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Local business owners speaks to Clayton management students about values, goals

The Clayton College & State University Chapter of the Society for Advancement of Management (SAM) featured a “unique” speaker at yesterday’s meeting. Denise Purdy, owner of Lorna’s Bridal & Prom in Peachtree City, spoke on the importance of being unique in the business world.

“In the back of my mind, I had an ongoing frustration with the difficulty in finding appropriate formal wear. [In fact] it became increasingly difficult as the years progressed,” says Purdy, a Peachtree City resident and mother of five who started sewing at 13, and made her own wedding dress. “I worried about my sons’ dates... what would they be wearing?

“I cannot separate who I am and my values from my business.”

Indeed, Purdy spoke on values and goals to the SAM members.

“Business is simply problem solving: identifying needs, recognizing obstacles and unraveling complexities,” she says. “There will always be a barrier. If you have no challenges, you will not have a successful business. Entrepreneurism is constantly growing and tweaking your presence.

“Honesty and integrity are essential. You must be honest with everyone you work with, even if you can’t help them. For example, helping people find what they need if you don’t have it!”

Since starting her business in January 2004, Purdy has been busy doing more than selling modest fashions. She has been a spokesperson for compelling, modest fashion, having been featured in an article in the Atlanta Journal/Constitution, being interviewed by the Today Show, and having several other invitations to speak.

“[I’ve been] meeting wonderful people and having mothers and daughters cry as they finally find the perfect dress for that day they want to be perfect,” she says. “This is my motivation and passion.”

SAM President Vincent is a junior marketing major from Stockbridge. She also serves as SAM’s webmaster. For more information, go to http://business.clayton.edu/SAM, or e-mail Marlana Appel at csu19628@mail.claytonstate.net. Or, go to www.lornasbridal.com.