An interview with Kaya Pereira of Bazaar Artisan Market.
Describe your business.
Bazaar Artisan Market is designed to create a clear and meaningful path for artists to sell at the price point they want, in an engaging shop. Artisans receive a dedicated sales area of 3-4 feet and 100% of sales revenue on their one-of-a-kind products.
What brought you to the region?
I was born and raised in Belleville. I moved away and was drawn back to town because I missed it. I like taking the scenic route and stopping to smell the flowers — metropolis areas don’t always allow that with all the hustle bustle.
What makes the Bay of Quinte a good fit for your business?
We have a plethora of exceedingly talented individuals of all different mediums that reside in the Bay of Quinte, Belleville is becoming a destination spot for big-city dwellers and I want to showcase all of the talent our area has to offer.
What was the hardest thing about starting a business?
All of the moving parts that consist in opening a business can be overwhelming at times. I really wanted to bring in unique items the one usually cannot find in town, eliminating the requirement of travelling for particular one-of-a-kind items especially with COVID occurring. I have learned to tune out the noise and listen to my heart as an artist myself. I know what is best for other artists; keeping that notion top of mind is the best practice for my business.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs in the area?
You are your brand image — take the time to visually curate yourself and keep a positive helpful mindset, others will notice and it’s a transferable skill. There is never a wrong time to start planning and talking to other professionals, we have many resourceful individuals and agencies in town. Learn to self-advocate.
What surprised you about starting a business in a smaller community?
I was already aware of how amazing our community is in regards to lifting other individuals up or acknowledging and assisting in the development of a new business but it is very inspiring when it happens to you or someone you know. I am blessed with folks offering me help in the shop, hanging my store signage and even making me custom masks. I am so lucky to be born in Belleville and feel fully supported by my community.
How have you changed your operations during the pandemic?
I opened during the pandemic, so this is my normal.
What is something good that has come from this difficult situation (the pandemic)?
I have seen an uptick in new businesses as people now have the time to focus on their passions that they may have only previously had time to work on in the evenings. Makers are creating at a rapid rate during COVID and I feel business is focusing more on local entrepreneurs and less on big box-store growth.
If you were to have one word tattooed on you, what would it be?
Breathe.
Check back with us as we discover more BoQ Young Entrepreneurs.
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