Small Business Profile: Pam Almon with Merle Norman Costmetics

Pam Almon, owner of Merle Norman CosmeticsSmall Business Profile | Shop Small Business Saturday Week 2019

Saturday is Small Business Saturday. Every year we try to highlight some local business owners leading up to that day. Today's feature will be Pam Almon with Merle Norman Cosmetics.

Merle Norman is a unique locally owned and operated cosmetic boutique that carries Merle Norman Cosmetics, Lindsay Phillips Switchflops, Charlie Southern T-shirts, Vera Bradley, John Wind, and many other boutique brands. Pam Almon is the second-generation owner. Her mother Shirley Stallings opened in December 1964 and Pam has worked at the store since she was 10 years old all through high school and while attending college at the University of West Georgia ('79). This December will mark the 55th Anniversary of Merle Norman Cosmetics located on Newnan Street in downtown Carrollton. Currently, Pam owns branches in Carrollton, Bowdon, and Villa Rica.

Her boutiques offer advanced skincare and cosmetic products in a calm, unpressured atmosphere. The Merle Norman line includes hundreds of tried-and-true products addressing the full spectrum of skincare and color needs for all women. Something most people might not know about is their "try before you buy" policy, outstanding customer service and their 30-day money-back guarantee on ALL Merle Norman Cosmetic products. In addition, they offer free skincare analysis, color consultation, special occasion makeup applications, and facials.

Q & A Session with Pam Almon

Why do you do what you do?

I do what I do because I love making women feel their best. I love being a part of the community and historic downtown. ( have locations in Villa Rica and Bowdon as well.)

What is the single most important reason for your success?

Being ethical, hard-working, staying current and involved and loving what I do.

What do you think is the biggest issue for small business owners?

Large big-box retailers and online sales. We have to compete through service, quality, uniqueness and value-added.

Besides money, what are your favorite ways to compensate people?

I give my employees ownership. My employees feel like they are part of a team, not just an employee and therefore, they give of themselves and go "above and beyond" always.

Just for fun questions..

What gets you pumped in the morning?

Peace and quiet and mediation

If you were a box of cereal, what would you be and why?

I would be original Cheerios - wholesome, dependable and been around forever.

Merle Norman - Carrollton

103 Newnan Street

Carrollton, GA 30117

770.832.8268

Merle Norman- Villa Rica

104 South Carroll Road, Ste B

Villa Rica, Georgia 30180

770. 459.3060

Merle Norman- Bowdon

114 City Hall Avenue

Bowdon, Georgia 30108

770.258.0198