Where Motherhood Meets Meaningful DesignWelcome to our very first Local Spotlight—a new monthly feature in Between the Covers dedicated to celebrating small businesses with big heart. We’re kicking things off with a local favourite whose creativity and candour remind us what community is all about.Meet Emilie.The Ontario-based powerhouse behind Life Designed by M and the Instagram handle @customize_this_, Emilie is more than just a small business owner. She’s a mom, maker, and master of turning relatable chaos into curated charm.Through her brand, Customize This, Emilie creates custom lifestyle products that strike a perfect balance between function and feel-good. Think mugs that make you laugh through the sleep deprivation, signs that actually reflect your messy reality, and hacks that make parenting just a little bit easier. Her catalogue—available through Instagram highlights—is packed with everyday essentials made with personality.What we love most? Emilie’s content isn’t just polished—it’s personal. She shares the laughs, the meltdowns, the DIY wins (and flops), and the unfiltered side of parenting that often goes unsaid. Her reels are like quick chats with your brutally honest, hilarious best friend.But Life Designed by M isn’t just a brand—it’s a space. A space where mothers feel seen, where followers become friends, and where authenticity is always in style. Emilie has built more than a business; she’s built a movement grounded in joy, humour, and real talk.So here’s to Emilie—for reminding us that even in the thick of it, we can still make space for creativity, community, and maybe a custom wine glass or two.Follow her journey at @customize_this_Want to see your business featured? Email us at info@jeopublishing.com and tell us your story. Let’s build this community, one spotlight at a time.