This is part of a year-long ‘Love for Local’ series called NB365: portraits of New Brunswick entrepreneurs, businesses, and organizations. Huddle is a media partner with Love for Local. Today we feature Jonathan and Allie Martineau of Les Gourmandes Cheese Delicatessen And Chocolates, in Moncton.

I WAS RAISED IN THE FAMILY BUSINESS. WE HAD A FARM WITH SHEEP THAT WE MILKED TO MAKE CHEESE THAT WE WOULD THEN SELL AT OUR CHEESE SHOP.

My parents also ran a B&B out of our house, where my first entrepreneurial experience as a kid was renting bicycles to the guests.

I think my interest in business just comes from being raised by entrepreneurs.

For me, it’s all about the community and connections and friendships that come along with creating a community of support around all things local. Having a bunch of thriving locally owned and operated businesses is what makes the city colourful and vibrant.

It is so satisfying when a chef comes into my business to buy a cheese that I can provide, then for me to go eat at his restaurant where he has made something with it. It’s like that full-circle effect where we are all helping each other. Local is pride.