Westwood Small Business Q&A: Decor and More

Westwood is home to a number of small businesses, and as such we thought we'd begin checking in with store owners on a weekly basis for some thoughts about what they do, what makes them unique and how they are faring in the economic climate. 

We begin with owner Melissa Lucier, who provides some insight on what new items she has in store, as well as the business's design services department.

Be sure to check back each week for a Question and Answer session with a new local business owner. 

Westwood Patch: What is the newest item you have for sale? 

Melissa Lucier: Right now we have a lot of great stock in jewelry and handbags. It's that time of the year that women want a little pick-me-up without spending a lot of money. We are carrying the Sisco and Berluti bracelets, which have been great for our business, since they are made here in Westwood and have a great following. We are also carrying Fleebags. The owner of that business use to have a store in Newton, so she has a loyal Massachusetts following now that she has moved to Chicago. We are one of two shops that carries them in this state.

WP: What do you feel is a benefit about being a small business in Westwood?

ML: We have been in this location in Westwood for more than 20 years now. I love knowing almost everyone that walks in the door by name. 

WP: What would you say is your most popular time of year for shoppers?

ML: The holiday season is our best retail time, then again in Spring, especially for Mothers' Day. We are busy right now with our interior design business. After people take down their holiday decorations, they look around and want to spruce up their house for graduation parties, etc.

WP: How has the economy affected you in the last year? 

ML: We had a fabulous holiday season here at Decor and More, so I am optimistic that things are turning around with the economy. We have adjusted our business to go with the flow. We have lots of reasonably-priced items in the gift shop. With our design shop, we offer discounts on all of our products, such as wallcovering, fabrics, trims . . . we discount them all. 

WP: What is one thing people might not know about Decor and More?

ML: I am sometimes surprised that people don't know that along with our great gift shop, we also offer full interior design services. We can take care of anything you need for your home, and we can even accessorize right down to the artwork with items from our retail shop. We really do offer one-stop shopping. I also think it's important for the town's people to support all of their hometown small businesses. We are lucky to have a nice mix of shops in our plaza.