After 17 years as one of P’LOVERS’ devoted employees, Shelby Lendrum took over its ownership last spring. This fall she opened a new location for the environmentally conscious shop in downtown Dartmouth, at 52 Queen Street. Needless to say, it's been a busy year.
Why shop with a conscience?
Shifting a consumer’s mindset from a “me” mentality to a “we” mentality is what we hope to do at P’LOVERS. Thinking about the long-term effects of our purchasing power. What effect does this product have on the planet? Who is my money supporting when I make this purchase? P’LOVERS provides a community with the most responsible alternative for the planet and the people.
What drew you to open a new location in downtown Dartmouth?
I live in Eastern Passage and spend quite a bit of time in the downtown Dartmouth area. I see a lot of young families moving in and starting the next phase of their lives. This is an opportunity for P’LOVERS to make offerings and share information that guides people towards living more sensitively with the earth and all of its inhabitants.
What’s your personal favourite shop in the neighbourhood?
Definitely Kept. I love their style and energy.
What have you learned making the transition from employee to owner?
The most important lesson I’m learning right now is that my presence on the floor is just as important now as it has ever been. Although I’ve invested in a POS [point of sale system] to help support the staff with inventory management, we still haven’t found a way to pass on 17 years of knowledge, experience and enthusiasm, other than sharing it through being present.
What’s the best advice you can give about running an indie business?
Have a good team on your side.
The people I work with and the customers we serve are what ensure this business thrives.
What in the store are you most excited about right now?
Our clothing. We’ve expanded the men’s section and brought in a few new Canadian designers that we are really excited about. Oom, Susan Harris Design and Miik are just a few.
