Maker Life: Gingersnap Handmade Co.

1. What can we expect from Gingernsnap Mandie this holiday season?

This season I am ALL about the faux fur poms on my pieces! I started making my own poms late last year, and I just can't resist putting them on ALL THE THINGS! Mommy and Me sets have been a hit this year so you will definitely find some adorable sets for not only adults but the littles as well.

2. What is your favourite item in your offering this year?

My favourite item this year is a new piece to my line, the Triangle Pom Scarf. It's a gorgeously squishy triangle scarf with the addition of faux fur poms instead of tassels. I love it because its so luxe and fancy and I feel its a real statement piece.

3. Do you have any special holiday traditions?

So many! I listen to jazz music during the holidays, I don't know why its reserved only for Christmas time but it is, and it makes the season feel so special. I also love those sappy made-for-tv Christmas movies, and consume as many as I possibly can throughout the holidays. Decorating the house is also a special tradition for us, especially now that the kids are old enough to enjoy helping and adding their own touches to it. Cookie making/decorating is a new tradition that we implemented last year which is a great combination of creativity and gluttony!

4. What is your favourite part about the local maker community?

I love being part of the maker community and feeling that support from people who get it! Everyone who is a maker knows what goes into it, the time, the effort, the scariness of putting your work out into the world, and I just love how instantly we can connect with one another and cheer each other on! I'm a huge believer in community over competition and this year alone I have met so many new maker friends that I value so much and are a constant source of inspiration, support, and encouragement!

5. Is this a side hustle for you, or a full time gig?

This is a side hustle for me! I squeeze in time for making during the evenings and on weekends. It's not always easy finding that balance, but I make it work!

6. What does conscious consumerism mean to you?

To me, conscious consumerism means being intentional about my purchases, buying things that are not only made well, but that have meaning and purpose for me. It also means that I am thinking about the impact my purchases have on the makers I am buying from and the creative community as a whole.

7. Did you participate in holiyay last year?

This is my first time participating in the Holiyay show and I'm looking forward to meeting new customers, fellow makers, and sneaking in some of my own shopping at the show! 

8. What is your favourite maker brand to gift this year (if not local to Ottawa, made in Canada)?

I recently discovered Eleven Love and the ladies behind this amazing business make the most beautiful pieces of jewelry. Each piece is made with intention which I love and are just gorgeous. I purchased a piece back in October and have worn it literally everyday since. I have several ladies in my life that would go crazy for one of Eleven Love's pieces this year!

9. After a long market day, I unwind by...

Some good food, some wine, and some snuggles with my babes...oh and maybe a bit of Netflix :)

10. Can shoppers find you online if they cant make it to holiyay?

I can be found online on Instagram (@gingersnapmandie), Facebook- Ginger Snap Handmade or on Etsy: GingerSnapHandmadeCo