Ottewell Community Artisan Farmers’ Market - Elaine Doucette

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Elaine Doucette, of Ottewell Community Artisan Farmers’ Market, located in Edmonton, AB, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I am a volunteer for a non-profit-sponsored farmers' market. The sponsor of the Ottewell community hall. We serve the local neighbourhood of South East Edmonton. Our customers value local food and quality artisan products. We have over 20 small businesses that sell at the market every Thursday 4-7 pm.

Tell us about yourself

I am a small business owner, and I sell fermented foods sourced from local farms. I understand how valuable it is to feed my family chemical-free food that is vine-ripened and grown from a family that I can trust because I know their names.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Working for myself and including my kid's homeschooling projects in the business.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Sometimes it's hard to stay motivated when I am the commander and chief, marketing, maker, creative, and accountant. It's a lot of hats.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Make sure you are self-motivated and have a team of like-minded businesses to collaborate with. Relationships are important.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

The farmers' markets in Edmonton have a rich culture with so many start-up businesses and long-term small shops that value local marketing. If we can start thinking and acting locally, we will make a higher difference globally.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: http://www.ottewell.ca/community/ottewell-market/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OttewellCommunityFarmersMarket
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ottewellartisanfarmersmarket/

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.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.