Testimonials
“When I first discovered Makers, I instantly fell in love with the store. I would frequently visit them as a customer, as I love supporting local businesses.
When chatting with one of the workers, I mentioned that I make my own jewelry and they recommended that I put my business on the waitlist to enter a store! I had never considered that before, but it was such a wonderful opportunity that I hopped on it right away.
Soon enough, I was accepted into Gastown, and Metrotown shortly after. It has been nothing short of amazing! My jewelry and brand has reached far more people than it ever could have just selling on Etsy alone. My business has truly grown consistently and considerably ever since becoming one of the Makers. I love the makers community, everyone is so kind and supportive- it feels like I’m visiting friends every time I restock! Getting to know all the talented makers is amazing as well! And don’t get me started on all the great products in store, I cannot help myself anytime I visit.
Although it seemed intimidating at first as a new and little business, joining Makers was SO worth it, and I am so glad that I did!!
-Michaela Schmidt, owner of Mush Creations
@mush.creations
“I am proud to say that I have been part of the Makers community from the very beginning, when it was a Holiday pop-up in Gastown, in 2020.
Fast forward to today and I have space in 5 BC locations. Having a network of fellow small business owners has helped me become more confident in my product and create some amazing connections. Seeing the growth and successes of other Makers has helped me to dream big and take my business to the next level.
It’s opened numerous opportunities for me outside of Makers, from people seeing my product in store. The store staff are so welcoming, and go above and beyond to support in any way they can. They know the store, the product and are happy to share their honest feedback on my product, display and suggestions for new products.
Now that Makers is gaining momentum, and having some amazing people in leading roles, I’m excited to see where it can take not only my business, but my fellow Makers.
-Emma, owner of Emma Hands
@emmahandsdesign
“I can’t say enough great things about Makers, and their staff. I am currently in three locations and looking to grow into more. The staff are fantastic about communicating and helping me keep my shelf stocked. I am so proud to have my work sold here, and it has helped me grow my business considerably. Seriously, I don’t know where you find your staff. Each location is filled with amazing people, that I am so grateful for! I’m not local to any of the locations I sell in, and they really step up to help me keep my shelf stocked and well merchandised. They are always so kind and helpful.”
-Rosie, owner of Joie Designs
@joiedesigns.ca
“Finally a place that truly supports and empowers creators. Makers has been a dream come true for me - it's given me the opportunity to share my art with so many people that I would never have reached, and in a way that is very equitable and fair.
It's a brilliant model and perfect synergy: I get to focus on my craft and art, and Makers deal with the business side, and everything else I'm lousy at! It's an ideal relationship, and the Makers community and staff have made it all so easy and welcoming. Thank you for making this possible!”
-Daniel Hawkins, owner of Dan Dan Doodles
@dan_dan_doodles
"Ever since I learned how to crochet at 10 years old, I have been passionate about creating beautiful products that I could gift to friends. I never thought I could seriously start a business with my handmade goods, until I went to business school at UBC.
After graduating in 2021, I went head first into developing ggümm studio. It had many variations, but always focused on being a brand that was cozy & cute. "ggümm" means "dream" in Korean, and I want my customers to feel like they're living their dream life with our products.
I have had an incredible experience at Makers since I moved in January 2023! The staff have been extremely friendly and helpful for my brand's growth and success. If it wasn't for Makers, I don't think I would have had the platform and success I have today. Thank you so much to the amazing team for all that they do!"
-Julianne Nieh, owner of ggümm studio
@dipsydoodledesignz
“I started my journey with Makers at their Gastown location in 2020. As a new artisan I was looking for ways to establish myself and my brand. Makers provided the perfect opportunity to showcase my products. Their locations attracted the perfect clientele interested in supporting local and unique wares."
-Anna Lee, owner of Milklady Soap Co
@milklady_soap
“When I first took the leap to sell my products at Makers a little over a year ago, I was a single mom living on a very low income. I needed to work from home because I have kids with disabilities, countless medical appointments, and other major limitations, so a typical job just wouldn’t give me the time or flexibility to meet my family’s needs. Working my creative business from home meant that I was spending a lot time and stress managing online orders, shipping, and looking for market openings, and I knew I needed to focus more on retail opportunities. Little did I know that once I got in to Makers, I’d be saving time and making more sales than I could have ever imagined. It’s no exaggeration to say that Makers has changed my life for the better. I’m so thankful for such an accessible step into retail that has made growing my business extremely smooth.
The Makers model (that leaves me with 100% of my sales) has helped me to not just get by, but to thrive in a way that works really well for my family and our unique challenges. I’m so grateful for Makers, and such a supportive community.
-Dot, owner of Busted Buttons
@bustedbutton
“I worked a 9-5 job that didn't give me the fulfillment that I was looking for. My passion has always been design so when I began searching for a different path, it was clear that I needed to do something that I was passoniate about. I enrolled in a design program to learn further and gain knowledge. I've dedicated a lot of time to perfect my skills on my craft. I love creating unique and one of a kind pieces that sets my apart from others. I also attend a lot of workshops to stay current with the trends and the changing market. I really love what I do and when I receive positive feedback from customers and peers, it makes my craft that much more enjoyable.
I really enjoy being one of the vendors at Makers as the staff has made it a very pleasant experience. They are very kind and helpful with any issues/questions. When I visit the store, they welcome me with a smile and are very friendly and thoughtful.
-Raj Bains, owner of Didi's Flowers
@didisflowers
“I have been a maker for as long as I can remember, the need to create and make an ever growing variety of items is imprinted in my DNA, my first memory being making clothes and shoes for my Barbie with my grandmother, she also taught me to sew, knit, embroider, and to never throw away even the tiniest scrap of any supply as you would always find a use for it later, thus grew my love for repurposing vintage items to use in my crafts whenever possible, old jeans, vintage jewelry, game pieces, recycled fabrics, old laces etc. I’m happiest when I can create something out of recycled materials, and my style leans very much to fun and funky, in bright loud colours.
I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of makers, I find the staff to be kind, welcoming and very supportive, I get the impression that they want us all to succeed and will help in any way they can.”
-Carole, owner of Dipsy Doodle Designz
@dipsydoodledesignz
“I worked towards becoming a concept artist in video games for the majority of my educational years. It combined my love for illustration, and it was a career I knew existed. Tons of practice, studying, and researching more things to draw in my artistic journey led me to a burn out so severe that I stopped drawing altogether. It was during that month-long depression that I created Puglie - born from freeing myself of expectations that my art needed to have a deep meaning, complex anatomy, or skillful rendering. The result was Puglie stuck in the middle of a pink doughnut with white sprinkles. Not confused, nor upset, just existing because he doesn't know any better. And for the first time in my life, I looked at what I drew, and I laughed with pure joy. I continue to this day because he brings me joy, and I sincerely hope he does the same for you as he does for me!
Being in Makers is such a rewarding experience! It's so fun to go in and browse on my own time and overhear people gush about Puglie. And when customers who just discovered him message me about who they're getting a Puglie for, or how it made them happy to see him, it just makes me day to know that my shelf of little roly-poly sunshine can give others a smile!”
-Euge, owner of Puglie Pug
@PugliePug
"I love working with each of the teams at all the different Shop Makers locations! Everyone is always so nice and helpful. I'm so grateful for everyone's efforts in making my dreams a reality. Thank you team!!!"
-Ivy Chan, owner of ivycdraws
@ivycdraws
“Our journey as makers began in 2020 with a shared love for capturing the ocean's beauty through resin art. Inspired by coastal life, each creation reflects the vibrant hues and textures of the sea. As a husband and wife team, our partnership infuses love and dedication into every piece, while our commitment to sustainability ensures eco-conscious artistry.
Our experience at Makers has been truly incredible since joining in December 2023. The support from the team has been remarkable. From day one, they embraced our resin artistry and provided us with tools to track sales and inventory in real-time, which has been invaluable. Additionally, the fact that we can keep 100% of our sales is incredibly encouraging, especially in today's challenging economy where many small businesses struggle. Their dedication to our success has empowered us to showcase our creations with confidence and reach a broader audience. Being part of the Makers community has not only expanded our artistic horizons but also fostered meaningful connections with fellow artisans. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to thrive in such a supportive and inspiring environment.
-Dana & Randall owners of Clair De Lune Resin Art Artisans
@clairdelune.resin
