Original text

What do you do?

Unveiled Bridal Studio is an appointment-only bridal boutique located in Chattanooga, TN, that exclusively carries unique and eclectic bridal gowns, a small collection of bridesmaid dresses, and various bridal accessories for women of all cultures, shapes, and sizes. We also provide extraordinary niche bridal services such as signature wedding day beauty products and select gently worn consignment wedding gowns. For more information on my entrepreneurial journey, check out this video.

What inspired you to start your business?

As a bride planning my wedding back in 2018, I was blown away by my wedding gown shopping experience and the “all eyes on me” attention I received during my appointment. I always wanted to be a boutique owner, but after that experience, I knew I wanted to bring a bridal studio to my area with all the same appointment luxuries.

What's special about your business?

Unveiled Bridal Studio carries a diverse collection of eclectic gowns, including wedding gowns by two African American designers that I am excited to bring to the Chattanooga community.

What have been the high and low points of being a business owner?

As a new start-up, finding funding was a struggle. Due to COVID, several banks immediately told me NO because I was a new business providing a niche service. I was finally fortunate to find a local credit union to invest in my idea.

One lesson I learned during the process of starting my business was never to be afraid to ask for help from mentors and/or other business professionals in your area. I was overwhelmed by the number of people that jumped to help me after I swallowed my pride and asked for help!

What is your relationship with SCORE? SCORE client What influenced you to seek help from SCORE?

I've always been hungry for professional and personal mentorship, but I needed a business mentor to help turn my dream into reality.

How SCORE helped.

Being able to meet virtually was so critical due to the pandemic. Working through my business plan with Pat was seamless. I couldn't have seen it going any better if we were to meet in person. I'm grateful for the flexibility to do things over the internet and be virtual throughout this whole process.

What's great about my mentor?

So very grateful for the opportunity to work one-on-one with Pat Wente and the SCORE family during my start-up process. Having continuous support from Pat for my first eight months in business has reassured me that mentorship is a necessity for all new business owners. She is my fairy godmother for all things business!

What advice would you give to someone thinking of starting a small business?

Be sure to secure a business mentor and become best friends with your business plan.

What have you learned from your experiences as a business owner?

Mentorship can really come full circle and take you to the next level - not only with your business but also on a personal level as well. 

Additional media My mentors

Patricia A Wente

If you are a startup business I can help you create your Business Plan, including cash flow analysis...

Read full bio