Meet Your Neighbor: Urban Cowgirl

Join us as we chat with Suzanne Dayton, owner of Urban Cowgirl, to learn more about her story! At her boutique, the West meets contemporary flair, providing a space where customers can cultivate their own distinctive style. 

Meet Suzanne Dayton | Urban Cowgirl 

What was the inspiration behind Urban Cowgirl?

I was inspired by three things: (1) community, (2) the art of hat shaping, and (3) my love of country music.

Community—This community and Western culture are based so heavily on supporting one another while having fun. I felt like this amazing community was missing some Western/country flare. We are meant to do this life together, supporting one another and leaning on each other. That is the cornerstone of Western culture, too, and I felt like it was the perfect fit. It has definitely proven to be that.

Hat shaping—I fell in love with the art of hat shaping. Learning about someone, what they want, love, are celebrating, want to remember forever, or are trying to forget, and then creating a hat that will last a lifetime with them and for them is the most amazing experience. We love spending so much time with people during our hat experiences so that they feel seen and heard and their hat uniquely reflects them.

Country music - I mean!!! It just brings us all so much joy, and I felt like this area needed some country western flare for all of us trying to express ourselves, but with a modern/ urban twist.

What are some customer favorites or signature pieces in your store that define the Urban Cowgirl brand?

Customer favorites are all things sparkle, glitter, bling, and shine! They love the rhinestone fringe and studded boots, jackets, and jeans. These have become a staple for us! Fringe and custom hats have also become signatures for Urban Cowgirl.

Urban Cowgirl hosts various engaging events, such as summer camps, line dancing, and custom hat shaping and making. Can you share more about these events and what makes them so special? How do they contribute to the overall experience for your customers and the community?

Yes! We LOVE events because they bring us all together, and that is exactly what our goal is—to bring this community together one hat at a time. Honestly, what makes them so special are the people who come out and try something new or teach us something new at each event. It is always so fun! People are just so amazing, and we love offering opportunities for creativity so customers can express themselves. 

What do you love about operating in Aurora?

I might sound like I am on repeat, but this community/the people! I love the diversity and culture that Aurora offers and attracts. It is like no other. We get to meet the most amazing people. One of the things we really strive for, from the start, is diversity in our offerings and who feels like they can express themselves in our western wear, boots, and hats. There is so much history and diversity in cowboy/cowgirl culture that people are finally starting to understand and embrace. Aurora is the PERFECT spot for that.

What are you most proud of achieving with Urban Cowgirl as a woman-owned business, and what moments or milestones have been significant to you?

Ah! Great question. As a woman-owned business, I'm incredibly proud to create a space where everyone feels welcome and can find something that resonates with their unique style. Hearing customers of all ages, cultures, and walks of life say, "I love this store! It's cute, fun, and unique!" is deeply rewarding. Every moment where we've been able to connect with our community and empower self-expression through our products and events has been a significant milestone.