Let’s admit it. There is something about handcrafted, made-in-Canada goods that just rises so far above anything mass produced.
Nestled in the pretty town of Thornbury, you will find a collection of such items, produced with care and love by Canadian hands and hearts, and made available to you through The Georgian Artisan Shop.
Owners Breanne Morrow and Patricia Stewart are Thornbury residents themselves and they opened the shop about 5 years ago.
“We both worked independently before we opened the shop” says Breanne. “I’m a jeweller and I own White Feather Designs which has been in business for 14 years now. Patricia has been a gemologist for over 40 years and she specializes in vintage jewellery.”
Both women worked in the jewellery industry for many years. And they both decided that they wanted something that brought them home more often. In particular, Breanne admits she “always wanted to open a small boutique that focused mainly on Canadian made goods; and the timing worked out perfectly.”
Breanne studied metal-smithing in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, and opened her own business in 2008. “I participated in art shows for years and have met many creatives along the way. Over the years I have met some incredible artists and have brought their work into our shop.”
Patricia studied through the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) over 40 years ago and is a graduate Gemologist. The two worked together for a time in the auction industry where Patricia was the head of the fine jewellery department, and for a store in Oakville that also specializes in vintage jewellery.
Patricia and Breanne love supporting not just locally made goods, but also artists all throughout Canada. They house the work of over 140 artists.
“We carry a wide range of items including plants and florals by @ashleyelaineflorals, greeting cards, home goods, apothecary, accessories, art, photography, vintage jewellery and artisanal jewellery” says Breanne.
As well, Patricia is available for both verbal and written appraisals. A written appraisal costs $65, and a verbal appraisal is $35.
Artisans can apply through the website to sell their work in the shop. In regard to vintage jewellery, Patricia says they buy gold and silver at fair market value. They also offer custom design and repairs.
“We run a very tight ship here and have created an online application for any artist who is looking to sell at our shop” Breanne explains. “The artist needs to provide various details about their business and work for us to review to see if their work will be a good fit for our shop.”
The Georgian Artisan Shop is located at 5 Bruce Street South, Thornbury
Website: TheGeorgianArtisanShop.com Phone: 519-599-1188
Facebook and Instagram: @TheGeorgianArtisanShop
Hours of operation: Sunday – Tuesday 11:00 – 4:00, Wednesday – Saturday 10:00 – 5:00
