Paul Fontaine

WHAT GOT YOU STARTED?

by Burke Campbell 

Published in the Financial Post

 May 11, 2009

Paul Fontaine, a blacksmith, founded Heritage Wrought Iron (www.heritagewroughtiron.com) near Moncton, New Brunswick. Paul Fontaine tells the Financial Post what motivated him to become an entrepreneur.

Countryside: “I grew up with horses. In 1987, at the Atlantic Ferrier School, I learned how to shod them. After ten years, when I developed back pain, I was forced to seek less strenuous work.”

Inspiration: “I gave wagon rides to tourists at a historical village and would assist the village blacksmith. On a visit to Halifax, I saw another blacksmith demonstrating his work and attracting customers. I realized the business opportunity of this skill.”

New beginning:  “Married with a family, I had little money to expand. Fortunately, I obtained a loan through ACOA, the government agency and nine years later, I’m doing well. Now, I plan to become a member of Économusée, a network of artisans in Quebec and Atlantic Canada that promotes educational tourism. Visitors will be able to see how I work in my shop.”

Transition: “Today, I’m designing and making creations in wrought iron, such as an ornamental staircase railing. Iron, so strong, can be formed into wondrous and delicate shapes.”

Joy: “Making a good living and being close to one’s family, this is the greatest happiness.”

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