It is always exciting to see businesses grow and change. One Downtown business has been doing just that over the past three years. Bellissima’s Boutique, owned and operated by Krista Maurer, has placed significant value on being in a business district.
Originally located in the Uptown neighborhood, found themselves in need of a new home following a structure fire on August 12, 2020. Krista shared that when looking for a new home for her shop, she “had to stay in a business district. That is what retail owners seek out – a place to be supported by foot traffic.” She described the move as bittersweet, while she was sad to leave Uptown, she felt blessed to have another chance to grow her business in a new space. Moving to Downtown Kenosha meant the chance to greet regular customers from the original store, as well as meet a new customer population.
Krista refers to everyone who works for her as a PARTNER. One such partner is Krista’s granddaughter, Jasiya Gaines, the CEO of the family business. Jasiya is 14 years old and has been calling the shots on purchasing, staging, and operations. Marlana, Nina and Felicia, Krista’s daughters, are also actively involved in the store’s operations – consulting on fashion trends, cultural marketing for the boutique, and creative ideas for promotions and events. Krista refers to the strong female team as the “Maurdashians!”
Recently, Bellissima’s Boutique moved to a larger space downtown at 5613 6th Avenue, next-door to Wine Knot. Now in a 1,950 square foot storefront, one side of the shop is dedicated to clothing and fashion while the other side is cosmetics, accessories, and handbags. Also available are footwear, fun gifts, and even bath bombs! You can’t help but be drawn in when the large windows at the front of the store are open, allowing you to window-less shop as you walk by!
When we asked Krista what her favorite part of being a Downtown Kenosha business was, she shared “Inclusive growth and the nightlife!”
Watch for upcoming paint nights, vision board evenings, and holiday events at Bellissima’s Boutique.
Bellissima’s Boutique is located at 5613 6th Avenue
262-551-1885
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(This article first appeared in the Fall 2022 Downtown Kenosha Magazine )
Article by Laura Gregorski of Visit Kenosha
Photos by Visit Kenosha
