by Rebecca Murphy
There’s a lot to love at Bonnie J.
We all know a person that has the gift of putting together a terrific outfit, pulling off a great hairstyle and finding beautiful accessories for their finely decorated home. For those of us lucky to call Lisa Ardis our friend we know she has that special gift. Her eye for style is enviable. That is why it was no surprise that as she approached an empty nest at home, she jumped into owning a stylish retail boutique. Named Bonnie J, the store was originally in downtown Modesto and moved to McHenry village in 2018. Lisa’s goal was to create a store with a lot of stylish variety while keeping it accessible to our community. She originally became interested in this business while helping raise money with the Central Catholic BASH fashion show. Besides helping with local charities, Lisa loves being part of our community and donates generously with her time and her products.
Bonnie J has consistently been a “go to” store for a quick gift or an entire wardrobe. When I recently met our photographer MJ (Michael Mangano) at the store, Lisa had a great collection of hand-selected clothes ready and Michael’s flash was quickly busy. As she stood near a piece of art that says “LOVE, LOVE, LOVE,” it was perfectly symbolic because there is a lot to love in this store!
In this challenging economy I asked for her to show me items under $50. She was quick to pull dresses, sweaters, shoes, jewelry, tops, hats and jeans that are all at or below that price point. The store has everything you need for a winning look. The selection is vast and it would be easy to find a gift for any closet. She has a Great Wall of jeans priced from $48-$72. She carries jeans by Judy Blue, Hidden, and Articles of Society. For all of the great looks, there are many great values.
Besides clothing, Bonnie J carries Joy Dravecky jewelry whose designs range from classic to dainty to daring. We also found bracelets that are 14k gold hand made by “el lee” in California and sell for $35. Bonnie J also has a large selection of Modesto’s own Mobaak candles. These cozy candles come in three sizes and range from $22-32 and room spray starts at $6.
From loungewear to a holiday dress, Bonnie J can’t be missed this holiday season. I love the products, love the selection, love the staff and location. Speaking of staff, Lisa has hired some great employees. Alex Dinsmore is store manager and Reece Rockwood and Josephine Henderson are all the help she needs. The girls are friendly, helpful and can aid you in your quest for yourself or others! On top of all of that they offer free and fast gift wrap! Bonnie J is a great one stop shop for the women in our lives and has a selection for all ages and professions.
Bonnie J is conveniently located in the breezeway beside Gabriel’s fine jewelry with ample parking in front and back.
Covid- masks required.
1700 McHenry Ave Suite 27B
209-521-2700
@ishopbonniej
Hours: Monday 11-4
Tuesday through Friday 11-6
Saturday 10-4
Sunday-closed
Bonnie J is closing at 2:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve for those last minute shoppers and will be closed on Christmas Day.
