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At this point, it’s no secret that we need to make some changes. And we need to make them now, for the sake of something pretty darn important — the planet.
One local business recognized this need, and found an opportunity to make it easier for Kelowna residents to have a positive impact. Jaye Siegmueller, Founder and Owner of Farm Bound Zero Waste Grocery, was inspired to open the store after years of working with farmers and delivering organic produce to people throughout the B.C. Interior.
“We have been doing deliveries of organic food for the past four years, and I knew we could do better,” said Siegmueller. “I was tired after work one day so I ordered takeout food, and after I was done there was this mountain of garbage in front of me. So I thought to myself, ‘I’m one person, with one meal!’ Just imagine all the trash that is created everyday.”
“The store wasn’t created for people to be absolutely perfect with their waste. It was created as an invitation for the people and for the producers to see if we can make small changes together. Who knows what big results will be cultivated from the introduction of this tiny store,” added Siegmueller. “It’s about so much more than a business that sells goods for money. It’s a movement, and I’m so grateful the community is supporting it.”
As with many great accomplishments, Farm Bound didn’t come to fruition without some adversity. The store was set to open two separate times — once in September (perfectly timed for harvest season) and once for Christmas — but persistent flooding postponed progress.
“Many people were sending me books and quotes that talked about resistance from the universe when you are about to do something big, something that hasn’t really been done before and will change things,” said Siegmueller. “Resistance showed up for us, so we must be onto something.”
The store finally opened on April 1st, and while Siegmueller would have preferred to open at a time when more produce from B.C. was available, the local goods have started rolling in for the spring season.
To Farm Bound’s surprise, produce hasn’t been the number one selling product category so far. Zero waste living supplies (straws, cutlery kits, beeswax wraps, etc.) and personal care/household items (shampoo/conditioner bars, deodorant, cleaning products, etc.) have been the top sellers.
In any case, Farm Bound is overwhelmed by the support they have received so far.
“There has been so much support from the community, and patience as we all learn together,” said Siegmueller. “It’s so great to be able to offer a space without judgement. We want people to come in and feel empowered no matter where they are on their journey to a healthier life and a healthier planet.”
Siegmueller’s advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs? Build community first, and the money will follow.
“Have you ever met those business owners that are just about making a buck? Or that focus on customer service so intensely that it comes across as fake?” said Siegmueller. “Building a purpose-driven business takes the ability to focus on building a community of people that believe in what you are doing. Then you won’t ever feel like you have to ‘sell’ anything. Your business and purpose will radiate authentically without feeling like you have to force it.”
To learn more about Farm Bound Zero Waste, you can visit their website or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
Local Community Advertising