Be: bon vivant, the new shop at 54th and College Ave, seemed to pop up in an instant. Their posh awning and bright interior caught my eye as I drove past one day. I stopped in to find a large selection of home goods, accessories, and gifts. I swear that just days before this space was still occupied by the Piano Merchant. Had Be moved in overnight?

The idea for this store came almost as quickly as its May 1st opening. Owner Barbie Turner decided on the store late last year and just five months later here it is. Turner, who lives a few streets over, thought this would be the perfect store location for herself and for the neighborhood. She wants people to be able to "stop in and get a little selection of everything instead of having to drive downtown or to Castleton."

This seemingly small space goes far beyond first expectations. You'll find purses, bags, and grosgrain ribbon belts in nearly every corner. My purse pick was made of vintage upholstery fabric and a metal clasp. A jewelry case in the center of the store displays silver trinkets and charms and truly twisted wooden bracelets.

For the girly go-getter the golf club and tennis racquet covers are a must. Don't miss the matching gloves and tote bags as well. After a day at play you can relax with the selection of lounge wear and spa products from Earthworks. My favorite fragrance was the frangipani soap wrapped in pretty printed bamboo paper.

Looking for a gift? All of the goods would be great to get. Additionally there's a kid's section with plush toys, clothing, and blankets. And in the men's section you'll find cufflinks, boxers, and ties just in time for Father's Day.

They've got everything you need to throw a great garden party. Personalized stationary, scented candles, cute cocktail napkins, melamine plates and serving ware, dry-erase ceramic place holders - you name it. You can whip up your party menu with the kitchen gadgets from Art + Cook that are functionally crafted and artsy to the eye. For furnishings check out their frames, throw pillows, and rugs.

Paintings by local artist Laura LaForge hang throughout the store. Characterized by her pop-esque style, LaForge fits right in at Be. Her bold lines, catchy colors, and haute women are just what the store was looking for. Turner bought one of the pieces to serve as a backdrop and LaForge designed the logo found on the awning and business cards.

The store's unique name, "Be: bon vivant," comes from the combination of mother and daughter names. Mother Barbie and daughter Evan have always collected monogram items displaying the letters "B" and "E." One fated day the two letters were hung next to each other in the Turner living room and the idea for the store name was born. After researching the literal definition of the word "be," they chose the French translation, bon vivant to be most fitting. Bon vivant means to live with refined taste; an idea that Turner believes her store will bring to this Broad Ripple block.

Be: bon vivant is located at 5367 College Ave and can be reached by phone at 257-EVAN (3826). Their hours are Mon-Tues 10-7, Wed-Sat 10-9 and Sunday 12-5.