9 Niche Businesses to Know

A few months ago I got to thinking about what really inspired me to start my brand Linzer Lane - and the answer has always been, aside from my love of animals, niche businesses. 

I grew up in the ecosystem of one while my parents ran a specialized gift shop and gallery, and I became drawn to them in college while running around the eclectic streets of the West Village in New York City.

When I moved abroad to Salzburg, Austria with my husband, niche businesses inspired me on another level. Small, adorable, specialized shops were everywhere! From storefronts that sold only buttons, to gingerbread stores, my mind’s creation of ‘Linzer Lane’ began to slowly emerge.

And so today, I’m thrilled to share with you some passionate business owners and individual artists that I have gotten to know throughout the years. Some I met through my Facebook group, and others are just good friends met at craft shows, art shows, and at work.

I asked each business owner to submit one photo that represents them, as well as how to find them online. Take some time to enjoy their stories, and visit their shops if you need a gift or two!

Shop Small & Shop Happy,

xo

Ashley

#1 THE OIL WELL SCENT CO.

I’ve been creating vegan perfumes and home goods since 2017.  I always use organic jojoba oil as my base and strictly plant based essential oils, concretes, and absolutes to scent with.  I’ll never use synthetics as fragrance will wreak havoc on your body.  And who doesn’t want to smell natural beauty? 

Why I do what I do.

My dear mom had developed cancer twice and we are so lucky to still have her. Although, I scolded her for using synthetic perfumes, I was able to steer her into vegan perfumery and, thankfully, she’s been a fan since.  

Instagram

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#2 CRE8IVE CRAYONZ

Personalized crayons- names, gift boxes and party favors

We are a mother - daughter (who is 6) duo inspiring tech-free fun and imaginary play with personalized crayons for the little cre8ives in your life.

Website

Etsy

#3 WENDY TAYLOR-EARDLEY

is a fine artist from North Wales in the UK.

She paints landscapes and things of beauty in an impressionistic style, loving the texture, and appearance of oil as a medium. 

Wendy loves the world of nature in particular and feels it is so important for us all to  appreciate our surroundings and awe inspiring and quiet calming views.

 

A fan of early symbolist painters and impressionists, Wendy feels that we see visual metaphors all around us to help us make sense of our world or situation. Her artworks can simply celebrate  times and places special to us but are often painted with the intention of providing greater meaning.

Wendy is also a trained teacher and graphic artist and design elements come to bear on how work is composed/decided upon.

Instagram

Facebook

#4 KATIE PEA STUDIO

Cute illustrated goods.

This is my creative outlet! I work various freelance jobs but I love having a free space to create art and products that I feel passionate about.

You can check out my website for links to my shop and wholesale information.

#5 AVENUE CHIC

Avenue Chic is a virtual showroom showcasing the work of various jewelry designers from around the world. Many of which are loved and worn by celebrities. 

Now you can accessorize like a celebrity.

Our designer jewelry collections are available at www.avenuechic.com.

Instagram 

Facebook

#6 DIANE LEON

I am an abstract and collage artist born in New York City 

Abstraction gives me the freedom to express my emotions and memories. When I begin a painting, I work with no preconceived idea. I start to lay in color on my paper or canvas. As paint and color build the work takes on a life of its own. It is finished only when it ‘feels’ right to me. It is an emotional rather than intellectual process. I prefer intimate size paper/canvas. It gives me the spontaneity to express how I feel in the moment. 

I have taught at NYU, School of Professional Studies since 1995 as an adjunct associate professor of arts in the Division of Applied Undergraduate Studies. I also do mentoring at The Wasserman Center for Career Development and NYU, The Tisch School of the Arts. 

My work and brief exhibitions/awards can be seen at: www.saatchiart.com/dianeleon

#7 GAYNOR MARSHALL DESIGNS

Illustration and Surface Pattern Design

I've been drawing, sewing and creating my whole life and I believe in sharing my knowledge with others. It is vital that we pass on our collective skills and knowledge so they are not lost forever, especially skills such as sewing and crafting that were once passed down the generations.

I am currently getting ready to launch my first subscription box which will bring together all of my passions; illustration, surface design and sewing. They will include exclusively designed organic fabrics, projects, all the necessary haberdashery and a few surprises too. They will be perfect for anyone with little ones in the family or for gifting to a friend. 

Website

Facebook

Instagram

#8 FILOMENA JACK STUDIO

Murals, Highly Inaccurate Pet Portraits, and Fun and Funky Painting Classes. 

I love helping people laugh and feel joyful. I paint bright and exciting art works that are inspired by love. My classes are accessible and easy for beginners and informative for seasoned painters.

Website

#9 STRAWBERRY & CO.

My favorite niche business of all... ;)

My parents' gift shop, Strawberry & Co., closed a few years ago after being in business for over 35 years in downtown Lancaster, PA. As owners Bern and Wayne Lucas continue their journey into retirement, many of their treasures can still be purchased.

If you're a sucker for beautiful hand blown glass ornaments, imported Easter decor, and beautiful antique figurines, they just might have that perfect item for your collection...

Send a Message on Facebook for More Info

BONUS BUSINESS!

PIPPI HEPBURN

I'd also like to add my dear friend Lisa Best to this list. She makes vegan bags and accessories that are beautifully designed and sewn.

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Thank you so much for reading! Share this post with anyone who loves to find out more about the small businesses, and the wonderful people behind them.

Linzer Lane

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