KANSAS CITY, Kan., Nov. 3, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- When Zaarly Storefronts go live on Saturday in Kansas City, the city's thriving entrepreneurial economy will receive another boost; however, this time the focus won't be on emerging tech companies. Instead, Zaarly – an online marketplace – is launching virtual storefronts to help local service providers make money doing what they love.

Now, local chefs, handymen, yoga instructors, gardeners and other service providers can proactively list and sell their skills and services on Zaarly. The Storefronts provide a one-stop, digital shop where local residents can discover Kansas City's most talented, trusted service providers. Kansas City is the first Midwest location to receive access to Storefronts.

"Since our launch nearly 20 months ago, Kansas City has consistently been one of our most active marketplaces. In that time, we've uncovered this incredible network of skilled service providers," explained Bo Fishback, Zaarly CEO and Kansas City resident. "Each person has their own unique story. Some people are working side jobs to earn some extra income, while others are so passionate about their hobby that they're trying to turn it into a full-time business."

Say Hello to Kansas City's Talented Service Providers

Zaarly Storefronts will launch in Kansas City with more than 500 listings from individuals who come highly recommended by other Kansas City residents. Whether a buyer is looking for a baker, a landscaper or a custom furniture maker, Zaarly Storefronts is the answer. For example:

• Jamie Mahoney is a custom cabinet maker. After studying architectural engineering at Kansas State University, he accepted a job at an architecture firm. On the side, Jamie began renovating houses and discovered a talent for woodworking. Since then, he's channeled his creativity to design and build custom cabinetry and vanities.
• As a mother of four, Linda Williams was constantly baking. As she says, "What's a few more cakes here and there?" Her business began to take off after people would request her tasty treats for school events, potlucks and dinner parties. Hundreds of truffle cakes later, she loves sprinkling a bit of happiness in people's lives … one cake at a time.
• Steve Snedeger is a plumber with 20 years of experience. After working for a large plumbing company, he wasn't comfortable overcharging friends and family for his services, so he decided start his own business. Now, whether someone has a clogged garbage disposal or an outdated plumbing system, Steve can solve their problem at an affordable rate, while also donating some of his time to charities in need.
• Michael Fisher is a lawncare expert, who started his landscaping business after it became clear that his job brokering mortgages wasn't going to last. Growing up with a father who always maintained a meticulous lawn, Michael knew he had the skills and experience to create a successful business. His offerings now go far beyond just mowing and watering, including all the services you could imagine to keep everything outside your house running smoothly, all the while helping Michael stay connected to his childhood.

Check out https://zaarly.com/in/kansas-city to discover more amazing Kansas City-based sellers and service providers.

Zaarly Storefronts: Make Money Doing What You Love

Skilled individuals can apply to be featured in Zaarly's seller network. After carefully considering each application, Zaarly chooses the best-of-the-best to highlight on the site. Storefronts are currently available in Kansas City, San Francisco, New York City and Los Angeles, with plans to roll out in additional cities in the coming weeks.

In addition, buyers can still ask for anything from tens of thousands of local, talented people in Zaarly's open marketplace or by using the Zaarly Anywhere button on sites like The Fancy, Everyday Health, Los Angeles Times, Cookstr and IKEAHackers.

Since launching in May 2011, nearly half-a-million people have signed up for Zaarly. In October 2011, Zaarly announced that it had added Meg Whitman, former CEO of eBay and current CEO of HP, to its board of directors.

About Zaarly:

Zaarly is a leading online marketplace to discover, hire and work with talented sellers and service providers in your neighborhood. Based in San Francisco, CA, Zaarly is backed by investors, including Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, Sands Capital Ventures, Ashton Kutcher, Felicis Ventures, Bill Lee, Naval Ravikant, Lightbank, SV Angel, Paul Buchheit, Thrive Capital, Marc Ecko and Michael Arrington. Zaarly is currently available on the web, mobile web, Android and iPhone application. Visit https://zaarly.com/in/kansas-city for more information.

SOURCE Zaarly