The Trainyard General Store is a vibrant, community-oriented shop located in Downtown Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. Specialising in Canadian-made giftware, the store features pottery, art prints, stationery, books, jewellery, sweets, and more. With over 200 creators represented on its shelves, The Trainyard is more than a retail space—it’s a gathering place for creativity and connection, offering maker pop-ups, accessible workshops, free creative activities, and a pay-what-you-can wall to ensure inclusivity for all.
At the helm of this unique shop is Erin Ferguson (she/her), its Owner. A longtime supporter of local artists and creative communities, Erin took over The Trainyard last year with a commitment to growing its impact. In this interview, she answers questions about her journey, her approach to supporting Canadian makers, and what makes The Trainyard such a special place.
What is your business called and what does it do?
The Trainyard General Store is a community-oriented giftware shop in Downtown Dartmouth. We carry the work of artists from around the corner, around the province and across the country.
You will find pottery, art prints, stationery, soap, books, sweets, jewellery and more! We also host maker pop-ups, creative workshops and give 5% to community partners. The creative space at the back of the shop features a chalkboard wall where people are invited to doodle, as well as chairs and tables where folks can make free bracelets or colour on the free illustrated pages (or just take a break while they are visiting downtown).
What made you want to do this work?
My friend Kimberley started this business 8 years ago and was one of the shops that carried the art I was making at the time. Last year, Kimberley approached me about purchasing The Trainyard, and I immediately knew I wanted to jump in! The Trainyard has always been a welcoming space that is active in the community. We want customers to enjoy taking their time browsing all of the items made by artists and other small Canadian businesses who have their work on our shelves. There are more than 200 makers represented here! Each purchase contributes to us sharing funds with local non-profits and mutual aid requests.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
We aim to provide an accessible location for finding items made by Canadian creators. It is possible to make thoughtful, intentional purchases – knowing where an item was made and by whom! In this space, we build connections and community. We offer intentionally low-cost creative workshops, some free mending meet-ups and have a pay-what-you-can wall, which allows art to be more accessible.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
We are lucky to be supported by so many locals! Folks from Dartmouth, Halifax and the surrounding areas shop here year-round. We are also visited by tourists who hop on the ferry in Halifax and stroll up Portland Street.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We operate on a wholesale basis – purchasing art and goods directly from the artists and small businesses and then selling it at a retail cost in the shop and online.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
137 Portland Street in Downtown Dartmouth
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
Why should I shop at a local store rather than a giant online retailer who offers free, next-day shipping?
When you shop at a local business, you are investing in your local economy and community! The Canadian Federation of Independent Business shared that for every $1.00 spent at a small business, 66 cents will stay local (versus 11 cents of a dollar when you shop at a multinational business). Shopping at The Trainyard not only keeps more of the money in the community, but it directly supports the artists and makers that we buy from, as well as the non-profits and mutual aid groups that we partner with. We fully appreciate that not everyone can afford a $50 hand thrown pottery mug, so we endeavour to carry a significant number of items that retail for less than $15, and also have a Pay What You Can wall.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part of this job is hearing customers react positively to the items they see in the shop. People often feel seen and valued by the art prints, stickers and books they discover. It’s also so fun to see people come back to buy another DIY kit after trying rug hooking, embroidery or needle felting for the first time! Getting to meet all the Dartmouth dogs who visit for a treat is also a major perk! The worst part is not being able to buy from every artist who completes a maker application!
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
Maybe it’s not so much a joke as a common trope about “ the unsatisfied customer.” That isn’t the reality for us, though! We truly have the loveliest customers who are interested in the items we source. They are engaging and supportive – both in-store and in our online spaces.
Where can we follow you?
Instagram | Website | Facebook
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
Downtown Dartmouth has great restaurants, coffee shops and small businesses. I’m really excited about a new yarn and fabric store that just opened this month (Stitch & Knit), and I’ve been a longtime fan of Room 152 – a gem of a consignment shop that is just across the street from us. I prefer to buy pre-owned clothing as much as possible, and there is always something special in their shop!
