A Treasure Hunter’s Dream: The Heartfelt Journey of Lindsay Rennie and Betty’s Marketplace

In the heart of Tillsonburg, Ontario, nestled on Broadway Street, lies a little gem called Betty’s Marketplace. Step inside, and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a world of warmth, creativity, and community. But behind this thriving artisan store is a story of passion, perseverance, and a love for thrifty treasures that began long before the doors ever opened.

Lindsay Rennie, the visionary behind Betty’s Marketplace, grew up in a family where thriftiness wasn’t just a necessity—it was an adventure. “I have fond memories of ‘treasure hunting’ every week with my mother and grandmother,” Lindsay shares. Those early days of sifting through secondhand shops and flea markets planted a seed in her heart, a love for finding beauty in the unexpected.

As a stay-at-home mom, Lindsay turned her passion into a hobby, launching Betty’s as an online thrift store from her home. What started as a small venture quickly grew, thanks to her keen eye for unique finds and her ability to connect with local artisans. “It was just me, my family, and a handful of makers offering made-to-order items,” she says. But the community’s response was overwhelming, and in 2018, Lindsay took a leap of faith, moving Betty’s into its first brick-and-mortar location.

The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. “Moving to brick-and-mortar was a huge leap for us that we undertook without much planning,” Lindsay admits. There were moments of doubt, sleepless nights, and the constant pressure to adapt in an ever-changing retail landscape. But with the support of her family, friends, and an unshakable determination, Lindsay persevered. In 2020, Betty’s Marketplace moved to its current home at 87 Broadway Street, a vibrant space that now houses over 100 local businesses.

What makes Betty’s Marketplace truly special is its commitment to local artisans and sustainable living. “We source the majority of our products from local Canadian makers,” Lindsay explains. “There’s a personal aspect to every item we sell.” From handmade jewelry to personalized gifts, each product tells a story, and Lindsay takes pride in helping customers turn their visions into reality.

For Lindsay, the most rewarding part of running Betty’s isn’t just the success of the business—it’s the connections she’s made along the way. “The friendships I’ve built in this town mean everything to me,” she says. “And I love that I’m setting an example for my children, showing them that with persistence, dedication, and grit, you can make your dreams come true.”

Even during tough times, Lindsay finds motivation in her family, her staff, and the impact Betty’s has on the community. “We’re helping families clothe their kids for less, providing a safe space for people to gather, and creating a place where memories are made,” she says. “That’s what keeps me going.”

If you’re visiting Betty’s Marketplace for the first time, Lindsay hopes you’ll feel like you’re stopping by to see an old friend. “We want everyone to feel safe, welcomed, and inspired by the uniqueness of what we offer,” she says. From the carefully curated selection of products to the warm, inviting atmosphere, Betty’s is more than a store—it’s an experience.

For anyone dreaming of starting their own artisan business, Lindsay’s advice is simple but powerful: “Expect to work harder than you ever imagined. And don’t take things too personally. Not every maker will be a good fit, and not every month will be easy—but it’s all worth it in the end.”

Betty’s Marketplace is more than just a store; it’s a testament to the power of community, the beauty of handmade goods, and the magic of chasing your dreams. So, the next time you’re in Tillsonburg, stop by 87 Broadway Street. You might just leave with a treasure—and a story—of your own.

Follow Betty’s Marketplace on Instagram (@bettys.marketplace & @bettys.thrifty.threads) and Facebook to stay connected with this incredible journey. You can also shop online here or visit the store at 87 Broadway Street, Tillsonburg, ON.