MapleAndMatsu

Maple & Matsu is an art and stationery shop founded by two sister-in-laws, Raquel, the artist, and Nat, the graphic designer. Our work reflects our Canadian upbringing and time living in Japan, inspiring our designs and aesthetics of our shop. Our blend of cultures can be seen in our kawaii, cozy illustrations and nostalgic and humourous content.

Before Maple & Matsu, our paths were different but always creative. Raquel studied illustration at OCAD University and went on to showcase her work across a range of projects, including library installations and murals in both Japan and Mississauga. Nat studied music education at Western University, building a career as a music teacher, while continually exploring graphic design and creating educational resources.

Maple & Matsu began during a deeply personal season in our lives. While Raquel was going through her cancer journey, Nat was often by her side in support. In those moments, we found ourselves talking about life, sharing our goals, our dreams, and all the things we hoped to create one day. At some point we realized we were both holding onto the same dream, opening a stationery shop. We kind of just looked at each other, laughed, and thought, well, why not?

Conversations about “what if” turned into real plans and Maple & Matsu became the space for our ideas to come to life. As we began creating the kind of art we personally wanted to see, we noticed that our little creations were resonating with others and brightening their day. It reminded us that joy can come from even the smallest of things and proved that our vision for our brand was on the right path.

From there, we naturally began expanding into more products and exploring new ideas, letting our creativity lead the way. We create original artwork and handmade stationery that blends our love for Japanese culture with our Canadian roots, but at its core, Maple & Matsu is about sharing small joys, especially in the moments when it’s needed most.