Shop the Block: Behind the Brands – Candace Alongi, Founder of The Minted Mama

This year, we’ve partnered up with Destination TO to bring their holiday activation to life. We are running our pop-up, Shop the Block, at Stackt Market, in the heart of Toronto. “We’re so excited to be popping up this holiday season in our Toronto! We’ve curated a diverse assortment of brands from different neighbourhoods of Toronto. From home decor to holiday gifts to the newest in fashion, beauty, and jewelry we have something for the locals and tourists alike!” says Editor-in-Chief of STYLE Canada, Elise Gasbarrino.

Shop the Block will feature goods from local Toronto businesses. Our Shop the Block: Behind the Brands series will take a deeper look at the founders of our participating vendors and their stories. This article features The Minted Mama with

Candace Alongi; Founder of The Minted Mama

Website: www.themintedmama.com

Instagram: @themintedmamacollection

SC: Tell us a bit about yourself!

CA: I’m a busy mama of two with an eye for all things design. I have a Bachelor of Design degree from Ryerson University in Toronto which has allowed me to work in the exciting fields of fashion, marketing, publishing, styling, and content creation.

SC: Tell us the story behind your brand!

CA: I started my handmade accessory shop in 2020 at the height of the pandemic designing mask chains for both children and adults. The colourful, beaded chains were an overnight success, and in 2021 I expanded my business to include handmade-to-order pearl, gemstone, and 14kt gold-filled jewelry. I craft each piece in the collection by hand in Oakville, Ontario and my designs are available to shop online or at select fine retailers in Canada and the USA.

SC: What inspires you?

CA: I look for colour, pattern and texture wherever I go. Travel is a huge source of inspiration for me and a breath of fresh air to get the creative juices flowing!

SC: What does 2022 hold for you?

CA: We have a very exciting brand announcement coming mid-December. Can’t wait to share more!

SC: And lastly, where’s your favourite spot to vacation?

CA: Currently on a beach in the Caribbean for some much needed R&R – but I also love exploring urban destinations like Mexico City, Rome, and Hong Kong just to name a few of my faves!