Entrepreneurs Emily Maione and Taylor Straeche took a big step in their business growth, moving from a home-based business to a storefront. Happy & Co. officially opened its doors in April 2022, on the corner of Woodbine Avenue and Metro Road in Island Grove. Residents will remember the location fondly as the old bowling alley.
During the pandemic, Emily started to dabble in custom graphics. She honed the craft and started Happy & Co., which, today, has built an impressive client base. Its success propelled them to take the next step with a storefront. “The support from this community has been mind-blowing. Everyone wants to show their support,” said Emily.
Expanding the business fulfills their entrepreneurial spirit allowing them to showcase their creative custom capabilities. In-store you’ll find drinkware, clothing for all ages, including Taylor’s Ernit LTD brand, and, decor and products made by other local artisans and businesses. They also run a wholesale business, Wholesale Blanks Canada, which allows them to lower the end price for their customers. Large or small, Emily and Taylor have customized orders for many businesses and individuals looking for personal requests that celebrate life’s milestones – one of their favourite parts of running the business.
Both Keswick residents, the duo have worked in the service industry to support their young family and know the value of good customer service. They pride themselves on using the best quality products to customize products to ensure their “happy” guarantee establishes customers for life. “We want to make it so that people have a happy and positive experience when customizing something,” said Taylor. Emily added, “We do not charge people until they are happy. We make sure customers are in love with their items.”
They aren’t stopping there. These energetic and enthusiastic entrepreneurs have plans for the future that will further expand their business offerings in Georgina and capitalize on a market gap. Learn more about Happy & Co. by visiting them in person or following their Facebook and Instagram pages. We thank them both for choosing Georgina and are excited to see what the future holds for these two.
If you are thinking about starting or expanding your business in Georgina, connect with the Economic Development and Tourism office. They can assist with property selection, zoning, incentives and business support programs. Visit choosegeorgina.ca to learn more.
