15 Carleton Alumni-Owned Businesses for Holiday Gifting
This holiday season, support Carleton University alumni-owned businesses by gifting unique, locally crafted items. From artisanal treats to stylish accessories, discover the perfect gifts that highlight the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the Carleton community in the Ottawa region.
Craft Beverages
Dominion City Brewing Co.
Josh McJannet (BJ/07)
Founder
Dominion City Brewing Co. crafts exceptional beer with a focus on quality, creativity and community. Known for their seasonal ales and innovative brews, they’ve built a reputation as a cornerstone of Ottawa’s craft beer scene.
Website: https://www.dominioncity.ca
Instagram: @dominioncity
Ashton Brewing Company
Quinn Hodgins (BA/02, Political Science)
Co-Owner
Since 1975, the Hodgins family has brought their passion for great food and house-made beer to the Ottawa Valley. Tucked in the village of Ashton, their microbrewery blends history and craftmanship to create locally cherished beers.
Website: https://www.ashtonbrewingcompany.com
Instagram: @ashtonbrew
Overflow Brewing Company
Bradley Fennell (BA/98, Geography)
Owner
Overflow Brewing Co. is where craft beer meets live music, offering a dynamic and welcoming space in Ottawa. Known for their locally brewed beers and vibrant atmosphere, this brewery has become a favorite destination for beer enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
Website: https://overflowbeer.com
Instagram: @overflowbrewingco
Delicious Eats & Treats
North & Navy Restaurant
Adam Vettorel (BA/04, Environmental Studies)
Owner & Chef
North & Navy brings the essence of Northern Italian cuisine to Ottawa, blending Venetian-inspired flavours with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. With its curated wine list and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a destination for exceptional dining.
Website: https://northandnavy.com
Instagram: @northandnavy
MooShu Ice Cream
Sin Mok (BID/12)
Owner
MooShu crafts inventive, hand-made ice cream and treats – celebrating high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Known for their creative and ever-changing flavors, they’ve become a favourite spot for dessert enthusiasts in Ottawa.
Website: https://www.mooshuicecream.com
Instagram: @mooshuicecream
Hummingbird Chocolate Maker
Erica Gilmour (MA/07, Geography)
Owner
Hummingbird Chocolate Maker creates award-winning, small-batch chocolates with a focus on craftsmanship and ethical sourcing. Their rich, handcrafted chocolates are a true indulgence – perfect for any chocolate lover.
Website: https://hummingbirdchocolate.com
Instagram: @hummingbirdchocolate
Bread by Us
Jessica Carpinone (MSc/10, Biology)
Co-Owner
Bread By Us is an Ottawa-based bakery known for its artisanal bread and pastries, crafted with locally sourced ingredients and traditional baking methods. Their selection of sourdoughs, croissants and seasonal treats brings quality and flavor to any occasion.
Website: https://www.breadbyus.com
Instagram: @breadbyus
The Merry Dairy
Marlene Haley (BA/91, English)
Owner
The Merry Dairy is an Ottawa favourite known for its hand-crafted ice cream, with both classic and vegan options. Committed to quality and creativity, they offer a range of delightful flavours made from the finest ingredients.
Website: https://themerrydairy.com
Instagram: @themerrydairy
Stylish Accessories
Victoire Boutique
Katherine Frappier (BA/07, Women’s Studies & Human Rights)
Owner
Victoire is a leading Ottawa boutique specializing in curated Canadian-made fashion. Since 2006, it has showcased the talent of both established and emerging designers, while championing sustainable and ethical business practices.
Website: https://victoireboutique.com
Instagram: @victoirelovesya
Andrea Mueller Fine Jewellery
Andrea Mueller (MA/17, Art History)
Owner
Andrea Mueller Fine Jewellery creates timeless, handcrafted pieces with a focus on quality and design. Each piece combines artistry and craftsmanship, making it a perfect gift for those who appreciate elegant, sustainable jewelry.
Website: https://andreamueller.ca
Instagram: @andreamuellerfinejewellery
Vincent Boutique
Amanda Cambareri (BA/07, Linguistics)
Co-Owner
Vincent is a contemporary women’s boutique in Ottawa’s Little Italy, offering unique brands that inspire creativity and conversation. Co-owned by two sisters, the shop supports community initiatives and gives back through charitable partnerships, making it a go-to for both fashion and philanthropy.
Website: https://www.instagram.com/shopvincent
Instagram: @shopvincent
The Foxhole
Lucca Verrelli (BA/15, Sociology)
Owner
Founded in 2017, The Foxhole blends premium grooming and menswear, offering timeless, ethically crafted apparel and services like haircuts and straight-razor shaves. Focused on quality and inclusivity, they provide clothing and experiences that improve with age.
Website: https://thefoxholeshop.com
Instagram: @thefoxholeshop
Krista Norris Collection
Krista Norris (BA/12, Communication Studies)
Owner
Krista Norris offers a curated collection of classic essentials, starting with timeless scarves designed for Canadian weather. Made in Canada from quality fabrics, these pieces blend style and practicality.
Website: https://kristanorris.com
Instagram: @kristanorrisco
Skincare and Wellness
Shea Butter Market
Gifty Serbeh-Dunn (BA/88, Political Science; MA/96, Canadian Studies)
Owner
Shea Butter Market offers all-natural skincare products made from ethically sourced shea butter, benefiting both the environment and the women of northern Ghana. The company ensures fair wages for producers and reinvests profits to support the Tapko Widow’s Group and sustainable practices.
Website: https://sheabuttermarket.com
Instagram: @sheabuttermarket
Enfematic Skincare
Junique Gooden (BCMSH/20)
Owner
Enfematic offers handcrafted, natural skincare products made from organic ingredients, free from sulfates, parabens and phthalates. With a focus on wellness and self-expression, their premium products are cruelty-free, vegan and made in small batches to ensure high quality.
Website: https://www.enfematic.ca
Instagram: @enfematic
This season, celebrate Carleton alumni and their creativity by choosing thoughtful gifts from their local businesses. Your support makes a difference!
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