Get to know the people behind your favourite places & spaces in downtown Burlington! We’ll be introducing you to a new owner & business throughout the year!

This week, meet Shirley Hamill Cope of The Knitters Boutique Inc

1. Why did you start/open your business?

I am following my passion and opening The Knitters Boutique Inc is my retirement project.
This is my happy place.

2. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your business. (i.e. What is your unique offering?)

I am a retired City of Toronto employee. (Born in Collingwood, but have lived most of my life in Halton, raised my family here). When I was asked “what would you do if money were no object”? “Own a knitting store” was my first response. So, I am following that dream.
Within The Knitters Boutique Inc I want to incorporate a sense of community where everyone feels welcome, no matter their age, gender, skill level or craft. 75% of the shop will be yarn/needles/accessories and 25% will be a gift shop (mostly related to knitters/crocheters and other fibre enthusiasts). My goal is to offer classes to kids, teens and adults, have Sip’n’Stitch a few afternoons/evenings a week and help with projects where ever I can.

I will be offering custom knit sweaters(limited)/hats/maybe some dog apparel. Hand knitted samples from the shop will be available for purchase. So, if you like what you see in our window display, it may be for sale!

3. When did you open your business in Downtown Burlington? 

November 2021!

4. What made you choose Downtown Burlington? 

I really like the vibe of Downtown Burlington, and the little house located at 431 Pearl St was a no brainer, just screamed “knitting store” when I saw it.

5. What other downtown businesses do you frequent and do business with?

I have shopped and dined at many shops in Downtown Burlington over the years, but must admit, due to the pandemic I have not been out at all. My last frequented spot within the last month was drinks at Poachers. (cheers!)

6. What special events/promotions do you currently have or coming up in 2021 that you would like the BDBA to promote and/or publish on our website and social media outlets?

Still thinking about this one….Just opening in itself will be an event!

7. If you had a piece of advice for our new businesses, to help them succeed, what would it be?

Be prepared to pivot your vision.

8. What’s your special connection with downtown Burlington?

My Grandmother started Brant Florist in 1961 and sold it to (I believe) the Bolt family in 1977 and it is so nice to see that the business is still flourishing. I was secretly hoping to lease her original location. I also was high school friends with Carol’s sister (Nadia) from Bocana’s, who is located next door to The Knitters Boutique Inc. (small world)
I attended Central Public School (on Brant St) for kindergarten and grade one.

 

Follow them on social!

Facebook: @theknittersboutiqueinc

Instagram: @theknittersboutique