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Starter Company Plus Spotlight – Tierra Hermosa

Located in the heart of Creemore Ontario is where you’ll find Tierra Hermosa Local Market (THLM) – a new retail shop that celebrates local makers and artists. Owners Santiago Saavedra and Cheri Mara have filled the space with one-of-a-kind products made by makers living in Ontario. From that, 33% of items are supplied by artisans living in the community of Creemore.

If you break it down, Tierra Hermosa translates to ‘Beautiful Land’ in Spanish. South Georgian Bay is brimming with talent and THLM aims to showcase these community faves and help you discover new gems and goods that’ll have you raving.

In addition to reading the Q+A below, make sure to add this funky shop to your list next time you’re visiting Downtown Creemore. We are so excited to have Santiago join us for our 2023 Starter Company Plus cohort. Together we will create waves!

What is your favourite part about being an entrepreneur?

I love the daily challenges and flexibility to take the business in any direction. It lends itself nicely to a good work-life balance.

What inspired you to start your business? What drives you?

The community! We live in such a wonderful area and there are so many amazing makers and stories to celebrate. In short, community is a big pillar to our business.

What services or products do you offer?

THLM focuses on one of a kind and locally sourced gifts for any occasions and vendor-led workshops. On special occasions, you may spot some of our local artistans ‘in action’ as part of our ‘makers on the porch’ program.

What makes your business stand out?

We found that in our area, no one else was offering the unique assortment of products and community engagement workshops.

Tierra Hermosa - local market in Creemore Ontario

What kind of playlist do you love to put on at your shop?

Smooth jazz. It’s calming, inspiring and helps to clear my mind.

Do you have any advice for aspiring business owners who are still in the ideation phase but have not yet taken the plunge?

  1. Be comfortable making mistakes & trying new things. The road to success is NOT linear.
  2. Listen to your customers.

How valuable have the resources at the SBEC been in the start-up of your business?

Super valuable. I would recommend that anyone starting a business should visit the Small Business Enterprise Centre and take advantage of ALL the resources.

What does success look like to you – when will you know you’ve achieved it?

Being recognized in the community for the work we do is SO rewarding. In addition, we love connecting with our makers and learning about their entrepreneurial journeys. Knowing that we’ve played a small part in that is pretty cool.

What are you favourite local spots to visit on a day off?

  1. Lavender Farm in Creemore
  2. Hearts Restaurant in Kimberly
  3. Antique market in Thornbury

How do you want your clients to feel when they interact/purchase from you/use your service?

Our hope is that our customers feel welcomed and intrigued at the items we’ve hand selected for our shop. Furthermore, our shop will continue to grow as we continue to discover new makers in our region.

What is your favourite meal to cook for other people? Why?

Spaghetti and meat balls. Reminds me of my childhood.

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Connect with Tierra Hermosa Local Market

Instagram: @tierra_hermosa_local_market
Website: https://www.tierra-hermosa.ca/