products” she explains. MacNeil supports local businesses as often as possible and is grateful for the local support she has been given throughout her journey. Two years in, Brenna keeps busy with her store and continues to support local artists and local businesses by putting on workshops. She has rented out her kitchen to a local vendor who has helped more of her visions come to life. While there are mostly Nova Scotian-based products, MacNeil notes that there are also fine food products from Quebec and Italy as well. Gathering rare items that may not otherwise be available in Cape Breton allowing her customers to experience some culinary adventure within the comfort of their own community. After living in Halifax for 25 years, MacNeil is happy to be home and giving her daughter the Island life, she grew up with. There’s always something new at The Corner Store. So, to keep up with Brenna MacNeil and her designs, events, workshops, and café menu make sure to follow her on social media. We also recommend that you stop by and say hello the next time you are heading to the highland in Cape Breton, you’ll be happy that you did.
“There’s a story that goes with each of these products”
way that it was almost like a movie. It was amazing. I didn’t know all the steps, but I’m not afraid to ask the questions,” said MacNeil. With a lengthy list of those small, random conversations and questions that led to the opening of her store, MacNeil goes on to say, “Most of my professional advisors throughout all of this have been women, and absolutely stellar, incredible people. When you look at the list of people, I have that I can ask questions to, it’s pretty awesome. I feel really lucky in that regard as well.”
store for many years, with family input and local inspiration, MacNeil chose, ‘The Corner Store by missbrenna.’ This name represents the people, the place, the history, and her brand name, which she has spent over a decade building, all in one. MacNeil says community response to the name and her little spin on a ‘corner store’ has been extremely positive.
59 Water St., Pictou 902-382-1878 www.mrsmacgregors.com
Anyone following the missbrenna brand and a customer for a long time doesn’t just have one piece from the Love
Cape Breton Collection , they have many. As MacNeil introduces new collections with limited quantities, limited colours, and new logos. The anticipation of when it will come out, what the new design will be, and when it will sell out keeps her loyal
The Corner Store by missbrenna is in a building with a long history. An absolute dream come true for MacNeil; she says she never thought about opening a store anywhere else. She grew up going to the convenience store that used to be there with her
“I spent a lot of time trying to come up with a name,”
A selection of shortbreads hand crafted in our small batch bakery. Flavours range from Classic Scottish and Canadian Maple to Chocolate and even Whisky! Visit our store to check out all the varieties!
family and cousins. Her customers feel that same nostalgia when they walk in. It is a comforting place for MacNeil. A place for community connections, memories to be shared, and candy to be eaten. “I spent a lot of time trying to come up with a name,” said MacNeil. While choosing a name for the store, she considered the local connection. The property is located in the first community before you enter Inverness from the south side, called, ‘The Corner’ . Considering the community’s name and the fact it was a convenience/corner
fanbase coming back for more. MacNeil finds inspiration for her designs from various aspects of Cape Breton Island itself. From walking along the beach to Celtic traditions and even drawing from phrases the locals use. She enjoys changing it up frequently, by ordering unique items including socks, hats, and windbreakers to name a few. Not knowing if, or when the product will be back again is part of her brand. MacNeil says she considers her customer base while placing orders. She tries to keep her clothing orders mostly with Nova Scotian companies and she is mindful of ordering high quality. “There’s a story that goes with each of these
shortbreads · treats & shivery bites · jams & jellies · many other maritime products
56 SPOTLIGHT MAGAZINE ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 24 ISSUE 5
SPOTLIGHT MAGAZINE ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 24 ISSUE 5 57
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