Shop Small this Holiday Season: My top small businesses to shop at!

Over the years, as a brand photographer, I have met so many incredible people in all different seasons of life. One of my favourite things about being a photographer is capturing moments of your life that you can re-live forever and ever.

Another one of my favourite things is the small business owners I have the pleasure of meeting during our branding sessions. Being a small business owner myself, I know how much it means when we can support one another and cheer each other on, especially during the holidays. So this year, make shopping locally a priority for your holiday gift shopping. Here are a few of my favourite shops:

1. Running M brand:

I have been a fan of Running M Brand for a LOOOONG time. Megan is one of the most down-to-earth people you will ever meet! She handmakes scrunchies, headbands, hoodies, and so much more. She had the absolute best patterns. I also have one of her fleece headbands on my Christmas wish list this year! To learn more about Megan, visit her at

https://runningmbrand.ca/

2. Red Dog Imagery:

Libby is the owner of Red Dog Imagery. She is another one of my favourite humans, and I am so happy that our Instagram friendship turned into a real-life one. Her calendars are absolutely stunning, and I HIGHLY recommend snatching one up if there are any left. She also makes a ton of cute stickers that are perfect for stocking stuffers! Visit Libby's Etsy page at:

https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/RedDogImagery?fbclid=IwAR3WT_1JX6TPixmu_Fb7I9vDRm3Bfv-Hi8LkEVJNSb1hfjo3GGkfwxUWVCs

3. Embodied Living:

As we get thick into the holiday season, finding time to take care of yourself is crucial. You can do that with Jess and Syd at Embodied Living. They are two of the most beautiful, compassionate, and caring humans I have ever met. They are so passionate about supporting you in your life's adventure – whatever it is! Embodied Living offers courses, e-courses and a wide range of free or paid tools to help you manage stress. I took my Yoga Teacher Training course with them and it was such an amazing experience. You can read more about that here: Why Yoga. If you are looking for strategies and support to reduce or manage your stress, )or some amazing travel opportunities!) I highly recommend checking out Embodied Living here: http://www.embodiedliving.ca/

4. Cattle Cait:

I am a massive fan of Cattle Cait products. They are made with the highest standards, they are functional and incredibly unique. I'm not going to lie, but I went all fan-girl when the ladies at Trailbalzher asked me if I would photograph Cait for their magazine. Um, heck yes! The cold weather has been living in my Sisu Hat from Cattle Cait and I have my eyes on a pair of mittens and a carved leather hair clip! To check out more of Cait's products, visit https://cattlecait.com/

5. Prairie Sweater Co.:

Meet Tabetha. She is one of the kindest humans ever. Her love for slow fashion and sustainability is evident in every piece she makes. I own a few pieces and am absolutely in love with every single one. If you're looking to give the gift of high-quality, thoughtfully created, and handmade clothing, you HAVE to purchase it from Prairie Sweater Company. I'm obsessing over the Vintage Daisy Sweatshirt and can't decide if I should put it on my Christmas list or just treat myself a little early! Have a look at what I'm talking about (and all her other beautiful creations) by visiting https://www.prairiesweaterco.com/

6. High Heels and Canola Fields:

I followed Lesley online for many years before I finally got to meet her in person. Let me tell you, she is just as lovely in person as she appears to be online. We instantly clicked as we chatted about all things farming during her amazing brand session! She has so many beautiful products, which you can check out by visiting her website and clicking the "shop" tab. If you know me, you know I'm a fan of living life in "fully bunny”. Check out High Heels and Canola Fields at https://highheelsandcanolafields.com/

7. Hershel Retreat House:

If you are looking to get away from it all, Hershel Retreat House is the place. It is located in West Central Saskatchewan and is the perfect place to disconnect, reconnect, gather, and relax. Jimmee is an incredible host and makes your time there unforgettable. The cute, personal touches make you feel right at home. My favourite part is the hot tub and the fireplace in the winter! If you're looking for a getaway, look no further than Hershel Retreat House at https://herschelretreat.ca/

8. Trailblazher Co.:

I can vividly remember my first chat with Jan and Erin about their big dreams for this magazine and it is so cool to watch them come true! Trailblazher Co. had the sole purpose of helping rural women get the support, visibility, and recognition they needed to get their businesses in front of more people. They did MORE than achieve that. As someone passionate about sharing rural stories, this magazine is the highlight of my day when it comes in the mail. I love getting a cup of coffee, reading through the magazine, and learning more about rural women and their businesses. If you would like to learn more about Trailblazher Co, visit their website at https://trailblazherco.com/

Photos!

Give the gift of memories that last a lifetime, I offer gift cards for both family and brand sessions. Also If you have had a session with me this year you can print Christmas cards right from your gallery, check out this blog post for more details!