Crafting against the grain from the shores of Georgian Bay.

Hello and thanks for being here! I’m Julie — Middle-child, wife, proud Auntie, Leo, Enneagram 6, museum nerd, introvert, and the founder of Owl & Oak Leather Goods.

I value creativity, curiosity and learning. These days, I’m dedicated to living into these values and bringing more joy and happiness into my life. Working against the grain — both literally in the leather, and figuratively in life — I believe there’s power in doing things differently. In slowing down. In choosing to make things that last. Every cut of leather, every stitch, is a defiant act of intention in a world that often rushes past both.

Creative Influence.

Whether it was making cars out of Grandma’s excess(ive) supply of zucchini, whittling a stick with Grandpa, or making the décor for my wedding — arts and crafts and creative expression have always been a part of my life.

Making time to create, play and have fun through art helps me to relax and unwind. The challenge of a project helps bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose. The call to creativity, along with a love of history and tradition gave rise to Owl & Oak Leather Goods. 

Owl & Oak would not, of course, be what it is today without the support of the people who cheer this venture on. I’m grateful for you – you know who you are. Thank you.

Location.

I am based out of Wasaga Beach, Ontario, located on the shores of Georgian Bay. The land upon which I live is the ancestral territory of the Wendat (Wyandot(te)/Wandat) and Tionontati (Petun), and Treaty 18 (Lake Simcoe-Nottawasaga Treaty) land belonging to the Anishinaabeg.