New outdoor-adventure store opens on Church Street South

Kyle Sietzema shows some of his inventory at his new outdoor-lifestyle business located at 11 Church St. S.

By Wendy Lamond

“Avontuur” is the Dutch word for Adventure and now the name of the new store in town located at 11 Church St. S.

Owner Kyle Sietzema started his outdoor-lifestyle shop online in 2020 with inventory to promote an adventurous lifestyle with items for golf, pickleball, camping and outdoor gear, outdoor games and, most recently, apparel. Sietzema has a history in sales, marketing and logistics and has used those skills building his current business.

Due to the rise in shipping costs, Sietzema decided to open his own brick-and-mortar shop and chose St. Marys because of the beauty of the town.

Right now, the hours of the new store are Thursday 12-5 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 12-5 p.m. with hopes of extending those in the near future.

Sietzma is trying to focus mostly on Canadian brands with product from Halifax, Vancouver, Quebec, Toronto and some beautiful homemade blankets from Victoria, B.C.

“The community has been very receptive and supportive,” Sietzema said. “The foot traffic is growing every weekend, and we are very happy to be part of such a warm and welcoming town.”

Sietzema, along with his partner, Laura Biggs, have lived in St. Marys for four years. Biggs is an artist and designed the business logo from Sietzema’s own truck and trailer. The pair are outdoor adventurers and love the town. Biggs even recently joined the town’s beautification committee.

Avontuur is currently offering an opening sale of 20 per cent off leading up to an official grand opening. The business can be found on Instagram and Facebook, and is a great addition to our town.

Go check them out and get some ideas to get outside, get active, look and feel great.