Billy Would Designs is a Vancouver-based company started in 2007 recycling wood and skateboards turning them into jewellery, accessories, and small homewares. In 2022, they opened a boutique store featuring the Billy Would line as well as a curated collection of local handmade art, clothing, pottery and gifts.
Question: How are you supporting local businesses?
Answer: I try to source close to home as much as possible! All the designers and artists I carry in the store are Canadian, and 80% are from right here in BC. There are too many to list, but a sample of Vancouver artists and designers our store supports are the Dolly Shop, Couture Therapy, Jemma Vanosch, Coconama, and Conscious Care. In terms of our service suppliers, for any design work, printing, insurance, and other support materials/services we use Vancouver-based companies whenever possible. For instance, we work with String Creative for graphic design, use Graffika for printing, and we bank with Vancity. We use local restaurants, spirits and entertainment for any events, food from Nonna’s Cucina, drinks from Driftwood Spirits, Powell Brewery, Container Brewing and Wildeye Brewing and music from Matt Kennedy.
Question: What social and environmental practices are you proud of?
Answer: My business has always had a strong focus on sustainability. All the wood material I use is reclaimed and recycled and the majority of the store fixtures are repurposed and built in-house. The artists and designers we carry in the store align with our social and environmental values, prioritizing quality, small batches, handmade close to home. We employ local staff who share a passion for local and handmade as well as strong community connections. Most of them are within walking distance to work. They receive flexible scheduling, freedom and product perks along with creative support. Some of our favourite charities and groups we connect with are Nation Skate Youth, the Moose Hide Campaign, Atira, and the Construction Foundation of BC.
Follow Billy Would Shop on Instagram
/