Similar to other MoDiv retailers profiled in Rapid Growth Media (
here and
here), the owner of Sofia Bella Couture is keen on being part of the rebirth of downtown Grand Rapids retail.
According to store founder Brandice Labadie, a refugee from the corporate world, the opportunity that MoDiv provided was too enticing. "I knew downtown real estate was expensive, but the MoDiv price point was perfect," she says. "I love being downtown. There's a great buzz and great people."
As an owner-operated business, Sofia Belle Couture sells original, high-quality clothes and accessories for children. But, the store also provides an opportunity for aspiring fashion designers and micro-entrepreneurs to sell their own creations.
"We offer unique, one-of-a-kind clothing -- not many national brands," says Labadie. She adds that much of her inventory consists of handcrafted products designed and made by local individuals. A win-win situation, as Labadie's customers can select from a wide range of original fashions and the local designers earn exposure (and income) for their products.
To learn more about Sofia Belle Couture, you can visit their Facebook page
here.
Source: Brandice Labadie, Sofia Belle Couture
Writer: John Rumery, Innovation and Jobs News Editor
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