How did you come up with the idea for Boutiques at House on Dempsey?
When we had our first Boutique event 11 years ago (Boutiques at Fort Canning), it was with the intent of creating an event with only selected vendor participation so that we could uphold a certain quality level.

What was the aim of the fair?
We especially wanted to focus on small independent businesses with in-house designs and collections. We also wanted to be able to offer space to up and coming designers as well as offer free space for charities. We started off with 16 vendors. Today we have an average of 65 vendors and seven charities. The charities participate free of charge.

What was the most challenging part of getting this started up?
As with all startups, the biggest challenge was to get independent businesses to participate. Today we have an extensive waiting list.

What’s special about this fair?
It is carefully curated and provides strong support to charities. We also wish to encourage an independent business community in which everybody is involved in networking with one another.

What are some of your favorite products and vendors?
My favorite vendors are the ones who are passionate about work and who actively take part in the event on all levels.

Who usually attends?
As the event is always during the week, 99 percent are women who are looking for something unique as well as a day out in a relaxing and cozy atmosphere.

How did you approach the charities that you support?
They usually approach us. We tend to support the smaller charities with little or no funding and with children.

Boutiques at House on Dempsey is on Nov 19-20 at House.