The Tipsy Goat
Leah Walker Fouts, Owner
1113 Prince Street, Lansdowne, ON
213 – 924 – 4084
leah@thetipsygoat.ca
www.thetipsygoat.ca
Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
I've always owned a service-based business - Residential Painting in Kingston and a Fitness Studio in Kitchener Waterloo. After living in Southern California for a time I tried my hand at art and creating as a way to manage a bout of depression. I love creating something new from something old. A lot of my handmade products are made from upcycled items. While the whole world is venturing into online shops, I really hated online selling. I know it is a requirement nowadays, especially during this pandemic, but I truly believe people prefer the experience of visiting a local shop rather than clicking to add to cart.
Define your business in your own words.
After falling in love with this old Victorian house I had visions of selling just my own products and holding paint classes. That was before getting to know this community. Lansdowne has so many good supportive people and I couldn't imagine not supporting them back and providing what they needed. Our store provides new makers with a venue to sell their wares locally, while filling the need for residents to have a place to shop and buy specialty foods & items without having to drive to a larger city. We hope to help bring life back into Lansdowne and encourage other businesses to open up shop in our community. A general store with specialty foods, handmade crafts and upcycled art, garden supplies, household goods and so much more. All with a place to sit and socialize over a drink (when we're allowed to do that again).
What business achievement are you most proud of?
So far, literally getting opened. During a pandemic, while living part time in the States with borders closed, trying to acquire vendors from afar. It's not been easy. I'm proud of the fact that we are opening a unique little market with a vast selection of products based on the feedback of residents and what they wanted. I know we cannot please everyone, but we are definitely going to try.
Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
Most of my family is in Kingston and Ottawa. Lansdowne is the perfect central location for me personally. It's a little bit country and still close to the bigger cities. The area is beautiful, it's close to the border and we hope to serve locals as well as tourists.
What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
Small town charm with beautiful landscape and nature areas and tons of potential.
What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
I don't know if anyone else is as surprised as I was, but our little village is home to a lot of individual makers and artisans...and that includes food items, not just crafts. It makes me happy to provide a one-stop shop for the local makers and consumers alike.
Provide a message to your future guests!
We strive to create an experience from the time you drive up to our beautiful Historic house. When you enter the market, we want you to feel welcomed, excited, inspired. Like you want to linger a while, take your time, socialize with friends new and old. (The pandemic will end; we will get to do that safely again at some point :)). A little New York deli meets Vintage Market meets Old Country Store. We can't wait to meet you!
If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be?
Distinctive