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A Unique and Welcoming Shop

Bodytalk Boutique Has Been in Business Nearly 40 Years

Article by Eileen M. McNamara

Photography by Seshu Badrinath - Connecticut Headshots

Originally published in West Hartford Lifestyle

Bodytalk has set a fashion standard for three generations of customers during its nearly 40 years of business. Founded in 1984 as a dance and workout wear retailer, today it represents an upscale ladies' boutique.

The Avon store was purchased by Anna and Paul Mancinone in 2021. Its loyal employees, who have worked there for more than two decades, continue to be the heartbeat of the boutique. 

That continuity and consistency of service has helped Bodytalk carve out a special place in Avon’s retail scene.   

Anna Mancinone, Bodytalk’s owner, came to work at the boutique 25 years ago for Marsha Davison. Terry Couture, Bodytalk’s manager, started around the same time. Gayle Arcouette is a fashion stylist who has worked at the store for 29 years. Tracey Ciccarelli, who is also a fashion stylist, joined the family three years ago. The newest team member is Meghan O'Brien, social media specialist and part time sales.

"Over the years we all became close friends, so it made sense for me to buy the boutique when Marsha decided to retire two years ago," Anna says.

“We’re like sisters and we love our customers like family, too,” Terry says. 

Their deep knowledge of their customers means they can provide an intimate level of service and knowledge that other boutiques can't. 

“We’ve been dressing our customers for so many years, we know what they like and don’t like and now we’re dressing their daughters as well and, in some cases, their granddaughters,” Anna says.

“We literally can dress three generations of women,” Terry adds.  “They value our opinion and fashion sense. We help dress them for all their special events and they don’t ever feel pressured. It’s a fun and friendly shopping experience.”  

The 4,000-square-foot store on East Main Street carries a wide variety of designers and brands that reflect a modern yet relaxed fashion vibe. 

Some of the popular brands Bodytalk carries include Rails, Johnny Was, Planet, Joseph Ribkoff and AG Jeans, to name a few. 

After buying the store, Anna says, she undertook a remodel to include the addition of a new gift shop. She also began adding new products, luxury preloved designer handbags and expanded some of the clothing lines to include more youthful offerings.  

“Although we have a lot of existing customers we are welcoming new customers daily,” Anna says. Bodytalk is a place for every woman to come and feel confident, special and beautiful!

Bodytalk

51 East Main St., Avon

Phone: 860-678-7855

Online: Bodytalkboutique.com

On Social: @Bodytalkboutique

Hours:

M-F: 10-6

Sat: 10-5

Sun: Closed

“We are a unique, enthusiastic, welcoming boutique. We provide a high level of personal service and we have a marvelous assortment of fashions that appeal to women of all ages.”  Anna Mancinone,

  • Anna Mancinone

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