It can be hard to define because it means different things to different people. Below are four pillars of self-care that can be considered and implemented in daily practice. 

1. Self-care is thinking about and practicing self-compassion.

Simply put, embracing a responsibility to treat yourself with care and concern, just like the way you treat someone you love with compassion and understanding.

How do you practice self-compassion?
One example is to release the grip on the relentless “should” that comes up when something does not work out in a predicted way. I should have done that, I shouldn’t have said this. We are not mind readers or future predictors. 

Mistakes are normal and can be a doorway to a new perspective and a new path. We can extract the learning while still being kind. 

2. Self-care is self-discipline. 

It is hard to find motivation to exercise, eat healthy, sleep adequately, and set a schedule. They are not always inherently satisfying. At the same time, these four building blocks are key regulators of health, thus serving a higher purpose.

Optimal health and mental health help us work on goals, participate meaningfully in tasks and show up for people. Finding purpose to do something where the motivational impacts may be delayed takes self-discipline.

3. Self-care is self-preservation. 

Have boundaries with work, life and yourself. Researcher and social worker Brené Brown, talks about boundaries in a simple way that sticks: what is okay and what is not okay. Boundaries that give too much away can leave us feeling depleted, burnt out and taken advantage of. Boundaries that are too rigid can deprive us of taking risks and diminish our capacity for empathy.

Balance happens when we can act as flexible and insightful gatekeepers to our time, energy and acts of service. You are the best consultant and enforcer to say what is okay and not okay for you; try to look inwards for a quiet moment and ask yourself. 

4. Self-care is finding what ignites joy and invites pleasure. 

This should not be confused with overindulgence. Joys and pleasures can be the small, non-highlight reel moments of life. They can also be goals related to work, relationships and life. 

Adults, just like children, get fed and nourished with play and having creative goals to set and work towards. Leaving our comfort zones at times, which is not always pleasant, can be necessary for growth. Stretching the mind, body and soul can allow us to live out our full potential or as close to it as we can envision. 

First published in The Taddler Fall 2020, Mental Health Corner by Taddle Creek Family Health Team. Republished with permission from the Author, Alexandra Kobayashi, Social Worker, Toronto.

Canuck Wellness

Energetic Presence Ann-Marie Ahye

Contemplative psychotherapy, relational somatic therapy, energy balancing, mindfulness meditation, mindful yoga, and international wellness retreats.

Operating at the holistic intersection of Western psychotherapy and Eastern mindfulness traditions, this transformative practice helps individuals heal emotional blocks and realign with their true nature. The practice is anchored in the profound personal journey of its founder, Ann-Marie Ahye, who pivoted from a career in architecture to a life dedicated to mapping the human psyche and somatic landscape. Drawing from over forty years of experiential learning, Ann-Marie guides clients past superficial talking points and into the raw, felt sensations where deep emotional processing occurs.
Whether through localized individual sessions, immersive workshops, or signature international wellness retreats in destinations like Costa Rica, Tobago, and Bali, Energetic Presence provides a space designed to soothe the nervous system, dismantle unyielding ego masks, and unlock long-stifled vitality.

Soul Healing School Sheri Fogarty

Holistic Medicine Practitioner in Central Toronto promoting a healthier, more fulfilled lifestyle using natural therapies.

Sheri Fogarty is a Licensed Holistic Practitioner, Wellness Coach and Reiki Master. She offers natural, hands-on healing and meditation therapies to individuals and corporate clients seeking to promote a healthier, more satisfying lifestyle.
Her practice includes Reiki, meditation, yoga, aromatherapy, shiatsu, spiritual coaching and chakra balancing. These treatments are well known to reduce stress, promote happiness and create an immense sense of well-being.
Corporate Wellness Programs, Workshops and Coaching in person, online or by phone.

BROWN GIRL OUTDOOR WORLD Demiesha Dennis

Curated seasonal excursions including fly-fishing, hiking, stand-up paddleboarding, ice-fishing, and cross-country skiing, alongside outdoor education and community-building workshops.

This vital advocacy and adventure community creates intentional, visible, and safer community spaces for Black, Indigenous, and anti-racist racialized women to experience the transformative joy of outdoor adventure.
The initiative was born out of the lived experience of its founder, Demiesha Dennis, who immigrated to Canada from Jamaica at age 18. Having spent her childhood climbing trees and exploring the outdoors with boundless curiosity, Dennis found a profound lack of diversity in Canada’s parks and outdoor marketing campaigns. Her early Canadian angling adventures were defined by fierce determination. Demeisha taught herself to fish on the shores of Toronto's Humber River using a makeshift rod crafted from a stick, crochet thread, and a safety pin.
In 2018, she launched this community to bridge the gap between marginalized individuals and the wild. Today, the organization curates beautifully supported, gear-accessible, and psychologically safe expeditions that empower women of colour and queer adventurers to push past their comfort zones and cultivate a lifelong, reciprocal relationship with the Canadian wilderness.

The corner grocery stores are disappearing but you can still find Caribbean Corner located at 171 Baldwin west of Spadina, here since 1977.

No West Indian comes here and exits without some fresh fruits and vegetables like plantain, okra, bodi, shadow bene, banana leaves, scotch bonnet peppers, salt fish and cassava from the islands.

Art from 185 Augusta, Deadboy and more is admission free and passionately served. Rob Ford, former Prime Minister Stephen Harper, features along the way, as the sweet smell of cinnamon signals Mexican Churros around the corner at $13. per dozen filled with caramel, chocolate or strawberry sauce.
Deep-fried while you wait. Served hot at Pancho's on Augusta.

Bursts of colour and beauty taking shortcuts through many, many downtown laneways.

Just bring your own paddle and ball for Ping Pong at June Rowlands Park at Davisville and Mt. Pleasant. The ice cream truck still appears every Spring and is in serious need of a 2026 makeover - Gelato, Yogurt shakes and Kombucha popsicles anyone?

Brett’s Ice Cream

Open during the warmer months, Brett Young and her partner serve Belly all-natural, handcrafted artisan ice cream by the scoop or take-home pints made with 100% Ontario Cream and GMO-free.
2 Locations: 1007 & - Kingston Road, Scarborough, ON.

It's art on the street in Kensington. Thank You for no car Sundays in the summer.

Weathered and neglected for years, this unbranded wood makes for an exotic 352 Baldwin shop front.

Endorse, support or get more info about Crystal Lameman, Beaver Lake Cree Nation, Canada in NOBEL WOMEN’S INITIATIVE.

Not much warmth from the grate and a light green blanket at Bay and Bloor in below-zero weather.

Get inspired by the work of French Street Artist Dran and British street Artist Banksy.

Giant multicoloured navigational buoys designed by Douglas Coupland in collaboration with Philips-Farevag-Smallenberg.

What a beauty!

On the way home and on the theme of one-of-a-kind, we find a lotus. Ryerson University / Mount Pleasant Cemetery bicycle rack competition 2010 winning design LOTUS by Katy Alter and Jeff Cogliati bring together aesthetic, functionality and ease of use in perfect harmony.

Out front at the Direct Energy Centre at Exhibition Place, we're happy to find this wonderful swirl of serious bike parking available.

Early morning market's a breeze.

Stores are still shut tight in Kensington Market, and hand-painted artwork on the storefronts is exposed when shutters are closed. A few early morning breakfast-seekers and food shoppers are about.

Both urban artscape and natural colours of Fall inspire and charm.

We stop just for a moment to enjoy the play of light and the uplifting feeling that a splash of colour adds to life.

Closed Coffee Shop front counter art

It's like a different scarf every day, the vines changing colours, wrapped around this Church on Belsize Drive, now replaced by townhomes.

Halloween skeleton pirates hang out below the brightest shades of orange and yellow.

On Oct 31, a front yard line-up of Halloween favourites includes pumpkins, spiders, witches, and Count Dracula.

Leaf tips seem dipped in petal colours after the rain.

Which way to the ROM?

An explosion of colour and translucent light was the exhibition by American glass sculptor, Dale Chihuly, at the Royal Ontario Museum. Wonderful for kids! What’s On at the ROM.

Groceries bagged, and a quiet street makes a skateboard-perfect ride home.

This article is in memory of New York photojournalist, Bill Cunningham 1929-2016.

What's On

• Eventbrite: Events and Things to do in Toronto

• City Festivals and Events Calendar

• What's on at Harbourfront Today

• Looking Back: Canada BiblioArchives / Library Archives Library and Archives Canada (LAC) collects and preserves Canada's documentary heritage.

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Green Space

The Kay Gardiner Beltline Trail runs from west of Allen Road and south, just west of the Don Valley, and is a great city escape for cyclists and walkers.

BRICKWORKS

Evergreen community naturalization programs is a collective effort that includes people from all walks of life in the revitalization of their schools, community and in making cities our more livable. Spread the green.

Get there on Saturday for the Farmers' market. The Evergreen Foundation is our blazing star, forging ahead to raise $55 million to transform this heritage site into a sustainable urban green space.

As part of the Don River watershed and City of Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation, this urban oasis helps to protect wildlife and habitat.

A splendid hike through the Central Ravines and Beltline is part of the urban forest pathway leading to the Evergreen Brickworks conservation area, where Saturday morning is buzzing with a Farmers Market and family activities.

Trees make our city livable. One of the most valuable resources in our city is our 10.2 million trees.

Allen Gardens is set in one of Toronto’s oldest parks and transports you into a warm, humid horticultural feast of six themed greenhouses featuring a mature forest of Palms, Succulents, Bamboo, Orchids, Hibiscus and Bromeliads.

This is an urban botanical oasis offering welcome sanctuary among beautiful plants from around the world, often finding some privacy from unwelcome stares under the centre piece historic, cast-iron and glass domed “Palm House”, built in 1910.

Early morning at the David Balfour Park in the Deer Park neighbourhood. The Rosehill Reservoir sits under this glorious park at 75 Rosehill Ave., just two blocks southeast of St. Clair Ave. and Yonge St.

City Hall's best-kept secret: The Podium Green Garden is an expanse of public garden space at the pod level at City Hall, which may not be visible from the street but is a sweet space to get away from the crowds at Queen St. and Bay.

Just go for a walk!. My friends travel all over the world only to discover that Toronto is a natural wonder with 600 km of trails and more than 1,600 parks like this one, midtown in the Village of Yorkville.

Garden West

Going out of town in search of something Victorian? An afternoon at the Royal Botanical Gardens on the border of Burlington and Hamilton is divine.  If you take your bike on the Go Train, you get off at Aldershot, and it's probably a less than 15-minute ride down to the lake at the Gardens. Visit the tea room in the gardens for lunch.

A new bride joins her wedding party for a ferry ride to Ward's Island and the wedding reception.

Toronto City Bicycling Map.

Star Gazing

If you love looking up at the stars, the David Dunlap Observatory offers public viewing nights held most Saturday nights throughout the summer months and early fall. This facility is located in Richmond Hill, Ontario and is operated by The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.

GreenShift supplies cups and other products made from sugarcane, corn or natural paper fibres with special certified, biodegradable coatings.

Bluffers Park is 14 kilometres of waterfront, public, open, day-use park with a long sandy beach, picnic areas, swimming, scenic trails, a volleyball court, launching facilities for recreational boaters, as well as private yacht clubs with the backdrop of the majestic Cathedral Bluffs rising more than 90 metres above Lake Ontario.

On New Year's Eve, you can ride the TTC for FREE. Party and hang with your friends - no one needs to drive, including the über driver, Toronto Transit Commission.

July at Ward’s Island, Toronto. Lunch stop at the Lake, Ward's Island, looking back at the city across Lake Ontario.

Quote from Canadian Author, Charles Montgomery, Happy City: Transforming Our Lives Through Urban Design.

Arva Flour Mill & Store

Natural heritage flour, in-store or shipped to your door, from non-GMO wheat grown by small nearby farms.

This is one of North America’s oldest continuously operating water-powered commercial flour mills, established in 1819. They produce three different flours using antique cold roller mills. No bleach or enhancers make natural flours more perishable than commercially altered flours. 100% Whole Wheat, All-Purpose, and Pastry Flour are perfect for piecrusts, cookies, and biscuits.
Owned and operated by the fourth generation of the Scott family, The Mill House Bakery in Arva, Ontario, offers delicious artisan breads and a vast array of organic, local products.

Photo credit above: The Kitchen Fairy

Ozery Family Bakery

Alternative bread products made from hearty whole grains, fruits and seeds are available at stores nationwide.

From the original sandwich shop in Toronto and a search for a real and flavourful sliced bread alternative, brothers Alon and Guy Ozery refined a truly unique and delicious product.

Ingredients are handpicked and taste-tested for great flavour. Pitas, OneBun and Morning Rounds can be taken from the freezer and thawed at room temperature in about 30 minutes, or popped in the toaster or oven (400°F) for about a minute for fresh-baked flavour and texture. Freshly baked breads are sold by the case (6 bags) and include free 2-day shipping across the country.

St. Lawrence Market

Major public fresh food market at Jarvis & Front in Toronto.

Get to know the merchants and farmers, be inspired by locally produced products, and sample new foods and traditions from across Toronto’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
Since 1803, the Market has been a community anchor offering products and services to the neighbourhood and Toronto overall.
The Complex today comprises three main buildings with over 120 specialty vendors, known for the variety and freshness of their fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, grains, baked goods, dairy products and unique companion food items.

Foodiepages

Delicious Gift Boxes created with distinctive goods from over 100 Canadian food makers, bakers and chefs.

Pre-built or custom care packages, locally-curated gift boxes, and virtual event packs filled with premium goods from local vendors across Canada. Build your own unique care package for your occasion, delivered to your door.
Erin Maynes founded the business to help keep people connected and spread some unexpected joy with gift boxes filled with healthy snacks, soy candles, unpasteurized wildflower honey, handcrafted maplewood kitchen tools, Artisan chocolate bars, and Ontario organic sparkling wine.

Fraktals @ Gatté Treats

Handmade Belgian Chocolate Cashew Buttercrunch with Canadian maple syrup.

Shop 375g to 100g bags, gift boxes for special occasions or corporate events.
A buttercrunch core, featuring pure organic maple syrup from Blanc’s maple grove in Notre-Dame-des-Bois, in between two layers of Belgian chocolate; finished with a sprinkle of raw cashew pieces and 70% dark chocolate.

Haven Greens

This 55-year family farming legacy lays the foundation for fresh, clean and ready-to-eat greens.

CEO & Founder Jay Willmot, inspired by sustainability and food security, envisions a better solution—fully automated, pesticide-free greens grown right here in King City, Ontario.
Leafy greens are grown in a fully enclosed, cutting-edge technology greenhouse, with minimal human contact and zero exposure to outside contaminants. That means you can enjoy them straight from the package.

Made with Local

Organic, gluten-free snacks, plant-based protein energy bars and Protein Nut Butter Cookies are made from real ingredients sourced from local farmers.

A commitment to sourcing as many of the ingredients locally as possible was an obsession for Founder Sheena Russell when she worked from her home kitchen, refining these tasty, sustainable snacks over 10 years ago.
Now with its own 8,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Windsor, Nova Scotia, the company works with farmers across the country and is available in grocery stores coast to coast.

Bluegroves Farms

Seven distinct varieties of organic blueberries (fresh and wholesale), and a wide array of artisanal baked goods.

Nestled on a scenic 63-acre property in West Lorne, Ontario, the farm is a testament to the enduring legacy of organic agriculture. Originally established in 1983, the farm is now led by residents Victoria Spencer and Michel St. Germain.
During the peak summer months of July and August, the farm transforms into a community hub where visitors can hand-pick their own fresh berries. Beyond the fields, the Bluegroves Bakery offers a decadent farm-to-table experience, turning their organic harvest into everything from blueberry cheesecakes and smoothies to their signature yogurt pound cake and zucchini bread. While the farm is a beloved local destination, its reach extends province-wide; through its wholesale and distribution network, Bluegroves’ organic berries can be found at participating Foodland Ontario stores.

Sheldon Creek Dairy & Farm Store

A family dedicated to the health of their land and the quality of their craft in the heart of Simcoe County.

Located in the rolling hills of Loretto, Ontario, Sheldon Creek Dairy offers minimally processed whole milk, A2 milk, chocolate & flavoured milks, Greek-style yogurt, kefir, and sour cream. While the den Haan family has been farming this land since 1953, the dairy was launched in 2012 with a mission to bring milk directly from their herd of purebred Holsteins to the community. By processing their milk right on the farm, they ensure a level of freshness and traceability that is rare in modern agriculture.
The farm is also a leader in A2 milk production, offering a more digestible option for those with dairy sensitivities. Beyond the bottle, their Farm Store has become a destination for food lovers, featuring their award-winning yogurts and “cow-to-cone” ice cream, alongside artisanal products from fellow Ontario makers.

Related:

Toronto Neighbourhood Food Stores & Catering

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Carry Maternity

A complete selection of maternity dresses, nursing clothes and essentials for before, during and after pregnancy, designed and produced in Toronto.

Pat and her daughter, Kat Gillespie, want women to feel good about themselves, so that they can fully enjoy this very special time in their lives. They carry clothes to fit any body type made from sustainable materials like Rayon from Bamboo and Organic Cotton. Book a virtual shopping appointment for a free personal styling session. Shop Evening Dresses, Jumpsuits, Maternity Tops, Nursing Tops, Bottoms and Baby Bags.

Cate and Levi

Unforgettable fluffy friends for your child and crafts made from second-hand wool sweaters.

Handcrafted, eco-friendly products, including craft sets, puppets, stuffed animals, and adorable kids’ decor at their studio in Toronto. No two wool products will ever be the same. Each one is made from reclaimed wool whose colours and textures are individually selected, industrially cleaned with an eco-friendly detergent and super-hot water.
As Josh and his wife awaited the birth of their first child, he noticed that there was a lack of one-of-a-kind, responsibly made, and beautifully designed products for children. Josh started by designing a handful of stuffed animals made from upcycled sweaters.

mini mioche

Premium Organic Clothing for newborn to age 12.

Timeless, quality, gender-neutral styles that can be worn longer and passed along - Newborn essentials in the softest organics, Rompers & Onesies, Dresses and Sleepwear. Fabrics are dyed locally using non-toxic dyes from natural sources.
As a parent on a mission to create a better future for our kids, founder Alyssa Kerbel makes everything locally from start to finish in Toronto and ships in recyclable packaging.

Ella Minnow Children’s Bookstore

A charming oasis filled with books and clever gifts for kids of every age in Upper Beach, Toronto.

You can browse over 6651 titles, an extraordinary collection of games, puzzles, activity kits, craft supplies, and fun stuff in the store online.
Ella Minnow partners with local schools to facilitate online ordering, book fairs, author visits, tailored booklists and resources on important topics, including Black Culture, Gender Equity, LGBTQ+, Environment, Social Justice, Mindfulness and Indigenous Authors.

Pika Layers

Kids and Mom Soft Clothing for Sleep and Play, indoors and outdoors, day or night.

This small, women-led company designs with purpose so you can feel confident that there are no harsh chemicals against your child’s skin.
Inspired by their love of the outdoors, Co-founders Marie, Atlee and Sophie create comfortable base layers for active, outdoor lifestyles; sourcing responsibly and selecting partners with shared values.
Soft Baby Sleepers, Kids & Toddler Pyjamas, Women’s Lounge Sets and Mom & Me Sets are made from antimicrobial, moisture-wicking bamboo fabric. Find non-gendered, fun prints and summer products with UPF sun protection.

Lillio Childcare Software

All-in-one childcare management solution connecting families and educators, enabling contactless operation of daycare centres, from documentation to payments.

Teachers can track attendance, schedule & record activities; keep parents in the loop, spend less time on paperwork and more time with students.
The App is based on extensive research on early childhood education in the 0 to 5 age group to improve learning outcomes. Founders Alana Frome, Ron Spreeuwenberg and the team provide an easy-to-use solution to communicate with parents via the app, text or email for comprehensive classroom management by teachers.

Mabel’s Fables

Independent children's bookstore in Toronto’s Mount Pleasant Village providing hand-selected children’s literature from baby board books, young adult fiction, educational toys and literary gifts.

This beloved shop was the brainchild of sisters Eleanor LeFave and Susan McCulloch, who set out to build a classic, community-centred bookstore system structured entirely by age. The store stocks over 100,000 books at any time, with over 13 thousand products available online. Educators receive a 20% discount for school purchases.

Camp Kirk

Enriched Summer Experiences for Neurodivergent Kids and Youth.

Catering to children who could benefit from a small, nurturing environment, non-competitive programming, and extra attention and care. The majority of children have one of the following diagnoses: Learning Disabilities (LD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD-ADHD), High Functioning Autism and Anxiety disorders.

Camp Kirk staff work as a team to ensure the physical and emotional safety of the campers. The staff sets the tone of the camp and signals to the children that they are in a supportive environment where they are free to be themselves and take risks.

Fogo Island Workshops

Born from the rugged landscapes of Newfoundland, this community-owned social business fosters resilience through a circular economy—blending traditional island craftsmanship with contemporary global design.

Founded by eighth-generation Fogo Islanders Zita, Alan, and Anthony Cobb under the parent charity Shorefast, the workshops partner local woodworkers and artisans with international designers. This collaboration breathes new life into the island’s boat-building and furniture-making traditions, resulting in contemporary pieces that speak a modern design language while remaining deeply rooted in the “Place” they were made.

Every object produced—from the iconic Bertha Chair to hand-stitched quilts—comes with an “Economic Nutrition” label, a transparency tool that shows exactly where your money goes. As a circular business, 100% of operating surpluses are reinvested into the Shorefast charity to support community programs, heritage preservation, and environmental stewardship. When you bring a piece of Fogo Island into your home, you aren’t just buying furniture; you are investing in the survival and prosperity of a resilient Canadian community.

Inkwell Modern Handmade

Boutique and Letterpress Studio in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Over 200 independent artists in one location and a focus on illustrative items, the boutique showcases art prints, homewares, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, apothecary and gift ideas.
With a background in graphic design, Andrea Rahal envisioned a shop to sell her own tactile keepsakes along with the designs of other inspiring artists.

Lili Graffiti

Montreal design brand of colourful, graphic illustrations and decorative, playful accessories.

Graphic designer and renowned Illustrator, Marie-Laure Plano, leads a small team of women creating an inspiring world of memories to share. Find illustrated Washi tape – a Japanese decorative paper roll made from natural bamboo fibres that adheres to all surfaces and can be removed without leaving traces.

Light + Paper

Art, wooden goods and other stuff all start as a hand-cut paper cutting.

In search of a unique Christmas gift, Ali Harrison handcrafted her first paper cutting using a borrowed box cutter and a kitchen cutting board. Now her original, intricate designs are laser-cut on a variety of ornaments, cake toppers, wall hangings and pop-out 3D cityscapes.

Hazy Jean

Over 600 Seasonal and Special Occasion Greeting Cards.

A family-owned card company offering four distinctive brands designed and manufactured in Toronto. Find a mix of tasteful humour and heartfelt sentiments featuring Canadian artists and writers.
Heather Jean inherited her love for greeting cards from her 'Gammie,' who made delicate little cards decorated with shells and felt and sold them in gift shops in British Columbia.

Botanical Paperworks

Eco-friendly Biodegradable seed paper products made from post-consumer material that grow into wildflowers, herbs and vegetables.

Teacher Mary Reimer and her entrepreneurial daughter Heidi Reimer-Epp created a strong, growable and printable eco-friendly paper embedded with seeds. That meant you could plant the paper in soil to grow flowers and leave no waste behind.
A certified Women Business Enterprises Canada Council (WBE Canada) Business.

Stephanie Cheng

Original Illustrations printed by hand.

Inspired by the human form, exploring strong colours and negative space, Stephanie has worked on posters and original artworks for bands such as Radiohead, Lizzo and Childish Gambino. Special commissions and quantities available: Prints, Posters, Housewares, Stationery and Greeting Cards.

Shayna Stevenson

Toronto Ceramics Artist.

Shayna has been making Homeware items and Jewellery since 2011. Each item is unique: hand-built or thrown, and individually painted and glazed. Shop vases, planters, mugs and everyday totes.

Original Genes

Hand-painted clothing, art experiences and workshops.

A creative clothing company for unique one-of-a-kind designs and virtual workshops teaching guests how to have fun painting on different paint mediums.
Stefanie turned her passion for painting and all things creative into a custom brand using paint to personalize garments, everyday items, and to teach others how to have fun doing it themselves.

Oscardo

Canadian and Indigenous Art Gift Collections.

Unique souvenirs designed by Native Artists that feature stunning Canadian and North American images. Celebrating the works of Canadian artists including Alex Janvier, Andy Everson, Benjamin Chee Chee, Bill Reid, Cecil Youngfox, Curtis Wilson, Daphne Odjig, Dawn Oman, Francis Dick, Isaac Bignell, James Jacko, James Johnson, Jamie Sterritt, Jason Carter, Jennifer Adomeit, Jessie Oonark, John Rombough, Kenojuak Ashevak, Lawren Harris, Leah Dorion, Liz Feyerabend, Maxine Noel, Norval Morrisseau, Rick Beaver, Roy Henry Vickers, Ruth Lund and Tracey Metallic.

Rose City Goods

An Accessories Online Boutique

Unique assortment of handmade and artisanal goods: Accessories, Apothecary, Bath & Body, Books, Candles & Scents, Crafts, Colouring Books, Cushions & Throws, and Fun & Games.
Christie Dababneh grew up in Windsor, Ontario, also nicknamed the “Rose City”. The store is a reflection of her passion and her commitment to supporting as many Canadian artists and female entrepreneurs as possible.

Toronto Outdoor Art Fair

Canada’s leading contemporary outdoor art fair.

Showcasing 350+ curated visual artists & makers at Nathan Phillips Square every July. Discover thousands of unique original artworks of contemporary, emerging and seasoned visual artists and makers from across Canada online.

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Crafted in Leather

Venque

A contemporary line of artisan bags for travel, business, school and urban life designed in Toronto.

In 2011, Brothers Viktor and Simon, veterans of the Canadian fashion industry, set out to craft the perfect backpack designed for urban commuters.
Now the collection includes sling, shoulder or cross-body bags, 3-way travel bags, classic campus bags, and weekend packs handcrafted from leather, PFC-free water-repellent coatings, organically grown fibres for belts and straps, and aluminum or steel metal parts. Exclusive Hyperlight fabrics created by Venque are durable nylon, water and dust-repellent, anti-scratch, high-density, and stain-resistant.

Hart & Hive

Canadian Handcrafted Designers and Personal Products.

Custom design workshop coordinating with small-scale makers, many in Toronto, creating handmade high-quality bags, purses and personal goods.
A graduate of Industrial Design at OCAD University, Thomas Hart recognized a need for emerging talent to have a space to get noticed. Services include Interior Design, Industrial Design, Bespoke Leather Goods, Art Direction and Styling.
The collection features Quilted day bags, Leather & Lambswool purses, Canvas & Leather totes, One-of-a-kind jewellery and personal items.

Grace

Bohemian Festival Style Fashion Accessories and Bags.

Every GRACE product is designed and made by hand in Vancouver using unique materials sourced globally, with reverence for and awareness of diverse cultures.
Designer Alison Gledhill sources materials from Marrakech to Kyoto, Oaxaca to Jaipur that speak of their history, culture and creativity. Shop Shoulder bags, Backpacks, Fanny Packs, Clutches, Pouches & oversized Scarves.

Krane Design

A modern take on classic coats, utilitarian bags and accessories.

Made in Canada with an ode to modern industrial design, Krane blends classic leather tailoring with contemporary design to create innovative garments and accessories, working with specialized Canadian artisans from the handbag industry.
Founder Ken Chow is a graduate of The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, interning with internationally renowned designers like Marc Jacobs before returning to Toronto. Get a 2-year warranty when you register your bag online. The Krane bag is a classic waxed cotton and leather carry-all. Shop waxed cotton dopp kits, pouches, totes, duffles, backpacks, bomber jackets and down-filled coats with detachable hoods.

Roncy Packs

Small-batch, Upcycled Fanny Packs, handmade by Mom.

Le Ching is the Founder of this family-owned, women-run business based in Toronto that repurposes leftover fabric into small, beautiful products.
Made from Leather, Vegan Leather, Suede, Faux Fur, Denim - Upcycled remnants left over from designers, scraps from cutters, thrift stores and local trades.

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Bespoke Eyewear Company and EyeWear Production Workshop.

An ongoing recycled project producing this acetate collection from manufacturing waste. The frames are handmade from material made in-house, creating unique acetates and styles, allowing for custom orders.
Sydney and Christopher Seggie both worked in the Eyewear industry and dreamt of bringing eyewear manufacturing back to P.E.I., specializing in prototype development and manufacturing.

Rapp Eyewear

Frame Designer and manufacturer of limited collections of bespoke hand-finished eyeglasses available at Rapp Optical stores and select optical shops worldwide.
Mel Rapp started at the back of his Mother’s hat shop in the 1990’s, combining his sense of fun with modern technology, to build one of the most unique and avant-garde optical shops in the world. In-house design and production of all frames in Toronto.

KaseMe

Québec designer and manufacturer offers a durable selection of bold covers and cases for your digital devices.

Upload your own design for a personalized case. The prints go all the way down the edges and protect the front of your device with its raised profile. Shop Phone cases, AirPod cases, MacBook skins and accessories made from high-grade PVC for good protection against scratches.

Lost Art

Shop Canadian Pride and Thunder Bay tributes - Headwear, Accessories, Clothing and House Goods.

T-shirts are made from 100% combed cotton jersey and double-needle stitched. Find a collection of grungy graffiti-style tees, leggings, leisure suits, sweatshirts and hoodies. Shop bold gallery-wrapped canvas art prints, scented candles, hats, wool toques and tube bandanas. The jewellery collection of rings, bracelets and necklaces features leather and solid stainless steel.

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Fashion Designers You Need to Know

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Archipelago Swim

Luxury Swimwear for day or night, custom fit, custom design made by hand in Toronto.

Order your swimsuit from existing styles and measurements, or have a swimsuit made to meet your custom specifications. They offer a unique mix of muscular compression and comfort. The fabric is versatile, hyper-resistant, thin, elegant, two-way stretch, and soft and breathable.
Designer and founder, Jamie Haiden, started sewing for her friends who could not find swimwear options in their size, and built this ethical, sustainable swim brand.

UNIKA Swimwear

Inclusive swimwear for women of all ages, stages, curves and sizes.

All pieces online are available in a wide range of sizes and are adjustable. Book an appointment for a private fitting for special occasions, for groups and bachelorette parties.
Founder and Designer Betsy Campos encourages women to embrace their uniqueness and to choose with confidence. Bring in your favourite suit for remaking using any of the fabrics in store. Choose from 150+ prints and solid fabrics. Matching and coordinating suits for kids, toddlers and babies are available only in-store.

Minnow Bathers

Made-to-Order high-performance swimwear for women in diverse body styles in sizes ranging from XS to XXL.

Toronto customers may pick up at the College Street Studio.
All swimsuits are lined and constructed from high-quality Italian fabric comprised of 78% recycled nylon and 22% spandex. Solid fabrics are chlorine-resistant and UV-blocking, produced from 78% recycled plastics and come in a range of colours.
Childhood friends, Vanessa Warrack and Karen Donaldson, understand that many women don’t always fit off-the-rack. They create comfortable swimwear by hand in Toronto, focusing on the quality of every piece.

norda run

Trail running shoes for endurance athletes inspired by Canada’s toughest conditions, made with high-performance fibres.

The perfect combination of fit, cushion, grip, weight, breathability and material innovation. Bio-based Dyneema Fibre® makes this shoe ultra-light and strong enough to survive any trail.
Canadian Sporting Goods Manufacturer of running wear and best-in-class trail shoes for cushioning performance, durability, traction and grip on both wet and dry surfaces.

Ciele Athletics

Performance Apparel is designed for athletes and adventurers of all kinds.

The store in Montreal highlights the latest equipment, technical clothing, footwear and headwear collections for men and women in a boutique setting.
Shop caps, beanies, jackets, sweatshirts, tops, tights, shorts and sunglasses. Considered fabric technologies and world-class knit mesh, embedded with custom carbon fibre for breathability, moisture wicking and anti-odour properties.

Tilley Endurables

High Performance Clothing Built for Outdoor Life.

It started with the Tilley Hat, now known for its ability to stay on in wind, be unsinkable, last indefinitely, protect from the elements and still look attractive.
Alex designed his Tilley hat in 1980 to fit low and loose, hide a secret pocket and block 98% of the sun’s harmful rays.
Tilley products are made from supplex nylon, cotton duck, hemp, organic cotton, waxed cotton, wool felt, raffia, Toyo paper, nylon spandex and mashup cotton.
The full line includes outerwear, underwear, footwear, bags, travel accessories, UPF-rated clothing for beach & leisure, fishing & hunting, sailing & adventure activities.

MTN•HEAD

Unisex casual clothing and home accessories designed and made in Canada.

MuttonHead is an upmarket shop specializing in outerwear & accessories, 100% gender neutral and made for all shapes and sizes in mind.
Shop Sweatshirts, Sweatpants, T-Shirts, Button-downs, Jackets, Pants, Shorts and the Naked & Famous Brand. Find onesies and clothing for Kids & Baby, Accessories for everyone, Personal Care and Home Goods like candles, cleaning supplies, food & drink.

Bather

Quality surf and swim products with a street-inspired approach to be worn on or off the beach.

Toronto native, Kyle Kaminsky, was sitting on the beach in Croatia in soggy, ugly-ass board shorts when his search began for comfortable, quick-drying swim trucks, with some TO style, at a reasonable price. All patterns are designed in-house, made in Canada, and fabrics are selected for quick-drying, moisture-wicking properties, soft-to-the-touch feel and durability.

Less is A’mor

Canadian Premium Lingerie, Swimwear and Natural Silk Loungewear made of the finest lace and pure silk fabrics.

Designer Irina Shad creates well-made and flattering designs. Natural silk loungewear is produced in Toronto, with a full range of comfortable and stylish pieces for everyday, sexy and special occasions, including made-to-measure bridal robes, stylish pyjamas, slips, and night sets. Silk fabrics are sourced from Quebec and combined with European lace.

Mayana Genevière

Undetectable nursing bras and lingerie made in Toronto.

Having recognized a need for functional undergarments for new mothers without compromising style, Nadine Woods creates undergarments that are meticulously crafted from organic cotton and ethically sourced premium yarns.
You can book a virtual bra fitting. A true-to-size nursing bra with a patented ALUXTRA™, Clasp-Free, undetectable nursing feature gives you easy, one-handed access and a sling effect for under-bust support. Shop signature bras, underwear, sleepwear and body suits.

This is J

Canadian-made Sleepwear, Loungewear and Mix & Match collection for the whole family.

Ultra-soft, moisture-wicking, stylish sleepwear including pyjamas, nighties, robes, short & long-sleeve sets, shorts, boxers, toques and knits — hand-printed in whimsical patterns and fresh colours.
Bamboo is a favourite fabric used in a majority of garments for its ultra-soft feel, anti-microbial qualities and ability to wick moisture from your skin.

Encircled

A slow fashion brand with factories near its studio in Toronto, using sustainably sourced, ultra-soft fabrics.

Thoughtful design and fair wages are what producing locally means at Encircled.
Fabrics use fade-resistant, low-impact dyes and are made from Modal from Beech wood pulp, Tencel, Rayon from Bamboo, Hemp, Organic cotton and Linen.
Classic versatile pieces for weekend, for work and for evening, find all-occasion, dressy sweatpants, sweatshirts, dresses, leggings, shirts, The Unblazer, The UnMoto Jacket and work from home favourites.

Muskoka Bear Wear

Ontario-Made Cottage Country Clothing Company for Adults & Kids with in-store locations in Bala, Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville & Port Carling.

Find Classic hoodies, Quarter-zips, drawcord pants, long-sleeve t-shirts, socks, toques and pet accessories in 50% cotton/50% poly blend and 16oz. fleece durable fabric, washed for shrinkage control.

49th Apparel

Handcrafted sleepwear and an all-season core collection of small batch made from quality natural fabrics for men and women.

Simple, classic-design garments made in linen, cotton, and flannel. Every item is produced from start to finish in “The Soo” by a small team of two.
Daryl Wier believes in sustainable practices, selecting fabrics for their quality, craftsmanship and history. A clothing designer by trade, he started by collecting vintage clothing, wool blankets and textiles, experimenting by repurposing them into vests.

Related:

Fashion Designers You Need to Know

This newsletter is for information purposes only. This is not a paid promotion. Our contributors independently select all products featured. Canuck Directory is the go-to destination for discovering neighbourhood connections and great Canadian brands.

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SMYTHE

Friends for over thirty years, Toronto-based founders and co-designers Andrea Lenczner and Christie Smythe channel their diverse backgrounds to create tailored pieces for an impeccably constructed, real-to-wear collection.

The new line is built to move through real days—from early meetings to late dinners—without losing its shape.
Shop blazers, bottoms, denim, tops and outerwear in refined silhouettes and modern tailoring. Smythe Boutiques are located in Summerhill, Toronto, Chinook Calgary and select fashion retailers nationwide.

Hilary MacMillan

Contemporary size-inclusive XS - 4x womenswear.

Versatile, modern pieces in timeless silhouettes, made in high-quality, cruelty-free fabrics in bold colours and textures. The collection is designed and sampled in-house at the Toronto studio, and currently, manufacturing is split between Canada and overseas.

“Personally, I am vegan and not a size 2,” says Designer Hilary MacMillan. “I want my brand and the clothes I design to reflect aspects of my values and who I am, in addition to making my customers happy. It’s part of what I value and how I relate to those who wear my clothes.”

Birds of North America

Signature label known for bold, colourful prints in sizes from 2-20, proudly and ethically made in Canada.

Designer Hayley Gibson grew up in Victoria, BC, sewing and reconstructing vintage garments. Her work reflects her personal style, creating long-lived, flattering cuts for women who want something a bit bold and adventurous.
She also promotes independent designers who produce ‘Made in Canada’ clothing.
All design, pattern making and grading is done in Toronto while the final garments are cut and sewn in Montreal. Shop dresses, jumpsuits, skirts, pants, shorts, tops and feature accessories.

Beaufille

Effortless chic clothing and accessories for women produced in Canada.

Beaufille (pronounced bo-fee) is a slow fashion brand creating timeless pieces that can be worn in any season. Shop online or at an international retailer for ready-to-wear clothing, jewellery and art objects. The collection uses deadstock fabrics from responsible suppliers. Jewellery is sourced and manufactured locally using repurposed, recycled or refined materials.
Founders and sisters Chloé and Parris Gordon studied at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design. Celebrity clients have included Solange, Lady Gaga, Michelle Obama and Selena Gomez.

Miriam Baker

Professional clothing, designed to fit a full bust, thoughtfully tailored to take you from work to play.

Founder Miriam Baker is a celebrated Toronto designer who believes in timeless design and quality, crafted pieces that become staples in a woman’s wardrobe.
Book a virtual or visit the showroom in downtown Toronto for a personal consultation and to try on a few garments before purchase. Dresses, Tops, Skirts & Pants are made to order. Shirts fit smoothly without the gape, and dresses are designed to lift and flatter a curvy silhouette.

Miik

Timeless classics in eco-luxe fabrics for women.

Fabrics are custom-milled from sustainably-sourced fibres, using non-toxic dyes, featuring 4-way stretch to create luxuriously soft, high-quality clothing with brilliant colours that stand the test of time.
A vacation present from her husband led the founder, Donna Smith, on a mission to design garments in durable, comfortable fabrics – MicroModal® harvested from Beech Trees, Rayon from Bamboo and Jacquard. The collection is designed to fit and flatter every body – Tops, Tunics, Blazers, Dresses, Jumpsuits, Loungewear and Cardigans.

Picadilly

Easy to wear, classic silhouettes and casual women’s clothing designed for home, on the go, or dressed up.

Shop Modern Essentials, Dresses, Tops, Jackets, Skirts, Pants and Special Occasions in rich, vivid colours and textures, with a mix of fabrics and novelty treatments. The Studio is located in the manufacturing facility, allowing the team to respond to upcoming trends and for “on time” delivery of large volume demand orders.
Founded by Jacob Dombrowsky in 1975, the brand designs and manufactures over 90% of its clothing in Toronto and is available in key markets all over the world.

Bergstrom Originals

Women’s clothing store and contemporary line filled with effortless combinations, handmade in Toronto.

Shop the colourful, bright, bold originals, plus a curated selection of complementary European brands. Visit the studio by appointment only.
Christina Bergstrom designs and sews her collection here, ensuring quality manufacturing and equitable practices. Her sharp eye for fit and cut, combined with dynamic prints and timeless silhouettes, made for everyday wear.

BODY OF WORK

Unisex artisanal activewear and lounge essentials, including heavyweight fleece, circular-knit French terry sweats, and Japanese woven silhouettes—alongside curated lifestyle objects.

This Toronto-based studio champions premium natural fibres and custom-develops its own bespoke textiles in lockstep with family-owned fabric mills and factories situated less than an hour from their Toronto home. Co-founders and life partners Brittney MacKinnon and Dwayne Vatcher are seasoned veterans of the national fashion industry. Embracing a deliberate philosophy that puts soul and intention ahead of mass commerce, they are now in their standalone retail home inside a historic building in Toronto's Summerhill neighbourhood.

Related:

Fashion Designers You Need to Know

Prestige Guitars Ltd.

The Prestige Custom Shop represents 20 years of building world-class Custom, Acoustic and Electric Guitars in Vancouver.

Factory Tours are available year-round. Recognizing global reforestation needs, a tree is planted with every purchase of a PRESTIGE guitar. The Heritage Series electrics feature Solid carved Flame, Quilt, Burl and Spalt Maple Tops; while the Eclipse series acoustics feature Solid Spruce, Cedar, Khaya, Rosewood and Koa.

Shaw Percussion

World drums, full service drum repairs and rentals, best source for African djembes to cajons, bodhrans and world percussion instruments in Georgina, Ontario.

Phil Shaw has been a drummer for over 40 years. With a passion for woodworking and drumming, his handcrafted bodhran, ashiko, djembe, and snare drum, as well as other hand drums and percussion instruments, are renowned for their sound and beauty. He designs, constructs and teaches, alongside his wife Wendy and sons Graham and Alex, who are skilled musicians.

Bluesound

This audio company produces an award-winning wireless hi-res sound system that lets you play music anywhere in your home.

Wireless, crisp, Dolby-certified, hi-fidelity audio with App and voice control, connect with Apple and 20 + streaming services. Products include wireless multi-room music streaming Speakers, Sound system, Amplifier, powered subwoofer, and Hard drive CD.

Lee’s Palace

Dance Club and Concert Venue for Indie & Alternative music lovers, near Bathurst Station on Bloor in Toronto.

In-house promotion and production of local, Canadian, and international touring artists and events.
Lee’s Palace and the Dance Cave are available for private rentals, including birthday parties, bachelor parties, corporate parties, book launches, speaking events and other functions.

Gladstone House

Toronto Hotel and engaging, art-filled, eco-friendly, urban experience.

Book a hotel room, plan an event or wedding, or get information on our upcoming opportunities for artists. Ontario’s first hotel to use 100% renewable energy through Bullfrog Power. Guests at the Gladstone get unlimited access to the Hotel’s exhibitions and events.

Fresh Paint Studio & Café

A community art space where kids and adults can feel inspired to create and connect through art.

This Toronto Art Studio supplies the materials so you can relax and unwind in this warm and inviting studio. Roxane Tracey, visual artist and poet, created the Studio as a community space to inspire a love for creating while bringing out each person’s inner artist.

House of Anansi Press Inc.

Focus on publishing works by Canadian authors and outstanding books from other countries.

Specializing in finding and developing Canadian writers of literary fiction, poetry, drama, and nonfiction, and in maintaining the culturally significant backlist that has accumulated since 1967.
Dennis Lee and David Godfrey founded Anansi as a small press with a mandate to publish Canadian writers. Shop Fiction, Thrillers, Poetry, Children's Books, CBC Massey Lectures, Ebooks, translated French authors and Classics.

A Different Booklist

Toronto Bookstore showcases a diverse selection from major Publishers and Independents.

The literature of the African & Caribbean Diaspora, and the Global South, featuring a deep selection for Children and Young Adults. Browse over 2300 Active Titles, 55 subject categories from Bestsellers, Black Feminist/Gender Titles, Juvenile themes, Pandemic-related and Canadian Authors.

Booksellers.ca

Les libraires is the Québec Cooperative of Independent Bookstores representing independent bookstores in Quebec, the Maritimes, Ontario and Manitoba.

Booksellers.ca is a pan-Canadian one-stop shop that brings together 150 independent booksellers from sea to sea online, fostering accessibility, diversity and the discovery of books by Canadian authors, in both official languages.
Check whether a book is available at your local bookstore, find recommendations or search by topic. Independent bookstores are a place where you can find advice and where back catalogue books often have pride of place.
revue.leslibraires.ca is a French-language literary magazine published by the Québec Cooperative of Independent Bookstores since 1998.

Monday July 6 2026

🧥 Apparel & Personal Style

• Apparel Makers: The Backbone of Canadian Style

  • Featuring: Belfast Mini Mills Ltd. | Soak Wash | Tru Earth | Black Designers of Canada | Brimz Hat Boutique | The Orange Room | Colibri Canada | CRW Design | Redwood Classics | Fine Cotton Factory

Read more

Garneau & Co.

Handcrafted, authentic sheepskin slippers and accessories for the family.

Founded in 1977 by François Garneau, his daughter, Noémi, continues to innovate while inspiring generations of craftspeople to master traditional techniques, preserving the distinctive character created by the talented artisans in the Eastern Townships, Québec. The finest sheepskin is carefully selected for feel and density, from New Zealand and Australia.
Shop Slippers, Insoles, Pyjamas, Loungewear, Shirts, Socks, Wool Throw and Sheepskin rugs. Loungewear is made with organic bamboo fabric, all dyed and woven in Montreal.

The Brown Bear

Canadian-made mocassins for the whole family, gifts and Canadian Art shipped around the world.

A second-generation company established in 1973 by Francine and Kurt Scheuermann. Francine, along with her daughters Natalie and Vanessa, continue to run the online store, with an expanded catalogue that now includes footwear for earthing, footwear for outdoors, camping & emergency preparedness products, EMF shielding and light therapy products, jewellery, gifts, accessories and winter clothing such as sheepskin insoles and mohair socks.

Shop the full product line at Moccasins Canada.

Mellow Walk Footwear Inc.

Comfortable and Lightweight Steel-Toe Safety Shoes.

Designed and made in Toronto, Mellow Walk crafts footwear that meets the demanding needs of workers looking for comfort and durability. Find heavy-duty boots and light-duty shoes designed to support all-day wear with a generous fit.
No matter your role at work, find the right shoe to protect your feet and make you look good - Brogues, Slip-ons, Skater shoes, City Hikers, Classic lace-ups, Aussie Boots, High-Tops and Loafers.

Kamik

Keeping women, men, kids and toddlers’ feet warm, dry, comfortable, and happy since 1898.

Shop Winter, Casual and rain boots, slippers, sandals for men & women; hunting and industrial boots. Find Winter jackets, snow pants and multi-sport shoes for kids and toddlers. Technical features include waterproof seam sealed, waterproof bottoms, waterproof membrane, genuine leather & suede, reflective details and PVC-free.
Starting with the Cook family, Kamik is committed to sustainable manufacturing with domestic production, a rain boot recycling program, greener initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint and paying employees higher wages.

La Canadienne

Footwear, outerwear and accessories from leather bags to silk scarves, and shoes made for all-season city living.

Crafted in Montreal, the City Dry™ technology features waterproof Italian suede and a breathable microfiber lining and cushioned memory foam insole for comfort indoors or out. Boots are built for unpredictable weather so you can stay warm, dry and ultra-fashionable through rain, snow and windy days.
A made-to-order service is available on Canadian-made footwear, if you can’t find your size or have an older model you love.

Boulet Boots

Handcrafted Western-style Cowboy Boots, specializing in Goodyear Welt construction, valued for minimizing water penetration into the insole and the relative ease of resoling.

From St-Gabriel, Québec, this third-generation family continue to maintain the tradition of excellence by continually investing in training and quality raw materials. The boots are now available in over fifteen countries and are known by cowboys around the world for their durability, comfort, and being first in fit. The gap between the insole and outsole is filled with cork that gradually matches your footprint.

Related:

Exceptional Canadian Leather: Fashion, Footwear, and Furniture

Belfast Mini Mills Ltd.

Manufacturers of miniature mill operations to wool processors around the world.

A full line of cottage industry fibre spinning machines that are small, designed to be modular and customizable to facilitate operation with other makes of machinery.
Twin sisters Linda and Hazel Nobles ran the mill in eastern Prince Edward Island, turning wool clips from sheep and other animals into yarn for nearly 30 years.
The business is now run by Linda’s sons, Evan and Matthew Nobles and their cousin Tyler Spencer, who work on the metal fabrication in Murray River.
The team works with customers to start a business working with fibres, helping with design, set up, training and trading up equipment when it’s time to grow the business.

Redwood Classics Apparel

Essential Outerwear for the Family with gender neutral, inclusive styles.

Garments are made at the WS & Co LTD Factory in Toronto, utilizing landfill-destined deadstock and turning it into upcycled fabric. Wholesale orders available. All items are washed, pre-shrunk in a mix of cotton, polyester and fleece - Tees, Crewneck, Hoodies, Joggers, Polos and flattering fits for women.
Founder, Kathy Cheng, combines handcrafted practices with state-of-the-art technology to produce garments sold across North America, in department stores, retail stores, resorts, universities or corporate identity programs.

Fine Cotton Factory

Textile Mill for quality mattress ticking, activewear apparel and functional fabric.

Founded in 1997 by Harish and Biren Patel, this uncle-nephew duo couple their extensive knowledge of textiles and knitting trends, utilizing state-of-the-art machinery, and, whenever possible, Canadian-based raw materials. They recycle waste raw materials, manufacturing all their fabrics in a contaminant-free environment and pipe-lined air ducts for dust-free facilities.

CRW Design

Women-owned garment shop offering a comprehensive package of production services for businesses within the apparel industry in Canada.

This manufacturer provides support and services for garment design, fabric sourcing, style design, pattern sampling, sewing production, and packaging. They partner with exceptional knitters, fabric suppliers, pattern makers and sewers within Ontario.
Nikki Francies and Sherri Carlson created the knit apparel production house, having worked in the garment business and recognizing a niche market of designers and entrepreneurs, requiring full end-to-end production support, keeping all their production at home.

The Orange Room

The Puffin Gear® Hat and Accessories online shop features all-season, functional and beautiful hats for infants, children and adults.

Made in Toronto, the collection includes UPF 50+ sun protection hats that are preshrunk and machine washable. Chin ties have safety breakaway clips. For the coldest days, Polartec Classic Fleece & Chin Wrap hats, blankets and scarves. Fall/Winter styles feature luxury fabrics in classic styles.
Heather De Man combined her love of the outdoors, an engineering background and love of fabric to produce the first Puffin Gear products, launched out of a rented cart at the St. Lawrence Market over 20 years ago.

Colibri Canada

Reusable Kitchen and Household plastic alternatives.

Shop snack bags, wet bags, bowl covers, reusable straws, wash cloths & limited edition prints are FDA and Health Canada certified for food safety. Products are available to groups, including schools, daycare/preschool groups, and sports teams, for fundraising opportunities.
From small-town Manitoba, CEO Sandra O’Malley and her team provide long-lasting products that foster healthy environments and strong communities.

Brimz Hat Boutique

Independent and Unique Hat Shop designs, sells and manufactures all types of hats, caps, fedoras and offers quality products from talented home-grown designers.

Shop Classic Berets, Beanies, Bucket Hats, Dad Hats, Fedoras, Snapbacks, Trucker Hats and Apparel. Bring your ideas to life with a variety of cap styles and colours to create your own.
Damien Royes and partner Jack Vilayvong are stylemakers with an instinct for knowing what their streetwise customers want, from modern, Montreal-made fedoras and a collection of the coolest curated styles.

Soak Wash Inc.

Modern laundry care, No-rinse formulations with no harsh chemicals or overwhelming fragrances made in Toronto.

Eco-friendly wash is ideal for hand or machine washing, is skin and fabric-friendly, cleans and revitalizes delicate care lingerie, natural sweaters, workout wear and quilts.
Because Soak is a low-suds liquid, the dirt and detergent come out in the water, and whatever is left in the item evaporates.

Tru Earth

Ultra-concentrated, tiny, pre-measured strip of liquidless laundry detergent and companion cleaning products.

Shop household items such as wool dryer balls, reusable fabric softener, mesh cotton, reusable grocery bags and Eco-strips multi-surface disinfecting cleaner.
Ryan McKenzie, Brad Liski and Kevin Hinton are friends who had a dream of eliminating the 700,000,00 plastic laundry jugs ending up in landfills every year. Strips are biodegradable, free of parabens, phosphates, added dyes, and chlorine bleach.

Black Designers of Canada

A comprehensive Canadian index celebrating black excellence in accessory design, furniture, design, graphic design, industrial design, interior design and fashion.

As a multidisciplinary designer, entrepreneur and philanthropist, George Sully founded BDC to champion his fellow Canadian Designers. He works to leverage lucrative opportunities for the collective in the world of fashion & multimedia design.
Black Designers of Canada offers business owners, retailers, buyers, stylists and others an all-inclusive ongoing resource of over 186 designers across Canada.

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Everyday Family Clothing & Activewear

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Pretty Clean Shop

A marketplace for naturally effective, sustainable cleaning, beauty, personal care and home products.

The shop showcases local products, advises customers, and advocates for low-waste packaging. Care and cleaning products are made in Canada using ethically sourced practices.
With a philosophy of sustainable living, Miriam founded this Junction neighbourhood one-stop shop for products made with safe, toxin-free ingredients. Find Health & Beauty, functional Home Accessories, Games & Puzzles, a Vegan collection and gifts. The broad selection of refillable products in pre-filled jars can be returned and traded for a full one, avoiding unnecessary packaging. Workshops and DIY parties are available for school-aged kids and adults.

Kalaya

Developed for a wide range of skin and body care issues, these therapies are extensively researched, tested and manufactured in Cambridge, Ontario.

From topical pain relief to anti-aging therapies, products are paraben- and sulphate-free and never tested on animals.
Led by Dr. Keith Burk, M.D. and Phil Hudson, BPharm, who strive to innovate and improve its formulations constantly. Shop in-store or online for pain management, health & hygiene, cold & flu, skin care, cannabis sativa seed oil, and hair care.

Plant Vital

A line of complete additive-free nutrition supplements & plant-based protein for both preventative support and nutrient-dense healing.

Plant-based proteins + greens, Pure Collagen Peptides, Multivitamins, Omega-3 fish oil, Mega B-Complex, Berberine, Ashwagandha, Resveratrol, Tumeric, Gentle sleep, Vitamin C, Magnesium supplements.
In search of the perfect diet, the founder of this Canadian-based company, Mike W, creates these products with protein from peas, whole grain organic brown rice, pumpkin seed, chia seed, organic fruits and vegetables. Products are FDA-Certified, free of soy, eggs, dairy and nuts, gluten-free with no sugar & low carb.

Empack Spraytech inc.

Innovative, customized and specialized solutions for highly diversified aerosols, liquids, lotions, wipes, related products and packaging.

An ISO 9001:2008 and GMP Certified privately-owned family-operated Canadian manufacturer of Aerosol Packaging, Liquid Filling, Personal Care, Automotive, Shoe & Leather Care, Sun Care, Industrial, Household Products, Insecticides, Computer & Electronics, Outdoor, and Specialty Products.

Nutralab Canada Corp.

Private Label Vitamin & Supplement Manufacturer of Custom formula natural health and vitamin supplement products.

Health Canada-approved, fully licensed facilities for bulk supplement manufacturing and packaging of nutraceuticals and dietary supplement products.
Products can be Organic, Halal, Vegan, Herbal or Gluten-Free. The Liquid sachet packaging is used for convenient on-the-go servings and better absorption of daily vitamin supplements, sports energy or nutrition drinks.
Pilot and large-scale production of Hard Capsules Filling, Softgels Encapsulation, Softgel Enteric Coating, Tablets & Coating.
Powder technology for sport proteins, plant-based greens and vegan supplements. Clients include Shoppers Drug Mart, Walmart, Metro, Loblaws and Longo’s.

Green Circle Salons

A sustainable program for salons and spas to recycle, recover and repurpose beauty waste.

Created by beauty industry leaders, this award-winning solution empowers salons to recover up to 95% of their beauty waste, including previously unrecoverable materials and hard-to-recycle items like hair clippings, foils, excess hair colour, aerosol cans, colour tubes and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Get your beauty salon to join the program. They collect beauty waste and work with local partners to turn it into new products or clean energy. Find out where the beauty waste goes. Partners are recycling facilities, chemical waste facilities, clean energy producers and bio-composite plastic producers.

Thornhill Medical

Medical Technology Manufacturer of innovative acute critical care devices specifically designed for military, field hospital, transport medical and first responder teams.

Recognized as a leader in the precise control and management of arterial blood gases, breathing sciences and emergency mobile diagnostic and therapeutic patient care:
The RespirAct ™ RA-MR is a computer-controlled gas blender used to provide accurate, repeatable, non-invasive control of blood gases and to stimulate vascular reactivity, monitoring blood flow responses in conjunction with diagnostic imaging techniques.
Founder, Dr. Joseph Fisher, is a world-renowned research scientist in the field of anesthesiology and cardiovascular intensive care. Emergency mobile medical devices include:
MOVES® SLC™ is a completely integrated, rugged, portable life support system with ICU capabilities designed to provide control in challenging environments.
The MADM™ device is portable, adaptable and can be easily connected to any ventilator device to safely and accurately enable gas anesthesia.
ClearMate™ is portable, compact and allows emergency professionals to treat CO victims as effectively as hyperbaric oxygen, at the point of care, without delay.

Wilderness Committee

Environmental program dedicated to preserving wilderness, protecting wildlife, defending parks, safeguarding public resources and fighting for a healthy climate.

Shop the catalogue online to support environmental activities: FairTrade First Nations Products, Books, Greeting Cards, Maps & Guides, Photo & Educational Posters & Bumper stickers. Wholesale orders available.
This not-for-profit has been protecting life-giving biological diversity in Canada through strategic research, community mobilizing, and grassroots public education for 40 years.

You can join along with thousands of activists and volunteers to help with campaign activities to defend parks, preserve wilderness, protect wildlife and help safeguard public resources by donating or volunteering your time.

Terre Bleu Lavender Farm

Ontario’s largest lavender farm includes an apiary, herb bar & gift shop selling organic produce made from the eight varieties of lavender grown on the farm.

Small batch products are handcrafted locally with 100% organic Terre Bleu lavender. Shop a selection of gift boxes, vinaigrette, cheese and ice cream, honey jams, propolis throat spray, cleaning spray, linen spray, essential oil, calming salve and balms.
This family-run business hires local students and recent grads every year.
Ian and Isabelle Baird moved from downtown Toronto to rural Milton in 2011 and planted 10,000 lavender plants, sharing their love of lavender and the positive impact of sustainable, organic farming with visitors every summer.

Harbourfront Centre

A not-for-profit Toronto waterfront park for arts, culture and events.

Established in 1972 by the Government of Canada, this is an international centre and cultural organization for innovative arts and outdoor programming. The Craft and Design Studio showcases artists working in textiles, ceramics, and metals.
The 10-acre campus provides year-round programming supporting a wide range of artists and communities, hosting School visits, Summer camps and festivals. The Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA), based here, is the longest-running and largest literary festival in Canada.
Enjoy skating programs located near the shoreline in the winter and visit The Power Plant public gallery for contemporary visual art.
Get there by TTC, car, bike, walk or boat - this is the closest marina to the City core, and you can dock during the summer boating season.

Green Planet Bio Fuels and Food Packaging

Waste Management Service and Food Packaging Products.

They collect and recycle waste oil and clean grease traps for over 1800 restaurants in the GTA. The Food Service division offers compostable and biodegradable take-out food service products, using 100% BPI certified materials and are designed for hot liquids. Compostable tableware is made from sugarcane and bamboo - no plastic.
Cleaning and servicing grease traps is essential in maintaining a good kitchen.
They supply clean & tamper-proof storage containers - compact storage containers for easier access in smaller spaces and larger bins for commercial producers who use a high volume of oil. They maintain their containers with regular cleaning and pressure-washing of disposal areas.

Genecis Bioindustries

Transforming organic waste into sustainable, biodegradable bioplastics.

Genecis works with businesses in the single-use plastics, auto, textile, medical tools and packaging industries to facilitate the transition to PHA and biomaterials, without sacrificing quality or profitability.

As a new UofT graduate, founder Luna Yu started with creativity and retrofitted rice cookers bought at Canadian Tire, experimenting with a biodegradable material called Polyhydroxyalkanoate, or PHA.

Régénération Canada

Promoting land management practices that regenerate soil health, restore biodiversity, improve water cycles, and support a healthy food system.

Bringing together farmers, landowners, scientists, agronomists, businesses, community organizations, governments, and citizens to enhance the soil ecosystem and restore its biology.

Terra Cotta Conservation

Home to the Watershed Learning Centre features 504 acres of valleys, cliffs and bedrock plains mixed with diverse forests, wetlands and streams, with 12km of trails for hiking, birdwatching and photography, learning and special events, transforming in winter to allow for cross-country skiing, ice skating and snowshoeing.

This primary scientific authority for the Ontario Watershed provides outdoor learning programs to schools, guiding groups and visitors.
Established in 1954, Credit Valley Conservation Foundation is the charitable arm of Credit Valley Conservation and is one of 36 Conservation Authorities with a mandate to ensure Ontario’s water, land and natural habitats are conserved, restored and responsibly managed.

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre

Canada’s leader in horticulture research and innovation to improve economic viability, sustainability and competitiveness.

A hub for Automation Biocontrol Systems, Consumer Insights, Greening the Landscape and Plant Variety Development on Lake Ontario in Niagara. Vineland’s 218-acre campus comprises 35 buildings, including research laboratories, farms and greenhouses, and is maintained by the Agricultural Research Institute of Ontario (ARIO).
Vineland is an independent, not-for-profit organization with goals to diversify production, commercialize automation technologies to reduce labour costs and improve environmental performance on and off the farm.

Green Circle Salons

A sustainable program for salons and spas to recycle, recover and repurpose beauty waste.

Created by beauty industry leaders, this award-winning solution empowers salons to recover up to 95% of their beauty waste, including previously unrecoverable materials and hard-to-recycle items like hair clippings, foils, excess hair colour, aerosol cans, colour tubes and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
They collect beauty waste and work with local partners to turn it into new products or clean energy. Find out where the beauty waste goes.
Get your beauty salon to join the program. Partners are recycling facilities, chemical waste facilities, clean energy producers and bio-composite plastic producers.

Evergreen Brick Works

An active City Park with public art, markets, outdoor learning and nature play, environmentally focused events and conferences.

Located in the Don River Valley, the Don Valley Brick Works operated for nearly 100 years and provided bricks used to construct many city homes and well-known landmarks. The quarry is now restored as a city park with a series of naturalized ponds, while restored buildings are a learning centre for community and cultural events.
This is a learning hub for showcasing practices that balance the needs of people while caring for the green space surrounding the site in the Don River Valley Park, a 200-hectare park spanning Pottery Road to Corktown Common.
This national charity is dedicated to restoring nature in urban environments, planting urban gardens, protecting native trees and teaching our children to care for the earth.

Barumba Play

11-piece sensory play couch provides opportunities for kids to practice their gross motor skills.

Sara Feldstein went from Tax Account to Toy Creator in one afternoon, while playing with her foam building blocks and thinking of toys that capture kids’ imagination. Six different shapes in a variety of colours and sizes that fit perfectly together and allow for an infinite number of building configurations.

Sweetpeas

Independent eco-friendly florist dedicated to creating nature-friendly floral designs and complementary giftware, furniture, home decor and stationery.

Shop a beautiful range of high-quality potted plants, easy-care orchids, air plants, succulents and terrariums, and made-to-order floral arrangements featuring seasonal flowers.
Before you buy, visit HousePlant411.com to find and select plants specific to your needs and to learn more about houseplant care.

promise

Indoor Plant Store and Garden Centre designs, installs, and maintains indoor & exterior plants in the Greater Toronto Area.

The store features a wide selection of indoor tropical house plants and also offers landscaping and office design consultation on-site.
Apply for the Trade program for exclusive pricing, design support, installation support and more for interior design and plant trade professionals.
Promise Gardens offers large tropicals, outdoor landscaping plants, and our biggest selection of tropical palms and flowering plants.

LOHN

Candles, perfumes and essential oils, hand-poured, made with clean scents, coconut and soy wax.

Candles are paraben-free, phthalate-free and preservative-free, scented with a blend of essential oils, natural fragrances, and clean synthetic fragrances. Perfume oils are vegan, non-toxic, and designed to be rolled on pulse points like your neck and wrists.
Kat Juskey & Victoria Mierzwa, both chemical engineering grads, create memorable scents such as Amber & Vetiver, Jasmine & Pink Pepper, Lemon & Tonka Bean, Grapefruit & Rhubarb and Amber & Vetiver.

ErgoCentric

Premier manufacturer of high-quality ergonomic seating for office, specialty and healthcare environments.

This furniture is built to ensure long-term comfort, health and safety standards compliant and made with low-emission materials. Working with ergonomists and health practitioners to continuously improve designs and include those with injuries, special requirements, and all body proportions.
View the catalogue of office seating, stackers & guest chairs, sit/stand stools, height-adjustable tables, meeting tables and industrial seating.

Lucvaa Kitchens

Custom cabinetry design, manufacturing, and installation company for Home Builders and Developers in Etobicoke.

President and industry veteran Gajen Arumugam can deliver on volume commercial and multi-unit custom kitchens and baths, operating out of its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.
Designs feature an array of door styles, accessories for kitchen, vanity, laundry, walk-in closets, crown mouldings, lighting, drawer boxes and slides, hinges, cabinet finishes and interior.

Monte

Modern Luxurious Furniture for Nursery and Home

From nursery to family room, Ralph and Michelle Montemurro set out to produce a sophisticated line of Canadian-made furniture that is exceptionally comfortable and well-made, using sustainable, high-quality materials, local suppliers and working to minimize the impact these products have on our indoor air environment, and the planet in general.
Every product is built by hand in the Toronto factory, made-to-order with your choice of fabric and accessories - Sofas, Beds, Mattresses, and Nursery.

Related:

Crafted for Living: The Best of Canadian Home Design

Lea-Ann Belter Bridal

This Wedding Dress Collection features high-quality fabrics, impeccable craftsmanship, timeless silhouettes, and couture finishes.

Completely customizable, handmade in the Toronto atelier using traditional couture techniques and featuring vegetable-dyed silks, lace and hand-sewn crystals. Designs are available in a curated selection at bridal boutiques across North America and Europe.

Jordan de Ruiter

Vintage-inspired, whimsical womenswear and special occasion.

Tulle dresses, prom gowns, bridesmaids, and wedding attire are made to order, handcrafted in Canada in-studio & by small-run manufacturers.
Jordan de Ruiter designs for fun, feminine women and includes everything from daywear to one-of-a-kind cocktail dresses, short dresses, gowns & tea length, tulle skirts, lingerie, hair accessories and jewellery.

Paloma Blanca

Elegant, handcrafted wedding dresses are carried in over 380 fine bridal shops around the world.

Passionate about the art of dressmaking, the gowns are designed, cut, sewn, and beaded in-house, in Toronto, from the exquisite fabrics, accented with beautiful hand detailing and embroidery.
Founded in 1937 by Manny Bernstein, now run by nephews Marty and Sydney, they have designed over 7000 gowns. Browse bridal and evening wear designs online by Silhouette, Fabric, Neckline and Features.

Ellie Mae Studios

Effortless luxury womenswear designed and produced in small batches in the Toronto studio.

Book a complimentary appointment with in-house stylists to find your perfect pieces. Along with the Ellie Mae Brand, the store carries complementary accessories and a Vintage Collection featuring Made in Italy knits, hand-picked rare music Tees and Nick Fouquet Hats.
Ellie Mae creates with a reverence for the quality and detailing of vintage fabrics.
From childhood, the designer was inspired by icons of music, fashion and pop culture, creating collections with one-of-a few pieces that you’ll cherish season after season.

Karn Goode

Luxury Womenswear focusing on sustainability and natural fibres.

Fashion Studies graduate, Karn Goode, combines street-style and loungewear using haute couture fabrics, creating a luxury edge to a casual aesthetic. The @goodeagain project recycles leftover pieces from production, heirloom or saved luxury items, and upcycles natural fibres to create new garments using no harmful chemicals.

Warren Steven Scott

A contemporary Indigenous design collection made in Canada since 2018.

Warren is an accessory designer, fashion designer, self-taught tailor, craftsperson and member of the Nlaka’pamux Nation, whose territory is located in the interior of present-day British Columbia. Her work is a vision of girlishness and familial sisterhood through an Indigenous lens.
Find dresses, tops, skirts in bold hues, sterling earrings with lightweight acrylic, and limited-edition artwork that explores colour and form, using leftover acrylic sheets.

Photo by Kristina Dittmar

Shaghayegh Tafreshi

Women’s Fashion Designer for modern individuals who want to express themselves creatively.

Through her designs, Shaghayegh Tafreshi connects art, culture, geometric shapes, and nature with a modern touch for globally and environmentally conscious people.
Shop the signature, oversized fitted coat collection, bright & playful dresses in voluminous shapes, accessories made from leftover stock and made-to-order.

Anu Raina

Timeless, limited edition clothing designed and made in Canada.

Silk and wool blend keepsake scarves are works of art to cherish and hand down. Celebrated Textile artist Anu Raina debuted her chic ready-to-wear collection at the 2010 Toronto Fashion Week. Shop hand-embroidered pieces in merino, cotton, poly cashmere coats, jackets, suits, shirts, separates and dresses.

Lesley Hampton

High-quality fashion and accessories with a foundation of inclusivity and community.

The Signature Collection of eveningwear and occasionwear are made-to-order locally in Toronto.
Lesley Hampton (she/her) is an Anishinaabe Artist and Fashion Designer dedicated to inspiring the next decade of Indigenous fashion talent. The Athleisure designs feature a direct-to-garment (DTG) printing method, made with sustainability in mind, and use almost zero wastewater, water-based inks and no harmful chemicals.

Lisa Drader-Murphy

Canadian Fashion House in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Take your outfit from day to night with sophisticated colours and patterns paired with versatile designs. Signature styles are wrinkle-free, pack lightly and perfect for travel. Shop at 3 locations in Nova Scotia and online.
Keeping production local allows for flexibility and real-time response.
As owner and designer, Lisa Drader- Murphy is hands-on and houses the design, cutting, production, and retail from her privately run facilities.

Related:

Dressed to Lead Menswear

Ed’s Real Scoop

This small-batch ice cream shop is a favourite destination for Torontonians.

Enjoy homemade premium gelato, ice cream cakes, waffles and frozen yogurt, served at 4 locations, made with wholesome Ontario milk and cream, premium fruit purees, nut paste and natural ingredients churned at a slow speed for a noticeably creamy texture and taste.
Ed Francis grew up in Boston with a Mom who was an excellent cook and insisted on fresh, in-season ingredients. When he moved to the Beach, he couldn’t find an ice cream store like the one around the corner from his childhood. After lots of study, experimentation and testing on neighbours, Ed'd Real Scoop opened in 2000.

Dufflet Pastries

Petite Café & Local Baker of sweet confections and custom cakes, available for events and catering.

In addition to retail shops, they supply over 500 restaurants and cafes, specialty food shops, supermarkets, hotels and caterers with over 100 unique products. Order for delivery and take out - Bundts, Coffee Cakes, Cheesecakes, layer Cakes and Pies.
Dufflet Rosenberg started baking from her home in 1975, quickly gained a reputation as Toronto’s source for creative desserts, made from scratch, with no hydrogenated fats or oils, artificial flavours, colours or preservatives added.

Jules Café Patisserie

Pastries, Breads, Cakes & Tarts at 3 Locations in Toronto.

Opened by Marc Tournayre in 2005, this small family-run business offers an exceptional selection of buttery croissants, pastries and baked goods, using only the finest ingredients.

Crown Pastries

Fine Middle Eastern Pastries and sweets, mostly sold by weight and catering servicein the Scarborough & Mississauga area.

Growing up in Aleppo, Syria, Rasoul and Ismail Salha learned the art of baklava at their grandfather’s sweets store. Now these exquisite syrupy treats right here.
The menu includes Baklavas - a layered filo pastry dessert, filled with chopped nuts, and sweetened with syrup or honey; Pastries with Ashta and Cheese, Ma’amoul cookies stuffed with pistachios, walnut or dates; Barazek and Ghraybeh.

Le Dolci Culinary Classroom & Studio

Bakeshop for delivery and classes

Order a cake for delivery, book a class, host a team building event or rent the studio space. Shop Cakes & Cupcakes, Classes & Camps, Cookie Kits & Sweet Treats and Gift Packages or place pre-orders for pick up or delivery across the GTA.

Mary Macleod’s Shortbread

Housemade shortbread cookies and treats using only local creamery butter, custom-blended Canadian flours & rich Belgian chocolate.

In 1955, Mary arrived from Scotland, bringing her generations-old, pure all-butter shortbread cookie family recipe with her. Daughter-in-law Sharon traded in her banking career to follow Mary’s mission to bake it the best.
Shop for Classic shortbread, Chocolate, Maple, Butterscotch, Truffles and Gluten-free options. Wholesale orders, corporate gift packages and seasonal orders are packaged in giftable clear containers, tins, boxes and cookie jars.

Mary’s Brigadeiro

Boutique bakery creating chocolate treats Handrolled in small batches, using fair trade chocolate, pure cocoa powder, natural spices, dried fruits and nuts.

Flavours include Raspberry Cheesecake, White Chocolate Cinnamon, White Coconut, Almond, Passion Fruit, Pumpkin Spice, Candy Cane, gluten-free and nut-free options.
Mary brought her love of chocolate from her native Brazil and introduced us to a whole Brazilian-style chocolate experience - The Brigadeiro, a composition of sweetened condensed milk, real butter, pure Cocoa Powder and up to 50% cacao.

M Thompson Chocolates

Gourmet chocolates and confections using time-honoured traditional techniques.

Custom orders available for corporate or special events, at select locations in Ontario, or shop online for delivery - Sea Salt Caramel, Chocolates & Peanut Butter Smoothies, Mint, Orange & Blueberry Melodies, Almond Bark & Crunch & Seasonal Favourites.
Marni Thompson and partner Alex Bolkovic honour the craft and culture of chocolate-making by using copper kettle cooking and fresh, natural ingredients.

Rahier Patisserie

A Leaside neighbourhood mainstay since 1996, recognized for its’ exceptional taste, craftsmanship and flavours.

Enjoy a selection of Baguettes, Brioche, Focaccia, fresh-made Sandwiches, Quiches, Croquembouche, Croissants (the best in town), Viennoiseries, Cookies, Chocolates, Eclairs, Shortbread Tarts & Seasonal Cakes.
Francois Rahier and his esteemed colleague, Souvannaraj Keopraseuth, both apprenticed at Debailleul, one of the top pastry shops in Brussels, before establishing the Toronto shop and training new bakers in the craft.

Soma chocolatemaker

A tasteful collection of microbatch chocolates, truffles, toffees, fruit bars, spreads and custom gift chocolates.

Chocolate lovers, David Castellan and Cynthia Leung started off roasting and winnowing cacao beans, refining and conching their own chocolate, spinning gelato, baking cookies, making hot chocolates, and producing small batch truffles.
They offer Gelato, Cookies, chocolate drinks, personalized options for special occasions, care packages, Corporate gifts, tasting events and projects with Chefs.

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