in a bath, put on one of the variety of college nightshirts in a bag. Schools available at Bryant’s store include, Ole Miss, Florida Gators, Alabama, Auburn, Mississippi State University and Louisiana State University. There are many other nightgowns to choose from, which feature funny quotes or a bridal motif.
Bryant also offers sparkling adornments by Little Miss Sassy Pants, which are made in Picayune and feature Swarovski crystals, she said.
Women can add a touch of glamour to their personal safety regime with a canister of bling pepper spray and a Sparkly personal alarm.
Bryant also sells baby clothing, tooth fairy teeth holders and burp cloths.
She also offers gift items such as Top Shelf decorative wine glasses and handbags.
In the future, Bryant will feature essential oils utilized for energy, stress relief and sleep. She is currently looking for a masseuse to provide services.
Originally her store was to be named Rosebud, which is Bryant’s oldest daughter’s nickname.
“My other daughters had a fit because it would be named after my oldest,” Bryant said. “First, I suggested Purple Bliss, but the girls and I together eventually decided on Bubbles and Bliss.”
Byrant said she loves having a shop downtown, being a part of community events and hopes one day all the shops will once again be open for business.
“I want people to be able to shop in Picayune for things they want instead of traveling out of town,” Bryant said. “It’s time to get the downtown going again.
Bubbles and Bliss is located at 117 W. Canal St. The store is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Bryant accepts all major credit cards and offers complimentary gift wrapping. In the future, she plans to offer bridal and gift registries.
Learn more about the boutique through Facebook at Bubbles and Bliss.