Invest where you live

One of my favourite things to do in my free time is to casually stroll down the Main Street of a small town, visit a local Market, or browse the cool, independent shops downtown.  How great is it to pop into a small store, talk to the owner, marvel at beautiful artisan-made pottery and paintings, smell the handmade soaps and candles, and admire thoughtfully designed Canadian clothing and home decor?  How wonderful is it to sit in a cute little cafe, uniquely designed by the owner, reflecting their own personal style while enjoying a homemade treat?  

Spending time in local neighbourhoods reminds me of how important it is to support these independent businesses.  These small, unique stores are the heart of many communities, offering a special opportunity for socializing, gifting, shopping and spending leisure time alone, or with friends and family.  Often times, these shops carry products that are not widely available; they offer us the opportunity to try new flavours of dishes, or to discover new brands and styles of apparel.  

I am so grateful for the opportunity to be able to shop and spend time in small, independent boutiques, restaurants and cafes.  I love discovering new things, but most of all I love the personal touch. I love that many of the items in these shops are made in small batches with a lot of care and creativity.  I also love that the people working in these establishments remember my name when I return.  I know that the time I spend in these shops and any purchase I make is appreciated deeply by the owner and the staff.  I also know that ever purchase literally keeps these businesses alive and active in our communities.  I have personally seen the attention to detail that goes into making the customer experience in these small businesses exceptional, and in return I understand that choosing them allows them to keep their doors open.

Georgia Rose Label is also a small, independently owned Canadian business.  As the founder, I choose Canadian suppliers and talent whenever possible. All Georgia Rose Label apparel is designed and sewn in Canada (with domestic and imported parts).   Our clothes are available on-line (shipping only within Canada), and are also available in select boutiques in Ontario and Montreal (and hoping to expand coast to coast!)   In this way, Georgia Rose Label supports Canadian Arts and Fashion, Canadian businesses and the Canadian economy.