Nicole Brackin always knew that Irish dance would play a key role in her life. After an accomplished 13-year dance career with the Cross Keys Irish Dancers, she now continues to teach there as a certified TCRG. But that’s not all…
Nicole is also the co-owner of LUXE EMBELLISHMENTS, an Irish dance shop and legacy first started by her mother Terry O’Hare, owner of the successful 4IRISHDANCERS accessory store. Nicole and co-owner Caoimhe Cassidy’s passion and love for Irish dance and Irish dance fashion is evident when you shop at LUXE.
We caught up with Nicole before the big double feis weekend to talk about her rewarding business and tips for anyone interested in starting their own Irish dance shop one day.
How did you know you were done competing? Was it an easy transition?
“I knew I was done dancing after I competed at my last world championships in 2004. I felt that was the best time for me to exit my dance career, to go out on top. I was 18. I was college bound in a few months and wanted to focus on my schooling. It was bitter sweet because it was the end of my 13-year dancing career however; I knew Irish Dance would always be in my life. Shortly after I retired dancing, I began teaching for Cross Keys, the school that I danced with all my life. In 2007, I received my T.C.R.G and I still teach today.”
Why did you open your own Irish dance shop?
“I decided to begin my Irish Dance shop when my mom Terry O'Hare, suddenly passed away. My mom owned the successful store 4IRISHDANCERS, an Irish Dance accessory store. Right after my Mom's passing, my family and I decided we were going to close the store. I was a new Mom and I did not know how I was going to manage the store on my own. However, my friend and now co-owner of LUXE, Caoimhe Cassidy, approached me to reopen the shop together. And it has been up and running since then.”
What would you recommend to dancers who may want to open their own Irish dance shop in the future?
“I would encourage anyone to open their own dance store if their passion is hair, wigs, dance accessories and fashion. My job is so much fun and so rewarding. I meet so many people and I get to make dancers feel and look amazing. The one thing to be prepared for is the hard work. It is a 24 hour, 365 days-a-year job. You really need to have a passion and love for Irish Dance fashion.”
Check out LUXE EMBELLISHMENTS at their shop or online at:
6401 West 107th Street
Worth IL. 60482
Store Hours:
Wednesday-Friday 1-7pm
Saturday 10:30-2:30 pm
Or Online:
Facebook: @luxeembellishments
Instagram: @luxeembellishments
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