Bluffton native fulfills dream of owning bridal store

In just a few weeks, longer days filled with sunshine will melt the snow and ice, replacing the winter slush with green. Most of us are eagerly anticipating the spring and summer months, but none so much as brides-to-be. As the end of February approaches, the countdown to wedding season 2010 draws nearer.

 

The wedding planning process can be stressful for brides and the once in a lifetime experiences associated with the planning process, including dress shopping can seem like a blur. Bluffton native, Jen Romey, says adding a personal touch can tranform the usually nerve-racking experience of wedding planning into a fun and exciting time for brides-to-be and their family and friends.  

 

Her new bridal boutique, Bella Laccio Bridal, located in Uptown Westerville, Ohio does just that. Romey says she wants to make the dress selection process more personalized. Each bride will receive individualized attention by scheduling fitting appointments at the store.

 

Special features add to the charm of the small boutique located in a historic shopping district. One such feature is the fitting party, during which the bride and her wedding party can have a private fitting at one time, complete with refreshments.

 

Bella Laccio Bridal features exclusive designer collections new to the Central Ohio area including bridal, bridesmaid and flower girl collections. Romey and her mother, Amy, also hand-make many pieces in the store’s selection of hairpieces and veils.

 

The gowns retail between $1,300 and $3,000. Bella Laccio dresses are designer couture and come from four major designers: Matthew Christopher, Robert Bullock, Simone Carvalli, and Alfred Sung. The fabrics are high end and the original designs represent both traditional and modern flare.

 

“The designers are particularly intricate in their design and attention to intricate detailing,” said Romey.

 

Opening a bridal store has been a dream of Romey’s since childhood. She took as many courses while in college as she could that would help her as a future bridal boutique owner.

 

“I was the little girl in the grocery store who wanted bridal magazines while my sister wanted toys or candy,” said Romey.

 

It took Romey about two months to remodel the interior of her store, which was previously home to a lingerie store.

 

Jen Romey is the daughter of Michael and Amy Romey, of Bluffton. She is a 2001 graduate of Bluffton High School. In 2005, she graduated from Otterbein College with an undergraduate degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing.  

 

Romey opened Bella Laccio Bridal, meaning ‘beautiful lace’ in Italian, in early January 2010. She will be hosting a trunk show February 26-28, where brides can take advantage of 15 percent off Matthew Christopher gowns. Also, in the coming months, Romey hopes to use her background in event planning to offer wedding planning services.

 

Flip to pages B7 and B8 to see the Bluffton News’ 2010 bridal guide!