My Favourite Ontario Businesses

It is always rewarding to purchase from local businesses whenever possible, as well as support ethically sourced products. I have started to make a conscious effort to incorporate more products that are made in Ontario. When I began searching the internet to find companies, I was unable to find a decent or comprehensive list of Ontario made products and brands.

After much research and testing, I am sharing with you my curated list of all my favourite Ontario made products and Ontario-started businesses. It will be updated as I discover new or other noteworthy local favourites. I want to continue to encourage the production and use of Canadian-made goods, products, and services as much as possible. Hopefully, this will inspire you to do the same.  

1. Province Apothecary

Products: Beauty & Personal Care

Proudly Canadian and vegan, the face and body line are my favourite oil-based products to use. All of these products are sourced from the highest organic ingredients that come from every Canadian Province. They hand-blend ingredients like maple syrup from Quebec, organic seaweed from Nova Scotia, organic beeswax from Alberta, and tons of other pure mixes that even work on extremely sensitive skin (trust me, I get it). Now certified holistic aesthetician and aromatherapist, Julie Clark when began creating blends in her kitchen, after struggling with eczema and allergies all her life. She is passionate about sourcing from small farms and companies across Canada, that hold the same quality of standards. Every year, she donates a percentage of sales to the ‘Canadian Organic Growers’, ‘Canadian Honey Council’ and ‘1% for the Planet’. Shop online or in-store.

Favourites include: Moisturizing Cleanser + Makeup Remover, Invigorating + Balancing Toner, & Clear Skin Advanced Face Serum.

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

2. Minnow Bathers

Products: Swimwear

Though we may not have extremely long hot summers in Ontario, we still love having a collection of cute bathing suits that can double as bodysuits. Hello, versatility. With some of the cutest prints that are flattering on all bodies, this brand also creates a variety of styles that work well with skinny and curvy bodies, alike. $1 from each sale is donated to the Ocean Conservancy. Shop online with worldwide shipping or in-store.

Favourites include: FOXGLOVE MAILLOT (Lavender), BURDOCK MAILLOT (Night Garden), HEMLOCK TOP (Dusk) & SIENNA BOTTOMS (Dusk)

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

3. Crumps Naturals

Products: Pet Supplies

This is hands down the best food my dogs have ever tasted. I have never seen them get so excited about food and it features all-natural ingredients, no additives or preservatives. Since we all love our pets like family members, some of us feed our dogs (or cats) better food than we eat ourselves. I have spoken to people who only buy the highest quality of meats for their dog and then purchase meat from Costco for themselves. Honestly, I get it. We’ve reached a point where we want to know (almost) everything that goes into our bodies, so why wouldn’t we want to do the same for our furry loved ones? It is a bit pricier than your average pet food but when you see how nuts they go over it, you’ll feel guilty buying any other brand. It’s not available at every grocery store but if you live in Ontario, most local pet stores carry their products or you can purchase online.

Favourites include: Gutsy-Dehydrated Chicken Dinner & Gutsy-Dehydrated Salmon & Trout Dinner

Founded in Brampton, Ontario.

4. The Perth Soap Co.

Products: Beauty & Personal Care

Another favourite brand I was introduced to last year, has now become my go-to moisturizer and also, happens to come from Ontario. All of The Perth Soap Co. products are paraben-free, phthalate-free, and are not tested on animals. They sell hand soap, body lotion, cleansing oils and more. Every lotion is made with Argan oil, which keeps your skin hydrated for as long as possible. All their products are sold in independent stores throughout the United States and Canada. You can find the closest place to find all their products here. Make sure to call before to ensure they have what you’re looking for, as their website says that products may vary from store to store.

Favourites include: Bergamot Citrus Body Lotion, Sparkling Champagne Cleansing Bar, & Milk & Honey Cleansing Oil.

Founded in Perth, Ontario.

5. Committee Members

Products: Sportswear & Apparel

The brand is rooted in its identity and culture of Toronto, drawing inspiration from the landscape and immigrant diaspora in the city. Their designs are simple but in the best way possible. Easy to match with anything and made with the finest quality materials. There are constantly new lines and colours added to their collections.

Favourites include: *CM Classic Crewneck (Burgundy or Black), *CM International Tee (Mint), & *CM Pocket Tee (Black)

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

6. Sorel

Products: Footwear

Recently, I’ve switched over from my trusty Hunter Boots to Sorel without even realizing they were an Ontario-started brand. Their stylish and well-made designs make the boots breathable and waterproof, which are best used in rainstorms. With chunky socks, they will also keep your feet toasty through those cold winter days. The boots are known to run a bit on the smaller side which is perfect for someone like me (usually about a size 6 women). Sorel combines materials like wool, premium leather and felt to create these sturdy yet wearable boots for all different temperatures. The brand also makes extremely cute pumps, sandals, and running shoes for the warmer seasons. Sorel values ethical and sustainable manufacturing practices, while only partnering with businesses who share the same views.

Favourites Include: Women’s Slimpack™ II Lace Boot (Burro, Cattail), Women’s Campsneak™ Lace Sneaker (White), Women’s Phoenix™ Lace Boot (Black), & Women’s Campsneak™ Slip-On Shoe (Sage)

Founded in Kitchener, Ontario.

7. Muttonhead

Products: Apparel & Accessories

This unisex clothing company carries a ton of amazing pieces that are all locally made and fair trade. They sell pieces from the Toronto brand, Naked And Famous along with button-downs, fuzzy hoodies, classic coats, cozy sweatpants, and more by Muttonhead. They also sell accessories like toques, wool socks, and handbags. The majority of their prints are simple and cute but if you’re looking for visible logos, that’s available too. The brand also carries kids and baby clothing and has a collection of home goods. Order online or check out one of their two stores located in Toronto.

Favourites include: Camping Hoodie (Oatmeal Sherpa), Wool Overcoat (Camel), Canadians Crew (Athletic Grey), Merino Toque (Black), & 5 Panel (Black Sherpa)

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

8. Bluboho

Products: Jewellery & Accessories

Find tons of gorgeous handcrafted pieces, including the Bluboho line which is designed and built locally at one of their three Bluboho locations. Get something truly unique and one-of-a-kind instead of shopping at the same old stores. Something I also like about them is their pieces are created using recycled materials. They also work closely with their community diamond and stone suppliers. They sell classy and delicate necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings. Most recently, the brand introduced a bridal collection that includes wedding bands, engagement bands or even for your bridal party. The prices aren’t cheap but their jewellery is extremely well-made, timeless and worth every penny. In comparison to mass-produced retailers, the prices are actually quite reasonable. So far, I’ve bought two rings and a pair of earrings there and they are staple pieces in my rotation. Currently, there are two stores in Toronto, one in Oakville, an outpost in Prince Edward County in the spring and summer and there is always online.

Favourites Include: essence ring (10k rose gold, tanzanite, opal, aquamarine), mama earth ring (14k rose gold, turquoise, white diamond), horizon cuff ring (14k yellow gold, white diamond), shine on hoop (14k yellow gold, white diamond), & dew drop choker necklace (14k yellow gold)

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

9. Blood Brothers Brewery

Products: Beer

This family-owned brewery started in 2015. It may be a bold statement but I am saying it anyway. Blood Brothers Brewery has the best sour beer I’ve ever tasted. For all those people who aren’t huge fans of sour beer, their regular craft beer made in-house is pretty damn good, too. You can try out their delicious beer in-house or at different bars around Toronto. The taproom and bottle shop are open 7 days a week! If you want to stop by for a beer, you can also enjoy some delicious light snacks like dips and pepperettes.

Favourites include: Toad Of Light, White Lies (all flavours), Paradise Lost (all flavours), & Inner Eye

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

10. Peace Collective

Products: Apparel & Accessories

Somewhat similar in its aesthetic to Untitled&Co, their classic and trendy style prints work in every wardrobe. This is what has allowed the brand to stay relevant in the constantly-changing market. Beginning their brand with the well-known iconic, “Home is Toronto” collection is what really grew the brand to what it is today. Simplistic prints on a huge variety of apparel from women and men’s half-zip sweaters, hoodies, outerwear, crewnecks, tees, to accessories like bags and hats. The company donates two meals to a Canadian child in need forever garment sold, in partnership with Breakfast Club of Canada.

Favourites include: Canadian As Fuck Crewneck (Black), Home Is Canada 1/4 Zip Sweater (Grey), & Home Is Canada Melange Crewneck (Heather Black)

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

11. Knixwear

Products: Bras & Underwear

The brand that makes you look and feel like a goddess whatever your size might be. Knixwear sells bodysuits, tops, underwear, sports bras, regular bras and more. They emphasize comfort, versatility and performance in their fabrics. Knixwear is all about making women feel comfortable in their own skin. It will also make you never want to put an underwire bra on again.

Favourites include: The Every Bodysuit (Passion), Longevity Bra (Beige), & Padded 8-In-1 Evolution Bra (Black)

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

12. Made For The Lake

Products: Apparel & Accessories

The company, Made For The Lake really captures the essence of Ontario with its hand-drawn maps of the Georgian Bay region and her soft, easy-to-wear sweaters and clothing. She sells hoodies, sweatshirts, tees, jackets, and really cool stickers in a variety of colours. All the clothing is made with high-quality materials that are super cozy to wear.

Favourites include: A Frame Patch, Started From a Tinnie (Grey), The Classic Hoodie (Alpine Green), The Marine Toque 2.0 (Black or White Sand), & ALL the Georgian Bay Maps

Founded in Orillia, Ontario.

13. Modern Plant Life

Products: Home Decor

If you love plants as much as I do, then you are definitely going to fall in love with this brand. You can find the cutest and most unique planters. Some are shaped like dinosaurs, skulls, dogs, and there are even geometric shapes. Choose from tie-dye colours and patterns to find the perfect home for your new plant babies.

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

14. Matter Company

Products: Beauty & Personal Care

Known for its holistic approach on personal care, Matter Company only works with all-natural ingredients such as shea butter, plant and herbs. All ingredients are paraben-free, GMO-free and are not tested on animals. What started out in her kitchen, became a completely natural skincare line selling shampoos, hand creams, body oils, bath salts, lip balms, sunscreen, and lots more. 

Favourites include: Body Wash / Shampoo, Biodegradable Soap, Sugar Scrub, Face Kit, Organic Rosehip Seed Oil, & Body Creme

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

15. OBM Natural

Products: Beauty & Personal Care

Made all-natural, these balms and salves are the perfect solution for our harsh dry winters. You can be sure there are no synthetic colours, dyes or preservatives involved in their production processes. Their beauty line so far contains vanilla coconut lip balm, lavender body balm and citrus hand salve but they’re great staples to keep in your bag.

Favourites include: Lip Balm – Vanilla Coconut, Relax Body Balm Lavender Chamomile, & Uplifting Citrus Hand Salve

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

16. Eleven Thirty Shop

Products: Handbags

The brand was founded by self-taught designers and creative partners, Mariel Gonzalez and Alexa Schoorl. Their brand, Eleven Thirty creates handcrafted leather bags made with exceptional quality with unique beauty, as well as longevity. They make sure not to waste any materials and each piece is made in-house.

Favourites include: Anni Large, Anni Large Backpack, Katie Large, Hanna Mini Clutch (Olive)

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

17. The Saltwater Collective

Products: Swimwear

The Saltwater Collective is a Toronto-based swimwear brand that promotes saving our oceans. All their fabrics are sourced from environmentally friendly materials like abandoned fishing nets and plastic scraps. The company promotes inclusivity and has a large selection of sizes. You will definitely want to check out their beautiful line of bathing suits in lots of bold and neutral colours.

Favourites include: Paulina One-Piece (Ivory), Josi Top (Red) + Celine Bottoms (Red)

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

18. Wendy Tancock Design

Products: Home Decor & Apparel

This Toronto designer and illustrator specializes in humorous Canadian themed prints, t-shirts, and cards for any occasion (or even if there is none at all).

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

19. Illbury and Goose

Products: Apparel & Accessories

This lifestyle brand carries apothecary, apparel (men, women and children) and leather goods, which are all produced responsibly in Canada. Their superior items define what it means to be Canadian from cityscapes in Toronto to the mountains in British Colombia. 

Favourites include: Truly Unique Black T-Shirt, Heavy-duty White Standard Crewneck Sweater, Tobermory 100% Cotton Flannel, & Heavy-Duty Classic Speckled Hoodie.

Founded in London, Ontario.

20. Wildcraft

Products: Beauty & Personal Care

This amazing skincare line creates products that are 100% natural and handmade in their Toronto studio. They sell high-quality face creams, body lotions, toners, serums, cleansers, deodorants, and more.

Favourites include: Face Serum, Bergamot Rose Face Cream, and Oil Cleanser.

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

21. Ellingwood Soap

Products: Beauty & Personal Care

This company is run by a husband and wife who are passionate about making all-natural soaps, candles, and body care products. They come in a variety of scents and also sell items like diffusers and incense.

Favourites include: Moisturizer (Lavender Eucalyptus), Sugar Scrub (Peppermint), and Soap (Grapefruit).

Founded in Hamilton, Ontario.

22. Pure + Simple

Products: Beauty & Personal Care

I’ve had THE best facial here of all times – just putting that on the table. My skin hasn’t been acting up this winter as much as it usually does. Their overall skincare philosophy is based on Ayurveda, which basically means that health and wellness depend on all aspects of how we treat our bodies. Pure + Simple has its own line of products and I couldn’t recommend them more. All completely natural and cruelty-free, their products are across the board from face cleansers to oils to even deodorant. Every product on their shelves is safe from harmful ingredients and obviously tailored to all different kinds of skin.

Favourites include: Sensitive Cleansing Milk, Sensitive Skin Face Oil, Nourishing Face Oil, and Hydration Serum. 

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

23. Sunday’s Company

Products: Beauty & Personal Care

I recently just discovered this brand and it’s now one of my favourites. This plant-based skincare line has no chemicals, no preservatives, or fillers. All ingredients are made from locally sourced, organic growing and ethical wildcrafting items. Their products range from bath salts to cleansing oils.

Favourites include: Face Oil (Normal Skin), Cleansing Oil (Normal Skin), Lip Therapy, and Dream Oil.

Founded in Northumberland County, Ontario.

24. Float.Eh

Products: Floaties

These all-Canadian made floaties are your perfect summer addition. Float-Eh is a company that makes premium swimming pool floaties, floating water mats and lake toys. Also, why not support a Canadian company if you can?

Favourites include: Canadian Maple Leaf Floatie, Canadian Beaver Floatie, Canadian Loon Floatie, and Lynx Lounger. 

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

25. Threeuse Kits

Products: Hiking Gear

Help reduce single-use items with sustainable travel and lifestyle brand, Threeuse. Their Threeuse travel coffee mug keeps hot drinks hot for up to 8 hours, and your favourite cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours, with their simple and sleek water bottle. Not only are they perfect for bringing on hikes but they are aesthetically pleasing as well. 

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

26. Province of Canada

Products: Apparel & Accessories

This Canadian lifestyle brand uses only the finest materials for its line of clothing and textiles. The company focuses on manufacturing every item in Canada to never have to compromise on the overall quality or quantity. Province of Canada takes its inspiration from the very essence of our country, which gives it an overall casual vibe. 

Favourites include: PoC Tee White – Unisex, Club Canada Cream Crewneck Sweater – Unisex, Logo Crewneck Black – Unisex, Weekend Hoodie Washed Olive – Unisex, and Weekend Sweatpants Washed Olive – Unisex.

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

27. East City Candles

Products: Candles

These gorgeous candles are almost too nice to actually use and can also be the perfect household decoration. Easy City Candles sells beeswax candles, soy & coconut wax candles, candle holders, room sprays, and other accessories.

Favourites include: Flower Shop Candle (Pink), Aberdeen Taper Holder, and Speckled Drip Plate.

Founded in Whitby, Ontario.

28. Bethanie Kaye Design

Products: Homeware

These stylish and sturdy candle holders are completely rare in design and make a statement in your home. She also makes bowls, spoons, sculptures, and more. All the wood used is locally and sustainably sourced in Ontario.

Founded in Peterborough, Ontario.

29. Baskits Inc

Try out a whole bunch of Ontario (and Canadian!) only brands when you order from Basksits, Canada’s leading basket service. Each basket is curated for a different type and can be made to be custom ordered. Items include; food items, blankets, lotions, etc. 

Founded in Toronto, Ontario.

30. ARROW IT FORWARD

Products: Candles & Accessories

ARROW IT FORWARD features all kinds of amazing candles with witty flavour titles. They also sell air fresheners and solid perfumes.

Founded in Gananoque, Ontario.

 

 

Featured Image via Sunday’s Company (@sundayscompany)

Disclaimer: All information and prices are accurate as of the time of the posting. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

*All images are copyrighted by Julia Melcher (@adventureontario) or credited to their owners. Please do not use or re-post without written consent and provide credit where applicable