We had the good fortune of connecting with Jenna Bricher and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jenna, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My business, like many others, was born out of necessity. So many women have been overlooked by antiquated sizing models, finding themselves lost in between straight-sized and plus-sized sizing. As a woman with curves, finding a well-fitting, confidence-inspiring bikini can feel like an impossible task. Considering standardized sizing in the US is still loosely based off of a 1940s study of mainly white, military women, it’s not really surprising that many women encounter frustration in their shopping experiences. Luckily, the clothing industry is starting to wake up to the fact that an “average” woman doesn’t really exist and I’m excited to be part of the revolution.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Right now, as I get ready for the launch of the Spring/Summer 2022 collection, I am spending a majority of my time perfecting prototypes and improving marketing strategy. I need to make sure the style and fit of the bikinis are perfect – and that people know they exist. As a very new company, it’s imperative that I invest effort into making sure that my product is visible. I spend a significant amount of time working on social media campaigns, improving SEO, and making sure that my brand messaging and imagery is on point.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Arizona is such an amazing place to explore! Here’s my perfect Welcome-to-Phoenix itinerary:

Day 1: Head up to the Verde Valley to spend the day tasting wine in Jerome

Day 2: After staying the night in Jerome, head back toward Phoenix, stopping in Bumble Bee to hike Badger Springs Wash Trail. After enjoying the sunshine and scenery, head back to phoenix, making sure to stop at Rock Springs Cafe for some banana cream pie on the way.

Day 3: Stroll or cycle around the Phoenix Zoo in the morning. Eat lunch on the patio at Chelsea’s Kitchen. Grab sundown cocktails for happy hour at Jade Bar at the Sanctuary Resort on Camelback Mountain in Paradise Valley.

Day 4: Head to the east Mesa to enjoy some kayaking on the Salt River – bring snacks and drinks for a picnic on the banks of the river. Keep an eye out for wild horses.

Day 5: Get to a spring training baseball game! During the month of March there’s nothing better than grabbing a prickly pear margarita to enjoy in the grass at Scottsdale Stadium while the San Francisco giants take on their rivals. After freshening up from a day in the sun make sure to have reservations at Maple & Ash in Old town for some fire roasted seafood and delicious craft cocktails.

Day 6: Time for some R&R. Today is the day for spa treatments at the Four Seasons Scottsdale. Relax with a massage or facial then enjoy some pool time, complete with piña coladas.

Day 7: Indulge in one last breakfast at Lon’s at the Hermosa Inn. Eat lunch on the terrace, surrounded by beautiful plant life with views of Camelback in the distance.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people that have been instrumental in my journey thus far. My mom, for one, has used her sewing skills to help bring my sketches to life as far back as I can remember (I should have realized sooner that this is my calling). My teachers at Maricopa Community Colleges who taught me how to design and execute the creation of my ideas. Joy Li who hired me as an intern and exposed me to both the business and design sides of running a fashion label. Tabitha Sillin who helped guide me through the creation and production of my first season.

Instagram: @jennabricherswim

Facebook: @jennabricherswim

Pinterest: @jennabricherswim

Image Credits
Lindsey Oien

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.