Ten years ago, I took a little bit of my savings and bought a domain and a box full of dresses. I taught myself how to build a website, and me, my mom, and grandmother spent an afternoon steaming clothes. I told family and friends that I had some things for sale, and thankfully, they were loved! I still remember every dress in that first box and can’t part with the very first one I owned.

Soon you wanted to try them on, so I rented a small room on the second floor of 299 Commercial St. I was the only occupant in the building and opened only on Saturdays for a few hours when I wasn’t working my full-time job. My dad made two racks, my mom sewed some purses, and my counter was my grandmother’s buffet (but some things never change… our cash register is still my great-grandmother’s antique suitcase). The world of small business was entirely new, but I was hooked. I researched brands, made contacts, hired staff, and slowly, LQ began to grow.

A look back over the years brings back so many memories… sip and shops, customer and maker profiles, many workshops, our 12 Days of Christmas giveaways, being named one of the best places to shop online in Canada by Buzzfeed, sending our first order across the world, being recognized by the Chamber as Young Entrepreneur of the Year, establishing the La Quaintrelle Women in Business Scholarship at Memorial High School, working with community partners on special events, our Wishing Well Campaign, many
fundraisers, and so much more.

The best part of it all has been you. We’ve met so many fabulous people along the way – neighbours, reps, fellow entrepreneurs and business owners, and of course, our customers, vendors, staff, and friends. I have so much appreciation for everyone that has walked through the doors, made an online purchase, worked in the shop, or offered their time, energy or expertise to the business. You are all a part of the success and growth of La Quaintrelle. Thank you for being part of our community and helping us to learn and grow. It’s been an absolute joy and dream to build this little shop with you.

To thank you, we’re having a birthday celebration this
Saturday, December 4, both in-store and online. Watch for details.

We can’t wait to see what’s next! 😊