What Is CouCou Sentiment?

You may have driven by or walked past a mysterious and quaint shop located on Detroit at the West End of Lakewood called CouCou Sentiment and wondered, “what the heck is a CouCou?!” 

The word coucou, pronounced koo koo, is informal French for “hello” or “hey, there.”

You didn’t learn that from your French teacher in high school? No worries. Neither did shop owner and Lakewoodite, Danielle Zann, until some late-night musing on the internet. “My mother and I both studied French in high school but had no clue, but once I learned about it, it stuck, and this idea began to blossom around it.”

Danielle grew up in the Akron-Stow area and studied hospitality management at Kent State University where she hoped, one day, to own and operate her own business. Fast forward 20 years, with many corporate accomplishments but few personal sentimental memories (besides marrying her best friend and biggest supporter, Adam Zann 🖤), Danielle had a new goal in sight: to be an entrepreneur. “…Opening a retail gift shop showcasing my truly eclectic style and allowing customers to find what they need on the go.”

“Having worked in many leadership roles where I was the first one in and last one out, I know that personal time is precious - and often missed. This makes it difficult to shop for a meaningful gift, let alone make an appearance at a party or get together.” This inspired Danielle to open CouCou Sentiment, a one-stop gift and party supply shop that also offers some amazing services, including gift wrap and balloons.

The ever-revolving goods at this shop are colorful, fun and sassy… with a bit of traditional. “My aesthetic has always been a blend, which I believe allows me to meet the needs of a wide range of shoppers. I want everyone to find their CouCou.”

Danielle is a minority small business owner committed to giving an outlet to lesser known crafters and artists.  From the rainbow “love is welcome” door mat as you enter, to the wide range of pride goods, CouCou Sentiment’s commitment to inclusiveness is forward-facing.

The past few years have been an unpredictable roller coaster for us all, and it’s become more important than ever to show those around us, and afar, that we care. It could be a small gesture such as an ornate bag or a hilarious card that can resonate with the ones you care about. Maybe you need a punch of color for the party settings, or maybe you just found something that is perfect for you. Everyone has a perfect CouCou!

Let’s continue to celebrate one another’s milestones. CouCou Sentiment’s curated offerings are available in store at 17409 Detroit Ave in Lakewood and can also be found online at www.coucousentiment.com.

Find your way to say hello!

Danielle Zann

My husband and I are Lakewood residents who recently opened a retail shop in town.

Read More on Business News
Volume 17, Issue 14, Posted 2:16 PM, 07.21.2021