Why Supporting Canadian Businesses Matters More Than Ever

Inflation’s kicking our asses, big-box stores are raking it in, and small businesses—the real heartbeat of our communities—are barely hanging on. That new tariff that was supposed to hit this week is now delayed by 30 days. So where we throw our hard-earned cash matters now more than ever.

When you support a Canadian small business, you’re not just buying a product—you’re investing in someone’s dream. You’re helping a parent put food on the table, a local artist gets to continue to create, and an entrepreneur keep pushing forward despite the odds.

When I had a small business, every time my phone went off with the Shopify Cha-Ching!, I’d do a happy dance—every single time. And trust me, I get the convenience of Amazon and big-box stores with their same-day delivery and the ability to do massive sales. But what if we paused and asked ourselves: Where is my money going? Who is it helping?

Supporting local or Canadian businesses means:
✨ Keeping money in our communities
✨ Encouraging ethical and sustainable business practices
✨ Creating jobs for our neighbours, friends, and family
✨ Preserving the uniqueness of our cities and towns (because let’s be real—we don’t need more cookie-cutter chains)

So, let’s shift our focus. Let’s choose the handmade candle over the mass-produced one, the clothes from small shops, and the Canadian-made dog food/treats and gear over the ones from who-knows-where.

Here are a few of my favourite brands that are either local to BC or proudly Canadian!

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Clothing:

Huha –… well, if you haven’t tried them, stop reading (but promise to come back) and check them out! The High Rise Thong, and the tata bralette are a must ‘add to cart’!

Not So Plain Jane is a brand I recently found, and I have ordered 3 shirts so far! The latest one I ordered was ‘Be Kind Bro’ which I’ll rock on Pink Shirt Day! I also have a collab with her coming up, so stay tuned, and give her a follow!

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Food Products:

GoodProtein – I love this brand, and I have a discount code for y’all! Use TALKMENTAL30 to save 30%! The Vanilla Milkshake and Chocolate 🍫 Fudge flavours are staples in our home.

Caesar Squeezer – If you love Caesars (vodka optional), this is a must! It has everything you need other than the clamato (and vodka if you choose) to make a mean Caesar! You can order online or find it at your local grocery store.

Braeloch Farms 🧄 – Your go-to for the best garlic products on the market! Their Black Garlic, Dried Minced Garlic, and Gourmet Garlic Powder need to be in your kitchen. (Pro tip: Grab a few foodie friends and place a bulk order to save on shipping!)

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Skincare:

Truly – Not only does this brand kill the social media game, but their products will leave your skin flawless! Their Cleanser smells so fresh, and their Vitamin C serum is one of the only ones that doesn’t break me out. SOLD.

GetQuickies 💅 – If you want the best nails, in the quickest time, this brand is for you! Their marketing is chef’s kiss, the quality is amazing, and you can get a quickie done in under 10 minutes! I even did my manicure while I was a passenger on a 16 hour road trip. When we arrived, I looked disheveled, but my nails were fire!

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For Your Furry Friends:

TheWantedCo 🐶 – A Vancouver-based company making the best enrichment products for cats and dogs! Sam and Sissy love theirs, and it even slows down Sissy’s eating (because that girl inhales her food in 10 seconds flat). Use code talkmentaltome for 15% off!

HealthyBud – Our go-to for treats and Turkey freeze-dried food! We’re subscribed, so our pups are always stocked up. Save 15% with code talkmentaltome. Sam and sissy swear by the Salmon Training Treats, and they honestly, get so excited when the white and blue box arrives!

Gigi’s Pawsitive Impact 🐾 – If you want the best dog bed on the market, this is it. Not only are the beds amazing (they’re on my wish list!), but they also give back—having donated $6,136 to great causes so far!

In the Raw – A North Vancouver pet store supporting Canadian businesses with the highest-quality products. If your pet has any health concerns, their knowledgeable staff can help!

Sirius Dog Wear – Vancouver-based and perfect for water-loving pups (who knew Sam was one?!). Their waterproof, dirt-repellent, 100% vegan collars and leashes are amazing. My friend gave me her code to share with y’all RICKY&JAXON15 for 15% off and opt for local pickup to save on shipping!

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Products for Your Home, Yourself or Gifts:

Lupin Candle Co – My go-to for candles! Non-toxic, beautifully made, and featuring the best crackling wick ever. Grab one, light a bath, and eeeennjjooyyyy!

Mint Cleaning – Because non-toxic cleaners should be a staple in every home (seriously!). You’ll fall in love with their products—my fave is the Cleaning Scrub! Give them a follow for a little extra joy in your feed.

Paperscript has the cutest cards! I love to send and receive them, and of course, my go-to is anything with hearts!

Bodie & Co has the softest, turkish towels, and a few other things for the home! Also, a Vancouver company (and one of my good friends … so definitely check them out!)

At the end of the day, where we spend our money matters. These were just a *few* brands that I absolutely love, and I’m sure I will need to do a part 2 in a few days! Feel free to e-mail me, or shoot me a DM on IG if you have more brands that are your fav!

So, the next time you’re about to hit “Add to Cart” on a massive retailer’s site, pause—just for a second—and ask yourself if there’s a local business that could use your support instead.

When we choose to shop small, we create a ripple effect of kindness, sustainability, and real impact.

And honestly? That’s the kind of world I want to live in. 💛