What I’ve Learned in 9 Months of Cosmo Capri—and What’s Next
Nine months ago, I unlocked the doors to Cosmo Capri’s first brick-and-mortar shop in Winchester—a dream years in the making. I knew it would be life-changing. What I didn’t know was just how much I would grow right alongside my business.
Since opening, I’ve experienced both the sweet and the bitter of being a small business owner and a mom. Month over month, we’ve grown. I haven’t seen a deficit yet (and I don’t take that for granted). I know how hard the landscape is for small business owners—especially mamas juggling motherhood and entrepreneurship.
Whether you're a fellow shop owner, a mom dreaming of opening her own store, or just someone who loves a peek behind the scenes—these are the five most important things I’ve learned since opening our doors:
1. The Customer Is Always (No, Really… Always) Right
It was a hot Saturday. I opened a little late—11:10. As I dropped my bag, sweating and flustered, a woman was waiting at the door. I smiled and told her I’d be right back after a quick post office run. She mentioned she was shopping for her grandchildren and would come back after grabbing a coffee.
She never did.
That moment stayed with me for days. Why didn’t I just wait? My husband asked the same thing: “What did you learn?”
I learned that the customer always gets what they want—or they’ll find it somewhere else. As a mom and a business owner, sometimes my multitasking gets the best of me. But now, I’ll never miss that moment again. I’ll hold the door open every time.
“Shopping at Cosmo Capri is such a special experience—every item feels intentional, meaningful, and chosen with love. It makes gift-giving feel truly personal.”
That’s the kind of feeling I always want our customers to walk away with—never rushed, never turned away, always seen.
2. Less Talking, More Paying Attention
One day, a customer came in glowing. She was buying our firefighter pajamas to tell her firefighter dad of 30 years that she was expecting. We were both so excited—and so distracted—that her friend walked out with a pair of boots we hadn’t even rung up.
Thankfully, she came back the next day to exchange sizes and we caught it then. She was kind and understanding, and we made it right.
But that moment taught me something: energy and connection matter, but details matter more. I’ve learned to slow down and tune in—to the story and the scanner.
3. Kids and Dogs Will Make a Mess—And That’s Okay
Moms, toddlers, and pups—we see them all at Cosmo Capri. And yes, sometimes that means a little chaos. Snacks on the floor, tiny fingerprints on mirrors, water bowls knocked over.
But I love it.
I’ve learned the mess is part of the magic. If we’re inviting moms into the store, we need to make them feel at home. That’s why I’m creating a cozy space for little ones to play and color while you shop. It’s why we now keep dog treats at the counter.
We’re calling it Cosmo Capri’s Creative Corner, and it’s coming soon.
4. Every Mom Has a Story
I’ve lost count of how many tears have been shed in our fitting rooms. Happy tears. Exhausted tears. Overwhelmed tears.
I've said it from the start, "Momhood is hard." And I’m proud that Cosmo Capri has become a safe space for moms to let their guard down.
If I want to serve moms well, I have to honor their stories. That’s why in 2026, you’ll see more experiences and classes focused on connection and community. We sell clothes, yes—but we’re building something even more important: a village.
“From my first shaket to my favorite metallic skirt, every piece comes with kindness and care—I love your style, your heart, and all that you represent!”
That kindness, that connection—that’s what I hope every mom feels the moment she steps into Cosmo Capri.
5. Grandmas and Dads Deserve a Shoutout, Too
While I talk a lot about moms, a lot, some of our sweetest moments come from dads and grandparents. I’ve seen grandpas pay for tutus with pride, and grandmas celebrate milestones with just as much joy as mom.
Dads lifting toddlers onto their shoulders. Nanas gently brushing glitter off their grandbaby’s cheek. I’m reminded every day: it truly takes a village, and every part of that village matters.
I’m thankful every time they walk through our door.
Nine months in, and I’m still learning. I don’t know what the next nine months will bring, but I know this: If you’re dreaming of starting your own business, know your customer, lead with your heart, and be your original self.
They’ll come.
And they’ll love you for it.
Until next time,
Jacqui
