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 hear from Kristan and Diane Cloney of Spree in St. Stephen.

JOB INSECURITY AND RECOGNIZING A NEED FOR BOUTIQUE SHOPPING IN OUR AREA WOULD BE THE SHORT ANSWER AS TO HOW WE WENT INTO BUSINESS.
The long answer involves a hypothetical conversation and lofty dreaming over an after-school tea session. Brainstorming led to market research, that led to commercial building shopping. Our “wouldn’t it be fun if” the conversation turned into reality and within six months Spree’s doors were opened.

We wanted to bring a uniquely curated boutique to our small town. We wanted to offer our community a shopping experience they would have never had before. As a mother and daughter team, we went into business incorporating all our favourite things from fashion to DIY.

We wanted to inspire and encourage people to try new things, highlight local artisans and offer big-city style paired with our small-town vibes. This remains our mission after five years in business.

Supporting local is the fuel that keeps our community’s fire burning. Supporting local stimulates the economy, inspires creativity, encourages growth, and motivates us entrepreneurs. It’s a win-win situation for both the business and the consumer.