Alumni
Online Learning Grad Owns Premier Bridal Boutique
Katia Agius runs BIANKA Bridal with entrepreneurial skills learned at FIDM
After receiving a degree from FIDM in Merchandising & Marketing, Katia Agius entered the Business Management program as an online learning student. While still in school, she opened BIANKA Bridal in 2014, a premier bridal shop in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and graduated with her Bachelor of Science degree in 2015.
When and why did you open your bridal salon? BIANKA Bridal started as a dream and goal. Everything that I did while in high school or at FIDM was centered around the concept of being an entrepreneur in the bridal industry. After graduating with my AA in Merchandising & Marketing, I was presented with the opportunity and didn't think about it twice. Grand Rapids, Michigan needed a bridal makeover and we were ready to introduce exclusive designers at different price points. Our opening day was January 13, 2014, and four brides said "yes" to their dress. That day I knew everything had fallen into place; I had reached my goal and was living my dream.
How did you balance going to school while running a business? Time management is key! Being a web-only student is definitely a plus, even though it can be hectic. I would organize my study hours based on the flow of the week and mainly do the "heavy loads" on Sundays. The skill of time management is definitely something that I progressed into during my AA studies in FIDM San Diego. An additional factor that also helps me balance is my passion for fashion and business. I have been blessed with the opportunity to blend both aspects everyday!
What led you to choose FIDM? The combination of both fashion and business. I had always been interested in high European fashions and accounting/economics, but I also had strong interest in being my own boss. Merchandising & Marketing was definitely the introduction of both industries, and so was the Business Management program. I highly recommend FIDM to build a network, gain self-knowledge, and have awesome experiences!
Please Note: The information contained herein was confirmed at the time of original publication.
Categories: Business Management Merchandising & Marketing Alumni
