A story of resiliency: Local business flourishes amid pandemic

Writer: Ashlyn McQuitty; Editor/Photographer: Morgan Niesen

As many small businesses have struggled to stay afloat during the coronavirus pandemic, Cosmic Corner is one local business that has been able to thrive and meet customers where they are at: safe at home.

The gift and accessory shop locate at 335 Main St. in downtown Racine, has proven its resilience despite challenging business conditions amid the pandemic.

Between financial stressors and losing clientele due to challenging business conditions amid the pandemic, many businesses haven’t been able to reach goals set for last year.

Although many local businesses faced trials, COVID-19 was not going to stop Cosmic Corner from reaching its customers, Mitrovic said.

“It was very worrisome to think about how long we were going to be closed, and if we were going to be able to reopen,” said Jelena Mitrovic, store manager of Cosmic Corner.

Though Mitrovic and other Cosmic Corner staff were worried about reopening, they knew they needed to make decisions in order to safely reopen. Staff spent two weeks creating different ordering options to not only meet customers’ needs, but to keep Cosmic Corner’s doors opens.

“I think the pandemic has brought awareness to small businesses, which has really helped us out,” said Mitrovic. Increased awareness about shopping at local, small businesses has helped Cosmic Corner gain and retain clientele during these difficult times. “It was a simple transition,” said Mitrovic. “We have a very understanding clientele.”

During the first few weeks of quarantine, Mitrovic needed to rethink her game by planning for the remainder of 2020 and since has implemented new ways of doing business in 2021.

“It started out with curbside pick-up. Now we have a full-blown website that you can order and ship off of…In a way, it (the pandemic) has opened new doors for new marketing,” said Mitrovic.

Whether shopping in store or online, Cosmic Corner offers a variety of clothing and accessory items for men, women and children. The store carries bell bottom jeans, corduroy pants, 80’s band shirts and much more.

In addition to apparel items, the store also carries bags and purses, essential oils and incense. These products showcase the individuality of the business and help Cosmic Corner to stand out in the downtown business climate.

Cosmic Corner’s gift items and new website are not the most unique thing about the store: the motto, “treat customers like friends” that translates into every customer interaction.

“We make our customers feel like friends,” said Mitrovic. “Taking the time to talk to them creates a whole different vibe, and that’s what sets us apart.”

In addition to friendly service, Cosmic Corner staff also makes it a point to be involved in the local Racine community. As a sponsor of Party on the Pavement and First Fridays, events held in downtown Racine, Cosmic Corner is able to help community members to gather in the downtown business park and enjoy the City of Racine.

Additionally, Cosmic Corner is a sponsor of The Dan Jam, a benefit event for Racine native Daniel Conner, who was killed in motor vehicle accident in 2008. Conner was active in various organizations, committees and clubs in the local community.

“The family event happens every year and we wouldn’t miss being a part of that,” said Mitrovic. The owners of Cosmic Corner also make it a point to donate to charities recommended by their customers and give back to the community as much as they can.

Until business operations go back to normal as the pandemic subsides, customers can continue to place orders by phone for curbside pick-up, or they can opt for a contactless option and have their unique products shipped to their homes. In the meantime, Cosmic Corner welcomes in-store shopping with limited capacity and face masks required.

“We want people to know that we have something for everybody here,” Mitrovic assured. “We will take care of you, and we love showing you what we’ve got.”