Support Local: Women-Owned Businesses to Visit in Halifax

The North End’s Isle at Ease is more than a shop—it’s a sanctuary of beautifully aesthetic homeware, where every object tells a story of intention and integrity. Founded by Sam, the boutique offers a thoughtfully curated collection of sustainable, ethically sourced home goods from small makers worldwide. Designed to bring joy, comfort, and purpose, each piece reflects Sam’s passion for mindful living. Explore a space where creativity flourishes and stories unfold with every table set and every cozy corner created.

At Khush Mizaj, fashion is more than just fabric and thread—it’s a powerful form of storytelling, a generational connection, and a means of preserving tradition. Catering to Halifax’s thriving Southeast Asian community—and those looking for a touch of cultural flair—Khush Mizaj offers both ready-to-wear and made-to-order fashions with a focus on quality, colour, and cultural celebration. Sudha’s vision is to celebrate culture, inclusion, and diversity through the creations found in her shop.

YOLO Craft is a DIY studio where creativity knows no bounds. Founded by Yang Wen in 2022, this shop in Downtown Halifax offers a welcoming space for hands-on crafting, specializing in tufting—a textile art used to create custom rugs, pillows, and wall hangings. Beyond tufting workshops, YOLO Craft provides take-home kits and DIY projects like personalized keychains and phone cases. Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, find a cool gift, or create something one-of-a-kind, YOLO Craft has everything you need to get started.

Located in Halifax’s iconic Hydrostone neighbourhood, Bhavana Yoga Boutique is your one-stop shop for staying connected to—and kitted out for—Halifax’s yoga scene. The word Bhavana comes from the Sanskrit word meaning “to cultivate, to make things happen,” which aligns with the shop’s intention. Krista Watters’ passion, authenticity, and kindness are reflected in every item she has curated for her shop. The space offers tools to support every yoga journey and features many Canadian-sourced products.

Owned by Erin since June 2024, The Trainyard General Store is an eclectic, community-focused shop nestled in Downtown Dartmouth. Everything is sourced from small, independently owned businesses with a strong focus on local makers, making it the perfect place to find a little something special for the folks back home or your favourite local. Beyond creating an inclusive and welcoming space for the community, the shop donates 5% of profits to local non-profit partners through the Trainyard Connect Kindness Initiative.

Nestled in the heart of Gottingen Street in the vibrant North End, The Independent Mercantile Co. (TIMCo, for short) is filled with practical tools and treasures for your home. Owner Wendy Friedman was inspired to open TIMCo to create connection and a sense of community in the North End. The shop’s shelves are lined with local and Canadian-made items, such as beautiful décor finds, unique barware accessories and ingredients, curated gifts and home goods, and environmentally responsible options.

Let your sweet tooth lead you to beautiful Musquodoboit Harbour and through the doors of Martinique Desserterie & Delicatessen, owned by Ola. Raised in a family that cherished homemade food, Ola’s passion for baking led her from selling donuts at a local farmers’ market to opening her own bakery. Since 2023, the shop has grown into a full-service European delicatessen, offering pastries, high-quality breads, specialty meats, cheeses, and imported pantry items. The lack of Polish-centered businesses on the Eastern Shore inspired her to bring authentic Polish flavours to the community.

In a fast-fashion world, Thief & Bandit breaks the mould by specializing in handmade, sustainably produced clothing. Headquartered on Barrington Street in the heart of Downtown Halifax, Thief & Bandit’s distinctive designs are real conversation starters. The brand specializes in high-quality fabrics with unique screen-printed designs built to last. Led by creative director Amie, Thief & Bandit is a family affair—Amie’s husband is involved in the business, and her three boys are often featured in the brand’s photoshoots.

At Violeta Izquierdo Jewellery, every piece is crafted with precision, passion, and purpose. Specializing in bespoke wedding and engagement rings, heirloom revitalization, and custom jewellery, Violeta combines expert craftsmanship with sustainable practices and ethically sourced materials. Beyond jewellery, she also offers personalized workshop experiences, inviting clients to be part of the creative journey. Whether you’re searching for a timeless gift or a custom creation, Violeta can help bring your vision to life.

Head across the harbour to the heart of Downtown Dartmouth to discover Room 152 Clothing Boutique, owned by Stacey Thompson. This thoughtfully curated shop offers a selection of designer, pre-loved pieces, and you never know what unique, gently used items you’ll find to add to your collection. The boutique’s selection tends to be size- and style-inclusive, ensuring there’s something for every taste and every closet.