I first met Nicole in the Summer of 2016, when she hired me to be the photographer for her baby shower. Since then she’s given me the opportunity to be her photographer for several other family moments and milestones as well as help provide the photography for her business, Olivia’s Bridal House. I sat down with Nicole and asked her some questions about how she got started, balancing being a small business owner and also a wife and mother of two young children, among other things.
Jerren Willis: Tell me a little more about your business. What inspired you to start it?
Nicole Derrick: Olivia’s Bridal House is Houston’s only bridal boutique that caters specifically to the curvy and plus size bride. I was inspired to start my business when I initially had a difficult time finding weddings dresses that I could try on in the stores. From that experience and the experiences of some of my friends, the idea to service this niche group of women was born!
JW: What have been some of your biggest challenge as a small business owner?
ND: Finding creative ways to advertise and reach our target customer. Also, being strategic about where to spend money on things that will only add value to our business and customers.
JW: How do you balance running a business with your family duties/obligations?
ND: Now that’s a tough one but for me, family always comes first! I am so blessed to have a supportive family. When I’m away, my husband holds down the fort and our kids! Our kids are young so they aren’t involved in a lot of extracurricular activities yet, but trust me they keep us busy! Being a wife, mom, and boss is exhausting sometimes… but I wouldn’t change any of it!
JW: Any words of advice for anyone who wants to start their own business?
ND: Make sure you are committed to your vision. Think about what makes you unique and why someone would support your business versus another. Research as much as you can so you are prepared for potential pitfalls. And I know it sounds cliche, but don’t allow someone else to tell you what you can’t do!
Nicole Derrick is the Founder of Olivia’s Bridal House, Houston’s first and only bridal boutique to cater specifically to curvy and plus size brides. A native of Beaumont, TX, Nicole has called Houston home for the past 15 years. Her background in Human Resources, retail, and business consulting have made her into the savvy businesswoman she is today.
Contact Info:
Website: https://www.oliviasbridalhouse.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OliviasBridalHouse/
