Express Your Self

In the heart of Bryant lies a hidden gem, a haven for fashion enthusiasts and interior design aficionados alike. For the past two decades, this storefront has been more than just a retail space. It has been a labor of love, a dream realized, and proof of the enduring power of family bonds. Meet the dynamic mother-daughter duo, Linda Best and Darla Self, whose passion, dedication, and exceptional customer service have made Express Your Self a beloved community landmark.

The story begins with a younger Darla with a degree in design and a heart full of ambition. After spending college years in a retail and interior store, the dream of owning a business with her mother began to take shape. Starting with a small booth business, she and her mom took a leap of faith and opened their storefront in 2003. Their vision was to create a unique space where customers could shop, have fun, and discover the perfect gift or interior décor.

From the very beginning, this venture has been a testament to the power of familial ties. The store has transformed over the years, expanding its offerings from home décor, gifts, and jewelry to a diverse range of clothing items, including designer denim, handbags, and shoes. “We have developed a saying,” Darla notes. “‘We will be happy to decorate you and your home.’”

Through all the changes, Express Your Self has remained firmly rooted in its core values: exceptional customer service and a genuine passion for what they do. What sets this store apart is the genuine connection it shares with its patrons. From the very beginning, Darla says, they made a commitment to “be here.” “When I say this, I mean be present. We like to personally wait on our customers and help them fill their needs.”

Customers aren’t just visitors. They are an extended family, and their loyalty has been the cornerstone of the store’s success. In a rapidly changing retail landscape, marked by the emergence of new businesses, Darla and Linda have stayed true to their identity. They’ve nurtured relationships with familiar faces and embraced new ones, celebrating life’s special moments—graduations, weddings, anniversaries, and more—with each customer.

What distinguishes this store is the personal touch. It’s not uncommon to find Darla or Linda at the helm, ready to assist customers with a warm smile. Whether it’s finding the perfect fit, customizing jeans, or wrapping a special gift, their attention to detail and dedication to their customers are unmatched.

As the store prepares to mark its 20th Christmas season, the mother-daughter team is gearing up for a grand celebration. This milestone is not just a testament to their business dedication but also a celebration of the relationships they’ve built and the smiles they’ve shared. While the official celebration will take place later in the spring, their enthusiasm for the holiday season knows no bounds.

In addition to their retail expertise, the store offers a unique service: holiday decorating. For over 25 years, they’ve been adorning homes and offices with festive cheer, bringing warmth and joy to the community. Starting in November, their creative touch graces spaces, making the holiday season even more magical for their customers.

For this passionate duo, every day begins with the excitement of assisting customers. The joy of helping someone find the perfect outfit for a special event or witnessing a smile light up a face after a bit of retail therapy motivates them. Their customers are more than patrons; they’re an inspiration, and serving them for two decades has been an honor and a privilege.

As the holiday season approaches, this store stands as a beacon of warmth and kindness. It’s not just a place to shop; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of family, community, and the simple pleasure of making someone’s day a little brighter. So, if you find yourself in need of a special gift, a fashionable outfit, or a touch of holiday magic, look no further than this extraordinary establishment. After all, it’s not just a store; it’s a heartwarming story woven into the fabric of the community, reminding us of the power of dreams, hard work, and the bonds that make life truly special.