Leslie describes her bridal shop as her happy place; a space filled with smiles, joy, and confidence. Before pursuing her dream of owning a bridal boutique, she spent 20 years working as a frontline paramedic where she experienced PTSD and sanctuary trauma. Those experiences inspired her to create a calm, welcoming, and peaceful environment where brides can feel comfortable, supported, and truly at ease.
Her first location opened in Waterford during the pandemic. Leslie became aware of Community Futures Oxford at an entrepreneurial pop-up event in Tillsonburg and the BIA also recommended them to her. Later, she received a loan from Community Futures Oxford. That funding was pivotal in opening her boutique in Tillsonburg, ON. The capital from the loan also permitted her to take a closer look at marketing and budgets, inspiring better planning.
“Working with Community Futures has been a meaningful part of my journey as a small business owner. Their support, guidance, and belief in my vision helped turn ideas into reality and strengthened my confidence to grow something truly special within my community.”
Her business also has a positive impact on the community. She has purchased and donated Tim Horton’s Smile Cookies, has consigned exclusive gown designs from a local seamstress, has collaborated with a local artist and has participated in styled photoshoots involving local professionals.
“I just want to see genuine happiness when I’m here,” Leslie said. “I love when brides are happy and confident and enjoying our no-pressure approach.”
Her shop is welcoming and inclusive, and Leslie goes above and beyond to ensure every client leaves with a smile. While the most rewarding part of her work is helping brides through this special chapter of their journey, one of the greatest challenges is the long hours required to keep the business moving forward.
“It’s important to surround yourself with good, kind people who believe in you,” she said. “Knowing you’re not alone and that there’s always someone willing to help makes all the difference.”
She encourages other business owners to surround themselves with positive, supportive people who help them stay optimistic and focused. Leslie also wants Oxford County to know that she takes a no-pressure approach to sales, her goal is simply to help brides and grooms feel happy, confident, and comfortable on their special day. In addition to bridal services, she also offers tuxedo rentals for grooms and wedding parties.
In fact, to serve all brides and budgets, her Loved But Not Forgotten Collection, offered at her first location, is a program that provides affordable options while supporting the environment through a sustainability-focused approach. “There is real meaning behind each dress having another love story,” she said.
“The word Sage in my boutique name reflects that connection to sustainability—it represents green in a more modern way and ties into the values behind the collection,” Leslie said. “In the future, I would love to expand it into the Tillsonburg location as well, perhaps when I have a larger space.”