In a world where technology has made it easier than ever to connect digitally, two Nova Scotia entrepreneurs are encouraging people to reconnect in person.
Linger—a Nova Scotia venture founded by co-founders Jen Whalen and Sherene Kirincich—is on a mission to bring people closer to the small businesses, artists and makers who make the province unique. Through thoughtfully curated, hands-on experiences, the duo creates opportunities for local talent and curious guests to come together, connect and celebrate creativity.
“It’s no secret that the rise of technology has brought us closer in a digital world, but we’ve never been pulled so far apart in real life,” said Whalen in an interview with The Coast. “Linger is about slowing down, creating and building connections — both within the group of guests themselves at our experiences, and between the guests and the businesses.”
Unlike traditional markets or workshops, where interactions can be brief, Linger encourages its business partners to take their time sharing the stories behind their work. Guests are invited to learn about the inspiration, history and people behind each craft, creating a more personal connection with the makers.
“We’re creating opportunities to meet the makers, experience their craft, hear their stories and build connections that last beyond the event,” Kirincich said.
The goal is to make supporting local about more than simply purchasing a product. It’s about discovering the people behind it, celebrating the creativity happening throughout the province and creating meaningful reasons for people to gather.
Linger with Gus! combines local art and community spirit
The venture’s latest initiative, Linger with Gus!, puts a playful spin on its familiar tagline, “Linger with Us!” while supporting a much-loved Halifax resident. The stickers will be sold at the Museum of Natural History.
Gus, the Museum of Natural History’s beloved 104-year-old gopher tortoise, recently underwent surgery. Inspired by a desire to help raise funds for his ongoing care, the Linger team developed a campaign that would also shine a spotlight on emerging local artistic talent.
“It’s a small project with a bigger purpose: celebrating local artistic talent while giving back to a local legend who has captured so many hearts,” said Whalen.
To bring the idea to life, Linger approached a shortlist of artists they felt would be a natural fit. Local artist Sarah Leopold was at the top of that list, and she enthusiastically agreed to participate.
The result is a dishwasher-safe vinyl sticker featuring Gus sitting in the grass, with Halifax’s Town Clock and a Nova Scotia flag in the background. Proceeds from sticker sales go toward supporting Gus’s recovery and ongoing care at the Museum of Natural History.
The campaign offers a creative way for residents to show their love for a local icon while supporting an artist and contributing to the care of an animal who has captured the hearts of generations of visitors.
The Linger with Gus! stickers are currently available at several local retailers, including The Trainyard General Store in Dartmouth, Woozles and Glitter Bean Café in Halifax, and The Whistleberry Market in Pictou County.
Bringing people together through creativity
Linger’s commitment to community extends beyond its fundraising initiatives. The founders continue to develop experiences that introduce guests to local businesses and artists in welcoming, creative settings.
Their upcoming gathering, Glued, Brewed, and Baked, will take place Nov. 10 at 6:30 p.m. at Ramblers Coffee House. The evening will feature local artist Tiny Owlery, who will lead participants through a creative junk journalling experience.
The ticket price includes a junk journalling kit, additional ephemera and materials, a drink of choice, a sweet treat and $20 in gift cards — giving guests everything they need for an evening of creativity and connection.
Tickets are available through the link in Linger’s Instagram bio, @eventsthatlinger, as well as through Events that Linger on Facebook.
For Whalen and Kirincich, initiatives like these are part of a bigger vision: creating more opportunities for people to discover the talent and stories that exist right here in Nova Scotia.
“At Linger, we believe supporting local should be about more than making a purchase. It’s about discovering the people behind the products, celebrating the creativity around us, and creating reasons to come together and linger,” said Kirincich.
Residents can follow Linger on Instagram at @eventsthatlinger to discover upcoming experiences, learn about the local businesses and makers being featured, and find participating retailers carrying the Linger with Gus! stickers.
Whether it’s attending an event, shopping with a local business or sharing the story of a Nova Scotia maker, every small action helps strengthen the creative community.
As Linger’s founders hope to demonstrate, sometimes the best way to support local is simply to slow down, show up and take a little more time to linger.
