Rosemarie Wallace
Owner of RashawnRose Bridal and Prom
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
As we elevate, celebrate and support our Black communities, we had the incredible opportunity to talk to Rosemarie and hear her story – why she got started in the bridal industry, her favorite things about owning a bridal store and her thoughtful advice for other Black bridal business owners.
RashawnRose Bridal and Prom is a family-owned and operated boutique with a sophisticated selection of wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, tuxedo rentals and prom dresses. Rosemarie and her daughters, Shaunette and Sherika, are passionate about providing a personalized shopping experience. One look at the store’s rave reviews, or their loyal following on Instagram, and you’ll see they and their talented bridal stylists deliver – every day and in every way.
Let’s hear from Rosemarie!
Rosemarie Wallace and her daughters, Shaunette and Sherika, at RashawnRose Bridal and Prom
Q: What inspired you to start your own bridal boutique?
A: I started RashawnRose Bridal and Prom 16 years ago. I had always talked about owning my own business, and after my son, Rashawn, died, I decided to leave my job at a large, well-known corporation. At the time, I was also in the process of planning my daughter’s Sweet Sixteen birthday party, and I was not happy with the selection of formal dresses on the market. I had the idea to open a prom and formal dress store and named it after my son. I expanded and began offering bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses and tuxedos.
With my customer service background and experience as a corporate manager, combined with the sales and marketing skills of my daughters, Shaunette and Sherika, we have successfully grown our bridal boutique business. We pride ourselves on providing superior service to all of our customers.
Q: What is your favorite part of owning a bridal store?
A: Meeting new people every day! I love the relationships we have with our customers.
Q: What is it like being a Black woman in the bridal industry?
A: At first, it was difficult because I had very little retail experience. I also received remarks from vendors and other stores when we would go to prom and bridal markets that created uncertainty. They would ask which store I worked for, or they would make comments about how lucky I was that “my boss” let me come to market. Once, I even had a person tell me they had never heard of a Black bridal store before.
All of this did not stop me from pursuing my vision. I try not focus on being a Black bridal store. Instead, I focus on being a successful business owner, despite the challenges I must overcome.
Over the years, we have built such beautiful relationships with our customers and vendors. They have allowed us to be our authentic selves, and they empower us to continue doing what we love.
Q: What advice would you give other Black women in the bridal industry?
A:
1. First, always believe in yourself. You are starting a business for a reason, so continue to pursue your passion, regardless of how difficult it may get.
2. Find a mentor who will guide and support you. Once, at a Prom Market, two ladies from another store saw me sitting by myself and invited me over. They gave me advice that I still use today!
3. Join networking groups. The women in these groups are so supportive. The advice they share will help you make the right decisions for your business. It will also build your confidence because you’ll realize that you are not alone in the challenges you face as a business owner.
4. Treasure your employees. They are the most important assets in your business. They should enjoy coming to work as much as you look forward to them being there!
5. Do right by your customers. If you make a mistake, own it and correct it. Treat them with respect and cater to their individual needs.
6. Practice good money management. Pay your bills and don’t overspend. Make sure you have an accountant to guide you.
7. Contribute to your community whenever possible.
8. Don’t be afraid of failure. You will fail in some areas, but you will learn from the mistakes, and it will only make you stronger. Running your business takes commitment and hard work. It’s not a walk in the park, and you must be willing to roll up your sleeves and work alongside your employees.
9. Surround yourself with positive and supportive family members and friends. They will cheer you on when you need it the most (and you will need it!).
10. Finally, take care of your family and yourself. You can only be successful if you have good health, both physically and mentally.
Thank you, Rosemarie, for sharing your story, passion and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs who have dreams of owning their own business. It’s clear why your store is a destination for so many brides in South Florida!