Need some inspiration for holiday gift ideas? Please your significant other, family member, friend or neighbour while supporting Concordia alumni-run businesses — many offering sustainable or local products online or in retail stores in Canadian cities. Grab a pen and make your list!
Founded by David Schneiderman, BA 09
For the coffee afficionado on your list, offer a sure-to-please gift from Two Bears: craft-roasted beans, non-dairy frothed lattes or premium oat milk. The Etobicoke, Ont.-based company strives to make coffee that’s about slowing down, savouring and reconnecting with yourself.
Founded by Li Dong, BA 12
Montreal-based porcelain and silver jewelry maker Li Dong is inspired by nature and femininity. Her unique, handmade creations are available through her online LiliandTrotro boutique and at numerous retail outlets in Montreal and across Quebec.
Teardrop shaped gold splashed porcelain dangle earrings, $45
Founded by Julie Angeletti, BComm 14
Eco-conscious pet parents will find the perfect gift for four-legged friends at POM & CHI Pet Boutique, including gourmet treats, zero-waste beds, apparel and bandanas for small dogs — all handmade in Vancouver.
Founded by Rachelle Colavecchio, BA 15
There’s always room for dessert at Beau & Butter, a Montreal-based pastry shop and catering service. Yummy cookies, cakes, pies and toffee offer a twist on traditional recipes. Custom orders welcome.
Founded by Suzannah Raff, MSc 97
Perfect for pampering, Cleo+Coco personal care products are sustainably crafted with non-toxic, plant-based ingredients and are free from synthetic fragrance, fillers and other harmful substances. Find their award-winning natural deodorants, cleansing bars, shampoos and more at their online store and at major U.S. retailers.
Daily Essentials bundle, $49 USD
Founded by Harlie Dover, BA 02
With a focus on local and sustainable products, Boutique NouLuv offers new and second-hand maternity, nursing, baby and children’s goods — from cloth diapers and bedding to toys, books and more. Visit their retail location in Montreal’s Ville-Émard neighbourhood or shop online.
Penguin sewing kit, $29.99
Founded by Mathew Foulidis, BAdmin 17
Terroir Imports’ mission is to elevate the Quebec wine market by offering quality wines through sustainable collaborations with vineyards from across the world. Treat the oenophile on your list with a fine, organic wine or rare collector’s vintage.
Wines start at $31.
Founded by Khaoula Abtouche, BA 17
Unable to find quality, modest athleticwear for her own gym workouts, Khaoula Abtouche designed and launched Dignitii Activewear. The Canadian-made athletic apparel and hijabs combine the latest sportswear technology with functionality and style, giving modest women comfort and confidence at the gym.
Breeze sports turban, $49
Founded by Jordan Simms, MA 07
Gastronomes will be delighted by a taste of Atlantic Canada from Mary Manette Seafood, based in Charlottetown, P.E.I. The boutique seafood smokehouse and artisanal cannery ships smoked herring and mussels, smoked salmon pâté and lemon-horseradish sauce around the world, retaining great-grandma Mary Manette’s values of sustainability and community.
Mary Manette’s Seacuterie Kit, $39.99
Co-owned by Paul Landry, BA 07
The knowledgeable staff at comic book and games retailer Librairie Crossover Comics love to chat about your favourites — or help you find the perfect gift for the comic-book lover in your life. They sell North American comics as well as international and independent titles, both online and through its retail store in Montreal’s Saint-Henri neighbourhood.
Marvel’s She-Hulk (2022), $19.95
Founded by Janelle Jordan, BA 12
Inspired by her work as a personal trainer and nutrition coach, Janelle Jordan developed protein-rich, plant-based snacks that can satisfy any “fit foodie.” Fusion Fit Foods are made using locally sourced, organic ingredients.
Co-founded by Jean-Jeremie Siow, BEng 08
Specializing in affordable, custom tailoring, Montreal-based Suitablee offers “the world’s first AI-generated” suits. Garnering attention for its innovative technology, Suitablee has been featured in Forbes, L’OFFICIEL and other major publications.
Casual suits, starting at $900
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