Looking for the perfect gift for someone special — including the four-legged ones? Our holiday gift guide has you covered.
It’s the perfect time to support small businesses, especially those created by Concordia alumni. From fashion and cosmetics to urban agriculture and pet treats, our grads are building bold, creative brands.
Here are some of our favourites to inspire your holiday shopping.
Dispatch Coffee
Founded by Chrissy Durcak, BA 09
What started as a barista on a bike in 2012 has transformed into a national delivery service, bringing ethically sourced, gourmet coffee to home consumers. Dispatch Coffee retails through a growing network of coffee shops in Montreal and Toronto and online for individual bags, monthly subscriptions, merch and more.
Carbs Bakery
Founded by Arthur Schiller, BComm 17
Montreal-based Carbs Sourdough Bakery crafts organic, slow-fermented sourdough treats — with its signature crackers and granola bites leading the way. The company focuses on simple, wholesome ingredients and uses long fermentation to enhance flavour and digestibility. Products are available through dozens of retailers, including IGA, Well.ca, Rachelle Béry and Lufa Farms or online by the case.
BlacksJewels & Gifts
Founded by Tracy Black, BA 94
BlacksJewels & Gifts is home to a curated selection of unique luxury brands from around the world. Find your perfect gift of home décor, books, apparel or accessories at their Toronto showroom or shop online.
GOPLEX e-karting+
Founded by Ettore Santangelo, BComm 01
How about an experience gift for the thrill-seeker on your list? GOPLEX e-karting+ offers e-karting, laser tag, axe-throwing, interactive darts and more — plus a restaurant and arcade at their facility on Montreal’s South Shore.
GoodHearted Books
Co-founded by Aline Massouh, BComm 04
Inspired by a desire to spark curiosity and confidence in her two children, Massouh and her husband launched GoodHearted Books in 2017. Their titles, aimed at children aged three to eight, focus on nurturing well-being through personal growth, cultural awareness, spirituality and multilingual learning.
Topz Dog Food
Co-founded by Maxime Gravel, MBA 21
For your canine friends, pick up a wholesome gift from Topz Dog Food. Their premium dog meal toppers and treats are made with human-grade beef and chicken and no preservatives. Sold online and in stores in Quebec, Ontario and Saskatchewan.
Sampson EcoShop
Co-founded by Diana Trasente, BEng 94
Drawing on 25 years in environmental engineering, Diana Trasente and her husband founded Sampson EcoShop after seeing the hidden impact of everyday toxins. Their store in Montreal’s Plateau neighbourhood offers non-toxic, eco-friendly products for the home and body.
Alimexi Foods
Co-founded by Victor Guerra Lopez, BEng 22
While still a student, Victor Guerra Lopez launched a business inspired by his Doña Liliana’s authentic Mexican tortilla recipe. Today Alimexi Foods offers gourmet tortillas, flavour-packed hot sauces, fruity salsas and ready-made Burri2Go snacks. Build a festive gift basket filled with bold, handcrafted Mexican flavours for the foodie on your list. Sold at retailers across Quebec and Ontario, including Rachelle Béry, Marché TAU and Taco Depot.
Tyne Valley Teas
Founded by Carol Rybinski, BSc 94
From Chocolate Chai black tea to Lemon Meringue green, Tyne Valley Teas offers a delightful selection of specialty teas and gourmet coffee beans. Shop their full lineup online, or visit their seasonal café in Tyne Valley, Prince Edward Island, during the warmer months.
The Hush Shop
Founded by Elazar Gabay, BA 07
Shopping for a fashion-forward gift? The Hush Shop offers a curated selection of quality clothing for babies and children, along with refined, modest styles for teen girls and women. It’s a thoughtful place to find beautifully made pieces for the stylish loved ones on your list.
Words & Music
Recent books by Concordia graduates
Browse the latest novels, memoirs, poetry and other creative works by Concordia alumni featured in the Words and Music section of the current Concordia University Magazine.
Art Volt Collection
Artworks by graduates of Concordia’s Faculty of Fine Arts
Concordia’s Art Volt Collection is a juried sales and rental marketplace showcasing works by recent Faculty of Fine Arts alumni. Choose from hundreds of paintings, sculptures, photographs and more in this year’s online gallery. Need help? Advisors offer recommendations according to your preferences, space and budget.
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