Meet Maria Kosmidou, the fashion entrepreneur who moved from Greece to the US

Meet Maria Kosmidou, founder of Maria Kosmidou LLC, an online fashion and interior design showroom in the United States. Maria moved to the US from Greece a few years ago, and chose to establish her business here, while simultaneously holding the role of Head of Sales North America for Gepaworld group. 

Before we begin, Maria, tell us a bit more about yourself.

My name is Maria Kosmidou, and my path through the realms of fashion and interior design has been a profoundly enriching experience. Since 2000, I've immersed myself in these passions, finding profound fulfillment in the creative expressions they allow. However, beyond the professional sphere, my life is illuminated by the enduring love I share with my son, husband, and cherished circle of family and friends. Their steadfast support sustains me through every triumph and challenge, infusing my work with purpose and significance. To me, life represents a tapestry woven with threads of respect, aesthetics, and an unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth.

You moved to the US a few years ago. What has your journey been like until now?

My journey to the US was a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by moments of exhilarating triumph and crushing uncertainty. There were times when I felt like I could conquer the world, and times that I am gripped by the fear of failure. Yet, through it all, I've been buoyed by the unwavering support of the people who believed in my vision – people who saw potential in me even when I struggled to see it in myself. They were there to remind me that resilience isn't just about getting back up; it's about finding strength in vulnerability and courage in adversity.

Tell us more about your business. What do you do and why?

Maria Kosmidou LLC isn't just a business; it's a labor of love born from the depths of my soul in 2019. It's a sanctuary where creativity knows no bounds and dreams are nurtured into reality. We are team of people who dare to defy convention and push the boundaries of possibility. Our mission isn't just about selling products; it's about weaving narratives, sparking inspiration, and leaving an indelible mark on the world. In the realm of fashion and interior design, I encourage embracing sustainable practices and ethical sourcing.

Let's not just create beautiful spaces and products, but let's do so in a way that honors our planet and uplifts communities. Collaboration is key – let's build bridges, not walls, and work together to foster a more inclusive and compassionate world. And above all, let's never lose sight of the human element in everything we do – for in the end, it's our connections, our relationships, that truly define us.My talented Greek designers are (in order as they appear on my site): Natural Greek Fabrics, Ilias Christopoulos, Evi Migiaki Kirkis Loom, Maria Bartzoka, Pepper Vally, The Motley Goat, When and Where, Aelia Selection, Jege jewelry, Katerina Marmagioli, Next Door Goddess, Spende le Stelle, Ukka Lelle, Vanille 0n the Rock, Apoxylo, Fetolia, Hermione, Kaia, MY by Maria Yeroula, Stathis Samantas, and last but not least Gepaworld, whose work embodies the essence of Greek culture and innovation, inspiring me to new heights of creativity.

What are the things that drive you the most as a woman entrepreneur?

As a woman entrepreneur, my driving force is rooted in the desire to create a legacy of empowerment and inspiration. It's about shattering glass ceilings, amplifying voices, and forging pathways for others to follow. Every success, every triumph, is not just mine to savor but a victory for every woman who has dared to dream beyond the confines of convention. It's about harnessing the power of profit to fuel change, to uplift communities, and to leave the world a little brighter than we found it.

What has been your biggest challenge? Biggest learning?

The biggest challenge I've faced is the struggle to reconcile the highs of success with the lows of self-doubt. It's a constant battle against the voices of fear and uncertainty that threaten to derail our dreams. But through it all, I've learned that the greatest growth often arises from the deepest struggles. Every setback, every stumble, is not a mark of failure but a stepping stone on the path to greatness. And in the end, it's not the destination that defines us but the journey we undertake to reach it.

How would you describe Greece right now?

Greece – my beloved homeland – is a tapestry of contrasts, a symphony of light and shadow. It's a land steeped in history and tradition yet grappling with the winds of change. As Greeks, we carry within us the echoes of our past and the dreams of our future. Yet amidst the turmoil and uncertainty, there remains a flicker of hope – a hope that we can rise above our challenges, reclaim our identity, and forge a brighter tomorrow. For Greece is not just a place on the map; it's a state of mind, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It is the light of the world.

Your favorite Greek food and your favorite place in Greece?

My favorite Greek indulgence is not just a meal but a symphony of flavors – fresh grilled fish savored under the canopy of azure skies, the salty tang of the sea mingling with the aroma of charred wood. It's a taste of home, a reminder of lazy summer days spent in the embrace of loved ones.

And my favorite place in Greece? It's not a destination but a feeling – the feeling of warm sand beneath my feet, the gentle caress of the ocean breeze, and the promise of endless possibilities on the horizon. It's a place where time stands still, where worries melt away, and where the beauty of the world is laid bare before us. It's a place called home.