Tackling Tariffs

Hello friend,

This issue of Genuinely Stellar is a little different than usual. We wanted to understand how the threat of US tariffs is affecting Canadian women-owned lifestyle businesses, so we interviewed five founders to get their thoughts. The concerns are as diverse as the businesses we tapped for their insights, but one common thread stood out. Each and every one of the founders is using their ingenuity to come up with ways to protect their businesses and set themselves up for success, no matter what.  

This week we feature a Canadian fashion brand you need to know that is redefining minimalism; we revisit a jewellery designer whose upcoming collection is modelled and named after the times in which we find ourselves; we learn about a new textile and wallpaper business in Toronto that you will love, even though the “shop Canadian” message may not align perfectly with its business model; We shine a light on a Canadian silk wear brand with maximalist prints that make a sophisticated statement; and we meet a health food bakery owner who won’t compromise on taste in a tariff war.  

In a world of uncertainty, one thing is for sure: If anyone is going to come out on top in a time of crisis, it’s a woman entrepreneur! Be sure to read through to the end. This issue includes some special offers you won’t want to miss! 

Enjoy! 

 Minimalism redefined is the aesthetic of Emefa Kuadey’s fashion brand. Since launching in 2019, the engineer turned fashion designer has navigated big challenges. As a problem solver, she’s not banking on the sentiment to “shop Canadian” alone.

Corrine Anestopoulos has a creative mind. It manifests in her bold, unique designs but is also helping her brace her jewellery business against potential tariffs. Is she having a Meltdown? Maybe!

Get 15% off your Biko purchase with code STELLAR15, valid until February 28th.

Sarah Lowry just launched her artisan textile and wallpaper business in Toronto in November. Little did she know that the “Made in Canada” mantra may not serve her business well.

Lucia Kinghorn landed a dream contract with a US e-tailer, enabling her to reach a large audience with her bold, patterned silk scarves and garments. Will tariffs kill that dream?

Get 20% off your Lucia Kinghorn purchase using code SPRINGFLING20 valid until March 14th.

The key ingredient in Snehal Vaidya’s gluten-free baked goods is almond flour from the US. Her cost is already sky-high. She worries what a tariff war could do to her bottom line, but she’s got a plan.

Get 10% off your purchase from Konscious Kitchen with code , GENUINELYSTELLAR10 valid until February 28th.

Watch this space for five quick things to make your life a little richer.

This time of year can wreak havoc on your skin, why not treat your face to some self-care time? Sophie Perry is a specialist in facial massage and shares her knowledge through her how-to videos and recently published book The Natural Facelift. The perfect activity for Sunday afternoon?

We love this kitchen hack! Sarah Bond of @liveeatlearn gives us a great make-ahead, cost-effective and seasonal Creamy Cauliflower Soup. Just a reminder, try to purchase Canadian produce. We know….it’s Canada, it’s February, it’s difficult. This soup is a start.

If you are looking for ways to shop Canadian (and women-owned) at the grocery store, Cherlyl Appleton at Canadian Women in Food can help. Under her leadership, the association has been supporting women entrepreneurs in the food space since 2014. You’ll want to add some of these brands to your grocery list. 

You had us at Kate Winslet. Any film Winslet chooses to act in will be sensational. But when she is also a producer you know she is truly invested. She personally paid cast and crew for two weeks while the film’s funding ran out. Lee is the story of WWII journalist Lee Miller, and it is a heart-wrenching and empowering rendition of her experience. The movie is also a stark reminder of what can happen when too few have all the power, and hatred and greed are their motivations.

Are Canadians really cancelling their trips to the US because of the tariff threats? Have a look at what the National Post’s Courtney Greenberg discovered.

Do you have a stellar find? Share with us at [email protected]

Did you miss last week’s newsletter? It was all about love and treating yourself. Could be just the thing you need post-Valentine’s Day. Get the Love Thyself Issue here.