New store in Newton combines radiant beauty and essential peace

NEWTON - Radiant Essentials, the newly opened shopping experience on Spring Street in Newton, is a hybrid of gallery and boutique featuring “art to wear.” The store is the vision of Bernadette Blaney, owner and artist-in-residence. Her store’s calming atmosphere “greets you as you step into an environment where you can pause to replenish from the stresses of everyday life and rediscover beauty.” Blaney purposefully made the interior “the perfect balance of clean, sleek lines and soothing, calming colors chosen for their connection to nature.” Blaney chose to introduce her concept boutique in Newton because of her sense of the town’s historic relationship to the past and gentler, calmer times. “People think the ambience is serene, elegant, tranquil and warm,” she explained. “The array of gifts and artwork on display goes from beautiful to very special, unique items.” Since it opened, Radiant Essentials has been getting a positive reaction from area shoppers. According to Blaney, “People have said they felt it was an upscale environment that you’d expect to find in NYC. People are also responding very positively to the stories behind the art. “Many have said it’s the kind of place they are happy to see in Newton and that they would definitely come back.” She said shoppers are embracing the full variety of her creations. “So far I’ve sold a little of everything,” she observed, “but the most popular item has been my dichroic glass jewelry.” In addition to Blaney’s own lines of glass jewelry and glassware Radiant Creations carries silk vintage kimonos, scarves, silk handbags, zen alarm clocks, semi-precious jewelry, hand-painted silk wall hangings, Kenyan beaded jewelry, hand-painted lamps, and personal care products made with organic and therapeutic essential oils. There is a minimalist art gallery, including breath-taking photography, watercolors and oil paintings. The book and music room offers an array designed to delight the senses and awaken the soul. Radiant Essentials is open from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.Tuesday through Thursday; from noon to 8 p.m. Friday; and from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. The store will hold a grand opening celebration the week of April 25 to April 29. Radiant Essentials is located on Spring Street at the corner of Jefferson Street in Newton.