Three Minutes Across the Counter with Jo Ann Cuchel

“Three Minutes Across the Counter” is a feature on Patch in which we chat with local business owners. If you would like to be featured, email heather.doyle@patch.com with the name of your business.

Jo Ann Cuchel is the owner of Bald Eagle American Boutique in Malverne. After working in cosmetic and fragrance retail management, she opened her own store in Malverne just one town away from her hometown of Lynbrook.

Patch: How did you get your first start in business?

Jo Ann Cuchel: Started out in cosmetic and fragrance retail management at A&S Hempstead, NY. Married into the original Lynbrook Florist family in 1985 and for 15 years helped run the business.

I went back to retail management in the late 90’s, working for Bloomingdale’s, Garden City, NY. Then as an Account Executive with P&G, Cartier & most recently Bulgari.

Patch: How did your parents influence you as a business owner?

Jo Ann Cuchel: They both had the most incredible work ethic.

My Mom was a working mother, juggled 3 children and a household, when most women were fortunate to be stay at home Moms.

My Dad worked 2-3 jobs when he had to and never complained.

They made sure we had everything we needed growing up J

Patch: How long have you lived here?

Jo Ann Cuchel: Let’s just say 50 something years! I grew up in Lynbrook and still reside there.

Patch: What’s your favorite thing about living here?

Jo Ann Cuchel: I’ve always loved the ease of travel to NYC and the Atlantic Ocean!

Patch: What’s a business mistake you’ve made that later you were glad you did?

Jo Ann Cuchel: I spoke my mind at a corporate meeting. As they say,” it’s all in the delivery”, thank God I was right.

Patch: Tell us something about yourself that most of your neighbors don’t know.

Jo Ann Cuchel: I love to cook. My family history didn’t leave me much choice, my Mom worked, so I started dinner every night.

Patch: What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received?

Jo Ann Cuchel: Go for it!

I’ve had the made in America business concept on my mind for some time, it’s the right time and I found the right place, in the Village of Malverne.

There’s been a lot of online chatter about the difficulty in finding American made merchandise, Bald Eagle American Boutique has found it for you.

I’ve vetted all of my vendors and will admit it isn’t easy finding 100% made in America, but I’ve brought in an eclectic group of diverse merchandise and have more on the way.

Patch: What advice would you give to a small business owner just starting out?

Jo Ann Cuchel: Do your homework through networking with business owners, social media and most of all your vendors, they are a great source for what’s working and what’s not.

Don’t be afraid to make a mistake, we prove we’re human every day, just make sure it’s a lesson learned.

Patch: What do you look for when you hire?

Jo Ann Cuchel: A willingness to learn and contribute to the team effort and, of course, a positive attitude.