(Andréanne King of Stittsville is the founder of the Ottawa Artisans virtual on-line store for local artists and crafters.)
It has been an incredible year for Andréanne King since she first brought us her story last January on the start-up of Ottawa Artisans. The on-line store for local artisans has blossomed from the 40 initial vendors to over 450 with over 10,000 products. Of these, there are now closer to 30 Stittsville vendors on the website.
It all started with the making of face masks and a Facebook post asking if there was interest for a virtual spot to sell local artisan products. From that, it evolved with new vendors wanting to join the sales platform every day. The website allows local artisans to promote and sell their products at no cost to them. They each have their own store space from which purchases can be made. Every item on the website is locally made all within the Ottawa area.
Andréanne told us that, “in the beginning with COVID being questionable, it was a move she was willing to make happen”. “It was a way for me to be at home and virtually sell craft items and that has grown into much more“. With everyone being home, it provided an opportunity for people to shop at their leisure – there is something for everyone from babies to adults.
The time building the website was done during Andréanne’s evenings – she is a young mother of small children and works three days a week as a language teacher. Her husband is a member of the Armed Forces and can be away from home for long stretches. Working virtually has allowed Andréanne to continue running her home and business during his absences. This opportunity to share local talent was the perfect niche.
Then came the pop-up market during the Christmas season and the opportunity to open a shop in the St. Laurent mall which was a huge success. Kathy Leedom, Andréanne’s business partner manages the store each day. Because of the success over the holiday season, Kathy suggested that the store remain open and is always busy with customers.
Many virtual events have taken place over the past year and this weekend, the partners are holding their ‘Here Comes the Sun Virtual Market’ from March 15 until March 21. Over 200 vendors are participating in the market. Items purchased can be picked up for free at the St. Laurent shop, the Aux Delices Bakery in the Byward Market, or can be shipped and delivered for free with purchases over $150.00. Visit the website and start shopping – there are gifts for friends and family or treat yourself to a little something.
Andréanne emphasized that, “I feel so much support coming from Stittsville!” For this weekend’s “Here Comes the Sun’ market, Stittsville customers will receive delivery or shipping free by using the code STITTSVEGAS when they check-out.
There are plans already in the works for a summer sale to be held in the parking lot at St. Laurent mall. In attendance will be over 50 vendors who you can meet in person and ask questions. Andréanne says, “it will be their chance to shine!”