truly unique, entirely canadian.
illbury & goose
Cofounder / brand director
In 2012 I co-founded Illbury + Goose at the age of 22 while studying full time at Western University. What started with a few mall-made tshirts and $3000, evolved into a small pop up tshirt shop on university campuses, at music festivals and farmers markets. After winning a start up pitch competition I brought the majority of our manufacturing to Canada and we quickly became a globally sold lifestyle brand with two retail locations, and a thriving online presence.
Inspired by the small businesses owned by our grandparents, Illbury Furs and The Country Goose we turned our passion for entrepreneurship, quality goods and community into the iconic Canadian brand Illbury & Goose has become today. During my 5 years with the brand we turned that $3000 into $500,000+ in annual revenue.
During my time as co-founder I developed hundreds of ethically made products from clothing and jewelry to leather, apothecary and home goods in collaboration with countless small businesses and artisans. Through these products my goal was to educate and encourage millennial consumers to shop local and make more sustainable chocies they could feel good about.
In 2017 I sold the brand leaving my former partner with the business which is still thriving to this day.
CASE STUDY COMING SOON
CASE STUDY COMING SOON
Our family legacy
Our first official store front in the Western Fair Farmers Market, London, ON.
Illbury + Goose is a nod to Canadian entrepreneurship, family legacy, and the journey of Canadians everywhere. This patriotic concept, established in 1928, is focused on sustaining small businesses everywhere; We represent a movement that supports local, and thinks global. With a commitment to producing superior garments, accessories, and apothecary items right here in Canada, we are redefining what it means to be Canadian- because it’s not all campfires and dogsleds. From day trips to nightclubs, from cityscapes to Rocky Mountains, Illbury + Goose is a lifestyle that is truly unique and entirely Canadian.
Founding Story
In 2014 after winning a start up pitch competition we took our side hustle and turned it into a full scale business. This video marked the launch of Illbury & Goose and our first Canadian retail location.
‘Desert Rose’
Our summer ‘16 collection was inspired by a 13 day road trip through the American deserts. From this trip I went on to design a full collection o unisex clothing and accessory ft. custom dyed rust and moss bamboo cotton garments, desert print hats and board shorts, jewelry, leather and skincare products.
KEY ROLES + RESPONSIBILITIES