Kate Austin Creates Buzz

With a first name that’s already a popular jewelry store, Claire Branscum had to be creative when coming up with a name for her new store near the Pleasant Grove Road exit in Rogers.
So Branscum went with her daughter’s first name and her maiden name, and the end result was Kate Austin Jewelry & Gifts. She opened last October and has since been creating a buzz with her trendy, yet classy jewelry that’s more affordable than a custom store.
“It’s definitely not a place where you would have to come in and slap down hundreds of dollars,” Branscum said. “We try to keep a good mix of both conservative pieces you can wear on a daily basis to special pieces for events like the prom and even jewelry for little girls.”
Taking the busy month of December out of the equation, Branscum said sales have increase about 50 percent each month since opening. Branscum said advertising for specific products such as the “Love Bracelet” on Valentine’s Day has increased traffic, but that most has come from referrals and repeat customers.
The store carries plenty of sterling silver jewelry and many other varieties. It also has gifts and faith-based items such as scripture signs and crosses. Prices range from a few bucks to $300.
“I really don’t think you can put us in any kind of box,” Branscum said. ” We’re not custom, but we’re not selling cheap pieces either.
“We’re somewhere in the middle. That’s our niche.”