A longstanding Elmwood shopping tradition is getting a makeover. After more than 40 years as owners of Half & Half Clothing, Debbie and Bill Sidel (lead image) are stepping down. I learned of this transition around the same time that I learned about Positively Main Street wrapping up a long business stint on the street. This time however, a mother and daughter team was waiting in the wings, to carry on with many of the boutique’s adored traditions.
Moving forward, Jennifer and Kilby Bronstein have some exciting plans for the established business. As much as they don’t want to drastically alter the formula that has kept the business current for almost half a century, the mother-daughter team has some visions of their own that they would like to infuse into the retail formula. First off, they will be expanding by incorporating men’s fashions and home goods into the mix. That means that we can expect a fresh and modern look with new merchandise and new brands. With the help of Wrafterbuilt (using wood from their family farm), they will be fabricating new shelving and other updates that will give an updated look to the interior.
It just so happened that one of the new owners, Kilby Bronstein, worked at Half & Half for a number of years. That means that the transition will be at once thoughtful, while at the same time giving a youthful boost to the already popular shop.
“Our family is honored that Debbie has entrusted us to write a new chapter for Half & Half,” said Kilby Bronstein, co-owner of Half & Half. “It is an exciting time to be in Buffalo and we’re committed to being a part of the entrepreneurial ecosystem. It allows us to be a part of the continuing renaissance happening right now.”
Half & Half closed in early January, so that the new owners could begin to rethink, reimagine and rebuild parts of the store. Both Jennifer and Kilby are energized to take the reins of the business and run with it. When the boutique reopens in mid-April. Half & Half fans will find a refreshingly new vibe, with plenty of traditional Sidel discernment.
“Debbie (Sidel) has worked tireless over the last 40 years to serve her customers and we look forward to doing the same, while also attracting new clientele, “ said Jennifer Bronstein, co-owner of Half & Half. “We’re excited to be investing in our community and look forward to adding new, fresh ideas to the Elmwood Village.”
In a few short months, Elmwood Avenue will be celebrating the reopening of one of its flagship boutiques. Thankfully the tradition will continue under a stewardship that has thus far been fairly seamless. Personally, I’m excited to see more guy’s clothing coming to Elmwood, and a smattering of home goods will go a long way too!
Half & Half customers can follow all of the action on Facebook until the reopening. Once open, we will head over to take a closer look at the redesign and the new lines.
Half & Half | 1088 Elmwood Avenue | Buffalo NY
Photos: Facebook