New Glen Ellyn store showcases handmade jewelry

Shoppers have a new option for jewelry and trendy clothes with the opening of e & e aubé Designs in downtown Glen Ellyn.

The store at 477 Forest Ave. is a few steps from the downtown Metra station and opened Wednesday. For now, it offers women's clothing and jewelry, but co-owner Edith Boughton said she hopes to expand and sell handbags, purses and maybe even shoes. Boughton owns the store with her husband.

What makes Boughton's shop different is the jewelry she sells has been designed and put together by Boughton or her sister, giving customers a chance to bring home a unique piece.

Although the jewelry is made by the sisters, the pieces often consist of parts that are already manufactured, such as pendants, that the sisters assemble into their own creations.

If a piece requires more intricate detail, Boughton outsources the labor.

She said she tries to make pieces that can be worn by customers of all ages and will customize pieces for shoppers.

Boughton was born and raised in the Philippines but later moved to Chicago. She attended DeVry University and previously worked as an accountant.

Boughton started making jewelry as a hobby and sold pieces to friends and family.

Having a business is a dream come true for Boughton, who says she always has been creative.

“I've always wanted to have my own store ever since I can remember,” she said.

The new business owner said she also wants to incorporate philanthropic endeavors with the store.

One of the issues Boughton is very passionate about is helping and changing people's perceptions about pit bulls — she has two rescued pit bulls of her own. She plans to have fliers about animal issues in her store, as well as pictures featuring pit bulls.

Boughton said once the business gets going, she wants to donate a part of the profits to different charities each month.

The store is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 3 p.m. Sundays.