By Jillian Hammell
Assistant Features Editor
When it comes to weddings, “the one” must be appealing, appropriate and suitable. However, these features do not relate to just the man standing at the altar, but also the wedding dress. Susie Austin, ’09, has found a way to help brides around the Olean area find exactly what they are looking for.
Austin, the store’s owner and operator, is an Olean resident, who used her business knowledge from Bona’s to start one of her own.
BelleRuche Bridal Boutique opened in January. The store features a wide selection of wedding dresses, bridesmaid gowns, shoes and accessories. BelleRuche also provides alteration services for both men and women.
Despite its name, BelleRuche does not strictly provide customers with bridal products, according to Austin.
“Customers can find graduation or formal event dresses at BelleRuche,” Austin said. “Bonaventure students have the option to search the store for the perfect outfit for a dance.”
Austin collects BelleRuche’s products from the bridal market. The variety of designers is gathered from different fashionable cities.
“We carry Jasmine’s Bridal, Mary’s Bridal and MoriLee by Madeline Gardner,” Austin said. “In April, I am going to New York City’s Bridal Week to see different collections. Then in the fall, I’ll be heading to Chicago’s Bridal Market.”
Austin believes the dresses are affordable and fashionable. Dresses run anywhere from $400 to $1,500.
According to Austin, the goal behind BelleRuche is to draw people away from a bridal chain and help Olean grow its small business community.
“We’ve already had a really good response,” Austin said. “There were plenty of people waiting for us to open. The store encourages people that we can go back to our roots as a small and successful city.”
Austin said her background with Bonaventure’s business program prepared her to become her own boss.
“The hands-on projects I did while at Bona’s were helpful,” Austin said. “In my marketing classes, we researched different companies, presented and even created our own products from scratch.”
Austin acknowledges the importance the variety of clubs and organizations Bonaventure offers. Although she commuted, Austin was involved in Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE).
“The experience you get from joining a club that pertains to your interest is rewarding,” Austin said. “If you are a business major, try out the Management Club. If you are an accounting major, join SIFE. You have the chance to network with other students, faculty and alumni.”
Austin also believes her family’s history with local business influenced her to start one of her own.
“My family owns Allen’s Wine and Liquor in Olean,” Austin said. “I had always wanted to start a local business. As a full-time manager at Allen’s, the experience introduced me to the realities of business.”
According to Austin, although owning a business is challenging, it is worthwhile once she sees the bride’s smile.
“I am so excited to be part of BelleRuche,” Austin said. “The best is when I see the brides happy and ready to find their perfect dress.”
To learn more about BelleRuche Bridal Boutique, visit belleruchebridal.com or like the store’s Facebook page.
