Our story

In December, Once@426 Boutique and Market will quietly and gratefully step into its tenth year. Sometimes that feels impossible to say out loud. What began at the end of 2017 as a hopeful leap into something entirely new has slowly grown into a life, a community, and a little corner of King Street that means more to our family than words can properly express.

Inside our old building from the 1850s along the St. Lawrence River in downtown Prescott, Ontario, there have been long days, uncertain seasons, laughter, reinventions, late nights unpacking boxes, website learning curves, changing retail trends, and more paint touch ups and repairs than I can count. Through every bump over the past nine years, our family has somehow kept moving forward together. Gerry, Jessica, Jared, Austin, and even our beloved pets Aspen, Snowflake, and Penelope have all played their part in supporting the store, supporting me, and supporting the dream that this little boutique could continue to grow into something lasting and well known.

What has surprised me most over the years are the people. The wonderful conversations. The friendships. The customers who became familiar faces and the online shoppers from across Canada, the United States, and beyond who decided to trust a small family business tucked into a historic river town. You have helped us grow every single year. Many of you have written the kindest reviews, sent encouraging messages, shared our posts with friends, and reminded us that personal service, kindness, and genuine connection still matter deeply in this world.

Once@426 has always been about more than clothing. It is about helping women feel seen, comfortable, confident, and perhaps even a little excited to get dressed again. It is about finding beautiful things, thoughtful gifts, specialty foods, and pieces that become favourites for years. It is about creating a welcoming place where people feel at ease the moment they walk through the door.

As we look toward year ten, I still feel the same excitement I felt in the beginning. There is still so much I want to learn, create, and build. Thank you for helping our family carve out a space in this very large world. Thank you for shopping small, for cheering us on, and for continuing to grow alongside us. The story of Once@426 is still being written, and I truly believe the best chapters are yet to come.