Offering a unique blend of clothing and cosmetics
—For nearly 50 years, The Blenders, located in downtown Paso Robles, has created a sense of community and passion for fashion, skincare, and cosmetics among locals and visitors. The Blenders remains true to its namesake by offering a ‘blend’ of unique items, special orders, and beauty consultations to the San Luis Obispo community.
The Blenders was opened by Barbara Lewin in 1974, offering Merle Norman Cosmetics, clothing, accessories, coffee and tea, and miscellaneous products that drew people into the store to find the perfect holiday gift or enjoy a hot drink and peruse the products. Her daughter, Lori Alpert, was part of her sales team and daily business ventures at The Blenders while engaging in her career in wholesale apparel, and after the 2003 San Simeon earthquake, became partners with her mother until Barbara’s passing in 2019.
“The most rewarding aspect of working at The Blenders are the customers. After almost 50 years, our customers are not just customers, they become friends. Having a business in this community that is part of my heritage is a blessing. Carrying on my mother’s legacy is fulfilling and I sure have some big shoes to fill! But I hear her guiding me every day,” said Lori. Mom was driven, passionate, engaged in the community, and a great salesperson. I learned a great deal from her. We each had our strengths that we brought to the business.”
Carrying wonderful skincare and cosmetics products and offering complimentary makeovers with Merle Norman Cosmetics, which are manufactured in the USA, is an integral component of The Blenders. Just a sampling of the Merle Norman Cosmetics products offered are skin care collections for all skin types with the latest technology. Also included are permanent and seasonal colors and palettes for lips and eyes, Merle Norman’s foundation with dermatologist-suggested ingredients such as zinc, and products geared toward anti-aging.
“The Merle Norman motto is ‘try before you buy’ which is the concept we uphold at The Blenders. We encourage anyone looking for new skincare or makeup to come in and try before replenishing. We customize your regime to fit your needs, focusing on skincare first so that your makeup highlights the best you,” said Lori.
“We would like the community to know how grateful we are for your support over the years. We have become a destination community and we have a lot to offer. The Blenders offers a different selection than the other wonderful stores and if we don’t offer what you are looking for, we definitely refer to the other businesses. Shop local and support the local businesses,” Lori said.
Whether you are looking for new skincare products or a fun new clothing item The Blenders offers a unique selection of your retail needs. Real women, real sizes! We celebrate beauty in all ages, shapes and sizes!
The Blenders’ lifestyle clothing is selected with customers in mind. For those who travel, for special occasions, or just to spice up the wardrobe, The Blenders should be your first stop. Be sure to check out their amazing selection of accessories and handbags.
The Blenders also offers ear piercing.
To stay connected with The Blenders about new arrivals or sales, follow them on Facebook and on Instagram at theblenders.merlenorman.
The Blenders is located at 538 12th St in Paso Robles. Open Mon-Sat from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Sun. For more information visit theblenderspasorobles.com or call (805) 238-5554.
—Sadie Mae Mace
