Staff Reporter
Sandra T. Osman, the dedicated director of Cuero Main Street, embodies the spirit of a 'Proud Mama,' welcoming travelers along US highways 183 and 87 to explore local shops and eateries.
Cuero, like many small towns, has its unique set of challenges for small business owners, grappling with a limited customer base, making it crucial to attract customers from outside the immediate area. They also compete against the allure of online shopping and the expansive options available in larger cities like Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio.
'From a marketing perspective, we love our locals. We are here to market outside, to encourage people to come and shop with us, and to spend sales dollars here in our town. We hope they might even consider opening a new business,' Osman enthused.
Tourism is the answer to attract, grow, and maintain businesses. Osman emphasizes the importance of marketing Cuero's rich history and heritage to draw visitors and support local businesses. Key attractions include the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum, the Cuero Heritage Museum, the Pharmacy and Medical Museum, as well as the beautiful wildfl owers.
Osman brings a deep sense of history and her expertise as a professional land-use consultant to revitalize Cuero, including the restoration of several historic buildings. As a land-use consultant, she provides expert advice and guidance, helping clients understand and comply with zoning laws, landuse policies, and environmental regulations.
'There are no shortcuts to this,' she emphasized.
Osman emphasized the importance of establishing trust and rapport within the community to effectively support local businesses. She collaborates with the Chamber of Commerce and the Cuero Development Corporation to provide mentorship and marketing assistance.
Sloane’s Barber Shop on Esplanade is an example of Osman’s nurturing. Sloane Smith, the owner, has been in business for five years. During the initial setup, both Cuero Main Street and the Chamber of Commerce were very supportive. Once businesses are established, Osman makes a point to check on them during her walks and posts updates on social media.
“If I miss an email, she'll stop by and keep me in the loop,” Smith said.
“Over the past five years, I’ve seen a significant change in downtown. It’s growing. A new business is coming in, although a few have left,” Smith added.
Events like Hometown Harvest and Christmas in Downtown Cuero aim to draw visitors, but there are struggles on the West End of Main Street. Mary Ashby of Classy B’s Boutique expressed frustration over the lack of support and events to boost holiday sales. Ashby reflected on the West End Christmas event in 2023, noting how crucial holiday sales are to a business’s survival.
“We had a band down here, games, and everyone participated. We really enjoyed it, and lots of people showed up. They noticed us and Marsha’s (West End Boutique). Everything was going well. But then this past Christmas, they decided not to hold any events for us. They said they would do something next Christmas, but by then it will be too late. Does that seem like support to you?” Ashby asked.
Recognizing these challenges, the Cuero Development Corporation is organizing events like the “Cuero Comprehensive Development Plan” and “Good Things Summer Series” to gather community input and support small businesses. The first workshop, “Good Things Summer Series,” focuses on helping Cuero’s small businesses build brand marketing, strategies, and business problem-solving. The first workshop is on May 21st.
