At Bella Bridesmaids, we have over 55 locations – all owned by local female entrepreneurs. Here we will spotlight our amazing franchise owners and their road to entrepreneurship!

Interview with Carly Ann Garrison of Bella Bridesmaids Charlotte in Charlotte, NC.

How did you know you wanted to become a Bella Bridesmaid owner?
When I knew I wanted to move to Charlotte, I had the hardest time finding a job that fit my skills and how I wanted to grow.

When we started talking about buying the existing Bella here, I immediately fell in love with the schedule to allow for work/life balance and the DRESSES! The shopper in me knew that I would have a blast buying and merchandising the store.

What did you do prior to Bella Bridesmaids?
I worked in business development for a defense contractor in Washington, D.C.

What advice would you give another female entrepreneur?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. I struggled mightily my first year because I wanted to prove to myself I could do it all. Turns out, I am much happier and more balanced by relying on my team – both employees and the Bella support network.

What’s been the biggest surprise being a Bella Bridesmaids owner?
The phone! A lot of clients prefer speaking on the phone over emailing. I’m a big texter, so it was mind-blowing to me at first!

How would you suggest clients make the perfect day for a bride/bridesmaid shopping experience?
The perfect day for bridesmaids shopping starts EARLY!! Get that appointment out of the way to give yourself the day to think and imagine your wedding day.

We’re in the best shopping center ever (The Shops at Twin Oaks) – get your nails done at Millennial Nails after the appointment, a snack at Kid Cashew down the street and then head to Foxcroft for a bottle of rose with your entourage.