Meet the Maker: Emma + Bobbi
Made for kids who move, play, and grow.
From grow with me jumpers to swimsuits that make girls feel unstoppable, Emma + Bobbi is a true Northern Ontario gem stitching joy into every piece! I’m so pleased to feature Salena, from E + B because my daughter is a die hard fan of her reversible swimsuits. In her words “they’re so rock n’ roll!”
Let’s dive into the world of Emma + Bobbi, where every item is infused with creativity, care, and a love for making kids feel amazing in what they wear.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your business.
Ever since I can remember I have always had an interest in sewing. I can remember going to Fabricland as a little girl, sitting with my mother while looking at the pattern book, choosing the fabric, and then going home and watching her create the most beautiful outfits. I was so persistent that she showed me how to do the same. My first models were my 80s Trolls, I would take the scrap fabric and make little outfits for them. Little did I know I would learn so much from those little models! When I turned five years old I finally got to sew on the sewing machine; which made my mother very nervous. So to control the speed she put a big white eraser underneath the pedal. I've been sewing ever since. As a teenager, I would help make dance costumes for Sudbury Secondary School and company G.
Nine years ago, I started making outfits for my daughter. Since then my small business has grown. All fabrics are purchased from Canadian businesses with a majority of them from local companies. I strive to make durable, cute, comfortable children’s clothing that are affordable as many of the items grow with the child and can be used for many years.
I also enjoy making custom gymnastics suits.
There’s something about a new suit that gives girls power and confidence when the suit fits them perfect.
I hope with more knowledge and time I can grow the business and continue to do what I’m passionate about.
Salena, owner and maker behind Emma & Bobbi
Ready for chasing the waves, fun in the sun and everything in between!
What advice would you give to a maker just starting out?
To work on projects that make you happy. You can’t always please everyone. And sometimes less is best.
What is something folks may not know about you?
One fun fact about me I also enjoy making stained glass but just for myself and family.
What is your dream project?
My dream project is to create a cozy little traveling RV boutique where families can discover thoughtfully made, seasonal children’s clothing. I imagine a space filled with vibrant fabrics, playful designs, and pieces that kids feel amazing in. I want to bring my work directly to communities, spark joy through handmade pieces, and celebrate the beauty of slow fashion wherever the road takes me.
What inspires you/where do you find inspiration?
I've always loved working with my hands—it’s how I unwind and feel most like myself. Honestly, so much of what I create is inspired by my own kids; they spark ideas daily with their energy, curiosity, and sense of fun.
Shout out your favourite Northern Ontario based maker.
I have to shout out Pulley Play Slime! They’re a newer business, but they’re absolutely fantastic. My kids love their products, and I do too. Their Instagram is so fun and refreshing—it’s full of personality and creativity—and their display setups are always incredible. It’s clear they put so much thought into everything they do.
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What I love most about Emma + Bobbi is how clearly it’s rooted in the belief that kids should feel incredible in their clothes. From the sewing machine with the eraser under the pedal to the dream of a travelling RV shop (how cool would that be?!), Salena’s maker journey is pure magic. We’re so lucky to have Emma + Bobbi as part of our Northern creative community—and we can’t wait to see where her creativity takes her next.
Ok, we’re off to the beach!
