Northshore magazine showcases the best that the North Shore of Boston, MA has to offer.
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ne Business Suit Up! Menswear and accessories at Russo Tux Shop & Limousine. enthusiasm and positive energy running through the building is just extraordinary," says Belhumeur. "...We're all busy at the same time, and we help each other whenever we can," says Clara Tompkins. "When a bride sits on my couch, my goal is not only to promote myself but also everyone else in the building when possible." There's no formal tenants' association, but the shopown- M 6:30 AM 7:30 AM 9:30 AM 4PM 5PM 6:30 PM 7PM T W TH F SAT SUN ers all meet twice a month to resolve any issues. Tom Bel- humeur's financial interest is solely that of building owner and landlord, although he helped establish the new website and attends occasional meetings. The center is now at full capacity with no room for expansion, but Belhumeur believes the website will be a source of new business and revenue streams through affiliate links, advertising, and promotions. Success is hard to quantify after only eight months, but many owners are reporting increases in bookings since join- ing The Bridal Center. Linda Jennings says business is up 20 percent; AllStar Entertainment is up 30 percent. Cristina's is now getting brides from New England and 17 other states. Is another Bridal Center on the horizon? "Not in Massa- chusetts, but we are looking at venues in Connecticut," says Belhumeur. "I would love to replicate this. It's very much a possibility." Clearly it's a marriage made in heaven—and not a Bri- dezilla in sight. ● n The Portfolio 84 nshoremag.com January/February 2012 nshoremag.com January/February 2012 Headquarters: Andover. Year Founded: 2011. Number of Businesses: 9. Services: A one-stop wedding "destination" offering gowns, tuxedos, jewelry, accessories, intimate apparel, photog- raphy, decorations, entertainment and lighting, personal training, and event planning. Building Owner: Tom Belhumeur. Contact: One Main Street, Andover, MA 01810, thebridalcenter.com.