From Growth to Connection: Lessons from Hohm & Co.

Building a business with heart takes time, intention, and a deep connection to community. Hohm & Co. in Hardisty has mastered this beautifully. Founded by a mother-daughter-son team, this lifestyle boutique has grown from humble beginnings at farmers’ markets into a thriving storefront offering curated home décor, apparel, and custom furniture.

Their journey reflects what it means to grow with purpose. Rather than rushing expansion, they have embraced steady, thoughtful growth, always guided by their values of authenticity, quality, and community connection. Every decision, from the products they carry to the partnerships they form, is rooted in a genuine desire to serve their customers and support other small businesses along the way.

For entrepreneurs seeking inspiration, Hohm & Co. offers valuable lessons on how to build a business that lasts, blending strategy with heart and growth with meaning.

Here are a few key insights from their approach:

1. Growth Can Be Organic and Strategic

Hohm & Co. shows that growth doesn’t need to be rushed. They began at farmers’ markets, transitioned to a storefront, and are now expanding into branded products and furniture wholesaling. By starting small, reinvesting into the business, and growing at a sustainable pace, they’ve been able to focus on the right opportunities at the right time instead of taking on everything at once.

2. Support Local to Strengthen Margins and Relationships

By sourcing from Canadian-owned and Canadian-made suppliers, Hohm & Co. keeps costs manageable while strengthening ties with other small businesses. This approach not only supports the community but also builds resilience and financial stability through strong local partnerships.

3. Consistency Builds Trust

From social media posts to seasonal product launches, Hohm & Co. understands the importance of consistency. Even when life gets busy, they find small ways to stay visible—whether through stories, reels, or product updates—helping customers feel connected and confident in the brand.

4. Define Your Ideal Customer

A major turning point for Hohm & Co. came when they defined their ideal customer. Instead of trying to serve everyone, they focused on one clear customer profile, which brought clarity to their marketing, product selection, and branding. That focus helped their business flourish.

5. Rural Does Not Mean Limited

Being based in a small community has become a strength for Hohm & Co., allowing them to combine the professionalism of urban businesses with the authenticity and heart of rural living.

“Rural does not define you or your business. We can offer the same quality, service, and experience as any urban store.”

Tylene Swanson

If you’re looking for inspiration, visit Hohm & Co. in Hardisty or explore their collection online at www.hohmandco.ca.

As you reflect on your own business, consider these questions:

• How can I grow with intention rather than urgency?
• Am I consistent in showing up for my customers?
• Do I know exactly who my ideal customer is?
• Where can I build stronger local partnerships?

When you apply these lessons, you’ll find, just as Hohm & Co. has, that rural businesses can thrive, inspire, and create a lasting legacy of success.