Featuring ~ Rosalind’s Lingerie
Submitted by Tara Campbell Owner Rosalind’s Lingerie in Cambridge, ON, Canada
I’ve felt a part of Rosalind’s Lingerie since I was a little girl, when my mother started working there part-time in 1988. (?) At 12, I helped wrap Christmas gifts in the shop, and loved the atmosphere, the ribbons and lace, the happy women. In 2002, mom “bought her job” as she used to say, when she became the new owner of Rosalind’s because she loved the business and the customers.
I had always wanted to work in fashion, and in 2004, when mom asked me to help her out at the store, I didn’t hesitate. As a mother-daughter team, mom and I could relate to women on many levels. Together we went on buying trips, decorated the store and introduced mastectomy bras and prosthesis for breast cancer survivors.
Our goal was to provide a beautiful and comfortable environment, where women can have an ‘uplifting’ shopping experience, and leave feeling better about themselves than when they arrived.
Many of our customers felt that mom was not just their bra specialist, but their friend as well. Some of our clientele have been shopping at Rosalind’s for decades, and many I can call by name. We even buy with specific customers in mind.
In October 2012 mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and lost the battle in March 2013.
We had planned to move the boutique to a beautiful new location and though she did not have the opportunity to work in the new store, she did see it completed. We had discussed how I was possibly going to be able to continue without her – but I couldn’t see myself doing anything else and my mom wanted her legacy to continue. So I am now the new owner of Rosalind’s.
I had the great fortune to learn the business from my mom and to learn more about myself and about women, beauty, grace and love. With the strength of her spirit beside me every day and the fabulous customers we have, I’m happy to say there is no place I’d rather be than leading Rosalind’s for another generation. My children, particularly my girls, will grow up with Rosalind’s too, and maybe one day continue on in their grandmother’s business, with the same pride and joy.
Since 1979 Rosalind’s & You… A perfect fit
You have done a wonderful job, Tara. Your mum would be so proud of you. The store looks wonderful, and as usual the customer service is excellent. Well done to you and all the staff.
Hi Susan, Thank you. I have learned from the best and will always strive to keep a good customer relationship.
Hi Tara:
Your words above are a tribute to your mom in every way. I know that she is smiling down & is so very proud of you! She will be with you always!
As you know, Michelle & I we had the pleasure of working with you both & she is sorely missed.
Looking forward to seeing you soon & watching you continue your mom’s legacy.
Linda Hamer & Michelle Gottlieb
showroom
Knock out Panties
Thank you Linda for your kind words. It has been difficult, but I looking forward to the future and continuing with our hopes and dreams.
I was at Rosalind’s just the other day and had no idea that Tara and her beautiful “new” store would be featured in Lingerie Briefs. Congratulations to you, Tara!! You have certainly learned a lot from one of the nicest, most beautiful and knowledgeable women in this industry. I know that she is certainly watching over you, and she is definitely beaming with pride! I am privileged to have worked with both your Mom and you, so it has been wonderful seeing you blossom. Your strength, courage and beauty has been inspirational in so many ways to so many people . Here’s to many more years of success for you with Rosalind’s!
Thank you so much Stephanie, I have met such great women in this industry. Thank you for sharing and listening.
Tara
I loved your story, Tara, and am sorry for your loss. Reading the history of Rosalind’s brought a warm feeling of what owner’s of small business feel for their customers and commitment to them, their community, and in your case, a family tie. My daughter and I also share responsibility operating a lingerie and feminine oriented boutique, Boudoir Bed and Bath, in Anacortes, WA. My hope is some day she will feel just as you do in following the same path. I was moved by the fact your mother was able to see the new store you were creating…that’s a happy ending. Our best to you….
Thank you so much for your kind words. Jane – my strength comes from all the wonderful women I meet everyday (inclduing the time I have spent working with you). Zee – this is a great and empowering industry to be in and I love it. I too hope that your daughter will follow, but know that what she learns will lead her on the right path for her.
It is a beautiful store and what a wonderful mother/daughter team to go with it – you are doing a perfect legacy of your Mom, Tara, and you also have your own strength as well! What a great article on you and the store!
Thank you Jane. I can feel mom with me and smiling as I continue with our dreams and work towards my future goals.