IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD with Mandy Haynes

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD with Mandy Haynes

JJ COOPER

John and Lori Lecker opened JJ COOPER in 2018, which exploded on the scene as the premier menswear store in the Fernandina Beach market. It’s the perfect addition to two other businesses the couple own: lori+lulu, which earned the tagline “Laid-back Luxury Lifestyle”, and Pearl, a premier luxury resort boutique. They also own ISOLA Home, which features furniture, art, tabletop decor, home decor, lighting, luxury linens, area rugs, chandeliers, and gifts.

The hardworking couple used their creative vision to develop a brand strategy for JJ COOPER based on menswear stores in Americana markets like Austin, Atlanta, and Charleston. The store features exclusive distribution of the Peter Millar sportswear line and other highly coveted brands such as Bugatchi, Fish Hippie, Mavi denim, Maceoo, and more. “We’re in the process of expanding our shoe business based on the success of our Martin Dingman, T. B. Phelps, and Rez Ispa collections,” says Lori. “One of the most rewarding parts of owning a business is seeing your ideas become reality and achieving success with the support of the community.”

“Owning a business requires a twenty-four-seven commitment that’s carried forth with passion and hard work,” says Lori. “Finding great people to represent your brand is the hardest thing. But store manager Susan Fishback has built a wonderful team.” Then she laughs, “Which enables John to do what he does best: buy amazing menswear!” JJ Cooper is located at 216 Centre Street. For more information, call (904) 310-6235.

Debonair

Victoria Sell, manager of Debonair, is originally from Chesapeake, Virginia, but she and her husband, Sam, decided to make Amelia Island their permanent home in 2008. In 2009, Victoria and her in-laws, Steve and Jerrie Sell, opened a small boutique store on Sadler Road, then in 2015, they moved to their current location on Centre Street in downtown Fernandina Beach. Debonair is a fun place that specializes in stylish women’s accessories, including jewelry, hair clips, handbags, scarves, and more. Customers say they have the best selection of designer handbags on Amelia Island.

“I love how supportive the community is here and how they helped us grow,” says Victoria. “We have some fabulous employees – Dru and Noreen – who are so much fun to work with, and we love meeting new customers from all over the world. We also love catching up with our regular customers when they stop by to shop or say hello.” Then she laughs. “What’s most fun about being the manager of Debonair is buying new merchandise and getting to see the new trends coming for the next season! Who doesn’t love shopping?”

When Victoria isn’t working, her favorite thing to do is hang out with her husband Sam and their two kids, Bella and John. They enjoy going to Universal Studios, to the beach, and to the pool. “Oh, and spoiling our two rescues, Luna and Cash.” To see what’s on sale, visit Debonair’s website at www. debonairofflorida.com, stop by the store at 114 Centre Street, or call (904) 261-6993.