Flair

Latoya Grindley, Gleaner Writer

Open the doors to Nylorac and you are exposing yourself to a level of exclusivity in the world of beauty and skin care. "We cater to people who like nice things. Our products are 'high end' and not ones that you will find in a pharmacy. They are exclusive to this store," says proprietor Carolyn Yapp, the reigning Miss Jamaica Universe.

Opened in February, Nylorac offers a range of hair and skincare, bath and body products. Also complementing the store's offerings are the services available. By appointment customers can book a session for a manicure and pedicure, X-treme lash extensions, facials, waxing, threading and make-up artistry performed by qualified professionals.

Nylorac can be classified as an aspiration becoming a reality for the beauty queen. A self-proclaimed 'good sales woman', Yapp's international work experiences prepped her to become an entrepreneur in retail services. However, it was one of her last stints in a beauty store in Florida before returning home which further prompted her to open Nylorac. Prior to that, she had worked in furniture and fashion retail, scoring opportunities with big names such as Neiman Marcus.

Personal experience

The store, which is located in Loshusan Barbican Centre, features brands that were carefully hand-picked by Yapp. "I know these brands and products and they are stuff that I use myself."

Other than selecting products based on personal experience and knowledge, the owner also says she stocks up on products that are environmentally friendly, organic and paraben-free.

The products are said to be endorsed by international celebrities and magazines. And for those who are not so familiar with the products, shelf-toppers are strategically placed on the shelf displays, providing information. For those who may need a little more convincing, there are product samples.

The store owner, the in-house specialists, along with the chic and contemporary set-up at Nylorac, reflect vibrancy. The chairs and sofa present in the centre of the store space speaks to the owner's desire of making customers feel comfortable and at ease. "It is a fun place to be and customers can come and hang out. It is about young people who came together with fresh ideas and so you find that people love to come here ." And as part of the fun and hip vibe, customers are given a complimentary Jungle Punch to add to their shopping experience.

Open on Mondays through Saturdays, Nylorac is shaped up to be the high-end one-stop shop for beauty needs for men, women and even children.

For those who are interested in the origin of the name Nylorac, it is actually the first name of the owner spelt backwards. Get it?

latoya.grindley@gleanerjm.com