Today we’d like to introduce you to Doris Dower.
Hi Doris, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started making and altering wedding gowns in 1987. My clientele grew and in 2009 I had the opportunity to become a co-owner of Stella’s bridal located in downtown Baltimore, I loved working with brides, so it was a natural transition!
The ‘Stella’s’ store has a long history of serving brides in the Baltimore region. The store originally was Pacey’s in the early 1960’s. In 1988, the shop was featured in the original Hairspray movie produced by John Waters.
In March 2014, we made the decision to move to a beautiful historic building in Westminster, Md, just off of Westminster’s Main Street.
Stella’s is more than a store – it’s a celebration of love, family and the special moments that bring people together. Community support is very important to Stella’s. We partner with Brides Across America, donating 25-30 gowns to military personnel and first responders. Knowing that not all wedding end in “happily ever after”, we also do a month long campaign to raise money to contribute to Springboard Women’s Shelter.
Our presence on social media and propelled our business, sharing photos, reels and glowing reviews – turning followers into fans and fans into future brides. We have been in our Westminster location for 11 years now evolving, growing and sharing love.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The bridal industry has faced major challenges over the past 5 years –from pandemic shutdowns and cancelled weddings to supply chain delays and rising costs. We had to adapt quickly, shifting to some virtual appointments, navigation inventory shortages and supporting couples through these constant changes. Yet through it all, resilience, creativity and a deep love kept Stella’s moving forward.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I began making and altering wedding gowns over 50 years ago! I absolutely loved working with brides, so when the opportunity came to be Stella’s co-owner , I jumped at the chance. I love working with customers to help them find the dress that makes them feel and look beautiful .. I have had lot of experience and happy memories, but my favorite is being able to see my staff thrive and make sure that everyone who walks through our doors has an unforgettable memory
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Follow your passions. Ask lots of questions from seasoned store owners. If hiring, make sure it is a good fit for you and the store’s team. Have a good business plan.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/loveitatstellas
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love.it.at.stellas/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loveitatstellas
