Homegrown Business: Gabrielle “Pony” Tittley of La Maison Pony

La Maison Pony is a multi-faceted equine. It is at once a Montreal-based art studio, a boutique, and a creative universe populated by friendly therapeutic characters. The La Maison Pony boutique can be found on Plaza St-Hubert, but fans can also find La Maison Pony taking part in public art projects, brand collaborations, and licensing. We spoke with La Maison Pony Founder, Artist, and Creative Director Gabrielle “Pony” Tittley to learn more.

La Maison Pony

What is your business called and what does it do?

La Maison Pony is a Montreal-based art studio, boutique and creative universe built around colourful characters, illustrations, therapeutic plush toys and products designed to bring comfort, connection and a little more kindness into everyday life.

What made you want to do this work?

I’ve always had a very active imagination and a need to create. Over time, I realized art could do more than decorate a wall…it could help people feel seen, understood and less alone. That’s when creating became more than a passion; it became a mission.

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

Loneliness. A lot of my work is about creating emotional companions, conversations and moments of connection. Whether it’s a mural, a plush toy or a greeting card, I want people to feel a little more understood.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Anyone with feelings lol. But more specifically, people who appreciate creativity, humour, mental health advocacy and colourful design. We have customers ranging from children to healthcare workers, students, collectors and people looking for meaningful gifts.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

Through a combination of product sales, public art projects, brand collaborations, licensing and commissioned artwork. I have a physical boutique in Montreal, an online store and a creative studio that develops projects across many different mediums.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

You can find me at La Maison Pony on Plaza St-Hubert, but also on walls, buildings, public spaces and sometimes in very unexpected places throughout Montreal.

La Maison Pony

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

“What story are you trying to tell?”

The answer matters because good art isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about creating something meaningful that resonates with people and reflects the values behind a project.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

The best part is hearing that something I created helped someone through a difficult moment or made them smile when they needed it most.

The worst part is probably realizing that running a creative business means spending almost as much time answering emails as sketchbooks.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

People think artists spend their days waiting for inspiration. In reality, we’re mostly answering emails while saying, “I’ll make art as soon as I finish this one last thing.”

Where can we follow you?

Instagram | Website

Store: La Maison Pony, 6534 Plaza St-Hubert, Montreal

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

A: 180g I just love this vinyl shop. The shop is owned by a friend of mine. It’s a perfect place full of treasures.

 

About Bronwyn Lewis 35 Articles
Bronwyn Lewis is a food writer for the Vancouver Guardian. She’s also a screenwriter and producer. Born and raised in Vancouver, Bronwyn lives in Mount Pleasant and you can follow all her food adventures on Instagram.