Niko Goring is one of eight young Hatters with work for sale at Top Notch Custom Kreations.--SUBMITTED PHOTO
mcranker@medicinehatnews.com@mocranker
A local business owner is allowing young entrepreneurs to display their work on her shelves.
Top Notch Custom Kreations owner Shannon Deveau is happy to encourage young Hatters to get creative and start their own businesses.
“At the moment we have eight young entrepreneurs selling different stuff at the store,” she said. “All of them are between the age of six to 16. Each has their own shelf at the store, and they each have a little bio on their shelf that says a little about them.”
There is a wide range of products being sold by the young entrepreneurs including jewellery, hoodies, beanies, spray paint canvases, toques, crayons and more.
Deveau decided to offer the space as a way to keep kids busy during the ongoing pandemic.
“I know a lot of kids have had their activities cancelled or postponed because of COVID,” she said. “I work with kids during the day and have heard from parents how bored some of the kids are.
“I think this is a great way to encourage kids to make something and have fun with it. It’s even better because they can make a bit of money.”
The entrepreneurs debuted their goods at the store earlier this month and Deveau says they are seeing success.
“It’s a tough month to start this, but they’re doing well,” she said. “I know one of the girls who makes necklaces has sold 17 so far.”
Deveau says products will be rotated on the store shelves every few months based on how much demand there is for space.
She added that there are still a few spots open for young entrepreneurs to claim. Those interested can reach out to Top Notch Custom Kreations on Facebook or Instagram.
Top Notch is located at 656 Third St. SE downtown.
