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| Liza, (left) with franchise owners Kathleen Casey and Erin Casey Wolf |
I started the process of buying the franchise in January 2012 and finally took over in April. I began my career as a criminal investigator for the County of San Diego. I loved my clients, but wasn't crazy about working for the government, so I started thinking about other areas of interest. My husband is one of the lucky few who was able to turn a hobby/interest into a career....he literally leaps out of bed in the mornings to go to work. I was jealous and wanted that too! I have always liked fashion, but am definitely not a designer, so I went back to school to figure out where I could fit in within the industry. While in school, I took a lot of odd jobs, trying to figure out what I liked, one of which included helping a friend who owns a bridal dress shop. I absolutely loved it! I found out about Bella Bridesmaid from a job posting and things progressed from there. I looked at purchasing the store a few years ago, but the timing wasn't right. Fortunately, the store was still for sale in January and the timing was perfect, so I figured it was meant to be!
BB: What is the most memorable moment so far in owning your boutique?
I got a really sweet note from a bride after I sold her one of my Amsale sample dresses in Aubergine. One of her bridesmaids went rogue and bought a cheaper dress online somewhere, which ended up disastrously, so the bride was desperately searching for a replacement. The note is somewhat dramatic, albeit very sweet, but I keep it on my bulletin board next to my desk as a reminder of how the smallest things can sometimes make the biggest difference. BB: What is your idea of a perfect night out on the town? Which one of our dresses would you wear, and how would you style it?
BB: Fave celebrity wedding dresses?
I love a full skirt and tulle so my favorite is Portia di Rossi's pink tulle skirt with open back halter top. So pretty!
BB: How would you describe your own personal style?
I don't think there's necessarily a word for my style! From going to fashion school, I've read a lot of books about defining one's style and the best advice I ever read was to only buy what you love, regardless of trend. This advice hasn't necessarily saved me money, but it has helped me define what I love, feel comfortable and confident in what I wear, know how to shop and have a VERY organized closet!
BB: Favorite place traveled?
Paris! I've been twice and hope one day to get the chance to live there. Let me know if we're going to expand abroad....
BB: Beauty product you cant live without?
Dior Show mascara and Thierry Mugler Angel perfume. I really worry if the house were on fire, I'd grab only these two things and let the pets fend for themselves!!
BB: Favorite real housewife?
I am originally from Alabama, so I love the Atlanta housewives. All of women on the show are outrageous, but I have an appreciation for the Southern flair that the Altanta girls bring to all of the drama, backstabbing and idiotic spending.BB: Favorite quote or expression?
"This too shall pass and tomorrow is another day," said by my mom. Words she used to tell me as a little girl, when I was worked up over something trivial, and words to live by now, when the problems are bigger and more serious. As bad as something seems today, things are always a little bit better, a little bit clearer, in the morning. Truly the wisest woman I know!
BB: Everyday wear item? ie: pair of earrings, fave cardigan, scarf?
See #8.....never a day without these two!
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