Not only can you shop SMJ at local markets in Vancouver, but you'll find that Sarah is shopping her own gift guide too.
Visiting local markets is a wonderful way to connect with your community, discover unique products, and contribute to the success of small businesses. Break out of your shopping routine and consider local markets for your next shopping spree.
We don't need to convince you why shopping local is great, we're here to introduce you to some incredible local makers behind these Vancouver based brands.
Meet Terri Gercovich, Founder of Re:creation Designs
What do you create/what is your focus?
Hey, I'm Terri and I create sustainably made clothing. I design, pattern-make, cut and sew all pieces from my studio at home in Pemberton, British Columbia. I have the most inspiring view of Mt Currie from my window as I work. I also surround my studio with vintage oddities that I’ve picked up in my travels around the world, they remind me of the importance of unique, timeless design as I work!
What is your favourite piece in your collection?
My favourite product is my 100% Linen dolman sleeve shirt. It can be worn in Spring/Summer with jeans, a flow skirt or wide leg pants, or over a dress. Wear it just as it is, tucked in or with a tied knot at the front. In Fall and Winter it can be worn with a long sleeve shirt underneath. A part of being a sustainable clothing company is that the piece can be worn all year round. I even use the linen off-cuts from the design to make into my Linen V-neck crop top.
The linen fabric used is pre-washed and has a really nice drape. Linen is made for slow fashion! It is a durable fibre derived from flax, a hardy plant that requires less water than cotton and no fertilizers nor pesticides to grow. Flax plants are also extremely versatile, meaning the entire plant can be used.The flax used is imported from Europe, cultivated without irrigation, and is GMO free.
What do you listen to while you work... Favourite podcasts or musicians?
My music ranges anywhere from Pink Floyd to Classical music, depending on my mood! I also am a fan of podcasts, particularly anything that Zach Bush is featured on! I also host a podcast, Everyday Alchemy with Terri. It is a podcast that explores mindset techniques, consciousness growth and a little bit of quantum physics! I also have lots of meditations and funny stories of the adventures the universe brings me!
If you are shopping SMJ this holiday, what are your picks?
My favourites are the Aki necklace in gold, a timeless and elevated piece! The Liv hoops in large are another timeless piece that will really elevate a look. I love timeless and bold jewelry like SMJ that helps you to express yourself, especially when paired with comfortable minimalistic linen pieces!
Meet Maxine Young, Founder of MAMEYO Goods
What do you create/what is your focus?
MAMEYO is a small batch leather goods brand inspired by modern art and design. I (Maxine, the founder and the hands behind MAMEYO) design and handcraft each piece in my Vancouver studio. MAMEYO is known for strong geometric designs and bold colour ways. My goal is to create a collection of bags and accessories that make you feel effortlessly put together no matter the occasion.
Tell us about your fan favourite product!
The Penny bucket bag will always be my favourite it is the first bag that I fully designed and made myself. It was the design that really sparked my love for leather working and ultimately started MAMEYO!
Tell us a little about how you first got started. What sparked the idea behind your business and what do you love most about your business right now?
When I moved to Vancouver from New Zealand back in 2016 I was working in corporate graphic design and got sick of looking at a screen all day. I needed to do something with my hands. I started leather working and pottery classes and soon got obsessed with leather working. It started as a hobby and now we just celebrated the five year anniversary! Time has really flown by.
What do you listen to while you work?
When I need to focus I love listening to audio books one of my recent favourites has been the Jade City by Fonda Lee.
For workshops, definitely a 90s playlist and for when I have downtime at the studio my go to is having TV series playing in the background recently been watching How To Get Away With Murder.
If you are shopping SMJ this holiday, what are your picks?
The Stanley bracelet in gold is definitely top of my list! I love moonstones and with it paired it with a paper clip chain. It is gorgeous!!
Meet Kathy Szuba, Designer and Maker of Studio Eighteen
What do you create/what is your focus?
At the core of my work is creating one of a kind, or very small batch, pieces which are works of art. My customers love and appreciate when no one else has the pair of earrings they just purchased!
Tell us a little about how you first got started!
I took ceramics classes at Surrey Art Gallery in 2019. I never really took to wheel throwing, but discovered handbuilding instead. I was just making jewellery for myself, but then I had classmates and friends ask if they could buy my work, and here I am now!
With a background in interior design, I also started working on larger pieces to decorate my home. My collection now includes wall hangings, vases, charcuterie boards and jewellery designs. The best part of my business is interacting with customers and have them enjoy my work. Next year I hope to offer handbuilding workshops to share the techniques I've developed.
What do you listen to while you work?
I listen to CBC Afterdark with Odario Williams any time of day! My favourite podcasts to check out are 99% Invisible and Stuff You Should Know.
Is there anything from SMJ that you are coveting?
Miranda earrings. I love the unique shape. It is a modern take on classic hoop earrings.
Where can we find your products?
Find Studio Eighteen at upcoming markets this holiday season!
Nov 25th and 26th - Vancouver Etsy at the Pipeshop in North Vancouver
Dec 1st to 3rd - Krampusmarkt, Strange Fellow Brewery in East Vancouver
Dec 9th to 10th - First Pick YVR, Heritage Hall in Vancouver
December 16th - New West Craft, River Market in New Westminister
Shop Studio Eighteen in person at the following shops:
Billy Would Shop, 2168 East Hastings Street, Vancouver
Slice of Life Gallery, 1636 Venables Street, Vancouver
Good Omen, 34 6th Street, New Westminister
Silk Purse Gallery, 1570 Arygle Avenue, West Vancouver
Kizmit, 9220 Glover Road, Fort Langley
Estelle, 4330 Gallant Avenue, North Vancouver
The Pottery, 2909 Fulford-Ganges Road, Salt Spring Island
Shop from local makers this Holiday Season!
Local markets serve as gathering places for community members. They create a sense of belonging and provide a space for people to come together, share stories, and celebrate the unique identity of the community. Supporting local markets strengthens the social fabric of your neighborhood. We challenge you to stop by at least one market - here's where you can find SMJ's winter market schedule.