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You won’t be surprised when we tell you of another fabulous twosome that became part of the Bella Bridesmaid family. Not only are Lyndsay and Elizabeth Downey sister- in- laws, but co-owners of the adorable Richmond boutique. After searching high and low for chic bridesmaid dresses for Lyndsay’s wedding, both women agreed that future brides in the Richmond area deserved to have a fun experience shopping for that special day. With the desire to make this happen, Elizabeth and Lyndsay opened the doors to their Bella boutique in March of 2010. Since opening, these remarkable ladies have given brides a beautiful selection of stylish and modern designer bridesmaid dresses, fabulous accessories and most of all an enjoyable shopping experience. We were able to catch up with Elizabeth and Lyndsay to ask them a few questions…
BB: What were your careers before becoming Bella Bridesmaid owners, and what attracted you both to the franchise?
L: I'm a CPA, but not a boring numbers girl! I actually continue to work full-time and Elizabeth manages the store! Even though I'm not at the store every day, you'll see me there on the weekends. I love working with all of our brides!
After travelling to Baltimore and DC to try on bridesmaid dresses for friends' weddings, it was obvious that Richmond needed an upscale bridesmaid boutique. While doing research to open a boutique, we discovered Bella Bridesmaid. It was the perfect fit - the best designer lines, beautiful design & aesthetic, and the support of an amazing group of franchise owners. We visited the Charlotte, NC boutique and our decision was made!
E: I was a recent graduate from University of Alabama (Roll Tide!), with a degree in Interior Design. I worked part time for some designers and worked in a great boutique up until we opened.
BB: What is the most memorable moment so far in owning your boutique?
L: Our trip to San Francisco for our first Bella Bridesmaid meeting! It was wonderful meeting all of the other franchise owners and our exclusive designers in such a fun city. So many awesome memories from that trip from karaoke to biking the Golden Gate Bridge.
E: I love getting repeat customers. It is so nice to have a former bridesmaid return as a bride or vice versa! You get to catch up with all the girls and see them try different styles and colors for the various weddings they are a part of.
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?
L: Drinks outside on a patio followed by dancing! What to wear, what to wear… that's a tough choice - so many fabulous options! I would either wear a LulaKate seersucker dress with Jack Rogers or the Joanna August 8th Avenue Lace dress in white with statement jewelry!
E: Trying out a new restaurant with friends or getting a big group together to grill out. I can't wait to get in my violet, faille LulaKate Jenny dress. I can throw a blazer and a fun necklace on or dress is up with some summer wedges and bright Kendra Scott earrings. I also have a few short chiffon dresses including Coren Moore's Emma. I'm actually wearing it in a friend's summer wedding that I like to belt with a pair of Jack Rogers and some cute earrings!
BB: Fave celebrity wedding dresses?
L: Abby Manning - I loved her Monique Lhullier dress... the beautiful lace, the sweetheart neckline and the sash! I also adored their destination wedding on the beach in Mexico… simply amazing.
E: I just loved the Royal Wedding and thought Kate's dress was stunning! I also loved the look of Jenna Bush Hager's dress. The lace was beautiful and the perfect style for their setting.
BB: How would you each describe your own personal style?
L: Colorfully classic and preppy… I adore Lilly and Kate Spade!
E: I'd say I have a pretty classic style but always try to mix that with some trendy pieces, bright colors, and fun accessories. A great scarf and big earrings seem to find their way into a lot of my outfits!
BB: Favorite guilty pleasures?
L: Reality TV, US Weekly and McDonald's (terrible, I know!)
E: Pizza and wine... can't get enough!
BB: Fave reality show?
L: Oh gosh - that's a hard one… The Bachelor/Bachelorette because I've watched every season.
E: Bachelor/Bachelorette… always a fun excuse to get together with the girls. Though currently I am loving watching Kim Spradlin, Austin & San Antonio owner, on this season’s Survivor!
BB: Must have beauty item?
L: Definitely, mascara and bronzer.
E: Mascara, eyeliner and OH, hairspray! Lots of hairspray!
BB: Dream vacation spot?
L: I love the beach, but I would have to say Italy... Capri & the Amalfi Coast to Tuscany.
E: I've always wanted to go on an African safari... though I'd never turn down a beautiful beach on a far away island!
BB: Fave daily blog read?
L: Ritzy Bee, The Little White Book and Southern Weddings.
E: I have a lot, thank goodness for google reader! I start with Bella Bridesmaid and all of our various designers. Then I check out some friend's blogs, fashion, wedding, cooking, interior design, and a few DIY.
Now... For This & That!
Real Housewives of OC or Beverly Hills?
L: OC
E: OC, but only on occasion.
Facebook or Twitter?
L: Facebook
E: Facebook… but working on my tweeting skills!
Green tea or skinny latte?
E: Green Tea
Brangelina or Justifer?
L: Justifer... I heart Jennifer Aniston!
E: Neither really
Lady Gaga or Adele?
L: Adele... her voice is amazing!
E: Adele for the moment.
Thank you both!
