Barb Gunselman, the effervescent Owner of Bling It On, West Chester’s answer to all things that shimmer, shine or sparkle, still manages to be surprised at how well her second business has done, especially given the current economy.  One of many things she seems to excel at, is the realization that in order to get the consumers – you first have to get their attention.  Even the most jaded of zombie window-shoppers are swiftly snapped out of their reverie when smacked with the intensely glittering and hot pink vision sitting boldly at the corner of Chestnut and North High Streets.    
         As you recall Bling It On is an embellishing boutique using Swarovski crystals to unabashedly transform everything and anything that you can push, pull or carry into the store.   The rather gratifying premise is that anything can be “blung”, which is defined as being covered with crystals, as many or as few as you like.  It is somewhat of an understatement to say that the results can be amazing.    Barb says they specifically use Swarovski because they are the most faceted and sparkling of any crystal.  How much sparkle do these crystals have?  Allow me to shed some light (pardon the pun) on the shine factor: if Santa were to “bling” his sleigh Rudolph would be out of a job. 
         Once you settle on what you want “blung”, you simply choose your own crystals and pay by the bag.  While I was there a little girl came in with her mother and older sister and proceeded to sit down and bring a series of headbands to life.   I couldn’t help but to notice that their placement was perfect – you would have thought that little girl was a jeweler in a past life.  Don’t worry if your hand isn’t as steady as the average eight year old’s; the Bling It On staff will graciously and expertly “bling” your creation to life.  They continue to stock a goodly array of flip flops, pet shirts, dog collars, sunglasses, glassware, purses, belts, t-shirts, belts, headbands and hair accessories.  WCU students make out like “blung” bandits year round as most of the purses and jewelry you’ll find at Bling It On are $25-$50 with an additional 25% off with student ID.  They’ll also take orders for parties, gifts and any event or occasion. 
         This year Barb is really excited about the holidays and it’s going to be a real eye-opener – Bling It On will be expanding their Christmas collection big time.  Yes shoppers – the pink Christmas tree is coming back and it will be more than ready for you this time around.  This holiday season Santa’s lending you a helping (mittened) hand with ultimately personalized and affordable gifts that are guaranteed to tickle your loved ones.  I mean just think of the possibilities here – clothing, slippers, watches, jewelry, sports stuff, even electronics.  Taking into consideration how popular her beautifully “blung” glass Christmas tree ornaments were last year Barb is making sure that she has plenty on hand, and no, the tree is not for sale.
         Another new area Bling It On has literally “lit up” is the world of weddings.  Bear in mind that there are as many degrees of “bling” as there are facets in those fabulous Swarovski crystals.  You can merely accent, tastefully adorn, or completely cover to create whatever your vision is of your perfect day.  I thought the white flip flops with “Just Married” emblazoned in pink crystals were adorable; lots of bridal parties will do t-shirts or hats too.  Also awaiting “bling” was a bridal veil, a lovely ring-bearers pillow and an elegant series of name cards for the guest tables.   It’s really eye-opening to see what people can come up with.  I commented that the only thing you can’t do with the crystals is eat them, which prompted Barb to tell me that she’s even been asked to “bling” the ribbons that hold together the tiers of a wedding cake.  Bling It On has also been having a blast throwing BYOB Bachelorette parties, talk about commemorative keepsakes. 
         Barb always says she believes the crystals have positive power and whether they do or not she surely does.   Barb is a breast cancer survivor and Bling It On currently also houses Bella Bandanas www.bellabandanas.com which was Barb’s original business of beautifully customized bandanas in lieu of wigs.  Five percent of all proceeds from the bandanas are donated to Cancer Research and the bandanas are also available on www.breastcancer.org.
         So while you’re cruising around doing your Christmas shopping, make sure you swing by and check out Barb’s new Christmas Collection; guaranteed to sparkle like the new fallen snow.