Bella Ruj Offers 'Trendy' Clothing, Accessories and Cosmetics

The owners of Bella Ruj Boutique in Eagan are sisters who have a passion for helping women feel good about themselves.

Michelle MacDonald and Kathy MacDonald opened the boutique in April. Since then they have given fashion and make-up advice to women, some of whom were dealing with illness, weight loss or simply a change in hair color.

They describe the clothing and accessories at their boutique as “trendy, but practical clothing for everyday.” Clothing is available in sizes small to 3X. They also sell cosmetics that includes a variety of skin tones.

“It was important to hit all skin tones and sizes because not everyone comes in one neat package,” said Michelle MacDonald.

The sisters are Eagan residents and together they have a long history in fashion and cosmetics. When Michelle graduated from Burnsville High School, she went straight to cosmetology school and afterwards worked as a makeup artist. She also has eight years of experience teaching at a beauty school.

Michelle said that she loves the teaching side of her new job as owner of Bella Ruj. Customers can make appointments for makeup tips, and sometimes children around the age of 12 and 13 come in with their mothers to learn about makeup.

“Others passed the torch to me,” Michelle said about her joy of teaching.

Her sister Kathy, is one such person. Kathy sold Mary Kay during high school, practiced applying makeup on Michelle and taught Michelle how to do her own makeup. Kathy worked in insurance for 20 years, but she also maintained a handbag and wallet business on the side.

Even the name of the boutique reflects their interest in style. Bella Ruj means "pretty lipstick" in Italian and Turkish.

Photos of some of their merchandise is available on the Bella Ruj Facebook page.

Bella Ruj is located at 1340 Duckwood Drive in Eagan.

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