Published in: shop local

JENNIFER HOARD- BELLA CURVES & PLEASURE ZONE

Author Office FWBIA

Published on: September 5, 2023

JENNIFER HOARD- BELLA CURVES & PLEASURE ZONE
Meet Jennifer Hoard, the owner and operator of Bella Curves and Pleasure Zone, a Lifestyle and Lingerie Space located in the Historical Cuthbertson Building in the heart of Fort William.
Born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, Jennifer’s early life was that of a “Military Brat,” her father served in the US Air force so their family were constantly on the move and never settling in one place for too long.
The family landed in BC the spring of 1990 and lived there for 5 years until their move, where her father transitioned from military service to dedicating his life to God as a Minister..
In 1995, the family found their permanent home in Thunder Bay, where Jennifer’s roots finally took hold.

MUCH NEEDED IN FORT WILLIAM

Jennifer opened her first shop in 2006, called Bella Curves, a plus-sized lingerie store situated in what is now Upshot Coffeehouse on May St. The shop remained open until Fall of 2008.
“I really wanted to offer a much-needed service to the city’s south side. At that time the store championed body positivity and confidence for plus-sized women, breaking free from the confines of traditional mall type settings.

PARTNERS FOR LIFE

The business flourished on S. May and I think the best part of my time there was when I met my partner for life, Ron Hoard.
Ron was running a Business printing shop where Sew Flippin Creations is now, when we first met and it was a match made in business heaven. We hit it off and got hitched in 2010 and started working on different things together until Ron’s horrific accident that almost took his life.

THE NEW NORMAL

The accident took its toll and the family had to make tough decisions to shut down business, altering their lifestyle to fit the New Normal.
During that time both Ron and Jennifer had to stay strong and keep on fighting although their future was still unknown. For Jennifer, she knew someday she would go back to where it all began,

BELLA CURVES & PLEASURE ZONE’S GRAND OPENING

The narrative moves forward to the spring of 2022, marked by the Grand opening of Bella Curves and Pleasure Zone’s new location. Within its revamped interior, an ambiance of warmth, elegance, and comfort beckons customers to embrace their individuality.

ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL

Jennifer’s vision extends beyond fashion. She orchestrates fashion shows and events that revolve around self-acceptance, mental well-being, and body positivity. Finally I can offer clothing lines that cater to a wide spectrum of body types, rejecting the outdated notion of “one size fits all.”
Her journey has not been without its share of challenges. Naysayers doubted the viability of a business centered on body empowerment rather than conforming to the traditional beauty standards of the yester years.

EMBRACING YOUR IDENTITY

The display windows showcase mannequins of diverse shapes and sizes adorned with lingerie that celebrates All spectrum of beauty.
With each passing day, Jennifer’s brand evolves and fortifies. It’s no longer solely about lingerie; it’s about embracing one’s identity, nurturing self-love, and fostering a sense of belonging.

JENNIFER’S WORDS OF ADVICE

As you leave the store, I hope that seeing my pieces serves as a subtle reminder that every BODY size deserves its moment of celebration.
If there is anything I can say about running a business, “Belief in oneself is pivotal. While doubts may loom and moments of questioning arise, stick to the game plan and NEVER LOSE FOCUS.
Don’t Forget !! When you move into a new business community, it’s absolutely necessary to forge connections with fellow business neighbors, recognizing them as fellow warriors on the store front line, just like you!!
Come by and say Hello to Jennifer at 107 N. May St. in down town Fort William.