Business Shout Out - Magnolia Drift
We are proud to have the Magnolia Drift Boutique at Bridgeport! In this hidden gem of a store, you can find unique jewelry, custom embroidered apparel, stylish drink ware, and more! Read our interview with the owner and operator of Magnolia Drift, Lauren Wilkins!
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What inspired you to start Magnolia Drift, and what was your initial vision?
“It’s just always been a dream of mine to have my own place!…Most of our things here are custom made that we make in house, so just to be able to bring that to others has been really rewarding. I always thought it would be fun to have something of me!”
Can you share the story behind how you came up with the name/logo for your business? .
“So, Magnolia Drift came from Magnolias (trees), the Southern part of where I grew up! I’ve always lived in the southern part of Suffolk. The drift comes from our favorite place, Oregon Inlet down in the Outer Banks, (specifically) the drifting of the inlet sands. So we just kind of combined the two places that we loved to be!
What are the biggest challenges you faced in the early days, and how did you overcome them?
“Just getting the name out, and having people understand what we have, what we offer. I’m not from this part of Suffolk, so having my support system come this far out until the people here locally discovered us, that was probably one of the hardest (aspects). Just getting your startup of what things are working for your store and your customers…and trying to find what people are interested in, in the area that you’re in”
How has Magnolia Drift evolved since its inception, and what are some of the key milestones you’re proud of?
“Bringing in the custom embroidery and graphic design! That has not only helped with not only items that we sell here in the store, but having the children’s boutique next door has been really helpful. When it comes to customizing baby items, it’s been very helpful having her next door because we tag team on that!…Adding that extra service has really helped bring people in and discover us.”
What’s your favorite product/service, and why?
“The custom embroidery and graphics! Your typical everyday T-Shirt, hat, or item can be personalized. We take our time to do our own graphic design and customize it, and can incorporate what the customer is specifically looking for in the design.
What are some of the most rewarding aspects about running your business?
“Just being able to offer customers everything we’ve got to offer! It’s definitely very stressful, but I thrive off of the chaos, the business, and being able to being people what they love! It’s definitely been very rewarding. This area has been great as well, especially with how much they do with the concerts, the brewery opening up, the nail place across the street, it’s definitely been a great location just with how many people find out about us by walking around in Bridgeport!”
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If you’re lucky, you can find Laura’s adorable pooch Maggie in the shop alongside her if you come in earlier in the week. Make sure to give Magnolia Drift a visit, and follow Bridgeport Suffolk on Facebook and Instagram for more business features, events, and announcements.