Happy International Women’s Day!
Each year for the last few International Women’s Day(s), I’ve been sharing blog posts focused on celebrating and supporting women-owned businesses in the Edmonton area.
- See my Guide to Women-Owned Businesses in the Edmonton Area (2019)
- See Shopping + Dining Itineraries Featuring Women-Owned Businesses (2020)
These guides have become useful resources for those specifically looking to shop and support women-owned businesses—a tangible action we can take to fight inequality and celebrate women’s achievements.
Today, women still get paid less than men for the same job (stats hover around 80 cents for every $1 men make). Women are harshly criticized in the workplace, described as “emotional” when men are described as “passionate.” According to the International Labour Organization, only 31 of 133 countries achieve gender parity in technical vocational education (skilled trades). And many reports indicate the COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge, negative impact on women in the workforce, reversing progress made over the last decade.
If there has ever been a time to celebrate women and forge a more equitable world, it’s now.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #ChooseToChallenge, which invites you to challenge gender bias and overall systemic bullsh*t women face each and every day. As with all IWDs, the idea is that you’re not just doing it on one single day, but taking these ideas and actions with you throughout the year.
With that said, here’s a list of 41 women artists, makers, creators, entrepreneurs without physical storefronts based in the Edmonton area, who I’d like to celebrate for International Women’s Day (and beyond).
I chose 41 because I added 20 + 21 in the year 2021. I’m very clever, lol.
And I chose women with no physical storefronts as I’ve blogged quite extensively about businesses with storefronts and wanted to spread the love to amazing business owners, entrepreneurs, artists, makers, creators, who don’t necessarily have a physical location you can pop into (support them online!)
I am also aware that some #s list multiple women (co-founders) so it’s technically 41+ women lol.
Thank you to my Instagram followers for their recommendations, some of which made it into this list. I also don’t think I need to say but will say that obviously this does not represent ALL the incredible women doing incredible things in the Edmonton area, let alone the incredible women I am fortunate to know, work alongside, learn from and laugh with, but one blog post can only mention so many lol.
41 Edmonton Area Women Artists, Makers, and Entrepreneurs to Support for International Women’s Day #IWD2021 (and beyond)
Listed in alphabetical order. Obviously not an exhaustive list of the many amazing women in town.
Keep scrollin’ for more details!
41 Edmonton Area Women Artists, Makers, and Creators to Support
* denotes a woman who is BIPOC (50% of this list features artists, markers, creators who are BIPOC).
- 7 Summit Snacks (Kristyn and Leanna Carriere, Christine Reimer)
- AllOne Jewelry (Lee MacBean and Mickey MacGregor)
- Amy Dixon Art + Design (Amy Dixon)
- Ang Hill Design (Ang Hill)
- Archive Boutique (Rosslyn Boulanger)
- Bang Bang Bijoux (Rachel Bingham)
- Black Owned Market (Rochelle Ignacio) *
- Buno Design (Esmahan Abdallah) *
- Caramunchies (Alysia Lok) *
- Chef Table Living (Vanessa Ojeda) *
- Crystal Driedger Illustration (Crystal Driedger)
- Dog Jogs (Nikki Lepine and Steph Law) *
- DogDog Goose (Lauren van Keulen)
- Emilie Iggiotti Photography (Emilie Iggiotti)
- Emily Chu Illustration (Emily Chu) *
- Endangered Thrift (Paige)
- G.S. Studios (Elysia MacDonald and Jessica Kent)
- Gloria Ho Illustrations (Gloria Ho) *
- HABITAT315 VINTAGE (Alecia Wittmeier-Townley)
- J² Studios Craft (Christina Jang) *
- KYN Apparel (Alèthe Kaboré) *
- Life Preloved (Jennifer McConaghy)
- Lisa Rattai’s Nails (Lisa LaForge-Rattai)
- Little Day Miniatures (Jennifer Izquierdo) *
- Mâmawi Creations (Chauntelle Atcheynum)
- Msichana (Lorna Mutegyeki) *
- Mezzaluna Studios / Royal Bison (Vikki Wiercinski)
- Mimio and Co. (Adrienne Martinuk) *
- Mojo Jojo Pickles (Johwanna Alleyne) *
- Naheyawin (Jacquelyn Cardinal) *
- Nai Nai Mie (Catherine Lee-Hannley) *
- Nisha Patel *
- nor. (Sherri Cardona) *
- Oonsie Boutique (Sara Awatta) *
- Our Jonrah Events (Sarah Valencia) *
- Prairie Poly (Marion Mendoza) *
- Rêve Naturals (Rêvee Agyepong) *
- Sarah Mavro Photography (Sarah Mavro)
- Skavenger Ceramix (Mary Roach) *
- Sero Beauty Co. (Kendra McCourt)
- Stephanie Illustrates (Stephanie Simpson)
1. 7 Summits Snacks (Kristyn & Leanna Carriere, Christine Reimer)
7 Summits Snacks was created by Kristyn Carriere, Leanna Carriere, and Christine Reimer, as fuel for your next adventure—whatever that may be. These are superfood chocolates crafted with purposeful nutrition targets designed to keep you going. The trio have a passion for chocolate and health (it can be both, together!)
2. AllOne Jewelry (Lee MacBean and Mickey MacGregor)
AllOne Jewelry is owned by sisters Lee and Mickey, who have a passion for helping women and children around the world achieve a better life. That’s why 100% of net proceeds from their jewelry sales are donated to women in need in Africa. Shop online or have AllOne come to your next event (when events are safe!)
3. Amy Dixon Art + Design (Amy Dixon)
Amy Dixon is a visual artist whose paintings are a reflection of her surroundings, memories and an imaginary world—a whimsical place inspired by nature and bringing the outside in. Amy’s pieces are often vibrant and always beautiful. Support Amy by ordering original art, prints, request a custom piece.
4. Ang Hill Design (Ang Hill)
Ang Hill is an ethical women’s clothing brand “for the soulful woman.” Each Ang Hill handmade piece includes words of inspiration on the tag and is named after a special woman who has helped Ang Hill along her journey. Ang also donates proceeds to The Compassion Project charity. Her vision is to create timeless pieces—seasonless sustainable fashion. Order Ang’s clothing online.
5. Archive Boutique (Rosslyn Boulanger)
Archive Boutique by Rosslyn Boulanger is a modern futuristic jewelry and accessory line. Pieces are hand painted on laser cut bamboo and Rosslyn is forever experimenting with different mediums and colour. From cute enamel pins to stylish masks and glasses chains, shop Rosslyn’s fun and unique pieces perfect for daytime or glowing on the dance floor.
6. Bang Bang Bijoux (Rachel Bingham)
Bang Bang Bijoux by Rachel Bingham features jewelry and accessories created from vintage materials, semi-precious stones, and brass. Each hand-crafted treasure incorporates unusual or unexpected materials, found objects, antique oddities, dead stock from old factories and the occasional dumpster dive. Shop grungy yet charming, sparkly, treasures!
7. Black Owned Market (Rochelle Ignacio) *
The Black Owned Market (BOMYEG) co-founded by Rochelle Ignacio uses a pop-up style and community-oriented space (markets and online initiatives) to support Black-owned businesses, entrepreneurs & creatives in Edmonton to reduce the inequality gap. BOMYEG does such important work and has introduced me to so many amazing Black entrepreneurs!
8. Buno Design (Esmahan Abdallah) *
Buno Design by Esmahan Abdallah offers unique, handcrafted sustainable jewelry made of recycled and vintage resources. By repurposing old, vintage and salvaged materials, Esmahan is reducing fashion wastage and its environmental impact. Shop Esmahan’s unique and wearable art jewelry that empowers you and makes you feel true to your own individual style.
9. Caramunchies (Alysia Lok) *
Caramunchies by Alysia Lok is the ultimate snacker’s snack! These are creamy, melt in your mouth caramel paired with crispy cornflakes to make deliciously addictive clusters with pockets of soft caramel and the most satisfying crunch (it’s a mouthful!) Alysia also operates a Caramunchies Hot Lunch Program to support the community through the Marian Centre.
10. Chef Table Living (Vanessa Ojeda) *
Chef Table Living by Vanessa Ojeda offers local chef cooking kits, cocktail kits, as well as food bike and walking food tours of the city. The business collaborates with local restaurants to help you indulge, engage, savour and support in fine local dining and drinks. Support Chef Table Living by booking one of their many tasty services!
11. Crystal Driedger Illustration (Crystal Driedger)
Crystal Driedger is an artist, illustrator and producer designer creating playful and charming original acrylic and oil paintings featuring vibrant colours, enchanting textures and gentle, whimsical shapes. Many pieces are inspired by memories of a childhood spent in forests and fields of her family farm. She’s a pro at paintings of large scale cows! lol. Support by shopping Crystal’s prints, pins, magnets and more.
12. Dog Jogs (Nikki Lepine and Steph Law) *
Dog Jogs by Nikki Lepine and Steph Law offers dog jogging, walking, pawty breaks and dog sitting (even cat sitting and visits!) services so that their team can be there for your dog when you can’t be. Whether you are at work, on vacation, or busy taking care of other matters. count on them to care for the needs of your four-legged friends!
13. DogDog Goose (Lauren van Keulen)
DogDog Goose by Lauren van Keulen offers handcrafted, high quality, made-to-order collars and leashes for your dogs’ journeys that will last a lifetime—rugged, long-lasting, easy to use, and aesthetically beautiful. Lauren also donates some proceeds to various rescue organizations and creates collaboration pieces with local artisans.
14. Emilie Iggiotti Photography (Emilie Iggiotti)
Emilie Iggiotti is a portrait photographer with a twist. She rejects society’s representation of beauty and revel in simplicity, guilelessness and movement. She is a women’s empowerment photographer who wants to make magic with you. She also creates and participates in many women empowerment photography initiatives. Support Emilie by booking a session with her.
15. Emily Chu Illustration (Emily Chu) *
Emily Chu is an illustrator and artist who loves sketchbook doodling. She hosts a local sketchclub and has released a publication on drawings titled #OnLocationYEG. Her colourful, vibrant work has been featured in countless magazines and for countless clients. She also helps organize the Royal Bison Arts & Craft Fair. Support Emily by buying her prints, illustrations, or hiring her for custom work.
16. Endangered Thrift (Paige)
Endangered Thrift by Paige encourages a conscious closet for the casual babe. Paige serves you the freshest mix of vintage and modern fashion finds, helping you save money while encouraging and practicing sustainable fashion and she does it in a really fun, vibrant and personable way.
17. G.S Studios (Elysia MacDonald and Jessica Kent)
G.S Studios by Elysia MacDonald and Jessica Kent offers a completely custom design experience for a set package price. With over a decade of experience in residential interior and design, sisters Elysia and Jessica want to make your home beautiful, but keep the process simple. Need a room refresh or entire overhaul? Hire Elysia and Jessica to help.
18. Gloria Ho Illustrations (Gloria Ho) *
Gloria Ho is a watercolour painter who paints people, animals, and other random things. She likes to create joyful and inviting art that captures the beauty of her subjects. When it’s safe to visit Gloria again in markets, go tell her you enjoy her paintings! It’s one of the best feelings in the world. Support her now by ordering her artwork online.
19. HABITAT315 VINTAGE (Alecia Wittmeier-Townley)
HABITAT315 VINTAGE by Alecia Wittmeier-Townley features vintage finds and home inspiration. Alecia is a MidMod enthusiast and helps you love your home by adding stunning, vintage pieces to it. She does the scavenging so you don’t have to! And the pieces she finds (and restores) are simply stunning. Support Alecia by following HABITAT315 VINTAGE and buying one of her finds! If there’s something particular you want to find, Alecia an also hunt it for you!
20. J² Studios Craft (Christina Jang) *
J² Studios Craft by Christina Jang sells hand made with care dresses, hair accessories and knitwear primarily for babies and kids, as well as face masks. Christina sews from her heart and wants every little one out there to feel special wearing beautiful, high quality and unique clothing. Support Christina by ordering her goods online.
21. KYN Apparel (Alèthe Kaboré) *
KYN Apparel by Alèthe Kaboré blends African prints with more common fabrics such as lace, tulle, jeans, tweet etc., producing bold, rich and colourful vibes which contributes to your unique and confident style. Alèthe’s dream is to increase the use of African prints and material in modern wear in Canadian fashion and internationally. Support Alèthe by buying her clothes online or ordering a custom outfit.
22. Life Preloved (Jennifer McConaghy)
Life Preloved by Jennifer McConaghy wants to change the way we obtain and dispose our goods. Jennifer thrifts, sells, and creates circulator fashion events to promote sustainable fashion. Her blog provides useful advice and insights into sustainable fashion and she also provides closet and decor consulting services. Support Jennifer by booking her services and participating in clothing swaps.
23. Lisa Rattai’s Nails (Lisa LaForge-Rattai)
Lisa LaForge-Rattai is a certified nail technician who has specialized in hand sculpted gels and gel polish since 2010. Lisa loves connecting with her clients and not only creates beautiful nail art (she loves all the possibilities of nail designs), but also gets to act as a safe space for clients to share their joys and frustrations during each session. Support Lisa by booking an appointment.
24. Little Day Miniatures (Jennifer Izquierdo) *
Little Day Miniatures by Jennifer Izquierdo sells incredibly detailed, hand-sculpted, realistic miniature pieces of art. Keepsakes range from earrings to key holders representing popular television show scenes or foods. I am absolutely obsessed with “tiny things” so I am absolutely obsessed with Jennifer’s creations! Support her and buy her art online, or ask for custom commission.
25. Mâmawi Creations (Chauntelle Atcheynum) *
Mâmawi Creations by Chauntelle Atcheynum features Indigenous woven art and jewelry inspired by the voices of Chauntelle’s ancestors, the wisdom of Spirit, the elements of Mother Earth, and the energies of the Cosmos. Chauntelle celebrates that beadwork is a planetary gift that upholds many nations and their cultures. Support Chauntelle by purchasing her jewelry.
26. Msichana Inc. (Lorna Mutegyeki) *
Msichana Inc. by Lorna Mutegyeki is a sustainable fashion brand for the independent woman with a global soul. Lorna creates artisan-handcrafted, one-of-a-kind, statement pieces that reflects dynamism, creativity, and spirit. Msichana is building bridges across the globe and promoting an appreciation for the differences that make this a beautiful world. Support Lorna by shopping Msichana Inc.
27. Mezzaluna Studio / Royal Bison (Vikki Wiercinski)
Mezzaluna Studio by Vikki Wiercinski is both a design studio and a product line all about of the aesthetics of joy with a modern twist. Vikki’s designs have brought colour, joy and good design into everyday life through universally accessible, everyday objects. She is also the Royal Bison organizer, which celebrates and supports countless local, independent makers.
28. Mimio and Co. (Adrienne Martinuk) *
Mimio and Co. by Adrienne Martinuk sells high quality, handmade bandanas, bow ties and other apparel and pet accessories for fur babies big or small, inspired by her dogs Obie and Mitzu, as well as her talented seamstress mother, who was filled with joy seeing her creations worn. That’s the same joy Adrienne creates in her products. Support Adrienne by shopping online or making a custom order.
29. Mojo Jojo Pickles (Johwanna Alleyne) *
Mojo Jojo Pickles by Johwanna Alleyne offers creative acidified and spirited preserved foods from pickles to condiments, beverage syrups and shrubs. Johwanna or “Jojo” is a full-time pickler whose products can now be found in local groceries, delicatessens, butchers, artisan shops and online.
30. Naheyawin (Jacquelyn Cardinal) *
Naheyawin co-founded by Jacquelyn Cardinal is an agency poised and working to help businesses, non-profits, and institutions reinvigorate the spirit of Treaty into their organizations and build bridges they need to cross into terrain they’ve not ventured before. Jacquelyn uses ancient tools to solve critical, contemporary problems. Support Jacquelyn by hiring Naheyawin for engagement and education sessions.
31. Nai Nai Mie (Catherine Lee-Hannley) *
Nai Nai Mie by Catherine Lee-Hannley creates happiness in a bowl! Handcrafted using a family recipe passed down three generations, Catherine’s noodles are a great way to make any day simply perfect. Think of it like a homemade hug in a bowl. I am extremely partial to the Hot Chicks! Support Nai Nai Mie by ordering a bunch of their noods.
32. Nisha Patel *
Nisha Patel is an award-winning Indo-Canadian poet, artist, and public speaker (and as of writing this, the City of Edmonton Poet Laureate and Regional Writer in Residence at Strathcona County and St. Albert. Support Nisha by booking her for performances, public speaking, commissions, mentorship and coaching, or buy books and support the Edmonton Poetry Festival of which she is executive director.
33. nor. (Sherri Cardona) *
nor. by Sherri Cardona specializes in pieces that help you feel beautiful, confident and comfortable. Sherri creates ethically made, easy-to-wear and timeless, versatile pieces that help you express your own style. Support Sherri by shopping nor garments and build a sustainable wardrobe.
34. Oonsie Boutique (Sara Awatta) *
Oonsie Boutique by Sara Awatta wants all women to feel confident, beautiful and sexy. With items ranging from XS to 3XL, Sara curates a selection of clothing like sweaters, jumpsuits, dresses, skirts, tops and accessories meant to give you confidence. Support Sara by ordering from her online shop.
35. Our Jonrah Events (Sarah Valencia) *
Our Jonrah Events by Sarah Valencia helps couples plan personalized and memorable weddings so you can enjoy every moment of your big day. Sarah is passionate for creating thoughtful touches and personalized event experiences for couples and clients. She creates seamless wedding plans and celebrates relationships. Support Sarah by hiring her to plan your wedding!
36. Prairie Poly (Marion Mendoza) *
Prairie Poly by Marion Mendoza creates bold, colourful and unique earrings often inspired by the prairies. Marion’s goal is to never make duplicates so each piece is a one-of-a-kind piece of art. Marion gravitates towards making florals but loves playing with landscapes, textures and fun patterns. Her prairie landscape earrings are some of my favourites!
37. Rêve Naturals (Revée Agyepong) *
Rêve Naturals by Revée Agyepong helps you achieve your dream skin, hair, and home, the Rêve Naturals way! A lifetime of medications, hospitalizations and eventually a life changing stem cell transplant motivated Revée to get creative and switch out chemical filled products with homemade natural alternatives. Revé Naturals is your non-toxic option for everyday products!
38. Sarah Mavro Photography (Sarah Mavro)
Sarah Mavro is a talented photographer who loves to freeze those beautiful, fleeting moments in life. She specializes in lifestyle sessions but also offers Inclusion Sessions that are more flexible and adaptive for families and children with complex needs. She is also an equine photographer! That’s right, horses. Support Sarah by booking a photo session with her!
39. Skavenger Ceramix (Mary Roach) *
Skavenger Ceramix by Mary Roach is a ceramic studio where pieces are focused on the combination of ancient material and modern imagery. Mary is inspired by Inuit art, local environment, and punk culture. Her visual style is influenced by Indigenous prints, editorial illustration and political graphic design. Each pot is hand-pinched with visible fingers and variations. Support Mary by buying her ceramix!
40. Sero Beauty Co. (Kendra McCourt)
Sero Beauty Co. by Kendra McCourt believes beauty is a unique experience for everybody, and Kendra is passionate about enhancing the beauty you possess in a way that is authentic for you. Kendra customizes looks to create unique beauty experiences catered to you. She wants to empower people, and to be a medium for self-love and self-expression. Support Kendra by hiring her to do your make-up!
41. Stephanie Illustrates (Stephanie Simpson)
Stephanie Simpson is an illustrator and photographer whose work is inspired by her local environment—local flora and fauna, architectural landmarks, and Canadian landscapes. She’s created maps, murals, and more for a variety of Alberta clients. Support Stephanie by purchasing her artwork, prints, or hiring her for a custom commission.
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So that’s just a small number of amazingly talented, creative women in the Edmonton area who make and create things worth your attention and support! As mentioned, this is NOT an exhaustive list of women to celebrate or women I love and cherish in my own life, and if there are women you’d like to get loud about, please do! You can share them in the comments and just pump them up year round.
Buy their work. Share their social media posts. Give them good Google reviews. Celebrate women!
Don’t forget to check out my past International Women’s Day blog posts:
Linda
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