We need your help !

L'Esprit des Lieux needs your help !

Hi!

My name is Laura, I’m 32 years old, and I took over the Esprit des Lieux boutique—founded in 1997 by Jeanne and Alexandre—on May 31, 2024. I’ve been here for two years now.

When I arrived, I changed the logo, did some renovations, added local designers, and tried to bring the collection to life by building a bridge between designers and customers through customization and made-to-order options, as well as offering one-of-a-kind pieces. To keep up with the digital transition, I launched an e-commerce site featuring exclusively one-of-a-kind designer pieces.

The clientele is loyal, and I can say it’s been a great pleasure getting to know them; I love connecting with them through conversations. It’s a real joy to meet so many designers regularly and to be able to collaborate with them.

I want to keep going, but if I’m making this video, it’s because things are complicated. I’d rather reach out to the community than just close up shop without saying anything.

Construction on La Riponne began three months after I launched my business, blocking the northern route and eliminating parking spots in the city center.

• 10,000. - The first tier would help me reduce the credit and COVID loan that I’m struggling to repay each month.

• 16,000.- Would cover outstanding insurance bills, fiduciary fees, electricity, and other expenses.

• 25,000.- Would cover outstanding bills from local

• 50,000.- Would allow us to have a safety cushion, and to invest in making a better storefront (scratched glass, graphitis, signage).

There is hope !

Embarking on an entrepreneurial venture alone amid disruptive events can only be promising once the situation stabilizes.

• By mid-2026, construction on the Riponne parking garage should be complete, and things will return to normal

• The Riponne Market will return, and regular vendors’ stalls will be back soon

• With the completion of the tram construction, foot traffic in the downtown area will increase

Once the work is complete, the return to normal will allow the shop to operate with a steady flow of visitors to the city center.

I’ll be able to start my third year at L’Esprit des Lieux with renewed energy, focusing on the shop’s future with peace of mind, increasing collaborations, buying stock directly from artisans (no consignment), and enabling them to create more.

So please help us survive these next few months—it’s worth it!

Because L’Esprit des Lieux is much more than a shop; it’s an independent space, filled with talented creators and thinkers who bring this place to life through their work. It’s a hub for exchange around craftsmanship, where the curious will find plenty to explore.

Our mission: To continue this adventure for another 10 years, celebrating the seasons with creations that are ever more beautiful and authentic, while giving many creative minds the freedom to share their work and leave you with timeless gifts.

Alone I can't anymore, together we can

Having embarked on this venture alone from the start, investing my own capital, I’ve reached a realization: I can no longer continue on my own. Tired of making payment plans and constantly managing crises, I’m overwhelmed by administrative tasks and unable to plan the shop’s activities (events).

First and foremost, I need to get my finances in order. This should allow me to pay suppliers, tradespeople, and outstanding bills, as well as the rent, which would free me from a huge burden and allow me to continue running my business with greater ease.

Having experienced a Christmas with 50% less revenue compared to years without renovations, some expenses from the previous year couldn’t be covered. The goal is to compensate for 2025 and ensure the shop’s viability in 2026.

The money would allow the shop to maintain its stock, which is dwindling rapidly, but with expenses and rent, I’m struggling to invest properly to replenish it.

Renovating, making the storefront more attractive.

If we can raise funds, that’s even better, as it would give the business a reserve to avoid similar situations in the future.

If the spirit of this place also holds a special place in your heart, help us and let’s keep this legendary spot alive for at least another 10 years!