It’s not even November and I’ve already caught myself singing holiday songs twice this week while working. This must have been a sign that it’s time to start thinking about holiday SHOPPING! Although the world is currently in a perpetual state of chaos, I’m choosing to ignore that for a bit and look forward to (hopefully) spending the holidays celebrating with family. Although I’m an Amazon girl at heart, I do also love to support local so I had the idea of putting together a list of my favourite local entrepreneurs who could benefit from your business! Hopefully you will find some inspiration for your upcoming holiday shopping. Hurry and order soon as locally created products usually have a longer turn-around time!
The Wooly Canvas
Pioneered by my good friend and mom-preneur, Gillian Kennedy-Gignac, this Montreal artist is best known for her fibre art (check out her beautiful rainbows!), knitwear, macramé, embroidery and oil/acrylic paintings. Frankie and I have a matching set of knitwear for the colder weather and I can attest to their warmth and durability! Check out her Etsy page or contact her directly on Instagram.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewoolycanvas
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/thewoolycanvas/
Mi&Loo
It’s funny how connections get reacquainted years down the line. Amanda and I first met in CEGEP and years later, I find out she has a great business creating customized silicone beaded gifts. Her products are BPA free, contain only 100% FDA approved silicone and don’t have any yucky things in them like phalates, lead or PVC. Check out this mamma’s Instagram page for her latest creations which include keychains, pacifier clips, teethers and more! Frankie is rarely seen out without his personalized pacifier clip!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miandloo/
Kate Albisi Designs
You may have seen digital art floating around your Instagram feed but did you know my sister-in-law makes the most beautiful pieces? If you’re looking for something truly unique and original for a holiday gift, why not get one of your favourite pictures transformed into a work of art? Demand is high so make sure to place your orders sooner rather than later. In the meantime, start shopping for the perfect picture frame for these masterpieces!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katealbisidesigns/
Nancy Nappi – Epicure and Arbonne
Gift baskets are always a great gift for the holidays, especially when you can personalize the contents yourself! If you’re interested in Epicure and Arbonne products, look no further than Nancy Nappi. She is a specialist when it comes to her products and knows a great deal when she sees one. Don’t be shy to reach out! I have always been highly satisfied with her delicious Epicure meal items and Arbonne products safe enough to use on Frankie!
Instagram link for Arbonne: https://www.instagram.com/personal_nap/
Instagram link for Epicure: https://www.instagram.com/love_what_ueat/
Studio Floral Monarc
The holidays may look a little different this year so why not add a bit of charm and elegance to a loved one’s table with a beautiful floral centerpiece? Fully customizable and flexible for any budget, Studio Floral Monarc is my go-to flower store here in Montreal and I can honestly say that I have never been disappointed. Not your typical old-school flower shop, Studio Floral Monarc has found a way to blend old-school class with modern day aesthetics.
Website: https://www.studiofloralmonarc.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studiofloralmonarc/
Izzi-X Lashes
We all have someone in our lives who loves to get a little glam every once in a while (and hey, this could be you!). Even with our lives on semi-permanent pause thanks to COVID, this does not mean that people don’t like to get dolled up and feel like a million bucks. This is why I believe that Izzi-X lashes are the perfect gift for that special somebody in your life! Each strip of these 5D Mink lashes are hand crafted to give you that va-va-voom look that you’re striving for! And the best part? These are not single-use lashes. These lashes can stay on for DAYS and can be reused up to 25 times. Try them once and you’ll be hooked.
Website: https://www.izzi-x.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/izzi_x_/
Pink Paper Creations
There’s nothing better than something personalized. And Amanda from Pink Paper Creations really knows how to deliver! From customized Christmas tree ornaments to personalized door mats, she’s got all of your needs covered! I absolutely adore the tree ornament that she made for Frankie last year to celebrate his first Christmas…can’t wait to get one for the newest member of our family coming soon! And the sweetest part? This year she is donating 15% of all of her ornament sales to the Alzheimer’s Society of Montreal. Quick, get your orders in now because she sells out quickly!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinkpapercreations/
Autumade
When it comes to hand-crafted items, Autumn is an amazing resource! Whether you want to recreate your favourite sign, create a customizable ‘Santa’ tray or even get a water-colour painting of something special, you will find what you’re looking for with Autumade designs. We’re forever thankful for Frankie’s personalized onesie that he wore for his first day of daycare…there was no mistaking what his name was, that’s for sure!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumade/
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/Autumade
YUM Creations
I’m going to end this article with something super sweet…because who doesn’t love receiving something handmade and delicious? Laura from YUM Creations has found the perfect way to blend her artistic talents with edible confectionaries. I ordered some YUMcakies for my birthday and simply WOW…the chocolate cake was my absolute favourite. Why not spoil someone this holiday season with one of her indulgent treats? I promise you, you won’t regret it!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yum.creations/
I hope that this article gave you a bit of inspiration for shopping local and checking people off your holiday gift list at the same time!
Happy shopping!