Rolling with Sarah

I love to shop and support local, but unfortunately this isn’t always easy with a wheelchair, especially in a historic village where access to businesses is limited. That’s why I’m so excited about my recent shopping trip to the store All The Things, located on Main Street in Merrickville.  I needed a nice gift for a special friend’s birthday and was hoping for something a bit different for this occasion.  I found just what I was looking for.  I can’t overemphasize how much fun it is to be able to go into a store and shop for myself rather than having to wait outside!

There is a ramp leading up to the store and no pesky threshold bump in the doorway. My wheelchair glided in with no issues. Though there was no actuator, the door was open so that made entry easy and the helpful owner, Julie immediately offered any assistance I may have needed. The one thing to be mindful of is the bump in the roadway curb cut heading up to the store, but this is an issue throughout the village and not a store owner responsibility.  With the assistance of my mom who joined me on this adventure, I was able to tackle the curb.

Once inside, I was able to tour the main level with no problems whatsoever. I got a chance to see all of the interesting and quirky merchandise. I loved how almost all of it was from Canadian artists and creators. Our country has so many talented artists to support! From jewelry made from former drum cymbals to intriguing craft kits, there was plenty to peruse. 

There were steps to the second floor, but the owner Julie offered to get anything I would like to look at and bring it to the main level. I can’t tell you how refreshing it was to have a conversation with a shop owner who was so determined to make their business more accessible.  She asked me for suggestions, so I offered the idea of using an iPad or similar technology to create a virtual tour of the second level so guests with mobility challenges can scope it out and request to see any items they might be interested in. I’ve seen a similar program work at Upper Canada village.  Nevertheless, the openness to consider how to improve accessibility is refreshing as I more often hear,  “I can’t do this because…”

Considering the warm welcome that I received , I will definitely be a repeat customer. I was treated with respect. Hopefully my suggestions were helpful. I encourage all business owners to be on the lookout for accessibility grants as new ones pop up all the time. It is too bad that the expense often makes it difficult for businesses to make changes for the better but with more awareness I sincerely hope that will change.  Sometimes though even simple changes can make a huge difference – like an entry ramp, better signage, uncluttered store layouts or altering a threshold.  Persons with disabilities are customers too.

If you are looking for a gift or just a treat for yourself, I strongly recommend All The Things. For the customer service alone, it is worth your while. A special thank you to the owner Julie for her interest in making the world a more accessible place, one shop at a time.