One year ago, I took the biggest leap of my life. I traded comfort for creativity, fear for faith, and my 9–5 for a dream that lived in my heart for years.
Starting Cosmo Capri has been one of the most challenging, humbling, and rewarding experiences of my life. It’s stretched me in ways I never expected — as a mom, as a woman, and as an entrepreneur.
This year has taught me more about courage, boundaries, and self-belief than any book or course ever could. I’ve learned that running a business isn’t just about products or profits — it’s about becoming the kind of person who can hold her own vision steady, even when the world doesn’t understand it yet.
Here’s what I’ve learned after one year of building Cosmo Capri as a brick and mortar — the real, honest, unfiltered truth about growing a business and growing yourself.
1. Your big idea will scare people — and that’s okay.
When I first shared my idea, people looked at me like I was a little bit insane. They told me not to quit my 9–5, not to take financial risks, and to “stick to the safe route.”
I know now that most of that fear came from love — people wanting to protect me. But you can’t build your dream by living inside other people’s fears.
At some point, you have to trust yourself more than you trust their doubt.
2. You can’t please every customer — and you shouldn’t try to.
It used to sting when someone questioned our prices or compared us to big-box stores. Now? I don’t apologize — I explain.
Once people understand the intentional sourcing, the quality, and the meaning behind what we do, they get it.
Not everyone will value what you create, but the right customers — the ones who align with your mission — will. Confidence and education go a long way.
3. You’re not your team’s best friend — you’re their leader.
This one was tough for me. I want everyone on my team to feel valued and appreciated, but I’ve learned that leadership means being respected, not just liked.
You can care deeply about your people and still hold them accountable. You can be kind and still be firm.
You’re not being “difficult” when you set standards — you’re protecting your business and your vision.
4. Boundaries are not optional.
As your business grows, people will constantly ask for your time, advice, and energy.
Here’s what I remind myself:
Every time I say no to something that drains me, I’m saying yes to what really matters — my family, my mental health, and my long-term goals.
Boundaries aren’t selfish. They’re essential.
5. Growth means making unpopular decisions.
Sometimes your gut will tell you to pivot, raise your prices, or completely change direction — and people will question you for it.
But the truth is, bold decisions are rarely crowd-approved. People-pleasers crave validation; entrepreneurs build from conviction.
You have to believe in your own vision before anyone else will.
6. Some strangers will support you more than your friends and family.
And that’s okay.
I’ve had family who’ve never bought from my store, and friends who will happily spend double the price at Nordstrom — but that doesn’t define my worth.
Because there are people I’ve never met who support me monthly, share my posts, and cheer me on. Those are the people who get it.
7. When others start following in your footsteps — it’s your sign to level up.
You’ll notice it — other businesses suddenly doing what you’re doing, offering what you offer, or mirroring your ideas.
At first, it might sting. But now I take it as a sign: it’s time to level up.
Make a new product. Introduce a new line. Push yourself to the next version of your brand.
Because here’s the truth — they can copy your ideas, but they can never be you.
Everyone who follows them will see exactly where they got their inspiration.
You are the original. They’re the runner-up. Keep moving forward and stay in your lane — your authenticity is your biggest advantage.
The takeaway
If you want everyone to like you, entrepreneurship isn’t for you.
Your mission isn’t to please everyone — it’s to build something that matters. Something you believe in.
The people who truly get it will become your best customers, your biggest supporters, and your business family.
So, here’s your gentle reminder:
Stop trying to be liked by everyone. Start standing firmly in who you are and what you’re building. That’s where the real magic happens.
A note from my heart
To everyone who has supported, shopped, shared, or simply believed in Cosmo Capri this year — thank you.
Every message, every order, every kind word has meant more than you’ll ever know. You’ve helped turn a dream into a real, living thing.
As I step into year two, I’m carrying all these lessons with me — stronger, wiser, and more rooted in my “why” than ever before.
Here’s to continuing to create with purpose, grow with grace, and keep building something beautiful together.
With love,
Jacqui
Founder, Cosmo Capri