ARE YOU A MAKER? Do you make quality, unique, handcrafted products here in the Kootenay's?
If you are interested in submitting your product to sell in the store, please fill out our vendor application form.
Well, Hello there!
We are Kootenay Made
Leanne Hawkins
Store Owner/Manager
First and foremost, I am a Kootenay woman! I've been living in Trail since 2008, but I was born and raised in Fruitvale. Aside from a year spent living in Guatemala in 2004, I have called the Kootenay's my home my entire life. And now, I am proud to be raising my two daughters in this paradise corner of the world with no plans of ever leaving 🤍
Owning my own store had always been a dream of mine. For years, I envisioned a coffee shop and/or a bookstore - two of my passions. Then one day a different idea took shape - a store that sells local products from only in the Kootenay's... a truly local store. What if I could help support and connect talented artisans with the people who value shopping local and supporting local businesses?
After years of running an online marketing business, I decided it was take to take the leap to jump all and bring the vision the life. I jumped in with both feet, opened my very own brick-and-morter store, and Kootenay Made was born!
Kautea Nelson
Sales Associate
Hi!
I started my journey here as a vendor, but somewhere along the way, I bestied a little too hard with the owner - and now I’m part of the team!
Outside of the shop, I’m a collector of hobbies (maybe too many!): beekeeping, singing, hiking, candle making, and reading are just a few of my favourites.
Leanne and I are constantly trading books, so don’t be surprised if our conversations turn into book recommendations!
Mila Mulder
Summer Student
I've spent the last five years watching my mom open & run Kootenay Made Co. so getting to work officially here this summer is pretty cool. I've only helped here and there when needed.
One of my favourite parts of the store is helping people find something they'll genuinely love.
Outside of work, I'm usually reading (probably with a cup of tea or hot chocolate nearby), hanging out with my family, riding my dirt bike or at taekwondo.
I hope you'll stop in and say hi!