Emily Grimaud, owner of Kċejna, a boutique coffee shop and catering business in Attard, has shared an honest message with her customers about the sacrifices that come with running a small business.

In an Instagram story posted on Thursday (today), Ms Grimaud explained why the shop would be closed that day, citing personal and professional pressures brought on by limited staffing.

“Due to staff shortage, sometimes I need to make this tough decision because there are moments that I don’t want to miss, like today being my kid's last day ever of the primary school era,” she wrote.

“It’s a reminder that small businesses like mine are run off mounds of sacrifice, lost moments, lost friendships and although in the beginning it is a choice, it quickly becomes a responsibility!” she continued.

Kċejna, located on Triq il-Pitkali, has built a loyal customer base in the local community.

In her message, Ms Grimaud acknowledged the emotional toll of juggling entrepreneurship and family life. “It’s something I need to do to have a somewhat semi-balanced life because my near and dear deserve it,” she said.

While adding that she knows she doesn’t “owe an explanation,” Ms Grimaud reaffirmed her commitment to honesty with her customers: “My small community here have been with me from the very start and I’ve always promised to keep it real with you so here it is.”

She concluded by confirming that Kċejna would be open as usual on Friday and Saturday.