The Imperative opened it’s door this month for conscious shoppers looking for vegan and cruelty-free products. It’s the first in Canada!

Our family often talks about driving change by “voting with our dollars”.

This means making conscious purchasing decisions. Deliberately choosing where our money goes thereby, supporting certain brands and organizations that support our ethical philosophy.

The Imperative is this place, where one can feel good shopping at and putting their money where it counts.

Located in Parkdale, conveniently across the street from Doomies (yes, THAT place with the $16 vegan Big Mac), this concept story is owned by the good folks behind the Vegan Food and Drink Festival and Ecorazzie, the unapologetic website that serves up meat/dairy-free content.

I was invited to a media event earlier this week and got a sneak preview of all the wonderful, delicious and cool things this store has curated.

Veganism For Everybody. NOT Veganism Vs. Everybody

The shelves are well stocked with animal-free products that don’t sacrifice style for ethics. I spotted everything from Vaute Couture faux fur winter coats, designer bags, makeup, books, gifts, kids toys and even custom vegan merchandise.

Say cheese! They even have a fridge full of non-dairy cheese including Bryt Life and Artisan Nut Cheeze. I recommend the smoked gouda and greyday blue!

The basement level is home to shoes including Olsen Haus and Native brands, Tokyo Bags, clothing accessories and more shoes!

Don’t live in Toronto? You can still shop at their online store (launching January 2017) and stay in touch via Facebook and Instagram.

The Imperative // 1332 Queen Street West // Toronto

Thinking of incorporating clean eating or a plant-based diet into your lifestyle? Here are my no-stress tips on going veg*n and favourite non-dairy bite size cheesecake and vegan ceviche recipes.