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 Lynn Piercey of Where the Wildflowers Grow Gallery in Perth-Andover.

I’VE ALWAYS BEEN PASSIONATE ABOUT THE FIBRE ARTS, AND WHEN WE MOVED TO PERTH-ANDOVER, I REALIZED THAT I WOULD HAVE TO CREATE THE FIBRE ARTS SHOP/STUDIO THAT I WAS LOOKING FOR.

I operated a home-based yarn shop in Fort McMurray for several years until my partner’s retirement and our subsequent move in 2015. My shop is focused on natural materials: wool, hemp, cotton, linen, etc. I am constantly seeking to reduce plastic and provide eco-friendly and ethically produced products.

Without local support, I feel that many small businesses would not have survived the past year, mine included. I do have an e-commerce site for my shop, but the local support is what keeps me in business. It’s a mutual appreciation.

I am always learning new ways of creating, and seeking to improve my skills so that I can pass this along to my students and customers. I am currently taking online courses for weaving and advanced knitting techniques and planning new class offerings for the fall and winter seasons. By regularly introducing new yarns, gift items, tools and notions, in addition to providing the best service possible, we encourage repeat sales and delighted customers.

Supporting local businesses has a real impact because they give back to the community by supporting it as well with donations, employment, mentorships, and collaborative partnerships.