B8 - The Terrace Standard, Wednesday, October 27, 1993 Sidewalkers combo fills a market niche Tt was an natural blend. Lori Merrill sold fine cotton clothing. Cindy Marleau sold health-promoting foolwear, Both women ran successful businesses from. their homes, and as they eventually discovered, had more than a few customers in common. *“My clientele was her clientele,” says Lori, ~“‘Our pro- ducts just melded.” So the twa began to host sales shows together, but it was only a matter of time before they merged their inventory into one downtown storefront. Thus, Sidewalkers was born. “It was an easy transition,”’ says Cindy. She says the move from home base to downtown last May brought both structure and freedom to her and Lori’s day-to- day business. “It’s difficult to keep set hours at home, and here, we've got more space to work with.” That extra floor-space allows Cindy and Lori to create an invit- ing, and accessible atmosphere for both their customers and. them- selves. “"We wanted fresh Dow- ers, the park bench outside, and the sun streaming in. We want people to be comfortable. drop- ping by.” | The move also made room for an explosion of stock, in Birkenstock shoes, natural fibre We have the skills, the tools, ‘and clothing for both men and wom- en, and most notably, the vivid batik rayons which proved an immediate sell-out. “We first opened on a Thursday,” Cindy recalls, “and by Tucsday momn- ing, we re-opened with no stock.” Since then, the popularity of Sidewalkers has soared, proving there’s more to this shop than a new, face on an existing enter- prise. ““There was a niche for something out of the ordinary,” Lori explains, “and a. real demand for natural fibres. People are looking for colour- ful, classic and versatile cloth- ing and accessories.” She secs the store’s success as just one facet of a distinct new marketplace that’s growing based on similar enterprises. “It’s all part of the revitaliza- lion of downtown, enhancing the character and flavour of the community,” At the same time, the spe- cialties offered at Sidewaikers add a unique zest to local attire. - “We can really have fun with what we wear,” says Lari. But she emphasizes, “This is much more than fashion. These are clothes and shoes people can really live in, and know that the garments they buy here will last. It feels good to be able to offer that choice.” _ the products to deliver your message to the people who — matter most..... ‘YOUR ha DO YOU - - Have a problem with your present business? - Want to start your own business? | - Require business planning to access your business? - Require a business loan which is not available from regular f banking institutions? - Want to know about the programs and possible grants that are available for business's? - Need someone to discuss your business problems with? IF YOU ANSWERED “YES” a 10 ANY OF THE ABOVE QUESTIONS THEN POSSIBLY # YOU SHOULD CONTACT OUR OFFICE AND SET UP AN | APPOINTMENT. OUR PROGRAMS INCLUDE: Lending, Self Employment Assistance Program, Counselling, ~ Business Planning, Marketing, Viability Assessment and We ‘Listen’ 16-37 Community Futures 16-37 Business Development Centre #4 - 3260 Eby Street Terrace, BC eG 5H4 “An Innovative Approach - Small 1 Bushess Development” Ph: 635-5449 or 1-800-663- 6306 she Mea yee aalwei TRMT ‘Star | Peale | Oe Si ecia Sout | Peciats Shuprtern ONTOBERFST Vr Nae; hy “4 Heirs ule , MARAE Our Picture Service Provide Thousands of Graphics _ Every Month To Add Impact And Style To Your Advertising Ph: 638-7283 me TERRACE. 4647 Lazell Ave,, Terace, BIC, VBG 1S8 (604) 638-7289 Fax (604) 638-8432 Fax 638- 8432 ee et