In the latest of our series of editorials focusing on Irish Women in Business, we’re talking to Galway woman Frances McElwain, founder of The School Wear Centre , Belladonna Bridal and The Stitching Room. Frances is also the owner of The White Room .
I left my teaching job as I saw that there was room in the market for a schoolwear centre in Galway. I established that in 2000 and at the beginning, I thought it would just be a little business, but it has grown far beyond our wildest dreams.I was always interested in retail and fashion having worked in my family’s fashion businesses in Toronto and New York. I was really interested in getting involved in this area myself and that’s how it all began.
We place a great emphasis on social media and have built up a huge following on our Facebook and blogs.It is indeed very rewarding seeing the happiness on a bride’s face after she has found her gorgeous gown with us. We really love looking at the many photographs that we receive from our brides after the wedding. Each element of the business can be really rewarding, from the school wear section right up through to the bridal wear.I work six to seven days every week.