The owner of South Coast Brides, Kim said the business was born of her passion for backing other women.

She opened the store in late 2018, when she noticed a gap in the market.

After the mum of four pushed through the always challenging first year of business, disaster struck.

"Our property burnt out on January 2," she said.

"Then there were the floods. I have two kids doing year 12 who were without internet.

"Next, COVID shut down business for months."

The past six weeks have rewarded her tenacity, with an increase in bridal sales an the announcement she has been named a finalist in the Aus Mumpreneur awards in both the NSW Retail Business Award category and the NSW Emerging AusMumpreneur of the Year category.

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"It does make me feel proud, because I work really hard to make sure every customer walks out of my store feeling surprised and delighted," she said.

Before she opened the store, Kim had organised her wedding and her sister's wedding back-to-back.

The two happy occasions were marred by some less-than-welcoming experiences at bridal boutiques.

She was determined to change the dynamic for other women.

"No one will walk into my shop and be made to fell less-than because of their body, budget or background," she said.

"Someone asked you to be their wife - you are perfect the way you are, and we will have something for you."

Customers have come to her from as far as Mt Isa to purchase the right dress in the right size at the right price.

The early days of the business were a challenge - one that other women empowered her to overcome.

"Nervousness and loneliness can consume you in the first few months," she said.

"Emotional and professional support from other women in business got me through. Elle Griffin, Ali Henry, Jemma Tribe, Monica Willis and Lyndall Thomas have been a huge support.

"No one can do it by themselves."

She said her most daunting business move had been approaching Nowra retail stalwart, Stanley John's menswear, with an ambitious plan.

"We were both paying CBD rent, and I had so much floor space," she said.

"I offered to share my space with them - I was pretty nervous to ask, they've been here for 42 years.

"But they agreed. They rebranded and moved in. It's doubled what's available in the space and halved my outgoings."

Kim said the hard work was worth it - not just because she's been named a Mumpreneur finalist, but to see her customers walk out happy and set an example for her daughters.

"I want to give them all the opportunities I can," she said.

"I want to show my daughters what a smart, strong woman is capable of."