Step Into Elegance: Luxe and Lace Bridal and Formal Wear Celebrates Grand Opening and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
By Emily Wright
LOCK HAVEN— Downtown Lock Haven officially welcomed its new bridal and formal wear boutique on Friday, January 24, 2025, with the grand opening of Luxe and Lace Bridal and Formal Wear at 123 Bellefonte Avenue. A crowd filled the elegantly adorned boutique, eager to witness the ribbon-cutting ceremony and mark the beginning of owner Michele Briggs’ entrepreneurial journey.
The grand opening attracted an impressive crowd, including Briggs’ family and friends, community members, and several distinguished local figures. In attendance were Joel Long, Mayor of Lock Haven; Melissa Dally, Downtown Lock Haven Inc. Manager; Kira Rosamilia, Chamber/Tourism Director at the Clinton County Economic Partnership (CCEP); Dave Harger, Interim CEO of CCEP; Ben Green, Chamber & Leadership Director at CCEP; and Stephanie Borowicz, PA State Representative, among many others. As attendees gathered, they were treated to light refreshments and an opportunity to enter a drawing for a $100 Luxe and Lace gift certificate—a generous offer that underscores the boutique’s commitment to delight its patrons.
Mayor Joel Long expressed his enthusiasm for the new business and welcomed the addition to the downtown district. “There’s nothing better than continuing to offer more choices for the citizens of Lock Haven and the surrounding areas, and I thank you for your investment,” he commented as he welcomed Luxe and Lace to the community.
Dave Harger, Interim CEO of the Clinton County Economic Partnership (CCEP), echoed this sentiment, highlighting Briggs’ entrepreneurial spirit. “Our door is always open if you need help. Come see me, come talk to me. If you’re looking for advice, we’re always an open door,” Harger assured.
At the heart of this venture is Michele Briggs, who shared the deeply personal journey that led to the opening of Luxe and Lace during the grand opening event. What began as an inspiring part-time job in a bridal shop during her engagement to her husband, Mitch, blossomed into a retirement dream nurtured over decades. “It’s not just a story of business, it’s a story of faith,” Briggs said.
After 20 years of working in corporate America, Briggs was faced with an unexpected layoff, and she spent a year looking for suitable job positions with no success when a moment of divine inspiration compelled her to pursue the boutique she had dreamt of opening after retirement.
Briggs recounted a significant night that compelled her to open the boutique ahead of her retirement. “I was laying in bed one night, and I was praying, ‘God, what am I going to do?’ and I heard, ‘Open your shop,’” she shared. Encouraged by her husband, she chose to pursue her dream of opening her boutique sooner than she’d planned. “If you’re not a person of faith, I hope that story helps you to have some because I truly believe that this is an act of God,” she added.
In a gesture of gratitude, Briggs acknowledged the local women-owned businesses that contributed to the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony. Samantha’s Kitchen and The Dancers Bun Bakery provided desserts while Tess Gallagher, bridal stylist at Luxe and Lace, crafted a charcuterie board for attendees to enjoy. Flowers from Sweeney’s Floral Shop adorned the boutique, adding an extra touch of elegance to the occasion.
As Luxe and Lace embarks on this promising new chapter, it is offering special promotions throughout the weekend. Customers can enter to win a $100 gift certificate and, with each purchase, select a rose for a surprise gift or discount, making this a perfect time to explore the offerings at Luxe and Lace.
Michele Briggs’ story of perseverance, faith, and community spirit now breathes new life into downtown Lock Haven, and she invites residents and visitors alike to browse through her inventory of high-fashion wedding and prom attire for all of your bridal and formal wear needs.
Luxe and Lace is located at 123 Bellefonte Avenue in Lock Haven
Facebook: Search “Luxe and Lace”
Website: www.luxeandlacelockhaven.com
Email: luxeandlacelockhaven@gmail.com
Phone: (570) 263-7041
Luxe and Lace hours of operation:
Monday & Tuesday – By Appointment Only
Wednesday & Thursday – 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Friday – 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday – 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sunday – Closed
