‘The only one’ bridal shop opens in historical district
by Dan Holland
L’Unico Bridal is the newest business to open in the heart of the Richfield Historic District. Owner Jillian Bujnak began renovating the front space of the 19th-century building last fall to create a bridal shop that would offer a unique one-stop experience for brides-to-be, hence the name L’Unico Bridal – Italian for “the only one.” The business opened in early February.
“I knew this area needed more small-town retail,” said Bujnak, who grew up in North Royalton. “Along with Olesia’s, Michael Angelo’s Winery and Richfield Brewing Company coming soon, the location at 4663 W. Streetsboro Rd., adjacent to Olesia’s Taverne of Richfield, seemed like an ideal location. I think the historical aspect of the architecture lends a quaintness to it that will be inviting to brides.”
An interior designer by trade, Bujnak decided to take on the new business venture last summer with support from her husband, Patrick.
“I’ve always been interested in a creative aspect, and retail is something I’ve always been drawn to,” said Bujnak. “After planning my own wedding five years ago and getting into that, this felt like something I wanted to change careers for.”
The 1,500-square-foot shop, which occupies the first floor of the building owned by Olesia, contains an open inventory of bridal dresses and accessories, including veils, gloves, belts and sashes. The shop features a private dressing room and seating area. Brides receive an exclusive 90-minute visit by appointment only, with availability seven days a week.
Three dress designer lines are featured at the shop: Robert Bullock Bride, Liv by Kelly Faetanini and The Villa Collection.
“Of the three designers, Robert Bullock is a little more simple with classic material,” Bujnak explained. “The Kelly Faetanini line is exclusive to this shop in Northeast Ohio. The Villa collection, which is specific to my shop, features dresses that are a little more beaded.”
The shop also offers dresses for special occasions, including wedding showers, rehearsal dinners, bachelorette parties and other events.
Renovations to the building involved interior and exterior work, including a new front porch deck and new wood bannisters. The interior features new wood flooring in keeping with the architectural integrity of the property, she said.
Bujnak originally considered renovating and moving into the former antique store owned by her family located just a short distance south, along Broadview Road and adjacent to Richfield Auto Center. She decided on the present site when she learned of its availability.
So far, customers have expressed positive feedback on the layout of the business, which features a bright, clean and simple aesthetic, as well as personalized service, said Bujnak.
“I just want them to leave feeling confident and happy with their experience in creating great memories not only for the bride, but also for their guests,” she said. “That’s a big part of it; that brides usually bring guests to come with them to be part of the experience. Each bride is unique, and I want the guests to be just as happy as the bride.”
For information, visit lunicobridal.com. ∞
Photo: Jillian Bujnak stands in front of her sign in her bridal shop, L’Unico Bridal. Photo by D. Holland.