"Wow, It Looks So Different in Here!”
If I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard that since November 2020, I’d be… well, probably still running a small business. Since we opened during the pandemic, we’ve been on a whirlwind of transformations, keeping our space fresh so you can discover something new each visit.
Now, I could dive into a long-winded spiel about the current economic climate, but let’s be honest: businesses need to evolve or risk extinction. In 2024, we've seen a wave of closures, even among those beloved brands that once thrived. Newsflash: small businesses are not doing well—if you didn’t already know that, I’m about to ruin your day.
Somehow, though, I’m supposed to feel guilty that our store has changed? I’ve noticed a few disappointed folks lamenting our reduced selection, and I’m starting to feel like I’m on the receiving end of a passive-aggressive jab. Re:see our latest Google review lol. Yes, our vendor count has shrunk. Yes, our sales are down. People aren’t flocking to support small businesses the way they did from 2020 to 2022.
So, why would I pack the place with vendors when there’s less money to go around? Why create competition among businesses for dwindling dollars? It’s mind-boggling to me that people don’t think before they speak their minds—like, come on, let’s use those brains!
I’m all about the data. We don’t invite just anyone into our shop because, let’s face it, shoppers aren’t buying everything under the sun. Should I really seek out a macramé vendor just because one person might ask for it? I get that those making these comments likely mean no harm, but over time, it really starts to grate.
Sure, there are other shops like mine that are filling their spaces with vendors to pay their bills. But at what cost? The vendors paying rent are often overlooked, reduced to mere background noise. They're recruited under the false pretense that the owner *wants* them in their shop. And they do! So they can pay their bills.
Our shop has morphed again, and guess what? It’ll change again soon! Right now, we’re excited to share our space with Tastely Box, the fun candy company run by our dear friends Polly and James. Together, we’ve created a colourful and inclusive atmosphere, but don’t get too comfy—there’s more change on the horizon.
By 2025, expect even fewer vendors but a more curated selection. We’ll focus on those with broader collections, allowing us to share profits with fewer businesses. And I’m diving back into my roots as a maker, “The Modern Maker”! I plan to craft and stock as many products as I can. For too long, I prioritized supporting others at the expense of my own success.
As we approach the 5th anniversary of The Modern Makers Shop, the reality is clear: if things stay as they are, we won’t see a 6th year. I don’t want to close the shop, but it’s a thought thats been considered, especially when support wanes and I hear more ignorant comments. I’m not going to sacrifice my well-being for a business that doesn’t get the support it needs. If it doesn’t get easier, I’m not sticking around. It’s as simple as that.
There’s so much I still want to achieve in this space before I throw in the towel.
We’re looking to make a more creative hangout vibe this fall and host more intimate workshops. So, stay tuned—it’s going to be an adventure!
If you're a maker looking for shop info or market info you can find it on our site!
C