In the search to increase the shoppers at Kent’s Gallery in Old Town Helena, Kent Free has done his research and has decided to expand his offerings based on two honest facts –– women love to shop and women love handbags.

Free has begun carrying handbags and wallets at his location, much to the glee of local women. The collections have been in store for just at five weeks and the response has been positive.

“I have been receiving compliments on the quality of the purses, but women get silly over the cost,” Free said.

Hoping to be a “phenomenon,” Free hopes to combine ladies accessories with art to become the go–to place for shopping.

“And we want to do it by offering fantastic prices,” Free adds.

Fantastic they are. Kent’s Gallery carries what is termed “inspired-by purses.”

This means they look like some of the hottest labels out there, but do not infringe on any trademarks, like knockoffs.

Carrying bags similar to the likes of Coach and Fendi, the best part beyond the quality of the bags is truly the price.

A Brighton look-a-like Free had in stock was genuine leather and retailing for only $30. In fact, most of the bags are in the $20-30 range, making it easy to stock up.

After seeing a similar business in another state find success with this type of venture, Free decided to extend the handbag offering to his clientele.

“We really wanted to do something different and make sure it was price-driven to give our customers a great deal,” Free said.

We can expect more from Kent’s galley in the future if the handbag venture turns into a success. Free hopes to add a line of fashion jewelry to the store if the purses draw a good response.

He is already planning the new layout and shopping for great pieces in the hopes that he can soon achieve the vision of being a phenomenal go–to place for shopping.

Kent’s Gallery is located in Old Town Helena on Helena Road and just received a new shipment of purses.

Kent Free can be reached at 620-2787.

Jessica Vance can be reached by e–mail at jvance86@hotmail.com.