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Excelsior Springs, Mo.—This past Saturday, March 22, 2025, downtown Excelsior Springs buzzed with joy as three women-owned businesses celebrated milestone anniversaries. Each story, though unique, shared common threads of perseverance, passion, and an unwavering connection to community. We caught up with each of the owners to hear what has made this journey meaningful and what continues to inspire them day after day.
Style by Ry – Celebrating 7 Years
When Ry Wilkins opened Style by Ry on Broadway seven years ago, she was stepping into a new chapter of both business and motherhood. Her son, often seen happily playing nearby, has grown up alongside her boutique, giving the space a warm, lived-in charm that mirrors Ry’s own authenticity.
Ry credits God and the gift of motherhood for shaping the way she connects with her customers. Her ability to empathize with women navigating their own busy lives has been the foundation of the community she’s built. “Helping women feel confident is something that is important to me,” she shared, her radiant smile reflecting the energy that has made her such a beloved presence downtown.
Despite humble beginnings and the challenges that come with running a small business—including weathering a pandemic—Ry’s creativity and resilience have never wavered. Her fashion shows, which raise funds for local charities, and her newest venture, in-home closet styling sessions, show her dedication to making fashion accessible and empowering for all.
Knit Ewe Together – Celebrating 5 Years
Inside Knit Ewe Together, the clicking of needles and warm conversation fill the air, creating a haven for fiber lovers from across the region. Shawna Stombaugh, who started the shop five years ago, has built more than a business—she’s cultivated a vibrant, supportive community.
Shawna recently expanded the shop’s layout, removing a wall to open the space and create a more inviting environment. With shelves of beautifully colored yarns, curated patterns, and all the supplies a knitter could dream of, Knit Ewe Together offers more than materials—it offers mentorship, laughter, and connection.
From Liberty to Kearney and right here in Excelsior Springs, knitters of all ages gather here to share projects and stories. “Seeing people come together, form friendships, and support one another—that’s what I’m proudest of,” Shawna said. Her store is a reminder that creativity, when shared, can knit people together in the most meaningful ways.
Ciao Bella – Celebrating 1 Year
For Francesca Cole, the one-year anniversary of Ciao Bella is more than a celebration—it’s a testament to hard work, learning on the fly, and the strength of community. Originally opened as a souvenir shop, Francie quickly discovered a different niche: custom t-shirts and maker supplies, fueled by customer demand and her own curiosity to explore new paths.
“Having a downtown business is HARD!” she laughed, but her gratitude shined through as she spoke about the friends and family who’ve supported her through it all. In just one year, Ciao Bella has become a creative hub, hosting pop-up collaborations, like she had on Saturday with local artisans Leigha Kneedler of LidsByLeigha and the talented bakers Jennifer Ferris and Sara Kilbury behind A Sweet Little Treat Bakery.
Francie used the anniversary celebration as an opportunity to give back, collecting pet food for the Excelsior Springs Animal Shelter. She’ll be opening her doors again during Sippin’ Into Springtime this weekend—(pop ups are returning!) and will be ready to welcome customers with fun, flair, and a whole lot of heart.
A Community That Grows Together
These milestone moments remind us of the beauty of small-town entrepreneurship—where businesses are more than storefronts; they’re stories of resilience, heart, and human connection. As Ry, Shawna, and Francie show us, success isn’t always measured in dollars or square footage, but in the relationships we build, the confidence we inspire, and the joy we share.
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Congratulations to these women and their shops in Excelsior Springs. I had not heard of these until now as I am new to the area with a space @kilgore’s Vintage and Design / 414 Co. I will be sure and pop in these shops . Having a small business requires recognition and support from community and friends ~