Excelsior Springs, MO – Downtown Excelsior Springs has welcomed a new business that is not only a nod to family heritage but also a beacon of local collaboration and empowerment. “Ciao Bella,” a charming new souvenir shop located at 113 W Broadway, next to Ventana, celebrated its grand opening this Saturday, marking its introduction with participation in the Downtown Excelsior Partnership event, Sippin’ Into Springtime.
Francesca Cole, the visionary behind Ciao Bella, named the shop “Hello, Beautiful” in Italian as a tribute to her late grandmother, who was of Italian descent. Despite her demanding job at the Excelsior Springs Hospital, Francesca embarked on this entrepreneurial journey to fulfill a personal dream and set a positive example for her daughters. “I wanted to do this for myself and to show my daughters that they can achieve anything they set their minds to,” Francesca shared.
Ciao Bella is more than just a souvenir shop; it’s a platform for showcasing and supporting other women-owned businesses. Francesca has partnered with local entrepreneurs like Stacie Brayfield, whose wax melts, candles, and Presleigh Brayfield tumblers are among the items featured in the store. “I’m excited to share that Ciao Bella is selling some of my items. Go check out the wax melts and candles and more,” Stacie expressed on Facebook.
The store offers a wide range of products, from local flair and Tiger Pride to KC swag, including items celebrating the KC Current. Francesca has also dedicated a section of the shop to dog lovers, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
The grand opening on Saturday was a resounding success, with Francesca taking to Facebook to express her gratitude: “Ciao Bella’s first event in darling downtown Excelsior Springs was nothing short of absolutely amazing!!! Thank you to everyone who came in and said Hi! And a huge thank you for all of the gracious compliments on my store. Talk about a warm welcome! You made this girl’s heart SO happy!”
Ciao Bella’s opening is a testament to the vibrant community spirit of Excelsior Springs and the power of dreams fueled by passion and hard work. Francesca Cole’s venture not only honors her grandmother’s memory but also serves as an inspiring example of entrepreneurship and community support. The shop promises to be a delightful destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a unique blend of souvenirs, local art, and a celebration of local small businesses.
For those interested in exploring the treasures within Ciao Bella, the shop invites you to visit them next to Ventana at 113 W Broadway in downtown Excelsior Springs. She will be open Monday, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 4pm-7pm, Fridays from 3pm-7pm, and Saturdays from 10am-7pm. It’s an experience that embodies the beauty and resilience of the community and the spirit of collaboration that defines it.
If you appreciate the value our local journalism brings to the community, please consider making a recurring contribution to the Excelsior Citizen!
