Jenna Richards

Textiles, Merchandising and Interiors

Nurturing environment of FACS gave Richards the confidence to pursue a career in the bridal industry

Hometown

Savannah

Major/minor

Fashion Merchandising, Brand Management emphasis, Studio Art Minor

Activities/Honors

Throughout my time at the University of Georgia, I have pursued academic and creative excellence while actively contributing to the UGA community. I’ve been recognized on the Dean’s List and named a Presidential Scholar for my academic achievements. As an executive board member of the Fashion Design Student Association (FDSA), I help lead the planning and execution of major fashion shows, collaborating with peers and faculty to spotlight student creativity. Before joining the executive team, I participated as a designer in these shows, gaining hands-on experience working with other FACS students to bring collections from concept to runway. I also designed for The Agency, UGA’s student-run fashion show, further refining my skills in garment construction and creative direction. Beyond fashion, I serve as a Resident Assistant, mentoring and supporting groups of first-year students as they adjust to college life and build meaningful connections on campus.

In addition to my campus leadership, I’ve had the honor of presenting the FACS Appreciation Award to renowned bridal designer Anne Barge Clegg at the annual FACS Alumni Awards Ceremony. I also collaborated with the Department of Alumni Relations to create a series of original paintings—later turned into prints—featuring iconic UGA landmarks. As part of the Fashion Scholarship Fund case study competition, I developed a conceptual AI-assisted shopping tool designed to improve decision-making for consumers in the bridal industry, combining fashion innovation with user-centered technology. These experiences reflect my passion for design, storytelling, leadership, and my commitment to making a lasting impact within and beyond the fashion industry.

Why I chose my major

When I first came to UGA, I was a mathematics major—even though I had studied fashion and design in high school and had always loved it. I had pushed my creative passions aside for what I thought would be a more “practical” career path. But during my freshman year, I struggled to feel connected or fulfilled. That all changed when I randomly decided to participate in the FDSA student fashion show. Through that experience, I met incredible people, felt inspired, and was reminded of everything I loved about fashion. I started researching the Fashion Merchandising major in the College of Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS), learning about the coursework, resources, student groups, and career possibilities. I realized then that the dream I’d buried—owning a bridal salon—was not only possible, but achievable with the right tools. Soon after, I sat down with my Franklin College advisor and told her I wanted to switch majors. She smiled and said, “I knew you would—you’ll do great there.” Since that day, I’ve never regretted my decision. Fashion Merchandising has felt like coming home to the dream I was meant to follow.

What I like most about FACS

What I like most about FACS is how it creates a perfect balance between creativity, academic support, and professional development. From the moment I switched my major, I felt like I had found where I truly belonged. The faculty and staff are so invested in helping students succeed—not just in class, but in their personal goals too. Whether it’s through events like the FACS Alumni Awards ceremony, hands-on opportunities like student-led fashion shows, or major competitions like the Fashion Scholarship Fund Case Study, FACS gives students the space to explore their passions and turn them into real possibilities.

I also love how FACS is such a close-knit and encouraging community. Through my involvement in FDSA, I’ve been able to connect with other students who share similar goals, and being an executive member has allowed me to take on leadership roles that I never thought I’d be confident enough to do. FACS opened the door for me to dream bigger—reviving my goal of owning a bridal salon and giving me the education and confidence to make it happen. The college supports students not just academically, but creatively and personally too, and that’s something truly special.

Post-graduation plans

After graduation, I plan to pursue a career in buying within the corporate fashion industry, with a specialization in bridal wear. My ultimate goal is to merge my creative passion with strategic business skills to help curate meaningful and memorable bridal experiences. I’m especially interested in working with bridal brands or retailers to forecast trends, manage assortments, and create buying plans that reflect both the emotional and economic importance of wedding fashion. With the strong foundation I’ve built through the Fashion Merchandising program, I feel confident and excited to take this next step toward my long-term dream of one day owning my own bridal salon.