Diane Jenkins & Julia Mace, Whitby Ont.
“Diane and Julia lived in a basement apartment together that they affectionately called The Cupboard Under the Stairs. Years later, they began their card company and had to pay homage to their beginnings.
This Whitby-based, female-owned business is determined to spread smiles all over the world, one card at a time. They're excited to be expanding into new areas this year—think keychains, stickers, and beyond! With 3 out of 5 kids off to school this year, they are looking forward to launching their business like never before.
They had been longtime fans of Cheryl and shoppers at The Hub before joining as makers in 2022. They love the sense of community at The Makers Hub and the level of care and support offered by each employee. There's always a supportive, real, and comfortable conversation awaiting, whether they're stopping in to shop or to restock their products.”
Jane Bonk, Whitby Ont.
"I am so excited to be part of The Makers Hub! I have been a shopper there for years and just love seeing all the wonderful artisans’ work. This fall, I have decided to take a big step and become a vendor!
I am Lakeside Watercolour, and I paint original, one-of-a-kind watercolour art. I mostly create my art into greeting cards, but I will also have some original pieces available for customers to display in their homes. I love painting animals, specifically pet portraits! I have been painting for about six years for friends and family, and I’m now excited to share my art with a larger audience.
Come to The Makers Hub to see my art and all the other vendors there. It is a great place to shop locally and find unique gifts for those special people in your lives!"
Annette Lynchahon, Whitby Ont.
“Garden Giftmaker grew from my passion for creating handmade gifts in my backyard garden studio. I love hand-sculpting and painting clay gnomes and mushroom ornaments, perfect for shelves, plants, or hanging on a Christmas tree!
A couple of years ago, I was diagnosed with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, which means my body cannot process certain chemicals and fragrances in food and everyday products. This condition sometimes requires me to isolate at home, giving me plenty of time and a strong need for a creative outlet.
The Makers Hub provides a wonderful platform for local artists and makers to sell their creations, both in-store and online. I was thrilled to be accepted as a vendor, allowing me to display my gnomes, even when I can’t be there in person. Thankfully, my supportive daughter and husband help set up my display and deliver my products to the store.
My experience at The Makers Hub has been incredible! I've learned so much and received amazing support from Cheryl and the wonderful Hub team.”
Glenna Wilkins, Ajax Ont.
"I’m Glenna—the creator behind Repurposing By Glenna. I craft distinctive gifts with an emphasis on repurposing, always exploring new ways to upcycle common items and give them new life.
My passion for creating began years ago when I helped my mom with our church’s tea room. To raise more money for the church, we started making and selling table centerpieces. From that moment, I was hooked! I later supported my eldest daughter’s business, “Beads By Em,” starting when she was just 12. She eventually created “Back Alley Vintage TO,” while my other daughter, Liv, launched “Made by Liv.” I joined them at sales as “Bright Ideas,” repurposing glass blocks into Christmas décor, which sparked my constant quest for new repurposing ideas—thus, “Repurposing By Glenna” was born.
The Makers Hub was my first retail location, but it took time to get there. Cheryl recognized my youngest’s creativity and encouraged her to join The Hub. Liv found great success in-store and through live shows. I wanted her to have her own experience, so it wasn’t until she stepped back for her studies that Cheryl convinced me to become an in-store vendor. I am deeply grateful for the support that Cheryl and the Hub staff have given to both Liv and me."