Laura Wagmen is the owner of the local bridal boutique; Ladies and Gents Bridal. She purchased this boutique in 1994, it was already named Ladies and Gents and she decided she would honor the name and keep it that way. Laura discovered her love for this business while working as a merchant service salesperson for Discover Card. She would encounter several customers who owned bridal boutiques. She began to discover that she thoroughly enjoyed this line of business and realized it’d be a great way to get her mother involved as well since her mother loved to sew. It was just a great fit.
Some of Laura’s favorite styles in the bridal gowns are long traditional trains which she finds so exciting that Kitty Chen is bringing that style back in some of her designs. She also loves the simple lace or the two piece dresses.
When I asked Laura what she loved most about this industry and her line of business this is what she had to say, “I like the challenge. It’s all organization and getting customers orders in quickly and efficiently. I like when family and friends are together helping the bride choose her dress and I hear them all having a good time; it’s a great feeling to be a part of that.”
I also asked Laura what inspires her work and this was her response, “Actually, lately I’ve been inspired by a handful of young talented ladies who work for me; as I get older I need fresh ideas and new perspectives.”
When Laura isn’t working she’s usually still working! Lol. She enjoys what she does and gets to travel, that is where she finds joy, in the traveling, even if it’s for work. She admires designers like Kitty Chen and is always eager to see what new designs she comes out with. Laura says “Owning my boutiques is ALOT of work and sometimes owning your own business is more work than a regular job. You just have to prepare for that truth.” No doubt about that Laura, well said.
Laura wants all of her clients to know that she really cares about them and that she is constantly looking for ways to improve and change with the industry. “I’m dedicated to making my clients happy,” says Laura.
Thank you so much Laura for working with me on several projects and for bringing a great bridal gown selection to Bakersfield. I admire your hard work, dedication and perseverance in business. May your future be just as you imagine and dreamed of, and may you reap the benefits of all of these years of sewing…literally! xoxoxo -Rubi Z
