Shopping in Shelby

Since 1950, the staff at Meldrum Brothers Nursery has stocked landscaping and design materials for both homeowners and contractors. Their bulk stones, mulch, trees, and plants beautify lawns for a more natural look than a yard of bedazzled astroturf. A sampling of their selection—which includes flowers, gifts, Christmas trees, and holiday décor—can be seen in their online photo gallery.

Lynn, Patricia, and Martina each discovered a love for design and creativity at a young age, and this passion ultimately brought them together to work at a crafting studio until 2006, when the owner of the studio retired after more than 20 years in business. Not wanting to say goodbye to each other or their customers, the three friends decided to purchase the business, and Crafty Lady Trio was born, creating a place for customers to knit, stitch, and socialize.

When asked what sets the company apart, Lynn Cusumano cites its specialization. "I think we have the largest selection,” she adds, “and largest number of experienced teachers." These resources shine through during classes, which, instead of adhering to specific lesson plans, cater to each student's skill set. Pupils purchase kits and patterns ahead of time from Crafty Lady Trio's store, and then help them blossom into colorful projects such as scarves and shawls with an expert’s guidance. The trio also leads longer crafting retreats and a weekly club for more advanced projects.

Courses take place within a 3,600-square-foot studio space that holds five teaching tables. For the trio and their students, this isn't just a place to work. It becomes a haven for making friends and sharing a passion for needlework.:m]]

The eyewear experts at Blink flatter faces with a collection of frames from designers such as Prada, Valentino, Nine West, and David Yurman. As clients browse, staff members remain on hand, eager to expound on the subtle differences in lens materials or coatings. They also help clients browse both classic and avant-garde outlines, as well as a colorful array of Ray-Bans primed for future trips to the beach or the lighting department of the local hardware store.

In an interview with Metromix, Lyudviga Shneyder shared that when she was a little girl, her grandmother told her that if she learned to sew, she would always have food on the table. With more than 25 years in the European and American fashion industries behind her, Russian–born Lyudviga has proven her grandmother right. From her boutique in downtown Birmingham, she showcases her own line of clothing, which casts a subtle spin on classic silhouettes.

Lyudviga confessed to the Birmingham Patch—which describes her designs as being suitable for black-tie events or the office—that she designs her clothing from the heart. Each stitch and seam is sewn onsite with the same fabrics showcased by famed Italian fashion houses such as Valentino.

The Art of Custom Framing transforms interior spaces with collectibles, fine art, and wall decor, as well as high-quality custom framing services. Inside the store's gallery, eyes can only try to keep pace with the thousands of options and combinations that stretch across walls and displays. An extensive sports section boasts professionally licensed memorabilia that always leaves the store accompanied by necessary authentications, and an ever-changing arsenal of original pieces and prints showcases the handiwork of both local and nationally acclaimed artists. Rather than trying to frame the entire family's lineup of snow angels, customers can use the know-how of veteran design consultants to safely usher keepsakes into the future.