Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in arts and crafts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Marie-Josee Lemieux, owner of Boutique Identi-T, located in Montréal, QC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own and operate an arts and crafts gift shop located in Rosemont Petite-Patrie, in the city of Montreal. All products sold are hand-made by Québec artisans and, therefore, not mass-produced by industries. We sell toys, garments, books, pottery, aprons, kitchen accessories, soaps, earrings, bags, greeting cards, illustrations, items for children, and a lot more. I cherish all the products that I have in my boutique. In my eyes, my boutique is a work of art. My customers are mostly local residents and tourists.
Tell us about yourself
I grew up surrounded and inspired by my two older sisters, both of whom are true artists. As a result, I gained artistic knowledge and instincts that enable me to choose, with confidence and pleasure, arts and crafts products that move me. I worked all my life in customer service, so receiving people at the boutique is a joy. It's like inviting my best friends to an art gallery where we can all enjoy the view. We have many great artists in Québec, and I believe that I offer an inviting space to show their talent and creativity. The measure of success is that these wonderful products made in the province of Québec are sold in the province of Québec.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I have operated my boutique for nine years. That, to me, is a major accomplishment. The last two years, in particular, have been a great challenge due to the pandemic. The uncertainty of keeping my boutique going was quite stressful. Despite this, I continue to operate, and the future looks bright.
Another accomplishment is having the chance to receive customers at my boutique and see the smile in their eyes. Lots of customers come in to thank me for being in their neighborhood. They tell me I have a great selection of products that they don't find in other stores. There is such a sense of true solidarity in the community. Because of their word-of-mouth recommendations, our clientele is growing!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Budgeting is critical when you have a business. You must have a business plan; otherwise, you will not be able to survive, especially if you have a limited budget.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Find a good location to establish your business. There is nothing better than a physical space to welcome a client. Giving your clients the opportunity to interface with a human being has a big impact, especially in today's technological times.
- Surround yourself with specialists who can help your business grow.
- Believe in your dreams.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I think you should take the chance to create your own destiny and your dream job. My personal slogan is "Marchand de Bonheur," which means "Merchant of happiness." That is who I want to be.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.boutiqueidenti-t.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/identi.T.boutique
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/identi_t_boutique/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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