Nestled in an old building in downtown Seaforth lies the dream business of Jo-Ann Kuntz, alongside her husband Jim. They had always envisioned owning a unique property, such as an old school, church, or a charming storefront in a rural village. Jo-Ann fell in love with 20 Main Street South on her first visit and eagerly made the leap to become a retail entrepreneur.
Seaforth Artisan Emporium opened on November 2, 2023, during the height of a street closure caused by a tractor wedged in a storefront across the street. While not the start to the business she had envisioned, it certainly made for a memorable one.
Jo-Ann and her husband, both artisans—she works with fabric while he specializes in wood—had long been selling their products through vendor and craft shows, seeking retail outlets to partner with. Once they found the storefront, they knew they had discovered a home not only for their wares but also as a venue to support other artisans. Completing the rounds of shows demands significant time, money, and effort, often yielding disappointment. By featuring a wide assortment of consignment vendors, the Emporium can leverage its resources to attract customers to the artisans instead of the other way around.
Kuntz began with vendors and makers she knew from her circle of family and friends, as well as from her years of attending shows. She actively participated in more events and began recruiting unique and highly talented individuals.
Now, the store boasts a diverse inventory with something for everyone and a wide range of price points. The products include fabric, wood, crocheted pieces, art, and a growing selection of food items sourced from small local family businesses, such as Millie’s Gourmet from St. Marys, which offers soup mixes, hot chocolates, and dips, along with Picard Nuts, local maple syrup, honey, and jams.
Just a year in, the store is already expanding. The building houses two storefronts, and the Emporium is set to occupy both sides. Jo-Ann is particularly excited to build on the food product line. She feels fortunate not only with the space—where they live upstairs, and she has a sewing room in the back, combining everything she loves within steps—but also with the amazing range of talented artisans she has discovered. One standout is Dot Art, a local artist whose paint dot creations transform everything from tea light holders to lazy susans into stunning works of art. A local woodturner has introduced traditional bowls and rolling pins, but at Easter, he crafted a charming rabbit piece. There's so much to explore that you may need to take a second trip around the store just to see it all, she warns!
The artisans and craftspeople are continually inspired by the seasons, and Jo-Ann can’t wait to see what the fall and Christmas deliveries will bring. When you shop at the Seaforth Artisan Emporium, you are supporting local artists. Be sure to check the artist emporium hours at 20 Main St S, Seaforth, to enjoy all the wonderful, Arts & Crafts Canadian Made products available.
