XX Files: Lauren Potvin, Owner Of Bunch, A Curated Collection Of Goods For Your Home And Body

By Rebecca Wright

Lauren Potvin

Definitely The Best Of The “Bunch”

For those seeking unique items and choose to shop with intention and appreciation, Owner Lauren Potvin believes her new business — Bunch — is the perfect fit.

“Bunch is full of carefully curated items from throughout North America,” describes Potvin. “We strive to support independent designers and small-batch artisans while being conscientious of our impact on the planet.”

Her store opened in May 2021 (yep, right in the middle of the pandemic) with a 135 square-foot space in Ford City.

“I was able to expand into the space next door just before Christmas, to a whopping 300 square feet,” Potvin exclaims, referring to Bunch’s current location of 1050 Drouillard Road.

The selection at Bunch is always changing and growing and as Potvin notes: “Items in our store might only be found once, especially keeping in mind our vintage selection.”

Potvin has always gravitated towards small-batch items and clothing herself, and this was the inspiration behind opening Bunch.

“There is something about buying an item that is made slowly, with intention and care from an artist or designer,” Potvin comments. “It makes an impact, on both myself and the person I bought it from.”

In her opinion, having things that are unique — whether it be a vintage item or a t-shirt — creates a memory and a sense of nostalgia that cannot be forgotten.

“I wanted to share those brands, artists and finds with others, and Bunch was born,” Potvin excitedly states. “I had this idea for a store that celebrated other small businesses that I loved and eventually the timing was right and I was able to build my space, with the help of my handy husband, Shane.”

While she acknowledges there are some amazing stores that carry local artisans and Canadian made products in Windsor, she wanted to expand on that and welcome small businesses from all over North America.

“Bunch has a variety of Windsor and Canadian made goods as well, however, I wanted to welcome those who fit the vibe of my store and celebrate the same sense of slow, meaningful products and goods,” Potvin explains. “I strive to fill Bunch with items that cannot be found in Windsor or the surrounding area. Each piece I carry is truly unique, fun and exciting.”

So what can customers expect when they walk through the doors?

You’ll find a “Bunch” of awesome things at her business, from unique gifts for birthdays, holidays or other special occasions, along with home goods and trendy t-shirts that will “pretty much satisfy any wardrobe.”

Potvin expresses that she has had a great time learning how to start, run and grow her business and feels lucky to have a great circle of other female entrepreneurs surrounding her.

She also feels fortunate to have her partner by her side. Shane has owned a successful company for many years and he was able to guide and teach her many things about what running a business means.

“Coming from my background in education, it was definitely a switch to be my own boss,” she notes. “Structured hours are now a thing of the past, and social media is my new best friend!”

Though starting a business is challenging, it is also very rewarding to know that what you’re presenting to others is welcomed and celebrated, she reflects.

Owning Bunch has enabled Potvin to expand on her own artistic hobbies.

“While time has passed and my first year is only a month away, I’ve been lucky enough to become a maker myself and start a rug tufting business, TAB (Tuft A Bunch),” she mentions.

Her advice to other female entrepreneurs is to just get out there and connect with others.

“Making connections to other entrepreneurs can open doors, give support and help you feel oh so welcomed into this awesome community!” she states.

For more details on what could be Windsor’s smallest retail shop, go online to: ShopABunch.ca.

Lauren Potvin is pictured in the middle of her store, Bunch, surrounded by displays of specialty and home décor items for sale. And while the square footage of her retail business may be small, there is still a whole "bunch" of great stuff in its tiny little space! Photo by Rebecca Wright.