Linda Montalbano, left, and Yolanda Pop
JEN NG / JEN CREATIVE

A gift of support

Many people wonder what gift to buy for a loved one who is grieving or going through an illness. This is the question Costco members Yolanda Pop and Linda Montalbano sought to answer when they created the brand leolam, supplying carefully crafted gifts for condolences and illness. “Following the loss of both my parents (the name leolam is named after my father, Leo, and mother, Lammy), I noticed the discomfort people experienced with what to say, do or give,” Pop says.

According to Pop and Montalbano, every gift purchased from Leolam.ca—right down to the packaging—is curated to provide the recipient with connection and support. Each gift includes a heartfelt sentiment card and a small marble heart. “Customers who have received a leolam gift are so touched and moved, often carrying the heart with them,” says Montalbano.—Jen Madera

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Timing is key

Yolanda Pop and Linda Montalbano, founders of leolam, suggest waiting to send a gift to a grieving person. “It’s within that quiet time in the weeks and the months that follow a loss when support and acknowledgement can mean so much to let them know you are thinking of them,” says Pop. This thoughtfulness will speak volumes. “Showing you care about someone in the most difficult time is the most important thing you can do,” Montalbano adds.—JM