Today we’d like to introduce you to Federica Mantovani Bridges.
Hi Federica, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I opened my ITALIAN FASHION shop 4 years ago in Annapolis. The idea was that of importing and selling my family brand clothes, EF (Elisa Fanti), entirely made in Italy in my cousin’s small company. Our motto is: quality, elegance and comfort for everyone. The idea behind it is that we should all look effortlessly beautiful and classy on all occasions.
People seem to have appreciated the idea, so I added other Italian clothing brands, such as CARLA FERRRONI. These are all small, local companies form the area where we come from and with a great price/quality ratio.
In the course of time, I also introduced genuine leather accessories, such as handbags, wallets and belts from the famous Florence area. Some are designers and some are artisans.
We also carry a well-known fragrance brand: ACQUA DELL’ELBA in a few of its personal and home essence lines.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It was not an easy road because I am a small reality, people did not know me, I was new on the market and now the tariffs are making my life difficult.
However, people have supported and encouraged me, so I made sure I turned every struggle into a life lesson!
As you know, we’re big fans of MANTOVANI MODA. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
The shop carries my maiden name: MANTOVANI. I come from a long line of merchants, and I wanted to carry on my family name. I am a Navy wife and that is the main reason why I moved to the US, after many years spent abroad with the US Navy.
I thought it would be fun to recreate a small part of Italy abroad and offer products that are different from others found on the American scene.
I am especially proud that I am the only Italian representing my country of origin in Annapolis and that my products are reasonably priced (according to my customers) for the quality level.
Customers should know that they find a unique style here, because it is the only shop in the USA, courteous and personable service and possibly a small discount as a way of saying thank you!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I am deeply indebted to my family in Italy and my husband Chris for helping in this venture as well as all the many friends and customers near and far (yes, we ship everywhere in the US!) who have supported me so far in my endeavors.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mantovanimoda.com
- Instagram: @mantovanimoda
- Facebook: @mantovanimoda
