Stepping into Buck’s Hard Goods, with its exposed brick walls and vintage Canadiana paintings, one can’t help but appreciate the warm and inviting atmosphere of the boutique. Walls are adorned with western style hats, beautiful purses and open shelving with stylish footwear for men and women. The decor boasts a perfect mix of hipster and bohemian, and is bound to leave customers with the impression that any purchase they make will elicit nods of approval by the coolest passersby.
Co-founder Renee MacKenzie opened the shop in June 2015 with her daughter, Kayla, after ending a promising but demanding career that left her burnt out and facing a health crisis. Although opening a store had always been a fantasy, Renee found herself toying with the idea after several circumstances converged in her life.
“I had to leave my job, my kids were getting older, Kayla was finishing her program in graphic design, and I knew I had to do something,” says Renee. “When I shared the idea of opening up a shoe store with Kayla, she said, ‘Let’s do it,’ and one thing led to another.”
Although Renee and Kayla run the day-to-day operations of Buck’s Hard Goods, it is truly a family business. Renee's husband, Ken, and second daughter, Sarah, also contribute extensively to the store’s success.
