Sharing the ByWord - February 10th
Announcements:
Apply for the Ontario Small Business Relief Grant!
The Ontario Small Business Relief Grant provides a one-time payment of $10,000 to eligible small businesses that have been required to close indoor operations as a result of the province’s modified Step 2 restrictions that came into effect on January 5, 2022.
Due to the disruptions downtown, the Valentine's Day Pop-Up Shop is now being held at Parkdale.
But don't worry - all the awesome goodies from @cotefleursshop & @smasheatt are still available for pre-order and pickup!
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
February 13th from 11AM-3PM at 366 Parkdale Avenue. Pre-order fresh flowers and loads of chocolate online by clicking the link below!
Pre-orders available until February 12th • Pickup on February 13th At Parkdale • Delivery available on February 13th and 14th.
Neighbourhood News:
Happy Black History Month!
Recognizing the disproportionate impact of institutional and systemic racism on BIPOC communities both historically and currently in Canadian agriculture, Marchés d'Ottawa Markets goal is to help remove barriers that prevent Black, Indigenous and People of Colour - farmers, growers, gatherers, hunters and fishers from participating in our markets and accessing clientele in Ottawa.
Marchés d’Ottawa Markets’ BIPOC Farmers’ Initiative (BFI) aims to provide access and support for vendors of Black and Indigenous descent as well as People of Colour including those who identify as trans, disabled, queer, have marginalized religious identities or share lived experiences as first-generation farmers or makers by offering a free seasonal market stand at this seasons’ markets.
If you see it - Report it.
Keep on eye on the Ottawa Police Service website for up to date information.
Bylaw Issue? Please report it!
Community Spotlight:
As part of our Community Spotlight, we chatted with Li Fang of Boutique Laras.
Find her at 55 ByWard Market Square - in the ByWard Market Building.
We asked Li the following questions:
When did you start your business?
Laras was established in 1998. Early on, we made a strong commitment to only sell quality, ethically sourced products that we loved and would have in our own home.
What inspired you when you started?
The majority of our products have been hand-crafted by the artisans in small villages Across Asia, which have a long history of creativity. Often, the techniques used have been passed down from generation to generation. Every handicraft and art work is permeated with unique and rich culture traditions. However, these traditions are often threatened by modern ideas and values in today’s rapidly changing world. By collecting and selling theses artisans’ beautiful handicrafts, we promote their self-reliance and the vitality of their craft traditions. We value the artisans we have formed partnerships with.
For the past 24 years, Laras boutique has proudly supported artisans from different regions of Asia and we make sure their works are fairly compensated. We know many of the artisans and their families who produce the products we source.
Why did you choose ByWard as the home for your business?
The ByWard Market is Ottawa’s number one tourist attraction, and is the premier destination for shopping, dining, arts and entertainment. It’s also known for its colourful street art and hip stores filled with crafts and clothes by local artisans. The Byward market’s vibrant, full-of-life vibe provides a perfect place for Laras to showcase our unique handmade products. We love this unique community and proudly offer our services and contributions to this magical place.
What do you currently specialize in selling?
currently we specialize in selling Crystals, incenses, wellness related products. We believe in promoting relaxation as means to reduce day to day stress and anxiety.
What's your hottest product right now?
The hottest products would be crystals, natural herbal incenses and woodcarvings .
What’s the one thing that’s surprised you the most about running a small business?
We have many loyal customers who have been supporting us for the past 24 years. It’s really touching to see them sticking around even in the most difficult time during the pandemic.
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Find Li at Boutique Laras in the ByWard Market!
For more information, or to speak with a representative of Marchés d'Ottawa Markets, please contact:
Zackery Liberty, Communications and Events Coordinator, Ottawa Markets, zackery.liberty@ottawamarkets.ca.
