Spree

As a working mother I was fortunate enough to have a mother willing to care for my 2 boys. The added bonus of having my mother watch my children was the daily visit to pick the boys up after work. It was never just a simple pick-up, but more of a therapy session. I knew with each visit a tea and a listening ear was awaiting my arrival. As a teacher, I was recently faced with the devastating effects of cuts to the education system and although I was fortunate enough to continue to teach in our area, future job insecurity sparked the conversation, “but what would I do if I wasn’t a teacher?” To my mother’s credit, she listened to me dream and then reminded that I hadn’t even paid off my student loan yet- minor details. I am a teacher because I love kids, working with people, new ideas, hands-on experiences and who am I kidding, I love stationary and colour coding. As our conversation snowballed from an innocent hypothetical scenario, I felt my heartbeat race and my volume elevate, as I became more and more excited about the possibilities of owning a boutique and studio that could incorporate all the joys I find in teaching. Our conversation lasted long after tea and lingered on over an unplanned family dinner and continued over dessert. Now with our husbands (both entrepreneurs themselves) contributing to the conversation the ideas flowed and the dream seemed more like a real possibility. From the days of pretending I was hosting my own craft show in the kitchen to the days of teaching my students, I accredit my mother for instilling a love of DIY, HGTV, thrifty shopping and life-long learning. I realized that there would be no better business partner for this venture than my mother. She is a talented decorator, painter, crafter, designer, motivator, supporter, (and nagger- which is a great compliment to my procrastinating ways). After school tea turned into brainstorming, market research and business planning and now we are finally happy to announce the launch of SPREE Lifestyle Boutique and Studio. We want to welcome you on the exciting new journey as this mother and daughter venture navigates through the initial stages of establishment here on Milltown Boulevard St. Stephen. Our hope is to bring to you a unique place to shop for handmade one of kind items, interesting finds, as well as, a studio to learn and create. Spree lifestyle boutique will comprise of several departments: Spreebaby, Spreeteen, Spreestyle, Spreehome and Spreecelebrations. These departments will offer everything from home décor and clothing to gift baskets and event decorating. Located on the second floor, Spree Studio will offer scrapbooking, painting and other crafting materials, as well as, provide a location for classes, parties and drop-ins. We plan to showcase local artisans on a monthly basis and provide learning opportunities for all ages. We are proud to be apart of the exciting things that are happening here in the revitalization of St. Stephen – the middle of everywhere. Please follow us if you are interested in our future developments. We look forward to hearing from you! - Kristan & Diane