BLUFFTON, Ind. (ADAMS) – Representatives say that it was a mother’s legacy that inspired a local couple to open a new beauty supply business in Bluffton.
Brown Suga Beauty is a newly established multi-cultural, independently-owned beauty supply store located in Bluffton, Indiana. It is owned by Shawn and Alena Eskridge.
Brown Suga Beauty plans to be Bluffton’s go-to retail store for anything and everything beauty-related. The shop is in a popular high-traffic area in downtown Bluffton where hundreds of residents frequent. It is located at 213 West Market Street, amidst trendy boutiques, salons, and businesses, all within walking distance.
The owners of Brown Suga Beauty, Shawn and Alena Eskridge, moved to Wells County, IN more than 20 years ago. They have worked, attended school, and are raising their two children in this community. In 2002, Shawn’s mother Mary moved to Bluffton to be closer to family.
Brown Suga Beauty was inspired by the late Mary Eskridge, aka “Brown Suga.” Mary, raised on a farm in a small Mississippi town, was known to take care of herself and her children. She used proper hair and skin products with her family to protect them and make them look their best. Mary made it a point to share her knowledge and love for the products that she used within the community.
“She had a thing for fashion and would often wear designer wigs to express her boldness to beauty” Shawn shared about his mother. “Everyone knew her for her beauty and confidence.”
Representatives released, in part, the following:
Not only did Mary make people feel great about being bold when it comes to expressing their individuality in beauty, she lifted people up and made them feel good about themselves. After relocating to Bluffton, Mary found that there was a lack of hair and skin products that she was accustomed to using in the area and expressed her dissatisfaction to family and friends for having to drive an hour to obtain these products.

Shawn and Alena Eskridge
In honor of Mary Eskridge, Shawn and Alena decided one year after her passing to continue “Brown Suga’s” vision and legacy by bringing the products she was passionate about using to the people in this community.
Brown Suga Beauty Supply Store features all beauty supply products for hair, nails, skin, makeup, and accessories. Anything that is found at a full-service beauty salon can be found at Brown Suga Beauty Supply Store. “It is important to have a place that allows customers the opportunity to purchase and learn about products available specifically for their hair and skin types,” Shawn shared. “Selecting the right items helps customers feel more confident about their appearance and explore and express their individual styles.”
Shawn and Alena welcome all residents of northeastern Indiana to visit their shop and enjoy the offerings of downtown Bluffton. Hours for the store are Monday – Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Information on the store can also be found online