May 12, 2023 Community News
“For more than 30 years, I have been making glass jewelry, most of that time living in Biddeford. I focus on locally made and Fair Trade products, with an emphasis on women-owned businesses. I believe it’s important to support the creativity of local artisans, as well as the beautiful work of international artisans.
I know the potential that this little city has and I wanted to continue being a part of it. I had always dreamed of owning my own gift shop boutique to display my work, as well as the creativity of the many artists I have come to know near and far.
Not only has Trillium provided a place for the community to enjoy all of Main St., but we often host events and sales with the sole purpose of raising money for local charities and interests.
For example, this summer we had a 10-year-old local boy as our ArtWalk artist. He called it Portraits for a Purpose. We raised over $300 for the Biddeford Food Pantry. We have also hosted a book release with money going to dog rescues. And, we have held sales to benefit the Maine Cancer Foundation.
As a small business owner, I was very concerned about my future when the pandemic began. I was also concerned for my friends and neighbors who own businesses on Main St. and have all worked so hard to bring this City back.
Working through this period has reinforced for me the value of time and patience, and to not panic when things are beyond your control. It has also shown me how the business community in Biddeford works to support one another during very trying times.
I’ve lived here so long that I knew a lot of my customers before they were customers. Now, though, they have become friends. They are the reason why we’re here. Having been in business for six years, it feels so nice to be a part of an amazing community and to help others how we can. Biddeford is my home and I didn’t want to do anything like this anywhere else.
Receiving this award has truly helped to validate Trillium’s values of being creative, fair and representative.” - Renee Messier, Owner of Trillium
Congratulations to Trillium on being selected as one of our winners for the Heartbeat of Our Community Award!