December 19, 2020

Business Spotlight: C’est la Vie

Small businesses and the people who own and work in them are the heart of our Edmonds community. To keep our downtown thriving, it’s more critical than ever that we think local first.

In this new series, we will be highlighting independently-owned businesses, and learn more about the folks that make them run!

Meet Colleen Bowman from C’est la Vie.

What is your favorite part of your business?
The conversations that happen in the store.

Why did you start your business?
To create a place for these great conversations to take place; many have been life-altering for we that work there and sometimes others that have listened or joined the conversation.

Why did you choose Edmonds for your business?
Its exactly the type of town I wanted to live in, so it was natural to start the business here. Many didn’t think Edmonds would understand it at first. But Edmonds has welcomed us with open arms from day one.

What is unique about your business?
We carry the unexpected gifts, home goods, food items, funny and controversial items. All of us that carry clothing in town have our unique style, and that’s important. We also carry gifts, books, women and men’s clothing.

Why should people do business with you?
I must say our staff is incredible, I’m sure all stores say that. We have a unique group of women that manage things on their own. They are entertaining, have huge hearts and listen to what you are looking for or talking about—it’s not just selling to them.

You will get a fair price no matter what the item is. You will find things that are the perfect gift for someone special in your life. When you sign up for our newsletter you receive super secret specials and a discount on your birthday. We gift wrap for free and can ship anywhere in the United States. You can also order online at https://clvcatalog.com/.

What are you currently doing differently during this time?
Our hours are:
Tuesday thru Friday 11am-5pm
Saturday 10pm-5pm
Sunday 12pm-5pm
Mondays we are closed.
We offer curbside pick up of course.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I’m turning 60 this year, which is crazy to me. I have just taken up cycling before all the bicycles were sold out and love it. Since I cannot row right now, its a great substitute. My husband and I loved to travel and found new things for the store and will continue again once we can all travel again.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about your business?
Yes! But you’ll have to come into the store to find out!

Randall J. Hodges Photography Gallery
320 5th Ave S
Years in business: 19

Photos by Matt Hulbert

More Features

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