Former Assistant Principal Finds Second Career in Retail
After working as an assistant principal for 17 years, Sandra Parrigan made the leap into retail to pursue another dream – one she had since she was in high school. A year and a half ago, Parrigan was presented the opportunity to purchase a business. The Loft of London started out as a clothing and prom boutique but Sandra’s passion is bridal. She expanded the business into bridal and has already found great success, offering local brides a shorter drive than her competitors in more metropolitan areas of the state.
The Loft carries Maggie Sottero gowns with three different price points. Sandra noted that customers travel in from surrounding counties and states to shop at The Loft.
“Choosing a wedding dress is an experience for a bride and anyone she wants to have with her,” said Sandra.
There’s an entire section of the store dedicated to bridal, fit with signs for the entourage to hold up as the bride comes out in dresses, as well as desserts and nonalcoholic beverages for a celebratory toast when the future Mrs. says “Yes!” to her wedding dress.
As for Sandra’s advice for brides-to-be, “Be open minded, have fun and let the stress melt away.”
Sandra’s favorite part of owning The Loft of London is helping brides prepare for the “wow” moment.
“The moment is magical,” she stated.
Parrigan loves London and enjoys supporting the community through donations to sports teams and school activities. She says the community has in turn shown the same love and support of her business.
“It is a very neat experience to work with students that I had in my career in the school system,” said Sandra.
The Loft of London is located at 94 Dog Patch Trading Center, Suite 1 in London, Kentucky.