The Douglas-Coffee County Chamber of Commerce played host to an enchanting ribbon cutting ceremony, celebrating the grand opening of Sweet Magnolias, a delightful children’s boutique owned and operated by Wendy and Jeremy Russ. Nestled at 222 S. Peterson Ave in Downtown Douglas, Sweet Magnolias brings a touch of magic to the community with its unique range of children’s clothing for ages newborn to 12 years old, specializing in adorable toddler apparel.
Located in the same building where Jeremy’s mother, Judy Russ, once housed her renowned store “Dresses & Dreams,” Sweet Magnolias holds a special place in the heart of the Russ family. The event drew a jubilant crowd of family, friends, and community leaders who joined in the celebration.
Chelsea Preston, Member Relations Director at the Chamber, set the stage by extending a warm welcome and providing a glimpse into the Russ family’s journey. Pastor Jamey Smith followed with a heartfelt invocation, blessing both the establishment and the family behind it. Ben Floyd, VP of Operations at CRMC and Chamber of Commerce Board Chair, congratulated the Russ family and expressed gratitude for their investment in Douglas-Coffee County.
Mayor Tony Paulk and Emma Russ, the eldest daughter of Wendy and Jeremy, took the stage next. Emma, who serves on the City of Douglas’s Teen Court, shared a touching moment from the Holiday Open House, recalling the hustle and bustle of the store filled with customers and the realization that “we actually did it.”
Jeff Hennesy, Downtown Development Authority Board Chair, added a nostalgic touch to the ceremony with a heartwarming story of working at Norris Shoe Store as a teenager and collaborating with Judy Russ at Dresses & Dreams to assist couples preparing for their wedding day.
Jeremy Russ expressed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support Sweet Magnolias has received. He shared a poignant story about the significance of the building to his family, reflecting on the honor of supporting Wendy’s dream of owning her own business in the exact place where they first met over 20 years ago.
Surrounded by their four daughters, family, friends, and esteemed community leaders, Wendy and Jeremy Russ proudly cut the ribbon, officially marking the grand opening of Sweet Magnolias. Sweet Magnolias can be reached at 912-551-0606. You may shop their online selection at www.shopsweetmagnolias.com.