Supporting Local Made Easy with Painted Door
This week, I made my way over to the not-so-hidden gem, Painted Door on Main in Beaumont. I didn't do much research beforehand, so I had no idea what to expect, but it exceeded every expectation. I've truly never been anywhere quite like it. Co-owners Bonnie-Jean and Sherry describe Painted Door on Main best: a locally owned gift shop in Beaumont, Alberta, featuring a carefully curated collection of Canadian-made gifts from over 150 makers across Canada. From meaningful keepsakes to everyday favourites, we make it easy to shop small and find something truly special.
View from the 2nd floor
The gift shop spans two floors and I could’ve easily spent hours discovering every item in there. When I arrived, Sherry was working on one of her art pieces while managing the front counter. She happily explained that every item sold in the shop must be made in Canada. Each product is also conveniently labelled with where it’s made, making it fun to discover makers from coast to coast. From magnets crafted from vintage spoons in Sherwood Park to cocktail bombs made in Quebec, there's something for everyone, and knowing that you’re supporting Canadian makers and artists makes it that much better!
Tasty treats😋
Painted Door on Main wasn’t always the storefront it is today. It initially began as a small artists’ guild with around five members. Eventually it grew in size and reached 15 members. In 2014, they officially opened their non-profit storefront. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, they felt the financial impact, and in order to keep their doors open, they transitioned from a non-profit to a gift shop. While their business model has changed, they still have the same values that Painted Door was initially founded on. The transition also allowed them to welcome more vendors and showcase an even wider variety of Canadian-made products.
I coudn’’t get enough of the prints
My experience at Painted Door was perfect. Between the warm atmosphere, friendly service, and one-of-a-kind selection, it was immediately clear that this is one of Beaumont's local gems. I left with an assortment of items including a book mark, magnets, and the best-smelling hand sanitizer I’ve ever used (shoutout Rebels Refinery). I cannot recommend this place enough! Whether you’re shopping for yourself or searching for a gift, make sure to stop by, because Sherry and Bonnie-Jean have curated something truly iconic!