Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Miriam Zittell and John Honeyman, Owners of Mellah Rugs, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We sell Moroccan rugs. Our offering includes a collection of beautiful one-of-a-kind vintage rugs and modern rugs that can be made to order. We work with individuals looking to update and elevate their homes, as well as designers working on projects of all scales, locally and internationally.

Tell us about yourself

While on a sabbatical in Marrakesh in 2016, we fell in love with the textiles and artisanal works of Morocco. We established Mellah upon our return to Toronto, Canada, renovated a diamond in the rough storefront on College St., operated there for three years, and moved to 373 Roncesvalles in the summer of 2019, where we now share our amazing collection of Moroccan rugs, both vintage and modern.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

March 2020 was terrifying as a small business owner, but as a small shop, we were able to quickly pivot and bring in inventory to meet the needs of our individual and designer clients.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

You're only as good as your last sale!

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Hire a good accountant.
  2. No matter how long you have been doing something, there will always be opportunities to learn and improve.
  3. Be kind, be honest but stand up for yourself when you need to.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.mellah.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mellahprojects
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mellah_projects/


If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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