The Collective at New Sarum is more than just a new storefront; it’s the blossoming of Amanda Wilson-Drenth’s long-held dream, a dream that began with a simple sketch. Imagine transforming a simple sketch into a vibrant community space, that’s precisely what Amanda is doing.
Every successful business starts with a spark, an idea, a fleeting thought like “I could do that,” or “What if I tried this?”
Those “what ifs” linger, becoming impossible to shake. Before long, you’re envisioning the possibilities. The idea consumes your thoughts, spilling over into your days and even your dreams. It takes hold, urging you forward with an intensity that’s impossible to ignore. This is the calling of an entrepreneur, when an idea grips you so deeply that it drives you to turn your vision into reality. For Amanda, that vision was rooted in a lifelong dedication to supporting local, a value her family has embraced for over two decades.
Elgin Business Resource Centre (EBRC) recently sat down with Amanda Wilson-Drenth, founder of The Collective at New Sarum, to explore the early stages of turning a dream into a thriving business. Stepping into The Collective is like entering a welcoming home. As a newly established business, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere where you can connect with friendly staff and customers, creating an authentic sense of community. The atmosphere is filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the gentle hum of conversation. Sunlight streams through the large windows, illuminating the carefully arranged displays. Don’t be fooled by the comfortable vibe, the carefully curated collection of beautiful and authentic items, from fresh flowers and gourmet foods to handmade gifts for the home and body, is absolutely irresistible. You might just find your wallet a little lighter when you leave, but trust me, it’ll be worth it.
The Collective is dedicated to environmental responsibility, healthy living, and creative expression, with a mission to collectively make our corner of the world a happier place to live. It has quickly become a hub for local artisans, families, and anyone seeking unique, thoughtfully chosen goods. It’s a place where neighbours connect, local artists showcase their work, and the community supports small businesses.
One of the most incredible elements of Amanda’s business plan was the sketch she created; a vision brought to life with nothing more than pencil crayons. It wasn’t just a sketch; it was a detailed blueprint of what The Collective at New Sarum could be. What’s even more remarkable is that today, you can walk into her store and see that very design come to life. From the layout to the atmosphere, every corner reflects the vision she had in mind. It’s a perfect example of how passion and creativity can transform a dream into reality.
And Amanda’s vision doesn’t stop there. She also dreamed of creating a space for classes, meetings, training, and creative studio work. That dream is becoming reality with The Workshop, a versatile space set to be available for daily or half-day rentals. This funky, flexible venue will offer an inspiring environment for all kinds of creative endeavors, with a target completion date of March 2025. We can’t wait to see what the community will create in this new space! Imagine the possibilities: art classes, workshops, pop-up shops, and so much more. In addition to the Mercantile and The Workshop, The Collective also features a Wellness Spa, offering a range of treatments and therapies. The Collective is actively seeking wellness practitioners who align with its vision. Interested parties can contact Anna at [email protected] or call/text 519-619-0051.
Amanda attributes her success to staying true to her original vision, while remaining adaptable, and building strong relationships with both clients and the local community.
The unwavering support from EBRC, including guidance on developing her business plan and helping her create a strong financial plan, has been essential to her journey.
At The Collective at New Sarum, bold ideas are not just welcomed; they’re celebrated. For those looking to turn their dreams into something tangible, this story is a testament to what’s possible when passion, perseverance, and support come together.
In a place where community and business go hand in hand, Elgin Business Resource Centre is more than just a source of advice.
Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, EBRC is ready to help you take the next step. With a commitment to supporting entrepreneurs through every stage of their journey, the EBRC is an invaluable resource for those who need guidance, mentorship, or funding.