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Merle Norman changes hands
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Tiffany Writch (seated) purchased Merle Norman Cosmetics from Mary Jane Brinson. The ownership change took effect Sunday. - photo by Mark Lastinger/staff

RINCON — Mary Jane Brinson didn’t just pass the proverbial torch to Tiffany Writch. She passed her the mascara, lipstick, toner, cleanser and the rest of her store’s array of Merle Norman products.

Writch recently purchased Merle Norman Cosmetics and Boutique from Brinson. The ownership change became official Sunday.

“I always told (Brinson) I wanted (her store) when she was ready to sell, so she came to me about buying it because she is ready to retire,” Writch said.

Brinson got a little misty eyed when talking about the sale, however.

“I have completely enjoyed this,” she said. “It’s been my baby for 18 years. It’s bittersweet.”

Writch is a newcomer to business ownership but not Merle Norman. She has sold Merle Norman products since her senior year of high school in 2004.

Because of their lengthy association, some people think Brinson and Writch are a mother-daughter duo.

“We are friend and friend,” Brinson said.

See the April 4 edition of the Effingham Herald for more details.