Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Bates
Hi Lauren , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My mom Carla started selling antiques in Kimmswick 25 years ago. This year will be our 25th year in business. I grew up helping my mom & hunting for treasures. In 2001 she purchased our current building, rebranded what is now Cozy Cottage. I’ve spent every holiday season helping her at festivals, going to market, and working the store. I learned how to work the register by age 12 haven’t stopped since. My dad has made many of our displays pieces and travels along on the buying adventures. We truly are a family business!
6 years ago I purchased the business from my mom and continued to grow the store. Since purchasing the store I’ve adding more clothing & accessory collections, USA made items, a Book Den, girfts and more. There really is something for everyone inside!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
You will always have bumps in the road throughout business adventures. We’ve survived multiple high water scares as we are so close to the Mississippi River, Covid, and Illnesses in the family. We’ve held strong in our roots and trusted God through all of it.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I graduated with a dual degree in Marketing & Management. My favorite part of running the business typically is the selling, buying, and hosting multiple events. Customers have become family and I truly love what I do!
I try to specialize our store. When buying for the store my goal is to find quality items that you can’t find other places. I don’t want to be like any other store. Our goal is to make you feel like family from the second you walk in the store. Provide assistance with wardrobe building, accessories, gifting, and more. To always have you leaving the store felling exponentially better than when you arrived!
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Being genuine and true to what you really want you business to be. There is always room for change! We are constantly are pivoting and changing the shop. I’m always reminding myself to pivot. Most people don’t like change, I embrace the change.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cozycottagekimms
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cozycottagekimms
