Former buyer for Filene's opens dream of a store in Salem

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April 30, 2008

By Amanda McGregor The Salem News Wed Apr 30, 2008, 12:11 PM EDT

SALEM — After a 19-year career with Filene's, Ann Supple Massey has ventured out on her own and opened Rouge Cosmetics in downtown Salem.

Massey's bright, pink store is filled with toners, lotions, lipsticks, lip scrubs, eyeshadows, exfoliating slippers, perfumes and more. The storefront's large, high windows draw in natural light. The boutique was two years in the making — but really, it's been a lifelong dream.

"I always wanted to open my own business," said Massey, 43, who worked as a buyer and managed a team of buyers for Filene's until it was bought out by Macy's. "The merger of Federated and May and the closing of the corporate office gave me the courage to walk away from a very long-term career."

Massey took an entrepreneurial training course, extensively researched makeup and boutiques, secured a space on Derby Street and opened in September.

Rouge Cosmetics offers a range of prices, up through "very luxury couture skin care," she said. And the makeup artists — including store manager Andrea Ducharme and assistant manager Marlo Freedman — do makeup for proms, showers, weddings, nights out on the town and more.

"They are phenomenal," said Massey, whose shop has been nominated as a best new business by the Salem Chamber of Commerce.

Massey, 43, lives in Swampscott with her husband, Rick, and their children, Brendan, 13, and Julia, 10. Rick Massey owns Massey Construction in Swampscott.

Rouge Cosmetics is at 322 Derby St. in downtown Salem. The Web site is www.rouge.com.

Q&A

Why cosmetics?

r There is still a very human element to this business, to spend time in a peaceful, relaxing environment with a makeup artist.

Favorite part of the business?

r It's about people feeling and looking better.

Why did you pick Salem?

r I really feel Salem is on the rise. I wouldn't have bought a store here if I didn't. I'm so excited about Salem.

What's it like to open a business?

r It's way more than you can even prepare for. Getting every piece in order — getting vendors on board, construction, custom cabinets — just all of those nitty-gritty details.

Makeup you don't leave home without?

r I don't even go to the gym without my mascara on.

Do you miss Filene's?

r Well, I don't miss riding the commuter rail for 19 years, although I don't read as many books as I used to. ... I get more time with my family now — and a 10-minute commute.

Business philosophy?

r I do not want anyone to have buyer's remorse, so we sample a lot of products and they teach you how to use them. It's not selling and say goodbye.

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Former buyer for Filene's opens dream of a store in Salem

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