There is something extra special about buying and supporting local. And when that something is handmade or handcrafted, there is an extra layer of love and passion in it. Meet some women makers from Liberty Village who each have become a master of their craft and inject positivity into the community.
Stephanie from The Golden Apple
Who doesn’t stop in awe of the beautiful chocolates as they pass by The Golden Apple in the Liberty Market Building? People from all over Toronto and beyond, trek to Liberty Village to visit and purchase these delectable treats. Many times, Stephanie, owner of the shop can be seen stirring the chocolate. She is involved in every aspect of the business. While Stephanie works amazingly hard, she certainly makes time for a love of hers – horses. She helps train and ride young horses at a stable outside of the city. Be sure to stop at the store to grab a sweet treat, gain inspiration and to say hi!
Suzanne from Suzanne Gardner Flowers
As the only florist in Liberty Village, Suzanne Gardner Flowers is a destination stop for many local residents and nearby workers. Originally, the shop called the Toronto Carpet Factory home and has been a neighbourhood staple for over 20 years. you walk into the shop, you are welcomed by beautiful displays and arrangements of flowers and plants. Suzanne is usually found bustling around the studio area of the space putting together all of the orders. Her smile instantly lights up a room. Suzanne resides on a country property in Orangeville and makes the drive to Liberty Village most days. She has a couple of horses that she cares for and loves at home. More recently, she has opened up a second floral shop in Orangeville.
Erin Tracy from Erin Tracy Designs
With an extremely strong eye for detail and a natural aptitude for great design, Erin Tracy creates jewellery pieces from start to finish. Clients flock from all over the city to work with Erin on creating the perfect custom piece, often wedding rings. Her work has been showcased in national wedding publications like Wedding Bells. She also makes beautiful pieces for everyday wear including men and children. Her workshop and studio are located in the Toronto Carpet Factory. Upon meeting Erin, you will feel her warmth, genuine nature and passion for design and clients. When she isn’t in the studio, she looking after her two cute and wonderful children and can often be found at her family’s cottage.
Amy from Smitten Kitten
Owner and designer of the fun and quirky shop “I Have a Crush on You”, Amy, sure knows how to make some wild and funny greeting cards. With a background in merchandising with a lifestyle retailer, she decided to branch out on her own and open the store in 2014. Smitten Kitten is her greeting card line that is imagined, created and hand pressed in her Jefferson Ave studio. Her cards are available at many boutiques across Canada and beyond. Be sure to stop by and say hello to Amy where her amazing smile will make your day!
Liberty Village is filled with so many amazing women. What other woman makers from our community deserve a shout out? Let us know in the comments below.
All photos were taken by Meg Marshall unless otherwise noted.
