From Startup to Success: Community (ft. SnaptureThis)

Discover how SnaptureThis was born around creativity and community—proving that small businesses thrive when rooted in connection.

Description Key takeaways

About this episode

Meet Monica, the founder of SnaptureThis, as she shares her journey from starting a vibrant gift shop to managing multiple retail locations and thriving online—all while staying deeply connected to her community. We also dive into her podcast, Sip It, where she celebrates small businesses and Toronto’s cafe scene. Plus, Monica talks openly about the challenges of balancing business growth with starting a new full-time job.

Key Takeaways

From Etsy to retail: Monica started her journey on Etsy, expanded through wholesale on Faire, and opened both a brick-and-mortar shop and a pop-up space.
Community-first approach: By partnering with local illustrators and manufacturers, the business stays rooted in creativity and connection.
Relationship building: Thoughtfully crafted PR boxes open doors to new partnerships and lasting collaborations.
Staying adaptable: The biggest lesson as a small business owner is to stay flexible and roll with the punches.
Go for it: Ask for what you want—because the worst answer you’ll get is no.

Special guest Monica

Owner of SnaptureThis

Monica is the founder of SnaptureThis. she discovered Etsy in 2013 and launched her own shop a year later after relocating to Toronto. What began as a side project selling prints quickly grew into a thriving business featuring original artwork, commissioned illustrations, and best-selling pieces like the Toronto Coffee Shop V1 Print.

Over the years, Monica has expanded SnaptureThis to include tote bags, apparel, and collaborations with local businesses across Ontario. In 2022, she took a bold step by opening a brick-and-mortar storefront in downtown Toronto.