It’s small business week here on myFM, sponsored by The Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc.
A family decision has turned into a growing business for KYIS Embroidery, which continues to add new services while building strong connections in Strathroy-Caradoc.
Belle Thournout, who took over the business with her mother-in-law and sister-in-law about a year and a half ago, says they were looking for something they could do together as a family when they came across the business for sale.
The moment that helped them make their decision came when they saw the shop’s wall of Cuddle Buddies, which are among the products that helped draw them in.
None of them had experience with embroidery at the time, but Thournout says they loved the products and the welcoming feeling they experienced when they walked through the door.
The business has since continued to expand, moving into a new location on Front Street, just two doors down from its previous shop.
She says learning new skills is one of the most rewarding parts of owning the business. Growing the business has also brought the family closer together as they work toward shared goals.
Although the family lives in London and travels to Strathroy for work, Thournout says the community has become a special place for them.
She describes Front Street as a place where local business owners and residents come together to create something welcoming and unique.
Like many small businesses, KYIS Embroidery experiences busy and quieter periods throughout the year. The holiday season is one of its busiest times, as customers place orders for gifts and other custom items.
For anyone thinking about starting a small business, Thournout encourages them to take the first step.
Thournout believes a community will support a new business when that business is also willing to support the people and organizations around it.
