Local Pride - Queer Canadian Businesses To Support All Year Long
Pride season comes but once a year - Well, twice if you live in Ottawa (here’s a little explainer as to why). While I love to see my city come together in all its rainbow glory, it's important to remember that pride began as a riot and serves as a reminder that queer folks exist all year round. I recognize my privilege as a white bisexual woman, as being ‘out’ or visibly queer is a luxury few folks can afford.
It’s devastating that in 2024, the LGBTQIA2+ community is still constantly faced with hatred and violence - and it’s only getting worse with each passing day. There is still much work to be done to ensure everyone can live freely as their true, authentic selves. Trans folks are fighting for their lives, while Canadian politicians argue about gender diverse children’s pronouns. Now is the time for allies to truly step forward and help amplify the message queer folks have been shouting for years.
But how do you do that? The obvious answers include condemning homophobia and transphobia when encountered, giving mutual aid, and boosting advocacy efforts. Though one often overlooked is the message we send through our purchasing power. By choosing to spend our money at queer-owned shops and brands, we are directly investing in the success and visibility of queer entrepreneurs, helping to break down discriminatory barriers and create more inclusive economic opportunities.
Plus let’s face it; mass retailers seldom deliver on the pride aesthetic queer folks actually want. Even in the rare occasion they do release covetable pride merchandise, these collections are promptly pulled from store shelves after receiving backlash from pearl-clutching homophobes.
By supporting queer-owned businesses, we put our money where our values are while celebrating the incredible creativity within the LGBTQIA2+ community. Not only will it make your wardrobe (or home, or art collection) way cooler, it fosters a more inclusive and vibrant community so that the spirit of Pride endures beyond the annual celebrations.
Here’s a list of 12 queer Canadian businesses, designers, and artists you can support year-round!
Yas Petit Poulet
Instagram: @yas.petit.poulet
Something I had never considered before discovering Yas Petit Poulet is how exploring one’s queerness aligns perfectly with the scientific spirit of inquiry and discovery. Elyas’ designs not only showcase pride in a unique way, but also serve as a beautiful reminder that “gender and sexuality are just as natural as chemical elements.”
Oil and Birch
Instagram: @oilandbirch
I’ve been coveting pottery from Oil and Birch for ages now, and it’s easy to see why. These pieces are not just stunning works of art, they’re a canvas for important conversations. Brin’s work invites us to reflect and raise our voice about subjects from mental health, politics, harm reduction, and queer rights.
Luck & Lavender Studio
Instagram: @luckandlavenderstudio
As a fellow Ottawa resident, I had to give Luck & Lavender a spot on this list! KJ’s designs, rooted in reclaiming their identity, are incredibly affirming and empowering as a result. Their art truly embodies queer joy and resilience, strengthening our community and bringing us together.
Little Rainbow Paper Co
Instagram: @littlerainbowpaperco
After noticing a gap in the heteronormative greeting card market, Heather is on a mission to ensure everyone finds themselves reflected in the joy of sending and receiving heartfelt messages. Little Rainbow Paper Co specializes in greeting cards and paper goods that beautifully showcase queer identities and relationships; because everyone deserves to feel seen and valued in life's meaningful moments.
Woods(wo)man Woodworking
Instagram: @the_woodswoman
I applaud anyone who dares to go against the grain, and woodturner Jackie is doing just that—quite literally! She’s carving out a name for herself in a male-dominated field with a collection of timelessly beautiful wood décor and home goods. She also leads workshops, sharing her woodworking passion and empowering her community in Nova Scotia.
Gay Coffee
Instagram: @gaycoffeeclub
Coffee is for everyone, but let's be real—sipping iced coffee year-round is peak queer culture. Matthew and Shane, the partners behind Gay Coffee, have brewed up something special with a signature blend of beans made specifically for cold brew. Enjoy it over ice with your favourite milk or use it to shake up the perfect espresso martini!
Pander Shirts
Instagram: @pandershirts
I’m a sucker for a good graphic tee, and this shop has gained the key to my chronically online heart. Designer Andrew has curated huge selection of apparel and accessories with retro prints, snarky sayings, and iconic pop culture references. This one in particular made me cry from laughing (and then cry for real because it happened in 2007).
Theirs & Theirs
Instagram: @theirs.n.theirs
These aren’t like the belts and harnesses you’re used to seeing; the leather goods created by Theirs & Theirs are truly pieces of wearable art. Every piece is made-to-order from a selection of gorgeous leather colours, and often adorned with vintage or upcycled materials like ornate buckles, oversized bows, and delicate pearls.
GRRRL Spells
Instagram: @grrrlspells
If your idea of year-round home décor is shopping the Halloween section exclusively, GRRRL Spells will be an instant favourite. This art and apparel brand caters to all the punk, goth, and spooky vibes with a fierce commitment to queer empowerment.
Origami Customs
Instagram: @origamicustoms
This Montreal-based business proudly creates gender-affirming swimwear and lingerie for all bodies. While standard sizing ranges from XS to 5XL, they offer free custom sizing to ensure the perfect fit. From binders, gaffs and packing bottoms, to bras and undies, every piece is made with sustainable fabrics and ethical practices.
Tubby Tabby Soaps
Instagram: @tubbytabbysoaps
Show off your support while keeping your skin squeaky clean! Tubby Tabby Soaps are made in small batches with high quality, biodegradable ingredients – and they are as fun to look at as they are to use! My whole family loves these whimsical designs and scents, and I’m sure you will too!
Big Boys Cry
Instagram: @big_boys_cry.co
How do you celebrate and honour your inner child? Remi Rose’s thoughtful designs can help you do just that. These accessories are made to be personal and powerful, empowering all identities and accessibility needs while adding a playful touch that reminds you to embrace your true self.
