The Supreme Court of Canada was marking its 150th anniversary, prompting Romaine LeGallou to update her wardrobe. Subsequently, her company, Les Rabat-Joies, was selected to design new court attire for the occasion. Despite the challenging timeline, with the project commencing just four weeks before LeGallou’s first child was due, the team dedicated themselves to the task.
As the CEO of Les Rabat-Joies, located in Saguenay, Quebec, LeGallou ensured that the court attire adhered to the required protocol while injecting a touch of innovation. The team at Les Rabat-Joies worked tirelessly, offering personalized legal attire that respected tradition but also added unique elements. Clients could select from a variety of tab designs, including lace collars, rainbow-stitched tabs, and robes lined with various prints.
The company’s name, Les Rabat-Joies, plays on the idea of bringing joy and unexpected flair to legal attire. The team, led by LeGallou and technical lead Myriam Herrera, aimed for perfection in crafting custom-made robes for the nine Supreme Court justices. They sourced materials meticulously, with black silk from Korea and the emblem of the Supreme Court of Canada intricately embroidered into the fabric.
Upon delivering the finished ceremonial robes to Ottawa, the attire received acclaim for its modern yet dignified design. Chief Justice Richard Wagner praised the new robes for reflecting the court’s commitment to openness and accessibility. The team’s dedication to this project has not only garnered attention but also increased business for Les Rabat-Joies.
However, challenges lie ahead to ensure the team’s continuity, particularly concerning the immigration status of temporary workers. Changes in immigration rules have put the future of foreign workers at the company in jeopardy. LeGallou is actively engaging with authorities to find a solution that would allow her employees to remain in Canada, emphasizing her commitment to their well-being and the success of her business.
The success of the Supreme Court robe project has fueled LeGallou’s vision to expand Les Rabat-Joies’ reach across Canada while continuing to operate from Saguenay. The CEO remains optimistic about the future growth of the business, despite the ongoing legal battle to retain her team.
