Celebrating 30 Years of Elegance
An Exclusive Interview with Laura Fitch, Owner of Bedside Manor
As Bedside Manor celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, we had the pleasure of catching up with Laura, the visionary behind this cherished Charlotte institution. Her journey from a quaint boutique to a thriving hub of home elegance is a testament to passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
A Milestone of Elegance
Reaching the 30-year mark is no small feat, and for Laura, it’s a moment of immense pride and gratitude. “I feel incredibly blessed and honored to be celebrating 30 years in business!” Laura beams. “It’s rare to reach such a milestone, especially considering that only 4% of businesses survive past ten years.” She attributes this success to the people who’ve been part of her journey—dedicated employees, loyal customers, and supportive vendors. “These relationships have been the cornerstone of Bedside Manor’s success. I’m deeply grateful and excited to continue expanding on these connections.”
Laura’s journey began in 1993, with a move from Washington, D.C. to Charlotte, North Carolina. “Buying our first home sparked the idea of opening a retail store,” she explains. At the time, Charlotte had few home furnishings options, so Laura decided to share her passion for linens and home décor with the community. “We were warmly received, and that encouraged me to take a chance on something I truly loved.”
The evolution of Bedside Manor is nothing short of remarkable. What started with a cash register and hand-written receipts in a 1,400-square-foot space at the Villa in Myers Park, focusing primarily on linens and gifts, has transformed significantly. By 1997, the store expanded to 2,600 square feet in Phillips Place, introducing furniture, tabletop items, and home décor. Embracing technology, Laura introduced a computer-based system, a website, a Bridal Registry, and in-home design services. In 2009, Bedside Manor moved to Specialty Shops, where it remains today—a testament to its continuous growth and adaptation.
So, what’s the secret behind Bedside Manor’s enduring success? Laura credits a clear vision for both the present and future. “Our industry is always changing, so flexibility with our vision and staying current on trends are key,” she says. Prioritizing customer service is also crucial. “We focus on exceeding expectations, delivering quality merchandise, and building lasting relationships. This approach fosters repeat business, positive referrals, and a loyal customer base.”
Laura’s approach to curating the store’s selection reflects her commitment to quality and ethics. “Our products must align with our values. We prioritize quality, trendiness, and sustainability. Many of our vendors use eco-friendly practices, and several products are OEKO-TEX certified, ensuring they are free from harmful substances.” This
Reflecting on the past three decades, Laura shares some of her most cherished memories. “Seeing the journey of a passionate 26-year-old and working with clients and their families has been incredibly rewarding. Collaborating on exciting projects with customers and the design community has been a gift. The relationships I’ve formed with employees and customers are memories I will always cherish.”
The future of Bedside Manor is bright and full of promise. “We’re always planning for the future,” Laura reveals. Recent updates include redesigned cabinetry, a new point-of-sale system, and expanded bath and sleepwear areas. The website is being revamped for a more interactive experience, and the Bridal Registry has been enhanced. “We’re also expanding our private label products to offer more unique options for our customers.”
For those looking to start their own business, especially in retail, Laura offers sage advice: “Focus on what you do best and surround yourself with like-minded people. Bigger isn’t always better—quality goods and a well-utilized space can lead to success. Don’t be discouraged by the ups and downs; building strong relationships with clients is key. Challenges make you stronger and encourage creative thinking.”
As Laura celebrates this milestone, her gratitude shines through. “I’m incredibly thankful for my family, employees, and the amazing Charlotte community. Without them, I wouldn’t be here 30 years later. A recent cancer scare reinforced my gratitude for these blessings and so much more.”T
The store will introduce an Anniversary candle to commemorate the 30 years, available both in-store and online.
As Bedside Manor continues to thrive and evolve, Laura’s commitment to elegance, quality, and community remains steadfast, making this anniversary not just a celebration of the past but a promising look toward the future.
