Merchants Deliver Happiness in Occoquan

During a time when businesses have difficulty distinguishing themselves from one another and maintaining a customer base, it's rare to have large companies like Zappos that focus on putting customer satisfaction and happiness first.

As an example, Zappos customers might receive a personalized “Thank You” card in the mail.  Zappos CEO Tony Hsiesh says all this is about “Delivering Happiness” as he titled his last book. 

It is even less likely to find an entire area filled with businesses that exhibit this same culture where the customer is the most important person.  However, customers in Occoquan will find that this culture permeates through the town’s shops and businesses. 

Consisting of more than 100 different shops, businesses and restaurants, the Occoquan business scene does not seem any different than any other place, but what truly distinguishes this area is that if a customer was to walk into each shop throughout town, they shouldn't feel surprised that they are remembered by name.

The owners of the Polka Dot Divas described the town as a “protective little bubble” where everyone knows everyone.  Reminiscent of other small communities, Occoquan maintains this culture even with the large number of shops. 

 Jo Ann Barney of Tastefully Yours said that it’s not surprising when customers come into her shop and share recipes just like “neighbors.”  Because Barney’s shop features so many different gourmet seasonings and food, customers can easily strike up a conversation about the latest meals they created. As Barney says she, “takes time out for visitors and have conversations to get to know them.”

The Divas see their customers more as girlfriends. Their customers bring them Diet Coke, and when people come into the shop they leave with a “laugh and a smile" even if they don't buy anything.

While many companies focus on profits, that’s not the case in Occoquan because the owners can quickly “lose sight of customer service,” according to the Polka Dot Divas.