Gift ideas that support local entrepreneurs

It's the holiday season, and finding original gifts is not easy!

In the avalanche of objects offered by major banners, how can you give your loved ones gifts that support local entrepreneurs and causes that are important to us, or that transform the lives of ordinary people?

We therefore offer you ideas from here and elsewhere, much appreciated by our team; a list to consult beyond the holidays, including gifts to give to those you love or to yourself!

And you, what is your list? Write to us!

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Fashion and beauty

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• Kokom Scrunchies : Made in Gatineau, these flower-patterned hair scrunchies are inspired by the scarves of Indigenous grandmothers, who are called Kokum. In addition, the creator, Mya Beaudry, is nine years old!
• If you like the boho chic style, don't hesitate to encourage Roma designers, like Loly by Zita Moldovan, Romani Design And Mil Duquelas, and thus give back to the Roma community!
• Dusty Rose : Handmade by a young designer from Montreal, these romantic and affordable jewels are waiting to be discovered!
• YHY: The gold and silver jewelry is handmade and tailor-made, by the self-taught Montreal blacksmith, Yasmin Hother Yishay.
• Batik Boutik : The eco-responsible Montreal brand highlights the talent of artisans from Ghana. The creations she offers will add punch to your style or decor.
• This Claw : Offering her colorful accessories, artist Cory Hunlin shares the rich Aboriginal heritage of beadwork.
• Apprenti ÔR'ganik : This skin care line combines luxury, natural ingredients and affordable prices.
• Katrin Leblond X Christie Belcourt : Métis artist Christi Belcourt and Montreal designer Katrin Leblond collaborated on a collection of printed clothing and accessories that pay tribute to nature.
• LOT 80E : This workshop-boutique located in Hochelaga-Maisonneuve offers sustainable clothing and accessories, produced locally by Quebec and Canadian designers.
• LaFeeFashion: The sumptuous clothing and olfactory creations of designer Lei Fang will certainly delight whoever receives them. (You can order online Here.)

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Objects and decor

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• Honey and Rose : The beautiful, practical and handmade products offered by this zero waste store in Contrecœur have everything to please. And you can shop online there.
• Vintage kimono : The address to visit to discover Japanese culture and leave with a piece from the Land of the Rising Sun.
• TinkeringExplorer : Let yourself be charmed by this collection of greeting cards and this funny stationery with pretty illustrations.
• Ymma : Two Montreal dads are behind Ymma creations. The wardrobe of these adorable black and mixed dolls is made in Cameroon.
• Binetna store : Discover the history of North African and Middle Eastern artists through their creations. Jewelry, clothing, decoration, there is everything to please!
• Oh My Cat : Cat lovers will be delighted with these accessories decorated with representations of their favorite animal. It's hard to resist!

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Arts and culture

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• Whiny Women : This zine by Lebanese-Canadian author and artist Christina Hajjar brings together women's voices Queer from the diaspora.
• Sumayyah Petrus : Islamic art comes to life under the brush of this artist, who offers us paintings and objects with magnificent details.
• Racines : Give reading as a gift with books for young and old from Racines bookstore, which highlights the works of racialized authors.
• The Verdun bookstore : An independent neighborhood bookseller specializing in Montreal and Quebec literature.

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Delicacies

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• Chief Swaneige : Depending on your inspiration, the Aboriginal chef will delight your guests with her catering service that serves Greater Montreal.
• State of shock : This gourmet chocolate factory sources fair trade cocoa, and the production of each of its delights is transparent and traceable.