Teamwork is the cornerstone of success for these woman-owned businesses.
Olexa’s Café, Cakes, & Catering
For more than 25 years, Olexa’s Café in Mountain Brook, has been a place where food, family, and community come together. Diane Olexa, the heart and soul of the café, continues the legacy of her mother, Marilyn, whose dream was to create recipes that made loved ones’ hearts happy. “She loved people and loved serving and feeding people,” Diane says. “Her dream was to have a restaurant where the community could enjoy food, family, and friends in a heartwarming atmosphere. Her legacy lives on when we hear, ‘Oh, this is delicious,’ or ‘This is my favorite soup,’ or ‘This is the best cake ever!’”
Teamwork is central to the café’s success. “We are proud to say we have staff who have been with us for more than 17 years, as well as staff who have returned after school or moved back to town,” Diane explains. “We all work together, and it’s so apparent that we all have the same heartbeat of caring about our customers’ special events, whether it be designing a cake or planning a party. It takes a team to turn their buttercream dreams into a special, memorable, and delicious event.”
Weddings hold a special place at Olexa’s. Diane works closely with brides to design cakes that complement each bride’s vision, from the gown to the venue, flowers, and color palette. “Weddings are celebratory. We are meant to gather, to acknowledge, to celebrate, and support one another in our most special lifetime events,” she says. Every cake is crafted to inspire and bring a bride’s dream celebration to life, ensuring that each creation becomes a centerpiece as magical as the day itself.
Every team member Olexa’s contributes to the experience, from the bakery staff to servers, hostesses, and the dishwashers. Diane shares, “Knowing they are part of a big picture creating memories for guests’ celebrations makes us all feel like we have a part in their joys of life and love.” Their dedication ensures that every meal, every cake, and every event is handled with care, creativity, and heart.
At Olexa’s Café, every cake, dish, and smile carries forward a legacy of love, care, and unforgettable celebrations that delight both the eyes and the palate.
Photo: Piper Vine
Bella Bridesmaids Birmingham
For Jordan Boudreaux, owning and leading Bella Bridesmaids Birmingham is the culmination of a decade-long journey in the wedding industry. “I have been with Bella Bridesmaids for 10 years,” Boudreaux says. “I started working part time as a stylist in South Louisiana, where I’m originally from, and quickly moved up to store manager. When my husband and I moved to Birmingham in 2020, I was very lucky to get connected with Charlotte and Jeana Lee. They were looking for help at Bella Bridesmaids at the same time I was seeking work. We have always said it was God that brought us together at the right time.”
After the birth of her daughter in 2021, Boudreaux stepped into ownership as Charlotte and Jeana Lee were ready for their next chapter. “I’m so honored to continue the beautiful tradition of superior customer service and top-tier fashion that Bella Bridesmaids has brought to Birmingham for the last 18 years,” she says.
Boudreaux and her team take pride in helping bridal parties navigate differing body types, styles, and budgets. “Each appointment is paired with a personal stylist, so we can listen and take to heart the things that matter most to the bride and bridesmaids,” she explains. “We carry the largest selection of bridesmaid designers, colors, fabrics, and styles you can shop in-person in Alabama. Almost anything our brides can dream of, we can make happen. We love seeing inspiration pictures, swatches, floral designs, and all your Instagram saves to ensure the perfect look for each wedding.”
The team is intentional about the designers they work with. Boudreaux says, “We only work with designers who offer a wide range of sizes and options that work for different body types. We have our go-to styles that flatter almost everyone, but we also love when brides select a few different styles so each bridesmaid can look and feel her best.” Once the bride chooses the style and color, bridesmaids schedule appointments to get fitted. The team takes time to get to know each bridesmaid, offering personalized advice and support throughout the process.
Boudreaux’s own style and years of experience influence the store’s offerings. “I love talking with brides to see what they are looking forward to and track upcoming trends. I also remind them to stay true to what they believe is beautiful, regardless of current trends,” she says. Collaborating with designers allows her to bring new colors and styles to market, blending expert design with real-world insight into what brides and bridesmaids actually want. She recommends starting the bridesmaid dress process 9 to 12 months before the wedding. “Our designers take 12 to 20 weeks to deliver dresses, and we suggest leaving extra time for alterations. For brides starting late or with large bridal parties, we know trusted designers who can meet tighter timelines,” Boudreaux says. She also advises keeping the guest list small for the initial appointment to maintain focus on the bride’s vision.
At Bella Bridesmaids Birmingham, every dress selection is about creating confidence, beauty, and memories that last a lifetime. Boudreaux and her team help ensure every bridal party leaves feeling ready for the big day.
Photo: Sweet Home Studios
