there are lots of opportunities for business as long as it’s something that works harmoniously with what’s here already

Now in their 12th year in business, Wilde and Sparrow () attracts a loyal following of local residents and tourists: “Everyone from teenage girls to older, stylish women who want something unique and on trend and not from the mall,” says Shirra Wall, who co-owns the boutique with Trish Smith.

Shirra is a transplant from Vancouver. She came to Parksville in 2000 seeking a smaller community in which to raise her family. In 2011 she decided the time was right to open a modern-style boutique in Parksville offering clothing that ranges “from cheap and cheerful up to mid-range designers.” There are also local and handmade accessories and Wilde and Sparrow’s own line of screen-printed apparel. Small runs and an active presence on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/wildeandsparrow) help maintain a sense of excitement and urgency among customers.

Wilde and Sparrow is now selling its original creations in other shops and has just launched an online store. For Shirra, the possibilities are many for entrepreneurs who take the time to find the right niche for the Oceanside region.

“We have a good size population and we have the tourism population. I do believe there are lots of opportunities for business as long as it’s something that works harmoniously with what’s here already.”