What is your business called and what does it do?

Eco.Crafter – Eco-friendly handmade crafts.

What made you want to do this work?

I previously owned an aesthetic centre specializing in laser hair removal and facial treatments for around four years, from 2019 to 2022. Due to one of my family members being diagnosed with a chronic disease, I was compelled to sell the business as it required more time and attention than I could provide at that moment. Seeking a venture that I could manage from home and still maintain my branding efforts, I turned to my passion for home decor and accessories. I began exploring eco-friendly materials to create and sell products aligned with this new direction.

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

A handmade crafter might face several challenges, including market saturation, where the abundance of similar products can make it difficult to stand out like the art of resin. There’s also the issue of pricing, as balancing the cost of materials, time, and labor against consumer expectations for reasonable prices can be tricky. Additionally, time management can be a concern, as crafting each piece by hand is time-consuming, and balancing production with other aspects of the business can be difficult. Finally, reaching the right audience is crucial, and without effective marketing strategies, it can be challenging to connect with potential customers who appreciate and are willing to pay for handmade crafts.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Middle to Upper-Class Individuals: Those are more likely to invest in unique, handmade items for their quality and uniqueness.

Women aged 25-45: This demographic often appreciates the uniqueness and personal touch of handmade items, seeking them for personal use and as gifts.

Eco-conscious Consumers: People who prioritize sustainability and eco-friendliness might prefer handmade crafts, especially those made from eco-friendly materials.

Art and Craft Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate art and craftsmanship might seek out handmade items for their aesthetic and collectible value.

Home Decorators: Those looking to decorate their homes uniquely and stylishly may turn to handmade crafts for one-of-a-kind pieces.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

Direct sales: Posting and selling my crafts directly to consumers through my social media page. Customers/friends see my products and they may purchase directly by sending message or email.
Participating in local events : Teaming up with other local businesses, under the umbrella of small businesses organizers.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

As far as I know , I am the only one in Oakville working with eco friendly materials but there are others
making handmade crafts but with Resin .

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

A prospective customer might ask, “How do you ensure the quality and uniqueness of your handmade crafts?

The answer: “Each piece is crafted with attention to detail, using high-quality materials sourced from reliable suppliers. I also keep abreast of trends while infusing my personal artistic style to ensure each item is unique. My goal is to provide the customer with a product that’s not only unique and personal but also durable and of high quality.” This response highlights the dedication to quality and individuality, addressing potential concerns about the craftsmanship and value of the products.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

The best part about what I do is the creative freedom and satisfaction I get from bringing my ideas to life and seeing customers enjoy my creations. There’s a profound joy in crafting something unique with my hands that others find beautiful and valuable. The personal connection I form with each piece and the positive feedback from clients is incredibly fulfilling.

The worst part can be the unpredictability and the pressure. As a small business owner, fluctuating demand, managing all aspects of the business, and the need to constantly innovate can be challenging. Additionally, the time-intensive nature of handcrafting each item means that scaling up and balancing personal and work life can be difficult.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

Sorry, I don’t have something in mind but I have a fact (you don’t go to the crafts shop because you need to buy anything, you go in and let the shop tell you what you need) which is actually true. I go to the crafts shop to get inspired by the materials or anything new in the market.

Where can we follow you?

Currently, I have only social media pages

Instagram | Facebook | TikTok

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Pepper Please Studio

The post Homegrown Business: Shahenaz of eco.crafter appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

What is your business called and what does it do?

Welcome to “How Rare,” where we specialize in crafting experiences rather than just selling products! As an online boutique for home decor, our mission is to infuse living spaces with the extraordinary, offering a curated collection that transforms houses into homes. “MAKE YOUR HOME RARE WITH HOW RARE” is not just a slogan; it’s a mantra that guides us in every selection we make. Our fundamental concept revolves around exploring items from Canada and around the globe that redefine uniqueness in terms of design, style, and cultural significance. Each piece in our collection stands as a testament to the extraordinary – it’s a story, representing the individuality of each home!

What made you want to do this work?

My journey into this endeavour was sparked by a profound passion for travel and a genuine delight in collecting unique items. The sheer joy of discovering the beauty in everyday items, each carrying its charm from diverse corners of Canada and the globe, served as the catalyst for the inception of our business.

It was this appreciation for the extraordinary within the ordinary that gave birth to the concept of How Rare & to be honest, inspiration often comes from unexpected places. I stay connected to art, travel, and cultural trends as each discovery sparks a new idea or theme for our curated collections. In essence, our journey is a continuous exploration, where the extraordinary seamlessly integrates into everyday living!

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

At How Rare, our mission goes beyond merely offering home decor & we believe that the world is a canvas painted with diverse talents and artistry, yet often these gems remain hidden. We envision How Rare as a single, radiant platform where these forms of talent and artistry are unveiled. Through our curated collection, we not only transform homes but also provide a spotlight for these talented creators and manufacturers. Our ambition is to be a one-stop shop, a beacon of convenience for art lovers in any form, creating a space where the extraordinary becomes accessible and appreciated.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Picture individuals with an appetite for the extraordinary, those who crave the rare and unique. We specifically cater to those who deeply appreciate craftsmanship, and cultural diversity, and seek a personalized touch in their living spaces, making our curated collections a perfect match for them.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

How Rare operates as an online boutique, providing customers the convenience to explore and purchase our unique collections from the comfort of their homes. Our exclusively designed website, not only showcases our rare finds but also provides a distinctive experience How Rare aims to offer to each visitor.

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

Ah, an excellent question! The Question should be: “How do you ensure the authenticity and quality of the items you source, and what sets your customer experience apart?”

At How Rare, authenticity is our guiding star, and our commitment extends beyond the pieces themselves. We employ a thorough vetting process, checking and verifying the products piece by piece. But the magic doesn’t stop there! Our dedication to customer service includes meticulous attention to packaging, ensuring your rare finds arrive not just as purchases but as treasures with smooth and efficient delivery. We strongly believe that the whole experience, from browsing our online store to getting your special items, should be delightful.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

The most rewarding aspect is witnessing the happiness when a customer discovers a piece that deeply resonates with them. We love turning dreams into reality, crafting a personal haven through our unique finds. On the flip side, the challenge is navigating the intricacies of international sourcing.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

Haha, well, it’s like being a detective in the world of decor, unveiling the hidden stories behind each find. Picture me as the Sherlock Holmes of unique treasures and the Miss Marple of masterpieces—solving the mysteries that transform every item into a rare and extraordinary tale!

Where can we follow you?

Stay connected with How Rare on our social media platforms for the latest updates, unique finds, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of our collections.

Facebook: How Rare | Instagram | Official website

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

It wouldn’t be fair to single out just one local business, given the abundance of talent in our community, each excelling in their fields. We find inspiration in their creativity and dedication as each business enriches the landscape and motivates us to pursue excellence in our own unique way.

The post Homegrown Business: Mahreen of How Rare appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

What is your business called and what does it do?

MAISON-BASQUE offers North Americans colourful striped fabrics from the Basque Country to inhabit their homes and brighten their accessories.

What made you want to do this work?

Raised and born in Southwest France, I wanted to act as a bridge connecting the ancestral weaving traditions of the Basque country with our local makers to contribute and make them relevant to our way of living here. I hope we enable our clients to find their own stripes, self-expression and joie de vivre while honouring artisanal weaving traditions from France and the work of quality makers in North America.

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

Spread joie de vivre and bien vivre from the Basque country through our textiles and honouring talents from both sides of the pond.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

North Americans who value design and quality striped textiles as a source of joy in their home and while on the go. Our clientele tends to be in their 40’s and up, with a majority of women as decision-makers while we cater to all sorts of fans of textiles and décor who value quality and good relationships.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

We have a Toronto showroom where we meet in person with clients, an online shop and pop-ups at various venues in Ontario so far. We also consult more and more by video with our clients throughout North America towards their selection of made-to-order table linen, drapes, upholstery, and other décor services. We also offer made-in-France ready-made items such as tote bags, towels, folding deck chairs, pillows and more

Where in the city can we find your profession?

We are a niche boutique servicing our North American market as the only company stocking in North America bolts of Basque woven fabrics, coated (with their easy wipe-clean benefits) and uncoated. We combine this unique offering of fabrics with the ability to work on made-to-order table linen and décor projects.

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

What does your company do best and enjoy doing at their best? Maison-basque’s purpose is to spread joie de vivre and bien vivre from the Basque country through our textiles, relationships with clients and the execution of the project. Through our work, we hope to share with our clients a joy of living combined with a life of good values.

What is the best part about what you do?

When Maison-basque clients express their special joie de vivre through meaningful and strong personal choices of products for gathering around the table, enjoying their homes, and carrying on the go. When our clients feel connected to who they are, what they love, what they value and who they want to support.

What is the worst part?

Social media interactions do not deliver any of the quality interaction enjoyed with clients.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

Cannot think of anything. What I strongly believe is that all of us need to trust that voice in us to make meaningful design choices; what the heck if our neighbours/friends or family do not like what we select… this is for us, one life and it is short!

Where can we follow you?

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Youtube

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Any small business that does its work with passion and good values.

The post Homegrown Business: Evelyne Dufau of Maison-Basque appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

What is your business called and what does it do?

My passion for art inspired the name Artizenelle; it makes me feel Zen. I decided to combine my love of art and crafts with my feeling of being Zen. The name was created by adding Elle from the end of my first name, and BOOM! ARTIZENELLE, the company’s name, was created.

We started this business in 2018, buying a Cricut, a cutting machine from Michael’s (our local craft store) and exploring t-shirt making for our family’s annual craft session. Artizenelle specializes in custom art projects, focusing mainly on custom drinkware with a special ink called sublimation ink which won’t wash off.

What made you want to do this work?

I’ve always had a passion for art and crafts. In my spare time, I would experiment with different mediums to create custom art pieces such as bookmarks, T-shirts, and decor. Through many trials, I began finding my way, becoming more comfortable using different ranges of materials to create various custom pieces. Once I was 100% sure I could provide a variety of services through my art, I took a giant leap in launching Artizenelle to expand and offer more services to the community.

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

My main objective when creating Artizenelle was to develop more projects that reflected the Afro-Caribbean community. Typically, you don’t see a lot of custom pieces that reflect that community in large capacities, and this is because, in large, big box stores, the items produced don’t accurately reflect the diversity of our Afro-Caribbean culture. Through the freedom of creative expression given to me by my customers, I push for proper representation and diversity in general.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

There is no restriction on who we want to purchase or use Artizenelle’s products and or services. We specialize in creating pieces for the Afro-Caribbean community; however, our customers come from all different backgrounds. We provide services and develop art ideas for all individuals interested in buying custom creations. Our main objective is to bring your designs and visions to life.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

We operate via referral business, popup booths throughout the community, Instagram, and our website. Customized Orders require A fifty per cent deposit and collaboration with our customers. Set-up and delivery services are available based on service and location.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

Artizenelle is a small home business located in Toronto offering services throughout the GTA.

We are also an avid Pop Up Shop Vendor. You can always find Artizenelle set up in a booth throughout the community promoting the services we provide.

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services?

When comparing services, a prospective customer could ask a member of my profession what type of materials I work with and how I can customize for any event or item. Assuring our customers that the equipment /materials used are high quality. Our sublimation custom orders (mugs/tumblers etc.) are reasonably priced for any occasion. Friendly and reliable customer service has helped grow our business through referrals.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

The best part about what we do is bringing our customer’s visions to life and providing diversity in products to anyone. We are passionate about our work, and our customers allow creative freedom to bring their visions to life. The more we attend popup events and collaborate with other small business owners, the more we enjoy growing and expanding our product line and services. Learning more about the craft industry is a joy and passion. We love what we do, and it shows. The worst part of the business is the trial and error of perfecting a project and the long hours to complete specific tasks, which is a necessary part of a customizing business.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

Michael’s is my man; if crafting is your hobby, you will know who Michael’s is. He takes all my good coins (LOL).

Where can we follow you?

Website | Instagram

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

I love ShopKDAdesigns. It is another small business located in Brampton that specializes in Original Artwork and Handcrafted Accessories.

The post Homegrown Business: Janielle Walker of Artizenelle appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Looking for a plant store in your community? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Our top picks of local shops in your neighbourhood will give everyone a chance to meet their local plant dealer.

The Best Indoor Plant Stores in Toronto

King West, Fort York

Promise Supply at Stackt Market

http://promisesupply.ca

Promise Supply is located at stackt market with King West, Liberty Village, and Fort York in close proximity. The shop started exclusively selling plants online during the December 2020 lockdown from their storefront at stackt market. Since reopening as a mini-garden centre at Bathurst and Fort York, they’ve become one of Toronto’s top places to find unique houseplants like olive trees, lemon trees, and cacti. They also carry a wide range of tropical house plants, offer plant care advice over text, WhatsApp, phone, email and Instagram, and deliver all of their plants directly to customers in heated vehicles. Their small but mighty team has also helped create multiple unique retail and patio displays for clients like Mamakas and Tilley.

Toronto’s Local Plant Dealers on Instagram: “Promise Safari”

Dundas West

Sienna Flora

Sienna Flora is the best shop on Dundas West. They have a lot of plants and pottery, so everyone can find something they like. The staff are knowledgeable and can help customers find the perfect plant. They also have soil, fertilizer, pest care and substrates so customers can look after their plants. Sienna Flora also offers plant design and sourcing services for homes and businesses. With all they offer, Sienna Flora is the perfect place to find a special plant for your home or office.

Queen West

Poppies Plants of Joy

Poppies Plant of Joy is a 17-year-old independent florist and plant store in West Queen West, Toronto. They offer high-quality, local, seasonal, and imported flowers and plants worldwide. Their owners are passionate about bringing joy and healing through nature. Shop in-store, call, email, or shop online. Pets are welcome!

North Riverdale

Crazy Plant Shop by The Crazy Plant Guy

http://crazyplantshop.ca/

Crazy Plant Shop, located at 253 Broadview Avenue in the east end of downtown Toronto, is the go-to destination for anyone looking for a wide variety of high-quality plants, as well as all the supplies and accessories needed to keep them healthy and thriving. The shop has a reputation for being the go-to destination for those looking for hard-to-find plants and is also great for beginners looking to get into the world of plant care. The shop also offers a wide range of supplies and accessories to help care for plants with expert staff to help customers find the perfect plant for their needs.

Roncesvalles

Plant for Soul

https://plantforsoul.ca/

Plantforsoul is a family-run plant store based in Toronto, Canada. It sells common and rare houseplants sourced from Ontario growers and sustainably-sourced imports from the US, Asia, and South and Central America. The store’s goal is to provide customers with healthier plants. It is open for walk-in service as well as delivery across all of Canada’s provinces and territories. plantforsoul emphasizes using recycled materials for shipping and runs a ‘recycle program’ where used plastic pots are given away for free. The store is owned by Shaziea and Sharif, two avid plant lovers who immigrated to Canada a decade ago.

Junction and Wallace Emmerson

Urban Gardener

Urban Gardener is the go-to plant shop for Toronto’s Junction Triangle. Their level of care is unmatched, from their wide variety of quality plants to their commitment to providing helpful advice and services for free. They prioritize sustainability and community, ensuring their plants come from local growers and their customers feel welcome and respected. This shop prides itself on being a part of its community, values diversity, and creates a safe space for everyone to feel comfortable learning about plants and getting the support they need.

Cabbagetown

Jamestown Milk

https://www.juliagarden.ca/

Jamestown Milk Convenience Store is a plant shop in Toronto’s Cabbage Town neighbourhood. From the outside, it looks like any other convenience store, but when you step inside, you’ll find an abundance of rare and unique tropical plants provided by Julia Woo. Whether you’re looking for a unique houseplant or something more exotic, Jamestown Milk has various options. The selection is constantly changing, so check their Instagram account to see the latest arrivals. The prices and names of the plants are clearly listed, so you can easily find the perfect addition to your home or garden.

Check them out on Instagram, where they share their latest arrivals.

Little Italy

MIKA

https://www.mikafleur.com/

Mika Sato, the owner of MIKA, was inspired by nature and the countryside where she grew up. Through her store, she aims to share this sense of calm with urban dwellers by offering a unique combination of plants, handmade pottery, terrariums, and kokedama moss balls. The MIKA logo was inspired by a maple key, a symbol of Mika’s Japanese birthplace and her Canadian home. The store curates a selection of lush plants, handmade goods, antiques, and Japanese products to inspire customers to find peace of mind. Mika’s design aesthetic was inspired by the ancient floral art of ikebana and her pottery. She also incorporates locally sourced and found elements such as lichens, moss, and branches to create one-of-a-kind pieces.

Kensington Market

Organic Press

https://organicpress.ca/

Organic Press has been a cold-pressed juice bar in Kensington Market, Toronto since 2015. They offer a variety of organic, locally sourced juices and smoothies, as well as almond and tiger nut mylks. With a commitment to sustainability and wellness, they also provide a selection of plants representing the connection between people and nature.

Bloor West Village

Stamen and Pistil

https://stamenandpistil1.com/

Stamen and Pistil Botanicals is dedicated to helping customers build indoor oases. They offer a variety of plants from tropical to succulents to cacti, as well as planters and bulk soils. They also create miniature works of art with their terrariums which are crafted with unique care and attention. Customers can also benefit from their expertise, as Stamen and Pistil Botanicals provide helpful advice on creating and sustaining beautiful indoor gardens. All these offerings help customers bring their vision to life and create a healthy and beautiful space for themselves.

Danforth, East York, Beaches

In Bloom

https://inbloomflowers.ca/

In Bloom Flower Shop is a botanical studio located in Toronto’s East End. They carry a vast assortment of houseplants from tropicals and cacti to succulents. New plant shipments arrive regularly, offering a curated selection of dried florals, pots, and accessories. Their shop is a lush jungle, delivering throughout Toronto, the GTA, and beyond.

The post The Best Indoor Plant Stores in Toronto by Neighbourhood appeared first on Toronto Guardian.