Today we’d like to introduce you to Olivia DeAngelo.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Olivia. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Many of my memories from childhood involve wedding gowns. Yes, wedding gowns! My parents started their own business in a one-bedroom apartment one year before I was born. Today, it has grown to be the largest bridal outlet in the country specializing in high-end designer gowns. I have taken a front row seat in watching their success and have witnessed how dedication, hunger and drive truly pays off. The desire to see my goals come to fruition has been ingrained in me from a young age. If you want it, do it.
Throughout my undergraduate journey, I studied business management and psychology. Some days, I envisioned myself as a clinical psychologist with my own practice and then others, I imagined walking down the streets of New York City as Andy in Devil Wears Prada-very different careers! I was constantly thinking about how I could mold these two visions together to carve out my ideal job.
Senior year of college, I had a lightbulb moment. I drafted a proposal and called my parents; I asked them what they thought of a store within a store concept. I would sell bridesmaids dresses and mothers dresses, making our family business, VOWS Bridal, a one stop shop for the busy bride. After much discussion and planning, After the Dress at VOWS Bridal was born.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Define smooth! Opening a business is never seamless but from my personal experience, the most difficult part has been becoming business partners with my parents. I am still getting used to this dynamic. I value their insight and experience in the industry but also think I have a fresh mindset that can add value to the business. It is a balancing act and we are still trying to get used to it!
After the Dress – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
After the Dress is not just any mother of the bride and bridesmaid boutique; it is a one-on-one personalized service to help women become the most confident versions of themselves. After the Dress has a carefully curated collection at affordable prices and a variety of designers to choose from. The journey finding a dress for such a special day can be intimidating and overwhelming but we spend time looking at colors, fabrics and styles that allow clients to stay true to their personality and style. We focus on service as a core value and truly listening to our clients’ visions. At After the Dress, we create meaningful relationships and become invested in helping each and every customer find what they are looking for!
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
I feel most proud when a client tells me they couldn’t have done it without me! When I first launched After the Dress in June, I knew I would be assisting bridal parties helping clients to find the perfect dresses for the big day. However, it is much more gratifying than I could have ever imagined. I am proud to be able to help women feel comfortable, confident and beautiful. That is definitely the most rewarding part of my job!
Contact Info:
- Address: 130 Galen Street
- Website: www.bridepower.com
- Phone: 6177440152
- Email: olivia@afterthedressboston.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthedress/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AftertheDress/?ref=br_rs
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