Meet Francesca DiSalvo-Follmer | Founder of Pure Luxe Bride & Pure Luxe Travel

We had the good fortune of connecting with Francesca DiSalvo-Follmer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Francesca, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?

Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, the idea of owning my own business felt like a natural part of my upbringing. As a child, I observed the demands and responsibilities that came with being a business owner, and I wasn’t entirely certain if that was the path I should follow. After completing my BS in Marketing at St. Joseph’s University, I ventured into the corporate world. However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that this wasn’t the right fit for me. I craved a more challenging and rewarding endeavor, and I firmly believed that being a business owner presented one of the most significant challenges and rewards.

I was aware that the journey wouldn’t be easy, but I was determined to embark on this chapter independently, without relying on loans or external assistance. It demanded an immense amount of hard work and unwavering dedication, and those qualities remain essential to this day. Nevertheless, I successfully initiated and sustained my business without accumulating any debt. Over the course of 14 years, my business has flourished and adapted, and I take immense pride in the position I find myself in today.

What should our readers know about your business?
Owning a business and juggling various roles is far from a simple task. I’ve come to understand that patience is a virtue in this endeavor, and in every situation, there’s an opportunity to learn and improve. Although I find achieving a balance between work and personal life to be my greatest challenge, I recognize that the success of my business is a direct result of the hard work and unwavering dedication I’ve poured into it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?With luxury travel being another business endeavor I’ve recently started, I love building itineraries in our beautiful city. To begin, I’d stay at one of my favorite luxury properties, Hotel Bennett, ideally situated in the heart of downtown Charleston. This elegantly designed hotel boasts my favorite rooms, characterized by their pristine, timeless aesthetics with a touch of glamour. It offers an array of amenities, such as a spa, rooftop bar, exclusive club level lounge, and even a champagne bar where one can indulge in afternoon cocktails or high tea. It’s truly the perfect haven for any traveler.

To kickstart the day, I’d recommend a run or stroll along the Battery and the charming Rainbow Row, both of which offer breathtaking views of our historic city. I’d refuel at one of my favorites, Harbinger Cafe with a breakfast treat and iced latte.

If the weather isn’t too hot, I’d suggest spending the afternoon at Folly Beach in the company of friends, or alternatively, a shopping and cocktail adventure along King Street.

For a relaxed dinner experience, Stella’s, a Greek restaurant, is an excellent choice where you can savor a family-style meal. However, if a more formal and special occasion calls for it, Zero George’s tasting menu with wine pairings is always a favorite!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

Being a small business owner is a collaborative effort, and whether it’s the support of friends, family, or colleagues, everyone plays a role in shaping your journey. My husband has consistently served as my trusted confidant and unwavering pillar of support since the inception of my business, and this unwavering support endures to this day. My father instilled in me the value of hard work, emphasizing that it’s an intrinsic part of who I am. However, he also taught me the crucial lesson that success in business is not solely a product of hard work; it hinges on staying true to oneself and cultivating a reputation that one can take pride in.

My closest friends, Drew and Michael, who are also involved in the hospitality industry, provide invaluable insights and guidance, particularly in our shared luxury market. We share our frustrations, our laughter, and collectively overcome challenges, always there for each other. I’m also beyond grateful to my “work-wife,” Blake. The success of PLB can be attributed in large part to our shared growth in design and processes over the past decade.

Website: www.pureluxebride.com and www.pureluxetravel.co

Instagram: @pureluxebride and @pureluxetravel.co

Linkedin: linkedin.com/fdisalvofollmer

Image Credits
Rachel Red Photography Justin Leon Brown Clay Austin Kailee DiMeglio Photography Shannon Oleksak