Katrina Walters & Elegance Made Simple – Where Dreams Come True, One Dress at a Time
In the city of Troy, MO, where charm meets magic, Katrina Walters has brought a dream to life through Elegance Made Simple, a beloved wedding shop she’s proudly owned for nearly five years. With a great eye for transformation, and a little wedding magic, Katrina’s journey is one of resilience, creativity, and heart.
Katrina’s journey with the shop began when she inherited it from her mother-in-law. She initially started by assisting part-time and organizing the dresses. However, when the keys were handed over to her, Katrina recognized that she had a vision for something more ambitious. With limited working capital, she set out to find funding that would help her bring that dream to life.
After experiencing frustration with several large banks, Katrina found a solution at Justine PETERSEN. She reflects, “The SBA loan could not have come at a better time.” The shop was in need of a makeover, including new signage, fresh carpet, and an updated interior. Thanks to the loan, Katrina was able to revitalize the boutique while remaining true to its legacy.
More than just a wedding shop, Elegance Made Simple is Katrina’s creative outlet. She’s steadily expanded her offerings to include bridal parties and groomswear, all to make the experience seamless and personal. Her busiest seasons fall right after the holidays and in October, when love is in the air and her shop buzzes with activity.
Despite opportunities to move, Katrina is firm in her love for her current location. “I love the feel of the community,” she says. It’s not just the place but the people—her ability to connect, converse, and comfort her clients that makes her shop special. She’s never pushy, always patient, and treats everyone who enters with genuine care and respect.
Word of mouth is the lifeblood of her business, and her clients are quick to praise her warm demeanor and attention to detail. One of the shop’s most charming features? A collection of little bells she affectionately calls “Yes to the Dress Bells,” which ring out every time a bride says yes to her gown.
For anyone considering following in Katrina’s footsteps and starting their own business, she offers this advice: “Do your homework. Do not give up… and get an accountant!” Her journey is a testament to what’s possible when passion meets preparation, with a touch of magic added to the mix. In Katrina’s business, her passion, determination, and desire to see smiles on her customers’ faces are the magic she values most.
It was a true pleasure visiting with Katrina and experiencing the elegance and heart behind her success. At Elegance Made Simple, your dreams really can come true—one dress at a time.
To contact Katrina Walters, contact her at 636-528-5647 or by email at emsweddingshop@gmail.com.