Tonight’s Meet a Mom, Romona Norton is a passionate entrepreneur and philanthropist. She combined the two when she launched Cari Capri, which combines the best of the Caribbean and Mediterranean lifestyles to create stylish, comfortable, and practical resort clothing that is eco-friendly, sustainable, and ethical.
In addition to the ecology issues behind Cari Capri, Romona is passionate about helping children and women worldwide.
Romona shares about her nonprofit, Volunteer for Children, how she balances entrepreneurship and motherhood, as well as some of her favorite gift ideas for Mother’s Day!
Can you please tell us a bit about yourself personally? Names/ages of kids, etc.?
I grew up in a multicultural mix of people and customs in Georgetown, Guyana and moved to the United States in 2001. I then met my husband Jeff and we are parents to two amazing girls, Kala (14) and Lila (12).
For those of us who aren’t familiar, how would you describe your company Cari Capri?
Cari Capri combines the best of the Caribbean and Mediterranean lifestyles to create stylish, comfortable, and practical resort clothing that is eco-friendly, sustainable, and ethical. Our products are designed and manufactured in the USA using only recycled and earth-friendly fabrics.
What are some of your favorite items in the Cari Capri collections you have created?
I’m so proud of our Spring/Summer 23′ collection. It’s my favorite so far because the fabric we feature is lightweight and machine washable – beautiful and low maintenance! The Bahamas Kaftan is our most-sold dress this season because the silhouette is feminine and sexy. Some new looks and materials are coming that I’m excited about.
Tell us more about your involvement with philanthropy both locally and abroad?
I get involved in causes that I care about deeply. In addition to the ecology issues behind Cari Capri, I am passionate about helping children and women worldwide. I founded a nonprofit, Volunteers for Children, that has provided much-needed educational, recreational, and medical supplies. I have helped build schools and orphanages in Latin and South America. Children, women, and the planet are my main focus.
What do you find the most challenging and most rewarding parts of being an entrepreneur?
At Cari Capri, I’m driven to fulfill all the promises that we make to our customers as a sustainable company. The most challenging piece is vetting the sources and supply lines for my fashions. Many people throw around words like ethical and sustainable, and you have to dig deep to see what is true. What I find most rewarding is getting to the finished product and having our customers love the design, prints, and fabrics. Each creation is personal to me, and it always makes me feel good when others agree it’s something they want to wear.
How do you find a balance with motherhood and entrepreneurship? Any tips for the rest of the Moms out there?
It’s hard to give advice because what works for one family doesn’t always work for others. Personally, I spend time listening to my girls, being in the moment with them, understanding their hopes and concerns and then go from there. Being accessible and aware is important, and the rest follows.
Best advice you would give to your daughters?
Don’t settle. If you have a passion, follow it.
Favorite suggestions for Mother’s Day gifting?
So many options! Some of my favorites are:
I adore gifts created by my kids.
I love plants rather than flowers.
Spa days are always a blast.
I’m a huge fan of anything raffia.
And you can never go wrong with jewelry!
We love to support local businesses. What are your fave places when you are in Greenwich to:
Grab coffee – CFCF
Go on a date night – L’Escale
Go out for a girls night – Miku or East End
Go out to dinner as a family – Terra
Get your hair done – Maison D’ Alexandre
Get your nails done – Cozy
Have fun as a family – Movies
