Chris-Anne and Lawrence Gilmore

For Chris-Anne and Lawrence Gilmore, work is all about getting to do the fun stuff.

Chris-Anne and Lawrence Gilmore are the enthusiastic proprietors of the thriving Your Dollar Store With More in Grand Forks.

When the couple decided the vacation property they’d purchased in the Johnson Flats area bordering the Kettle River was to be their new home—their daughter, Courtney, played a large part in that decision—the next step was to consider what they would do for a living.

“Of course, that would be a small business,” said Chris-Anne. “We’ve both been business people all our lives—that’s just who we are.”

Previously operators of an auto body shop in High River, Alberta, the couple searched for an opportunity that was cut-to-the-chase simple.

“Find a need and fill it,” said Lawrence. “The operating principles for one business are much like any other.”

The Gilmores opened Your Dollar Store With More in Grand Forks and are nearing the completion of three years in business. They’ve contributed to local causes and events, and been involved with the parade committee, the fall fair committee and operating a concession at Boundary Horse Association events.

And they’ve apparently fallen in love with their new enterprise.

“Why not?” said Chris-Anne. “We get to do all the fun stuff, like birthday parties—the happy stuff, like weddings.

“And we get to solve customer problems along the way. A guy with that deer-in-the-headlights look is sure to be looking for decorations for a child’s birthday party and on a deadline. We’ve got his list in boy, girl and unisex and a bag we can fill with everything he needs in 10 minutes flat.”

Now that’s one happy customer.