From Prosecutor to Entrepreneur: Building Barefoot Bridal with Sharon Kopp

Building Barefoot Bridal Through Service & TrustIn this episode of the Carolina Business Leadership Show, host Aubrey Fitzloff sits down with Sharon Kopp, founder of Barefoot Bridal, a destination wedding planning company built on exceptional customer service, responsiveness, and a deeply personal mission to protect brides from negative experiences.Sharon shares her journey from a 13-year career as a prosecutor to launching Barefoot Bridal after a frustrating and costly experience planning her own wedding—and how that moment became the foundation for a thriving, service-driven business.We talk about what it really looks like to build a relationship-driven business in the wedding industry, where communication, trust, and attention to detail aren’t optional—they’re everything.This conversation dives into leadership without formal business training, building and managing a remote team across multiple locations, and how prioritizing employee experience directly impacts client outcomes.Sharon also shares insights into the evolving destination wedding industry, including how post-COVID shifts have changed client expectations, increased demand for personal connection, and made destination weddings a more accessible option for budget-conscious couples.If you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or leader building a service-based business, this episode offers practical lessons on leadership, growth, and creating a client experience that stands out.Key ThemesEntrepreneurship and career transitionBuilding a service-first businessLeadership without formal trainingManaging and growing a remote teamCustomer experience and white-glove serviceAvoiding burnout through intentional growthDestination weddings as a cost-effective optionAdapting to changing client expectationsNotable Quotes“I wanted to give other brides the experience I wished I had.”“Happy employees provide the best service.”“I’d rather make less profit and avoid burnout—for me and my team.”“There’s nothing worth your mental health.”Connect with Barefoot BridalWebsite: www.barefootbridal.comInstagram: @barefoot_bridalEmail: [email protected]/Text: 866-822-7336Follow now so you never miss a conversation that could sharpen your leadership and grow your business.Know a Carolina business owner who would benefit from this conversation? Share this episode and help us elevate leaders building strong businesses through trust and community.ShareShare this episode and help us spotlight the leaders building strong businesses through trust, service, and community.📲 Follow the PodcastInstagram | Threads | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube → @carolinabusinessleadershipshow💌 Be a GuestEmail: [email protected]