Retailer Spotlight: South Africa’s Olivelli Northcliff

Olivelli is a top class Bridal Boutique with branches throughout South Africa. The flagship Olivelli store is situated in Northcliff, Johannesburg, South Africa. Olivelli offers a wide variety of the leading International bridal Brands. An Olivelli bride is lavished with personal attention and an unlimited selection of the latest designer trends.
Olivelli is thrilled to announce that we are now one of the exclusive stockists of the ENZOANI collection, and carry the Enzoani and Beautiful bridal lines, and Love and Love 16 evening lines.

1) What was the motivation/inspiration to open a bridal store ? How did it all start?

In 2006 mother and daughter -Karen de Villiers and Barbara van Zyl took a leap of faith and realised a dream of starting their own company. And so Olivelli- Bridal-Evening-Design was born from a building situated behind Karen’s residential home. Their main focus was to create a welcoming and homely atmosphere, where each and every bride gets personal attention and feels special.
Olivelli has grown considerably since then, and are now present in all the major cities throughout South Africa. The 9th branch will be opening soon in Windhoek, Namibia.

2) What are some of the things that have helped your store become who they are?

We are fortunate to carry the most beautiful collections of top quality wedding dresses, with outstanding fit and tailoring to suit each and every figure. Our consultants are highly trained to add value and good advice in helping every bride in finding her dream dress. We aim to go the extra mile, ensuring every bride has an unforgettable experience.

3) Who are the people/staff that make up your store?

Karen de Villiers is the co-founder and director of Olivelli and has a B.Mus. degree and teacher’s diploma. Barbara van Zyl is the other co-founder, and uses her degree in Graphic Design to do all the marketing. Estelle Hutchinson is the store manager and responsible for all the orders. Karen Chichetu is in charge of accounts. Our sale consultants are Yvonne Rakgosi, Ingrid Boonzaaier and Odelia Louw. Ellen Matsoele and Regina Motshego are responsible for steaming and cleaning of all dresses and keeping our beautiful store spotless. Our two seamstresses are Millicent Mabasa and Thelma Mathebula.

4) What are your plans for the future?

Our main goal is to provide world class client service, but to maintain that personal touch and attention every bride deserves. We would also be looking into expanding Olivelli throughout Africa.

5) What things do you offer your customers that have helped you stand above the competition?

Excellent and professional service combined with beautiful dresses; enable us to delight our clients!

6) What are the things you enjoy about Enzoani?

We are impressed with Enzoani’s professional service. The dresses are beautiful, creative, of high quality with an excellent fit and our clients love them! We are also happy with the good profit margins and see ourselves building a long relationship with this stunning brand and its people!

7) Do you have a favourite gown or style? Collection? Line?

It’s so difficult to choose, because there are so many breathtakingly beautiful dresses! We absolutely love Harika from the Enzoani line. It is soft, feminine, and has a beautiful fit. If we have to choose a second favourite, it would be Helen- with beautiful lace and beadwork.