If you’ve never been to the Central Phoenix boutique, Frances, and the neighboring candy store, Smeeks, you’re missing out on two of the Valley’s most charming, stylish spaces. Recently, we sat down with owner, Georganne Bryant, to chat about about her side-by-side shops, starting with big sister, Frances. Overflowing with new and vintage women’s clothing, a men’s section, jewelry, baby/children’s items, kitschy-cute gifts, home products, novelty and art, it’s easy to see why Bryant needed a whole new space to house her growing selection of sugary sweets. Catch our interview with Georganne and a photo montage after the jump.

How long have you lived in the Valley?
I grew up in Tucson and have lived in the Valley 30 years now.

When did you first become interested in vintage designs and clothing?
I have been intrigued by vintage items since I was younger. I was drawn to the charm of them.

What inspired you to open your own store?
In May of 2005 my daughter, a Xavier grad, was going away to college. I loved the area (Central and Camelback) but thought that it lacked in shopping. In May of 2006 I opened France. I began with vintage clothing at first and gradually expanded.

How do you find the items featured in Frances?
I travel to different shows around the country and find things from local artists and designers as well, basically whatever catches my eye.

What led you to open Smeeks?
I opened Smeeks in July of 2009. Originally we had a small candy department in Frances but when the space next door opened up and was vacant for quite awhile, I couldn’t resist expanding it.

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