Merle Norman Cosmetics carries loyal customer base | News

The journey of Teresa J. Bridges into the world of cosmetics wasn’t exactly a typical one. A resident of Sandersville with a husband, three daughters and four grandchildren, Bridges explained that it was originally her best friend who wanted to open a Merle Norman Cosmetics. Unfortunately, that friend wasn’t able to open because she owned a salon with a tanning bed. However, Bridges said that her friend was quick to encourage her to try and get a franchise in Sandersville.

Bridges eventually opened a Merle Norman Cosmetics franchise in Sandersville, which she has continued to run for almost 29 years. In addition, she previously owned another MNC in Thomson before selling it.

So why purchase another franchise in Milledgeville after selling the Thomson location 20 years ago? Bridges explained that she did it so that her daughters could run the store.

Milledgeville Merle Norman Cosmetics opened their doors in May 2005 and Bridges said that business has been amazing. She also added that sales at the store increased even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“My customers come from all over and I am well supported,” Bridges emphasized.

Owning this business in Milledgeville and running it has been an interesting experience for Bridges.

“Each day you face different challenges but you work through them,” she said. “It is a learning experience for sure.”

At Milledgeville Merle Norman Cosmetics, customers will find a variety of items including, Tyler and Bridgewater Candles, and doTerra oils. Milledgeville MNC also sells clothing and shoes, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. They have bath and shower balms, purses, Corkcicle and Swig cups and coolers as well. If that’s not enough, customers may be interested in buying some Savannah Cheese Straws or cookies. There’s a lot at Milledgeville MNC, so there is bound to be something for everyone.

The business also offers a number of services in addition to its vast inventory, including facial services, tuxedo rentals, ear piercings and even special occasion makeovers. There are deals and specials running right now, including a 75% off clothes rack and a back room offering 75% off a number of different products. Additionally, Bridges said that Milledgeville MNC offers free facial services with an appointment.

“We are made in the USA, we are vegan free, we are cruelty free. We offer try before you buy and most of all we stand behind our products 100%,” Bridges said.

The customers play a key role for Bridges, who says that seeing them happy is simply what she enjoys most about running her business. “Seeing happy customers is what I enjoy most. Especially when a customer has a problem with their skin and our products help them,” she said, before adding, “I love all my customers so much they are like family to me.”

Whenever customers stop in, Bridges knows exactly what she hopes for them to say when they leave Milledgeville Merle Norman Cosmetics.

“‘Wow, that was fun, Oh I really enjoyed shopping in there today. I am so glad I am supporting a Christian-based, made in the USA business,’” she said.