For more than a decade BLUKiDS has become a familiar destination for Bermuda families seeking stylish, affordable children’s clothing paired with genuine customer care. Behind the brand is entrepreneur Francesca Cacace Lawrence, whose roots in retail stretch back generations.
“My family has been in retail since 1987 in Bermuda,” Cacace Lawrence explains. “BLUKiDS is not our first children’s store. We had Stefanel Kids in the 80s and 90s and later IANA in 2002, so it really was a natural course of events.” From the beginning, Cacace Lawrence envisioned a store that balanced fashion, quality and accessibility for Bermuda families. She chose the Italian children’s brand because of “its emphasis on bio cotton, production and price point.” Today, BLUKiDS caters to newborns through older children, offering trendy yet practical clothing designed with comfort and durability in mind. The brand’s headquarters are located just outside Venice, Italy, and its connection to the familiar STEFANEL and IANA names adds another layer of family history to the business.
While fashion is central to the business, Cacace Lawrence says BLUKiDS is ultimately about relationships. “At BLUKiDS it’s not just about shopping, it’s the experience. Our customers are like extended family,” she says.
That welcoming atmosphere is reinforced by a true family operation. Cacace Lawrence’s mother now manages the store, bringing decades of retail expertise and customer service to the business.
Beyond everyday children’s wear, the BLUKiDS location has expanded its offerings to include prom attire, bespoke wedding looks and customized clothing for special occasions, creating a niche that distinguishes it within Bermuda’s retail landscape. The store is also gradually introducing toys and has become especially well known for its customized Easter baskets and Christmas boxes, which have developed a loyal following among Bermuda families.
In an era when online shopping has transformed local retail, Cacace Lawrence believes personalized service is what keeps customers returning. “Our emphasis is on quality and personalized care and service. Our customer matters,” she says. She also understands the importance of adapting in a constantly changing market. “Retail in general is a constant game changer. It’s always changing, forever evolving,” she explains. “Being on top of trends and going the extra mile is what keeps our customer happy.”
Sometimes, that “extra mile” comes down to thoughtful details. “Have you ever seen how my mom wraps gifts?” Cacace Lawrence asks with a laugh. “This is all complimentary too. That’s the extra mile and it’s important.” That commitment to service was recently recognized when BLUKiDS received the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation’s “Client of the Year” award.
At the heart of every decision, however, are the children themselves. “Every decision made and selection chosen is with them in mind,” she says. That philosophy extends well beyond the sales floor. Some of Cacace Lawrence’s proudest moments as a business owner have come through BLUKiDS’ charitable collaborations with organizations supporting Bermuda’s youth. “When we receive the feedback from Big Brothers Big Sisters or the Coalition for the Protection of Children, the voice notes from parents, the videos of happy faces, this is what makes it all worth it,” she says.
As both a business owner and mother of two young boys, Cacace Lawrence says family remains her greatest inspiration. “We are creating a legacy and looking to make a difference,” she says.
Looking ahead, BLUKiDS shows no signs of slowing down. The company is exploring new offerings and, to the delight of longtime customers, plans are underway to reintroduce the STEFANEL brand to Bermuda. “Yes to all those of you who have pleaded to have it back… it’s coming!” Cacace Lawrence says enthusiastically.
After more than ten years in business, gratitude remains central to her message. “Thank you Bermuda for your support,” she says. “It has been a great ten plus BLUKiDS years.”
Tel: 441-478-2312| Email: blukidsbermuda@gmail.com| Web:blukidsbermuda.com
Address: 46 Reid Street, Innovation House, Ground Floor
Services: Children’s wear & Baby gear, custom suits and formal wear.
