Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Olivia Jacoby. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Olivia , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

I started The Southern Swan bridal boutique in November 2019. I am the granddaughter of an extremely talented seamstress and modiste so fine fabrics have been a part of my life since infancy. After a brief stint with graduate school I realized my calling was to take my designs to the forefront of one of the most important days of a woman’s life. I love seeing how my creations can create confidence, stir emotion, and usher a bride into a beautiful chapter in a young woman’s life.

Olivia , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My grandmother was a professional seamstress. Her wedding gown and wedding portrait adorn my store. I used to watch her in awe of all of the beautiful costumes she would make for Halloween, Communion gowns, party clothes etc. when myself, siblings, and cousins were little. I have always loved clothing and following couture designers since I was in my adolescence. I was always amazed by wedding gowns in particular as they each contain tremendous detail! That being said when I shopped growing up I would always think about different silhouettes s and how I could improve them along with creating garments in my head. It is a sort of sixth sense that always had but somewhat ignored. After a brief stint with graduate school I realized in my heart what my true calling was. I saw a tremendous opportunity in Lakeland for a luxury bridal store that celebrated life moments, family time, and offered the uniqueness of one on one service and one of a kind designs. I have loved every moment and consider my job to be an honor.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I opened November 15th two months before the world shut down due to COVID-19. It was a lesson in how to pivot but I attribute my ability to survive to keeping my bride at the center of my business and more importantly at the core of the mission statement of the store “Where The Girl Comes Before The Gown.’ In time of uncertain I would reflect often on our store motto and knew if I kept the course and continued to put the customer first I would do well no matter what. Since opening we have serviced 187 brides, bridesmaids, and grooms. I have my customers and their families to thank for that tremendous success.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

I am asked this question often and again I encourage business owners to know their clients their desires and needs and to reflect on how their product or storefront is helping the customer solve problems. In the bridal industry brides are overwhelmed with Pinterest, social pressures from friends and family, and the secular world telling them that everyone will come to their wedding with the intent to criticize and compare. We try our best to quiet the mind of our brides, bring ease and comfort to their family members, and remind the bride that this is the MOST self expressive garment they will ever wear as such their emotional connection is what will let them know when they have found the dress. I joke with my customers often that wedding gown shopping often feels like dating but the dress that makes her feel the way her fiancé does is without hesitation “the one”.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.thesouthernswanbridal.com
• Instagram: @thesouthernswanbridal
• Facebook: The Southern Swan Bridal

Image Credits
Brandy Grace Photography