The idea to launch Indie Owned was born in September '07 when the daughter of a Brookline business owner shared the story of her father's transformation from a traveling consultant, with a passion for puzzles and games, to a puzzle-shop owner in Coolidge Corner. I was intrigued by his story, his commitment to the community, and the involvement of his family in the business. I figured I wasn't the only one in Brookline who would like to know more about the background and stories of Brookline's business owners -- written in their own words. I decided to launch Indie Owned to tell their stories.
Hank (founder of WheresGeorge.com) began by creating IndieOwned.com, allowing each participant to create their own profile online, while I introduced Indie Owned to the business owners. Three months later, we mailed Indie Owned: Brookline ~ 2007, spotlighting over 100 independently owned businesses, to every homeowner in Brookline The reception from the residents and owners was remarkable, encouraging us to continue in other towns. Since then, we have created Indie Owned: Brookline, Newton, Concord, & Allston/Brighton (in conjunction with Mayor Menino's Main Streets Initiative) -- and have Wellesley on deck for the fall.
We certainly have learned a lot since embarking on this project. At the top of the list is our appreciation for the "day in a life" of an independent business owner, whether they are founders of their own business or independent franchise owners. We've learned how hard they work and how significantly they contribute to the fabric of their communities – both with their time and dollars. Our publications proudly tell their stories.
Indie Owned
Debbie Raisner Thompson
Hank Eskin
258 Harvard St.
#333
Brookline, MA
02446
617-264-0594
www.indieowned.com
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