When Elizabeth Cuodros looks back on this past year, she has several things to celebrate.
The South Haven resident opened Diva’s Fashions & More in Dowagiac, gave birth to a beautiful daughter and, both she and her business, have survived the pandemic.
Chamber President Kris Soenen, owner of Who Knew? Consignment was joined by Chamber officials June 16 to officially welcome to the community Elizabeth and her sister, Marlen Cuodros, who is part owner of the specialty shop. Also at their side for the Ribbon-tying Ceremony was their sister, Lorena of Dowagiac.
“The ceremony is symbolic of tying you into the community and into the support resources you can take advantage of here in town,” Soenen said. “We are excited to have you and your business in Dowagiac. The more businesses we have in town, the more vibrant Dowagiac will become.”
“All of these people, who are here today, are here to support you,” Soenen said. "They represent a lot of different resources, whether they are in banking, insurance or retail. Everyone has the same challenges, such as staffing and advertising. These are challenges we can help you with.”
Elizabeth, whose sister Lorena lives in Dowagiac, was familiar with the community before she opened Diva’s Fashions & More. “We saw an opportunity in Dowagiac,” Elizabeth said. “We came here often. Compared to South Haven, rent is less expensive here. We feel it was a good decision.”
“We are excited to be here,” Elizabeth said. “It was a hard year, but we got through it.”
This September, Diva’s Fashions & More will celebrate its first anniversary. Located at 56044 M-51 South, the specialty shop offers a variety of merchandise from casual apparel and jeans, to footwear, bedding and more.
