52 ways to support women in business
Published March 2020
At Make Lemonade, we’re on a mission to make everyone feel like a boss. Yup, even you.
It’s not a secret: supporting women-owned businesses is good. We hear it all the time: buy local, support women, #dotherightthing. But what does it actually mean, why is it good, and how do you do it on a regular basis?
Stress-less friend. We got you.
#shoplocal
When you choose to spend at a women-owned business, that money stays in your local economy. That woman behind the cash register? You’re supporting her wages, keeping the lights on and putting dinner on the table. In addition, women-owned tend to reinvest in women-owned.
#leveltheplayingfield
Whether it’s social expectations, securing funding, lack of respect, or misogynistic actions (or all of the above), women don’t face the same challenges as men. With your support, women-owned businesses can rise in a male-dominated segment of the economy.
#economicempowerment
The reality is, there’s an imbalance in the world we live in. When you’re supporting women-owned, you’re saying yes to equality for all genders, whether it’s access to fair work, voices heard, the ability to show up in different markets, agency, and decision-making at all levels. Through women’s economic empowerment, we can realize women’s rights and gender equality.
“There’s no economy out there that has not advanced without empowering women.”
So, what can you do now? Today? At this very moment?
We’ve made it easy for you, so you can show up and support, knowing full well you’re making the world a better place.
52 WAYS TO SUPPORT WOMEN IN BUSINESS
Image of Reyah Baltazar in Make Lemonade’s private “phone booth".
For the person looking to amp up their calendar
Need a safe space to talk about failure? FuckUp Nights TO has a monthly event that needs to be added to your calendar.
4the6 connects you to opportunities to get involved in nonprofits. There’s an option for everyone, whether you want a one time gig, or something a bit more regular.
In need of a way to celebrate your (or a pal’s) professional accomplishments? Sunday Showers is a day where you have full permission to celebrate your professional accomplishments as obnoxiously as you please.
Does your stomach go into knots before presenting at work or making an intro in front of a new crowd? Slay the Mic teaches you how to show up and speak up with confidence.
Is this the year where you pick up a new hobby? We got you. Alicia Spence helps you create actual magic in her calligraphy workshops, Breeyn teaches you how to bead like the pros, and Sweet and Shy Cakes dishes the tips on making your own chocolate bar.
Look to local theatre producers before checking out the latest box office hit for your weekend entertainment. In Toronto, you’ll find us in the front row to anything Faraway Theatre produces.
For the person dreaming of pressing go on a really amazing idea
Know anyone looking to rebrand their business or launching something brand new? Made By Kelsey, Janel Lucia, CL Designs, Claire McCallum Creative, and Blend Design are our top picks.
Instagram algorithm got you down? Get up to date tricks, and easy to implement tips from the InstaQueen herself, Jessica Hamilton.
Take the WTF out of HTML with hands on digital marketing training from team at Camp Tech.
Next time you go to order company swag, turn to Ethical Swag to purchase products that put the planet first.
Ready for your next big step and need some help to make it happen? Pleasenotes guided journals include activities, prompts and quotes to get the juices flowing.
Starting a business but confused about all the advice the world wide web has to offer? Start with Avery Swartz’s book, See You On The Internet; it’s the frustration-free way to make your business stand out online.
Chanele McFarlane taking notes in “The Squeeze”, private meeting room for 4 people. Image by Amber Ellis.
For the business owner who is ready to level up
Know what you want to say but struggling how to say it? Jasmine Williams can help! She’s an award-winning copy and content strategist that is simply the best to work with.
Confused by the latest contract in your inbox? Elsa Ascencio is your person. Lawyer, writer, problem solver & mentor, Elsa is an advocate for racialized & Spanish-speaking communities in Toronto.
Need a space for your next client meeting, quarterly brainstorm, or workshop? Make Lemonade has you covered with multiple meeting room options available during the week, in the evening and on the weekend. Plus unlimited lemonade is included with every booking.
Invest in your business, and yourself, early, and get hands-on support from The Wellth Company. A dedicated team with a holistic approach to accounting, bookkeeping, and financial advising.
Create “that” feeling when your customers watch your brand videos or photos. Jenny Jay is a genius at capturing the pure magic that is y.o.u.
Ready to master the art of authentic sales? Katy Prince, the OG Squirm-Free Sales Coach, has got you covered with her Squirm-Free Sales Masters.
For the fashionista in you
Next time you take a dip, make sure it’s with Saltwater Collective. It’s a Toronto based, eco-friendly swimwear brand made from abandoned fishing nets and plastic straps...and of course, their styles are totally flattering.
Swap buying your next party dress at your local conglomerate for a sustainable (and fashionable) option with Your Favourite Dresses rentals.
Judgment free intimates by Knix, a Canadian brand with integrity. Feel comfortable in your own skin with wire-free bras, leakproof underwear, and chafe-free designs.
Our DIY clothing inspo WithWendy with have you thrifting, stitching and looking at your wardrobe saying ‘I made that’.
When’s the last time you owned lounge wear that made you feel good? It’s been awhile right? All You Are is changing the game with loungewear made for real life.
Wear your support on your sleeve. Yes Neighbour is a Toronto based merchandise company, creating collaborative projects, like this one. 100% of their proceeds go towards Kiva, an international non-profit that supports microeconomic loans for women around the world.
Anice Jewelry believes it’s a crime to let old jewellery go unworn or forgotten. Working vintage parts into one-of-a-kind pieces, the team at Anice are on a mission to make you feel good the moment you step inside their charming, sparkly, shop.
Bring new love to your worn in shoes and boots. Sole Survivor is your local shoe repair shop led by a kickass team of women.
Samara Bags take vegan wallets to another level with their Apple Leather Wallet. Made of apple skins that are byproducts from a juice company. Purchasing these wallets shows your support for women and the environment.
For all the foodies
Feel good about your morning cuppa with Tease Tea. Tea that is delicious, blended using all natural ingredients and focuses on empowering women through every purchase.
Healthy Genie’s stuffed dates will upgrade any charcuterie board. Made with the absolute best of ingredients, these dates are our go-to snack.
Enjoy some of the best food in Toronto while supporting a women owned business by switching up your Friday reso to le Swan, Ruby Watchco, or The Goods.
Girl Gang Goodies believes in doing one thing and killing it - so they sell one flavour of cookie: a knock-you-naked delicious chocolate chip cookie with a twist - their secret spice blend.
If you’re a coffee-lover, but hate the anxious and jittery feeling that follows your morning cuppa, you’re gonna love Raiz. It’s a line of coffee alternative beverages made with adaptogens and superfoods, to provide natural energy and immune-boosting properties.
For the person who can never have enough moisturizer
Is your skin not a fan of the dry Canadian winter? You need to check out Batch Beauty Lab for your very own, custom face oil.
Kinky Curly Yaki is your go-to for textured hair extensions. (hot tip be sure to check out #Vivtalks with founder Vivian Kaye).
Reduce your environmental impact with DIY beauty kits by Make This Universe. Deodorant? Face oil? Natural Perfume? Check, check, check!
For the person livin’ their best life
Vivian Kaye living her best life in the “Jungle Room”, private meeting room for 14 people. Image by Jenny Jay.
Does the word ‘financial literacy’ make your palms go sweaty? Paper & Coin provides financial coaching for millennials so you feel empowered when you think about your finances.
We Need to Talk About This provides a weekly dose of inspiration and love and is a newsletter we never leave ‘unread’.
Hearing all the buzz about Human Design but not sure where to start? Sort of Spiritual is your go-to for learning all about you.
About to book your next wax, mani or pedi? Check out The Ten Spot for all your ‘anti spa’ needs and leave feeling like a 10.
All Day Fit is a community-based gym program that has you excited to go to the gym (we aren’t exaggerating here). They focus on fitness, both body and mind, and are truly committed to fostering a community of lifetime supporters.
Invest in you by investing in your mental health by booking a counselling session with Mira Dineen.
What if you could feel that ‘post yoga glow’ while supporting a local women business owner? Good Space is our go-to studio for getting into our flow.
Learn how to take control of your hormones and hack your way to a healthier you. Elizabeth Raybould is an unstoppable hormone hacking expert, who helps ambitious, hard-working women finally get answers and balance their hormones.
Bring back the art of handwritten letters and thank you notes. To:Her is a card company that celebrates the real women who just graduated, the mixed-race couple on their marriage, the single mom, the friend who made it through a tough day, and everywhere in between. Bonus points if you pop A Little Something Extra in your card for extra oomph.
Check off a bucket list item with Origin Travels. Travel off the beaten path with an intimate group of women, and learn how to live like a local.
Looking for love? Ditch the apps and hire a local matchmaker! Our personal go-to is Friend of A Friend Matchmaking.
For the person who is ready to embrace their purchase power
Image of Kennisha Duffus on the “patio” at Make Lemonade.
Looking for a gift for that friend who loves all things cute? Koneko Stationary will fulfill all your needs.
Looking for a curated list of women-owned businesses? Check out Femmebought’s directory or Sam + Lance to shop products all made by women.
Are you or any of the women in your life currently pregnant? Motherlover is the ultimate doula, and League of Moms is the ‘Yelp’ that is created just for mothers.
Add that extra oomph to your next event with a Big Ass Pinata. Handmade, custom pinatas will be sure to spark joy for all attendees.
Whatever mood you’re in, you must visit Rose City Goods; the ultimate haven to shop for unique and locally made ceramics, artwork, and things that make you feel good.
Feed your puppy with food that is good all round. HealDoggy is a plant-based dog food company that is on a mission to help your dog feel better, look better and live longer.
Your listening power speaks volumes to the “big guys” up top. Like, subscribe, and review women-produced podcasts. Here are a few we’ll never hit pause on: Brand Party Podcast, Mob Queens, The GIST of it.
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg! Next time you go to make a purchase, ask yourself “who am I really supporting?”
PS: Support doesn’t always need to be monetary. Follow these tips for other ways to support.
