Tell Us Your Story. What motivated you to start your business? Why are you passionate about what you do?

My name is Samara Nicoll, and I've been a passionate book lover since I can remember, harbouring a lifelong dream of owning my own bookstore. For 13 years, I had the privilege of working at the independent bookstore Otter Books, where I gained invaluable experience and nurtured my love for the literary world. When I was envisioning what my store might look like and how it would fit in with the other bookstores in town, I realized that a carefully curated store would compliment what was already on offer, and so I decided to focus on fiction and creative non-fiction books for teens and adults.I like to think of myself as a cheerleader - for all things bookish! I love recommending books to new people, and creating relationships with customers around our favourite reads. Having worked downtown Nelson for well over a decade, I had an idea of what other kinds of items that I love (fountain pens, writing sets, unique cards, fine stationery) were missing, and I felt like I could add to the wonderful small businesses that are a vital part of what makes Nelson a fun shopping destination. When I look at my original business plan, I am happy to see that I have stayed true to my values and vision statement: Notably is an independently owned book and stationery store with a focus on supporting indie and Canadian publishers and authors, along with gift items and sidelines from women led companies, ethically and sustainably minded companies, and local companies/artists. Creating meaningful interactions with customers and offering curated and tailored recommendations. My vision is that you’ll walk in and it will feel both cozy and warm, and spark delight as you keep seeing beautiful things you want to own. Beautiful signage and shelf talkers with book recommendations will help create the atmosphere that items have been chosen with care. I see Notably as a lively space for our literary community to host and attend events. It will help lift the profile of Nelson as a book lover’s town.

Describe and demonstrate, including metrics, your community support. How do you support and uplift your community, and how do they show that support in return? Minimum 25 words, maximum 2500 characters.

Our commitment to community support is fundamental to our identity and mission. We promote local authors through book signings, readings, and discussions, providing a platform for them to connect with readers. Our events, including book clubs and storytelling evenings, and book socials, foster a love for literature and create opportunities for meaningful cultural exchange. Embracing our community's diversity, we curate a wide selection of books that reflect varied perspectives and cultures, promoting inclusivity and understanding. Creating a space where teens can find great reads, and also feel happy and safe to come in and browse and chat with us has been very important and gratifying. We also focus on sharing a love of reading and writing by working closely with our local libraries and supporting our local annual Elephant Mountain Lit Fest through sponsorship, book sales, and promotion. In addition to cultural enrichment, we prioritize environmental responsibility by offering eco-friendly products, and by reusing and recycling as much of the packing materials that our stock is delivered in. For example we use the packing paper from one supplier to wrap our very popular Blind Date with A Book books. We also strive to choose companies who also support eco-friendly, sustainability minded practices. We actively source products locally and collaborate with nearby businesses and artists, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the local economy and fostering interconnectedness within our community. The impact of our efforts is evident in the attendance at our events, consistent participation in book clubs, and positive feedback from both customers and local authors. Social media metrics reflect strong engagement, indicating widespread support and interest. Our customers, who value the personal touch and community-focused atmosphere of our bookstore, demonstrate their loyalty through repeat visits, word-of-mouth referrals, and active participation in collaborative initiatives. The support we receive during events and promotions underscores the community's investment in our bookstore as a cultural and social hub. Ultimately, our success is measured not in sales figures but in the vibrant cultural tapestry we help weave, with community support serving as the cornerstone of our bookstore's impact in our town.

Why do you deserve to win the Business Impact award?

I believe Notably deserves to win the Business Impact award because of our unwavering dedication to our community and our passion for books. Firstly, we've been a breath of fresh air in Nelson's cultural landscape for the last three years, providing not just books and stationery, but a space where locals and visitors alike can immerse themselves in literature and a love of the written word. We've hosted many author events, letter writing nights, book clubs, and community gatherings that enrich the intellectual and social fabric of our town. Secondly, we prioritize supporting local authors and publishers, ensuring their works are prominently displayed and celebrated. By championing local talent, we contribute directly to the artistic and economic vitality of Nelson. Moreover, our commitment to sustainability sets us apart. We source responsibly, prioritize eco-friendly practices, and promote a love for physical books in an increasingly digital age. Our bookstore isn't just a place to buy books; it's a hub for fostering a deeper connection to reading and learning. Finally, winning this award would not only validate our hard work but also amplify our voice in advocating for the importance of independent bookstores in our community. It would enable us to continue growing, innovating, and serving Nelson with even greater passion and purpose. In essence, our bookstore is more than just a business; it's a vital part of Nelson's cultural tapestry. Winning the Business Impact award would recognize and celebrate our contribution to the community we cherish.

Tell Us About Your Culture. How are you creating a sustainable and healthy workplace where everyone feels welcome? Provide examples of leadership you show in interactions with clients, vendors, contractors, staff and others.

As a small book and gift store in the BC interior, our culture revolves around celebrating diversity and fostering inclusivity in all aspects of our business. Creating a sustainable and healthy workplace where everyone feels welcome is not just a goal but a core value that influences every decision we make. One of the ways we ensure inclusivity is by curating a diverse range of books that represent different cultures, perspectives, and voices. Our shelves are stocked with literature from Indigenous authors, LGBTQ+ writers, authors of color, and other marginalized communities. By showcasing these works, we not only enrich our customers' reading experiences but also promote understanding and empathy. In terms of leadership, I personally strive to lead by example in every interaction. Whether it's with customers, vendors, or staff, I prioritize respectful and open communication. I make it a point to listen actively and empathetically to everyone's viewpoints, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. This approach sets the tone for a collaborative and inclusive atmosphere where ideas can flourish. This extends to our hiring practices as well. Though I have a very small staff, when I do hire, I strive to recruit individuals from diverse backgrounds, ensuring our team reflects the rich tapestry of our community. Furthermore, we actively engage with our community through events and initiatives that promote cultural understanding. Whether it's hosting author readings, literary events, or book clubs focused on diverse themes, we work to create spaces where people feel safe to express themselves and learn from one another. In essence, our store is more than just a place to buy books and gifts; it's a hub for connection, inspiration, and hopefully some joy. By embodying these values of diversity and inclusion in every aspect of our business, we hope to contribute positively to our community and inspire others to do the same.

Why do you think you should win the Premier’s People’s Choice Award?

I believe Notably deserves to win the Premier's People's Choice Award because of our unwavering dedication to our literary community. We might be a small retail store, but we have worked hard over the last three years, providing not just a carefully created selection of books and gifts, but creating a space where locals and visitors alike can immerse themselves in literature and knowledge. Creating a space where teens can find great reads, and also feel happy and safe to come in and browse and chat with us has been very important and gratifying. We've hosted many author events, book clubs, and community gatherings that enrich the intellectual and social fabric of our town. Our social media presence is another avenue where we get to be playful and engage with not only our local customers but the wider literary and book lovers community as well, sharing our love of books and stationery, reading and writing. Winning this award would not only validate our hard work but also amplify our voice in advocating for the importance of independent bookstores as a place of building community. It would enable us to continue growing, innovating, and serving Nelson with even greater passion and purpose.