Entrepreneur Spotlight Series: Mélanie Gamache

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We care about our entrepreneurs and follow them on their journey! Over the coming weeks, we will introduce you to a series of successful entrepreneurs from Manitoba. Today, we invite you to discover the inspiring story of Mélanie Gamache from Borealis Beading.

Mélanie Gamache

What products or services do you offer?

I create many different beadwork pieces, such as keychains, mitts, infant wrap arounds, framed pieces and handbound beaded journals. All of this can be purchased from my website. Borealis Beading also offers virtual and in-person Métis cultural learning experiences, which include: Introduction to 2-needle beading, Traditional Métis tobacco/fire bag, Small leather bag, Introduction to loom beading, Introduction to finger weaving, Introduction to simple quilting, Leather mitts and moccasins.

In spring of 2022, we will be launching a new experience called: ‘Perlage; a Métis voyage into the world of the flower beadwork people’,  in which we will experience Métis culture and history through beadwork, food and nature.

How did you come up with your business idea?

There was no grand plan for my business to become what it is today. It evolved naturally based on my passion and on questions asked by those attending my experiences. These questions pushed me to develop interesting ways on how to answer them, without simply standing in front of people giving a presentation. Most people learn better by doing, having that hands-on authentic experience by somebody who lives in the environment they are sharing.

What is the most important lesson you have learned in your entrepreneurial journey?

Just keep going! When you have found your passion, things seem to fall in place.

What was the proudest moment in your entrepreneurial career?

I was honored and humbled to be approached by Destination Canada and Travel Manitoba for photo and video opportunities for marketing.

How do you generate new ideas?

That’s easy: listening to what my guests are saying and what is happening around me in the world.

What do you think are the most important skills for an entrepreneur?

To keep an open mind.

What tool do you use the most in your work?

Sharp needles.

How do you make sure you can achieve your goals?

Staying focused and true to myself and my beliefs.

What is your 10-year vision for your business?

Retired from my full-time job and offering Métis cultural learning experiences full-time.

What is your biggest fear? How do you deal with it ?

Well, running out of beads is a big fear, but I have stashes.

Web

www.borealisbeading.com