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July EnVision

admin — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:42:07 -0500

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Ascetic types will tell you the best thing about yoga is you can do it anywhere, anytime, with nothing but your body and a little flat piece of earth. Sure... if you’re a hermit! But we city types require a bit of style, not to mention comfort. Behold: a myriad of goodies designed to help us get the most from our yoga practice, while ensuring we look as tranquil, glowing, and beautiful as yoga makes us feel.

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June 2008

admin — Sat, 31 May 2008 15:28:14 -0500

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Seat Yourself
When a tree falls in the forest, the keen ears over at Clayoquot Crafts hear. The Tofino company uses only salvaged red cedar for its award-winning patio furniture that’s sprucing up decks and gardens all over the world. An eco-friendly collaboration between Daniel Lamarche, owner and creator, and the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation people, Clayoquot has earned rave reviews for its benches, Cape Cod chairs, and outdoor dining sets. Requiring little upkeep, and built to withstand the temperamental B.C. weather, these pieces are ideal for watching the waves crash onto the beach, or stargazing in your own backyard. Order online at clayoquotcrafts.com.
—Andrea Warner

Flower Power
Something old, something new, something borrowed, something… green? Dear brides-to-be: instead of walking down the aisle clutching pesticide-laden petals, let us suggest a bouquet of local, organic, and fair-trade blooms from Amoda Custom Floral Designs. In addition to creating made-to-order flower arrangements, the Vancouver-based company also offers “living wedding favours” for your big day, including organic herb plants in biodegradable pots, seedlings, and stalks of bamboo. Amoda even uses labels of recycled paper printed with soy-based ink, and biodegradable ribbon to tie up their blossoms. Now that’s a bouquet we’d all love to catch! Details: amodaflowers.com —Erica Gehrke

Double Trouble
Just because you’re too busy to make it home from work before meeting the gals for drinks downtown doesn’t mean there isn’t time for a costume change. Particularly when you’re wearing the shape-shifting Maria skirt by Vancouver’s own Skyler Clothing. Teamed up with a belt, button-down shirt, and demure heels, this skirt works it in the boardroom, and after five, can fly solo as a figure-flattering strapless dress, perfect with those stilettos stashed in your handbag. You’re guaranteed to look fab—and best of all, the Maria is made from soft, supple, eco-friendly beechwood fabric. Available at Skyler (1854 W. Fourth Ave.) and skyler.ca. —Jennifer Croll

Old-School Jewels
We love rummaging through thrift store vintage jewellery; turns out that BuenoStyle’s Christi York does, too. But when Christi discovers pretty-but-forgotten gems, she doesn’t see old stock: she sees sparkling new material. BuenoStyle salvages old chains, beads, and baubles, and fashions them into modern styles with a uniquely retro twist (and a sustainable backstory). We especially love the noirish intrigue of the pendants strung with delicate skeleton keys, and the bold beauty of filigree heart lockets straight from the ’60s. Adorn yourself at Fine Finds (1014 Mainland St.), Barefoot Contessa (3715 Main St.), Virgin Mary’s (1035 Commercial Dr.), and buenostyle.etsy.com. —JC

One Gift, One Cause
Scrambling to get your cupcakes in a row? Relax! Party planning just got easier—and kinder—with ECHOage, an online birthday party organizer that helps parents with all the details (including sending out electronic invitations) while providing a fun way to teach kids about the gift of giving, and protecting the environment. Here’s how it works: guests RSVP online and give a gift of money, half of which is donated to a charity of the birthday kid’s choice, while the other half goes towards one present picked out by the parents. Sustainable, responsible parties, with minimal work for the planners? Sounds like something to celebrate! Info: echoage.com —EG

So Pretty, So Practical
Plastic bags are so passé, especially when you can pack your goods into an AuMarché sturdy and sustainable shoulder-slung sensation. Each roomy tote boasts original artwork by owner Keiko Lee-Hem, whose vivid designs include fennel hearts, sassy summer bouquets, and multi-coloured asparagus. The bags are 55 per cent hemp (the rest is cotton) and fortified with reinforced handles, so you can feel confident schlepping home that 20-lb winter melon you scored in Chinatown, or several of your favourite bottles of vino on your weekly, er, monthly trip to the liquor mart. Bag yours at the Vancouver Art Gallery Shop (750 Hornby St.), or aumarchebags.com. —AW

Spa in the Raw
If life in the city is winding you up, cut loose with a weekend at Kw’o:kw’e:hala Eco Vacation Retreat. Kw’o:kw’e:hala (as in “Coquihalla”), just outside of Hope, offers up tantalizing goodies like gourmet cuisine made from fresh, organic ingredients, a relaxing “Native Healing Reiki” session, or, for the more adventurous, the bracing Eco-Spa-in-the-Raw Package, which involves heating up in a Finnish wood-fired sauna, having your skin slapped with steamed birch saplings (to improve circulation, silly), and a cold dip in the river—a perfect antidote for getting rid of any lingering urban angst. Info: 877-ECO-RETREAT, eco-retreat.com —EG

Them’s the Brakes
June is Bike Month, and what better way to celebrate than by taking the rubber to the road—especially if it’s on two wheels made just for you? Cruise down to Super Champion and put together a supa-sleek one-speed that’ll have you whizzing through the streets of Vancouver like you’ve never thought of putting on the brakes. And since Super Champion specializes in track bikes—brakeless jobbies you bring to a stop by resisting the forward motion of the pedals—you might consider picking up a helmet, too; the shop stocks some pretty aerodynamic ones by Catlike. Visit Super Champion at 245 Main St. or superchampionshop.com. —JC

May 2008

admin — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 22:11:04 -0500

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Mabu, My Love Stinky dishcloths got your nose out of joint? Then follow your schnozz to Mabu. Mabu multi-purpose cloths have inspired a devoted following (seriously, there’s a fan club—check out the website), due to their unique, naturally antibacterial, wood-fibre fabric and a special eight-layer design that suspends germs, dirt, stains, and debris—and releases them with a simple water rinse. You, too, may find yourself exclaiming, like one user from Victoria, “I think I’m in love with a washcloth!” Clean up at Wellspring Health (2-1359 56th St., Tsawwassen) or Wrasma Marketing (Denman Place Mall, 1030 Denman St.). Info: mabu.com —Stephanie MacDonald

West Coast-ers Wishing bad karma on guests who plunk their drinks on your brand-new coffee table won’t make those white rings go away. But thanks to Vancouver designer Amanda Weedmark, we can now keep our furniture—and relationships—pristine with her Creating Good Karma tile coasters. With two designs in five subtle colours, the coasters are practical for every coffee table (yes, even that classic Danish modern number you scored last weekend). The company hopes to spark positive change by donating a portion from every sale to charity—so here’s a chance to give your buying habit a higher purpose. creatinggoodkarma.com —Andrea Warner

Oldies but Goodies Looking to enhance that little black dress with a little eco-dazzle? Then Teresa Smed is your girl. The Vancouver jewellery designer uses local, reclaimed, vintage, and antique materials for her Dotted Loop bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. We love Dotted Loop’s new Glam Vintage Remix collection, with its long gold chains vamped up with pearls and beads, and dangly earrings set with Bohemian crystal. Their mid-century appeal will give you the look of a modern-day Gloria Swanson in a Sunset Boulevard gone green. Available at Dream (311 W. Cordova St.), Room 430 Boutique (430 Homer St.), Riot (1395 Commercial Dr.), Hot Box (2560 Main St.), and Hope Unlimited (2206 W. Fourth Ave.). dottedloop.com —Isabelle Groc

Mom’s Bouquet This Mother’s Day, ditch the bunch of carnations and consider taking Mom on a scent-sational journey to Ayala Moriel Parfums to create her very own signature fragrance. Founder Ayala Sender, Vancouver’s top nose in artisan perfumery, will blend a custom, all-natural perfume from pure, organic botanical essences for a scent that’s truly one-of-a-kind—just like Mom. Our animal amigos can breathe easy, too: Ayala Moriel Parfums does not perform testing on critters and sources only ingredients that are harvested without causing pain to animals (such as beeswax and honey absolute, and beach-harvested ambergris). Mom would approve. By appointment only (314-1230 Haro St.), 778-863-0806, ayalamoriel.com —Erica Gehrke

Suck It Up Crock-Pot, deep fryer, George Foreman Grill—all appliances are not created equal. And we’re not just talking about how they cook your food. Everything you plug into the wall sucks power—even when turned off—but different gadgets have different appetites. Figure out how much you’re feeding them (and adjust their consumption accordingly) with an EnerJar, the recent winner of the U.S.-based Greener Gadgets design competition. Plug any appliance into this DIY device and it will accurately measure how much juice it’s drinking. Build your own with step-by-step instructions from enerjar.net, or wait till a kit becomes available (check the website for updates). —Jennifer Croll

Good Goddess! A one-stop shop for midwives, doulas, and mommies, the online Mama Goddess Birth Shop offers natural, organic, and fairly traded products to pave the way to motherhood in true sustainable style. New moms will love the Calming Spritzer, made with lavender, Roman chamomile, and rose geranium essential oils, and baby will sleep like, um, a baby on the darling Organic Elephant Sleep Pillow, filled with ground spelt and lavender. This cyber-store out of East Van is also a place for women to find support and information on pregnancy and parenting, and is a gold mine of novel gift ideas for baby showers.mamagoddessbirthshop.com —EG

Tee Time The sun is out and your clubs are begging for some action. But you’re worried about just one thing: how to stay green on the green. We’re thinking the first step is replacing that golf cart with a cute caddy, but in the meantime, we’ll start by donning a sustainable, fashion-forward golf tee. Check out the colourful, fairway-friendly duds by ethical Vancouver label Doppelgäng. The wickable polyester fabric—derived from crab and shrimp shells—will keep you cool while you’re swinging that nine-iron, and the styles are flattering enough to warrant their own little round of golf claps. Shop online at doppelgang.ca —JC

April 2008

admin — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 19:19:33 -0500

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Some of B.C.’s most avant-garde and Earth-conscious designers are showcasing their spring lines at EPIC. Here’s a sneak preview of our editors’ picks.

Rich in Fibre
If your closet needs a good spring cleanup, the Salt Spring Island-based Nixxi clothing collection, with its nod to Mother Nature, will refresh your wardrobe. Don the eco-sexy Butterfly shirt and Petal pant, and you’ll be ready for gallivanting in the countryside or forest. If you’re in a bolder mood, go for the bell-bottomed Wilder pant or the cowl-neck Cleopatra dress. The fabrics are created with organic and sustainable fibres such as bamboo, organic cotton, and hemp—naturally. Available at Shop Cocoon (3345 Cambie St.), Twigg & Hottie (3671 Main St.), Granville Island Organix (1812 Boatlift Lane), HTnaturals (1307 Venables St.); nixxi.ca. —Isabelle Groc

Right as Rain
When Rio Raine Trotzuk was born, her dad (Mark Trotzuk, owner of Eco Apparel) was so chuffed he decided to create a brand of men’s and women’s clothing in her name. The just-out Rio Rain line, which includes fashion forward hoodies, tank tops, and simple-butgorgeous wraparound dresses, is made with natural, sustainable, and recycled fibres. Check out the brand-spanking-new Rio Rain store at Park Royal (West Vancouver), built using sustainable wood and incorporating energy-efficient lighting. To clinch the deal, an on-site personal shopper and stylist is standing by to help you make the agonizing choice between that silk screened midi-skirt and those fetching culottes. Info: riorain.com—Erica Gehrke

Nurture Your Soles
Ever pause and wonder how your footwear affects the planet? The geniuses behind Po-Zu did (“po-zu” means “pause” in Japanese) so they dreamed up the ultimate line of Earth-loving shoes. Constructed of natural materials, the design of these sandals, slip-ons, and boots is based on a “coir” (coconut fibre) and latex foot mattress that moulds to the shape of your foot. The cool factor goes way beyond the fact that these shoes are 99 per cent biodegradable and chemical-free: Po-Zu’s compostable coconut packaging doubles as a tray for growing sunflowers—seeds included! Step up at Gravity Pope (2205 W. Fourth Ave.) or Holt Renfrew (Pacific Centre). Info: po-zu.com —EG

Natural Reaction
Certain apparel companies out there sell their stuff with ads featuring sullen, half-naked hipsters. But some, like Vancouver-based HTnaturals, keep it simple, producing a quality product without baring all that ennui. Now don’t be fooled: these wardrobe basics like T-shirts, tank tops, and hoodies in bamboo, soy, hemp, and organic cotton feature flattering cuts that are undeniably sexy. We’re fans of the lightweight white jacquard cardigan and the date-friendly, ruffled peasant-style top. You’ll look so good in these, you’ll put a smile on anyone’s face—even those who refuse to wear much besides irony. Available at HTnaturals (1307 Venables St.), Granville Island Organix (1812 Boatlift Lane), and htnaturals.com . —Jennifer Croll

Beanie Babies
Your little bundle of joy deserves to be bundled in fabrics that echo her happy vibe (and help soothe her when her vibe is less than agreeable). And what better than soft, snuggly, organic cotton to do the swathing? You got it with Green Bean Baby’s selection of adorable bath products, bedding, clothing, and accessories. These “beans” are locally made and the line is almost entirely sourced from sustainably produced cotton. For your best friend’s newborn, pick up the super-cute hat: the perfect beanie for a baby destined to live green. Available at Crocodile Baby (2156 W. Fourth Ave.), Granville Island Organix (1812 Boatlift Lane), and greenbeanbaby.ca . —JC

Go to the Devil
If you were Satan, what would you wear? We were going to ask Bill O’Reilly’s stylist, but decided to go to Steph Ostler—the brains behind boutique-slash-fashion line Devil May Wear—instead. Steph’s devilish designs include pretty and sustainable items like bamboo tights, soy panties, and ruffled knickers. The tiny store off Main Street launched a year ago; we plan on scoring the shiny gold necklace with an old-fashioned key charm and the short-and-sassy reclaimed-cotton dress. With any luck, we’ll make some new friends with idle hands. Available at Devil May Wear (198 E. 21st Ave.), Dream (311 E. Cordova St.), Tutta Mia (1302 Victoria Dr.), and devil-may-wear.com . —JC

Hide-y Ho!
We love going out with a soft leather purse slung jauntily over a shoulder—but we love our furry friends more. How fortunate that we can carry a stylish satchel without hurting a thing: fresh onto the scene of recycled leather bags, Randi Obenauer allows us to indulge our skin fetish in a guilt-free way. Her locally made Ora bags are fashioned from leather reclaimed from furniture manufacturers and cast-off vintage duds. Because every scrap of salvaged leather is uniquely worn, each bag is one of a kind. Available at Twigg & Hottie (3671 Main St.), The Velvet Room (2248 W. 41st Ave.), and Nouvelle Nouvelle (209 Abbott St.). Visit oraearth.com —JC

Fruitful Fashion
Barbara Boswell developed her passion for sustainable fashion while studying in Hawaii. Fitting, then, that she named her line of clothing, accessories, and textiles “Lilikoi,” the Hawaiian word for passion fruit. With a name like that, we’re not surprised to discover the line boasts some pretty sweet items. We’re all over the silkscreened kimonos (ideal for lounging on lazy weekend mornings) and can’t wait to slip on one of the comfy-sexy spring dresses (perfect for hitting the town at night). And best of all, everything by Lilikoi is handcrafted in Vancouver from sustainable fabrics, so we know there’s no sugar-coating on these island-style threads. See lilikoiclothing.com —JC

March EnVision

admin — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 20:45:55 -0600

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Bag o’ Sunshine
That digital camera of yours is a total juice addict, and your cellphone consumes power like it’s at an all-you-can-eat buffet. So why not carry with you some nutrition for those hungry little tech-toys? Dinner is served with a Voltaic Solar Bag, a nifty backpack-slash-solar generator. Lightweight and durable, the smallest bag is capable of powering your iPod for three hours after just one hour in the sunshine. The bags are constructed entirely from recycled materials such as soda bottles, and are available in silver, orange, green, and charcoal. With all the money you’ll save on energy bills, you can treat yourself to dessert. Available at The Bay (downtown), voltaicsystems.com . —Jennifer Croll

Smart Fishing
Need a brain boost? Then hook yourself a razor-sharp mind with a bottle of Ascenta’s NutraSea, a balanced formula of omega-3 essential fatty acids. Found naturally in salmon, tuna, and halibut, these “good” fats support mental focus and promote emotional well-being—without a fishy aftertaste. Ascenta sources its fish oil from Nova Scotian waters of sustainably harvested, wild fish stocks and tests each bottle for contaminants. Also, the company contributes part of its sales to environmental groups and uses packaging made of post-consumer recycled materials. And there ain’t nothin’ fishy about that. Available at Capers, Choices, Semperviva (2608 W. Broadway), and Finlandia (1111 W. Broadway). —Erica Gerhke

Woop It Up
Poor worms. These much-maligned little creatures are blind, stepped on, and ignored by virtually everyone apart from fishing enthusiasts, birds, and Oscar the Grouch. But worms have something valuable to contribute to your garden: their poo. That’s right, and you can find it in WOOP organic soil booster. Made with 100 per cent worm poo, WOOP helps create space in the soil for aeration and drainage, while increasing nutrient levels and introducing beneficial plant micro-organisms. The worms have employed the helpful folks at Evergreen, a social/environmental charity, to package up their excellent excrement in two-litre containers, perfect for your indoor and outdoor planting needs. Visit evergreen.ca . —Stephanie MacDonald

Garden State
While you may blame “permaculture” for your unfortunate hairdo in high school, the real meaning of this term is much more appetizing. “Permaculture is the practice of using natural ecological systems to maximize the edible harvest of a garden,” explains Robin Wheeler of Edible Landscapes. That means the environment of an area—sunny, cool, moist, etc.—determines which native plants benefit one another, resulting in a working, edible garden with (bonus!) the least amount of labour. Wheeler’s garden is a testament to permaculture’s success, and now you can reap the benefits of her organic and natural approach with Edible Landscapes tea, herb, edible flower, veggie, and fruit seeds. Get planting! Info: ediblelandscapes.ca. —SM

The Gods of Togs
In Hindu mythology, Lav and Kush are guardians of the woods. In Vancouver, they’re the inspiration for a line of sexy, eco-chic clothing. Beautiful and luxurious, Lav and Kush is devoted to sustainability, while maintaining a decidedly urban aesthetic. For spring, we love the vampy boatneck dress in brazen red soy and the flirty O-ring camisole in creamy bamboo. Lav and Kush donates a percentage of sales to charities like the David Suzuki Foundation and PETA, so you can do good while looking damn fine. Available at Life of Riley (3695 Main St.), Barefoot Contessa (3715 Main St.; 1928 Commercial Dr.), Hana Ray (3068 Highland Blvd.), or lavandkush.com . —JC

A Girl’s Best Friend
Prancing around in your prized vintage pumps, you feel just like Marilyn Monroe. Until you kick off your shoes, that is, and the funky smell makes you realize your true silver-screen doppelganger is closer to the Swamp Thing. Well, never fear: if there’s one lesson you can learn from Ms. Monroe, it’s that diamonds are your pals. No, no, we’re not talking about shiny rocks, but Diva Diamondz. Tuck these environmentally friendly and oh-so-handy little packets into your stinky footwear, and the ionically charged volcanic minerals absorb all that yucky odour. The next time you slide those tootsies out of your fresh-smelling heels, your sexpot reputation will stay intact. See divadiamondz.com . —JC

Tony Tikes
Hey, baby, you want to go eco-chic—just like Mommy? Then you’re in luck: the good folks at Lola and Lucas have whipped up a line of organic apparel for you that’s so hip and stylish, Mom will be wishing it came in big-person sizes. The Vancouver company offers a classy little kimono-style romper, a darling cap-sleeve jacket, a fetching pair of overalls, and much, much more, all made of a 60/40 organic cotton/bamboo blend. Coconut buttons, nickel-free snaps, and recycled paper hang-tags complete an already sustainable package. Get swathed at Dandelion Kids (1206 Commercial Dr.), Bobbits for Kids (2935 W. Fourth Ave.), Beansprouts (4305 Main St.), or lolaandlucas.com . —EG

February EnVision

admin — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 17:24:38 -0600

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It Takes Two
If “board game night” translates into you being bored while your man and his buds tackle a case of beer over a kitchen-conquering game of Risk, it’s time to rethink your strategy. This Valentine’s Day, put on your best game face and challenge that special guy to a game of Syncrohearts. Made in Vancouver, this game uses cards with questions in categories such as “4-Fun,” “Couple,” “Insights,” and “Hot Stuff” to bring couples closer together. Players move their pieces around the squares on the game board, which form a path of two overlapping hearts. And, unlike other games, the aim here isn’t to beat your partner, but to love him. And if that’s not worth a roll of the dice, then what is? Details: syncrohearts.com . —Jennifer Croll

Homing Device
Attention mommies-to-be: While you’re busy renovating your home office into the perfect nursery for Junior, don’t forget to give yourself a treat, too. Enter Sweet Home Birth, an online store selling birth supplies, breastfeeding supplies, and natural baby care products. Delivered to your doorstep anywhere in Canada, the Sweet Home Birth boxes (for home or hospital births) offer a range of both practical and pampering products to help Ma prepare for the big day. The Mama’s Birth Box includes massage oil (to ease labour), organic and vegan nipple cream, and Gaia Garden Momma’s Tea to encourage lactation. Rest assured that each birth box item is carefully selected with the help of local midwives. The only thing they can’t guarantee is that your renovations will be complete before baby arrives. Visit sweethomebirth.com . —Erica Gehrke

Chocolate Island
If you love chocolate so much you could practically sleep with it, this will sound like a dream come true: Cocoa West on Bowen Island now offers overnight stays in its “Chocolate Suite.” Since 2002, chocolatier extraordinaire Joanne Mogridge has been creating scrumptious chocolates from organic ingredients at Cocoa West (tip: the “Unbelievably Good Egg” truffle, filled with liquid caramel and amber maple syrup, is to die for). Her café also serves up coffee Viennese-style (on a silver tray, with a glass of water, and a chocolate on the side, of course), along with artisan hot chocolate blends. If you can’t make an island-hop this weekend, you can pick up Cocoa West’s Signature and spicy Poblano organic hot chocolates at Urban Fare, or Edible British Columbia (Granville Island). Info: cocoawest.com . —Joanne Will

Herbal Essence
How’s this for the perfect meeting of East and West? The Mystic Masala is a local company that uses wildcrafted herbs from a women’s fair trade co-operative in Nepal to create traditional Ayurvedic concoctions. Ayurvedic guru and “spice mistress” Glynnis Osher aims to balance the individual by harmonizing body, mind, and spirit. Her products include made-in-B.C. pure soy candles with essential oils blended according to the Ayurvedic principles of balancing prana (life-force), ojas (life-essence), and tejas (life-fire); herbal body bar soaps made in Nepal from Himalayan clay; and a shampoo bar with nourishing coconut, palm, sunflower, and olive oils. Mama and baby massage oils and soaps (made with cow’s milk) pamper precious cargo during pregnancy, birth, and beyond. All products are natural, biodegradable, and contain no preservatives. Purchase at Banyen Books (3608 W. Fourth Ave.), Semperviva (2608 W. Broadway), or themysticmasala.com . —JW

Full of Beans
If you love eating soybeans, you’ll love wearing them even more. When German-born dancer Freyja (aka Kerstin Eyrich) met Ontario transplant Jules (Julie Emmerson) at a B.C. music festival, the pair soon realized that they shared the same vision of creating unique, sweatshop-free, and sustainable clothing. Inspired by their dance and yoga backgrounds—not to mention nature and fairy lore—Freyja and Jules pooled their talents to create MahaDevi Designs (MahaDevi means “great goddess” in Sanskrit). Using environmentally friendly fabrics including said soy, the ever-durable hemp, and cashmere-soft bamboo, MahaDevi offers a variety of dreamy tunics, casual hoodies, and yoga wear with distinctive detailing and asymmetrical cuts that will keep you both super-comfy and devastatingly stylish. Available at A Small World Shop and Gallery (2120 Commercial Dr.) or mahadevidesign.com . —Sondi Bruner

Sheepy Sleep
If you’ve always thought the pressures of daily life were the source of your insomnia, here’s your wake-up call: it could be what you’re sleeping on. Don Eady was skeptical when his in-laws presented him and his wife with a wool mattress cover, but it only took a single night of undreamed-of slumber to convince him to bed down on wool for life. He took it one step further and created SnugSleep, a line of high-quality wool mattress covers, duvets, and pillows that both absorb and release moisture, regulating body temperature and providing a more comfortable night of rest. And since we can lose up to a litre of water while we sleep, it’s nice to know that there’s something out there to keep us cozy and dry in the winter months, as well as comfy and cool all summer. To find a SnugSleep retailer near you, visit snugsleep.com . —SB

Face Time
Sick of sampling your way through shelves of skin care products only to come up red in the face—literally? Cheryl Theilade was, so the Vancouverite created her own skincare line. Concocted with organically grown botanicals, long known for their beautifying and therapeutic properties, Theilade’s Scentimental Creations products are custom-made for all skin types. Sensitive to both you and the environment—as in no animal testing and zero preservatives—Scentimental offers such gems as Aloe Cure Cream, a scintillating synthesis of aloe vera juice, cocoa butter, grapefruit seed extract, beeswax, vitamin E, and essential oils that soothe eczema, psoriasis, and other skin irritations. Theilade will even teach you how to create your own natural products to give your skin that youthful glow. You’ll never make a “rash” decision again. See scentimentalcreations.com . —EG

Like a Record, Baby
Vinyl junkies may mourn the music world’s rapid evolution from analog to digital, but never fear: there’s still room for those old records in the iPod era. Vancouver company Contexture Design recycles old records and transforms them into iPod-hugging cases. Named the “45,” after the playing speed of a seven-inch disk (remember those?), the case allows access to your 20–80-gig iPod’s click wheel through the record’s old centre hole. If your music tastes lie more in the ’80s, give the “45 nano” a whirl on your iPod nano. These cases are fashioned out of old cassette tapes and recycled foam padding, allowing you to relive your mix-tape glory days while jacking in to your shuffle. See contexture.ca , 45ipodcases.com . —JC

January 2008

admin — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 13:08:35 -0600

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Better Sweaters
Remember your favourite wool sweater? You know, the snuggly one that hugged you in all the right places and kept you warm on chilly days? The one you banished to the Sally Ann when it got a little ragged? Don’t feel guilty: now you can renew your romance with old wool with Mod to Modern in a way you never thought possible. The local designer takes pre-loved sweaters, cuts them apart, mixes and matches patterns and knits, and refashions them into totally new styles (including mini versions for your puppy!). Recycling has never been so stylish—and neither has argyle. Available at Hum Clothing (3623 Main St.) and Dream Designs (956 Commercial Dr.) Info: modtomodern.com . —Jennifer Croll

Eco Jot, Eco Thought
Note to self: Give to charity… join a gym… lighten my carbon footprint… eat an organic diet. If you’re having a hard time remembering all your New Year’s resolutions, try writing down your good intentions in an ecojot journal. The made-in-Canada line of stationery is created using 100-per-cent post-consumer waste paper (translation: no trees are cut down). Every sketchbook, notebook, and flip pad is made from chlorine- and acid-free paper, and printed with vegetable-based inks. The eye-catching covers, which include cutesy bird patterns, flowers, bold stripes, and festive polka dots, will make you want to keep them with you at all times—perfect reminders for whenever you find yourself reaching for a doughnut… or skipping yoga class… or buying tungsten bulbs... Find ecojot products at Paper-Ya (Granville Island), Eastside Stationery & Art (1458 Commercial Dr.), and Banyen Books (3608 W. Fourth Ave.). Info: ecojot.com . —Erica Gehrke

Bottoms Up, Baby
What do you do when a product you want doesn’t exist? Well, if you’re Lalabee Bathworks’ Sara Johnson, you simply make it yourself. While pregnant with her daughter, Johnson searched high and low for baby skin care products without chemicals, dyes, petroleum, or preservatives, but came up woefully short. So she started hand-crafting her own line of skin-soothing products made from natural, organic, and local ingredients like beeswax, lavender flowers, and olive oil. From the bottom balm made especially for newborns (it clears up diaper rash in a flash and is one of the company’s most popular products) to milk baths and a body balm for fussy sleepers, Lalabee Bathworks has got your baby covered without breaking the bank. Bonus: all the containers are recyclable. Available at lalabeebathworks.com . —Sondi Bruner

Ex-Squeeze Me?
Every woman knows she’s supposed to do monthly breast self-exams, but how many of us actually follow through? And how do we know if we’re even doing it right? Monica Park, an RN who did hospice work with women dying of breast cancer, hooked up with Plexus Pink to offer Breast Chek kits for easy, early detection. Here’s how it works: there’s a non-toxic lubricant encased between two thin layers of polyurethane. The bottom layer stays stable, while the top layer moves easily over your breast tissue and increases tactile sensitivity—making it infinitely simpler for your fingers to detect lumps and other irregularities. As Monica preaches, early detection can save your life, so don’t be shy—give the girls a squeeze! Visit plexuspink.com to find out more; then contact Monica at parkmr@xplornet.com to get a kit for $29.99 —SB

It’s Been a Slice
After working all day, running errands, and hitting the gym, the last thing a girl wants to do when she gets home is slave away in the kitchen—but she doesn’t want to chow down on fast food either. Enter Sliced Tomatoes, Vancouver’s only ready-to-cook meal delivery service. The meals are designed by an in-house nutritionist, are prepared with fresh, organic, and local ingredients, come with simple cooking instructions, and—best of all—are delivered right to your doorstep. This year, the company has gone green by recycling, composting, using smaller vehicles for delivery, and joining the Vancouver Aquarium’s sustainable seafood program. So you can savour your herb-crusted B.C. sockeye salmon or vegan lentil curry with the knowledge that your new fast food is easier on the planet. Start salivating at slicedtomatoes.ca . —SB

Plastic Ain’t Their Bag

Scrunchy white plastic bags emblazoned with garish supermarket logos: Stylish? We think not! Lose those landfill-cloggers, darling, and schlep your groceries in some- thing that complements your impeccably sustainable taste. Our personal faves are GreenOne reusable bags, locally made totes made with all-natural fibres. For a trendy-casual look, try shouldering the company’s o.n.e. bag, made from sturdy organic cotton and printed with funky designs. If your look is a little more polished, consider the glossy Soho bag, sewn from a blend of silk and hemp. Both styles are versatile enough to take you from the market, to the yoga studio, out for dinner, and back home again. Available at Twigg & Hottie (3671 Main St.), Granville Island Organix (1812 Boatlift Lane), and Room 6 (4389 Gallant Ave., North Vancouver). Info: greenoneventures.com . —JC

Word Power
Define a word, feed the world! Sound a little too easy? Well, it’s not. The next time you’re online, tear yourself away from virtual Scrabble and check out Free Rice. This website feeds you a word and gives you four possible definitions. For every correct definition you choose, the website donates 10 grains of rice to the United Nations World Food Program. Ten grains doesn’t sound like much, but just watch those bowls of rice fill up as you wrack your brain to come up with the most likely definitions for “colloquy,” “gloaming,” and “encephalon.” The donations are funded by adverts on the site, so you can feed hungry people in developing nations without even opening your wallet. As an added bonus, you just might increase your word power, so that when you eventually get back to the pressing task of Scrabble, you’ll be able to really preponderate over your opponent. At the very least, Free Rice will reinforce the meaning of the word “generosity.” Belly up at freerice.com . —JC

Clean and Green
Your girlfriends are on their way over for a fabulous organic dinner, but your kitchen is an unholy mess. Before you spoil your 100-per-cent-natural meal by using 100-per-cent-nasty chemical cleaners, reach for a bottle of Sapadilla’s All Purpose Cleaner instead. North shore residents Jill Goodbrand, the “Queen of Clean,” and environmental scientist Steve Carmichael joined forces to establish Sapadilla Soap Co., an ethical product line that not only accessorizes your countertop with its minimalist design aesthetic, but is truly Earth-and-body friendly. Made with biodegradable, cruelty-free, plant-based ingredients like rosemary and peppermint essential oils, Sapadilla’s suds will keep your house clean and fresh—without the toxic side effects. Available at Whole Foods Market, Park Royal (North Vancouver) and Drive Organics (1045 Commercial Dr.). Info: sapadilla.com —EG

November EnVision

admin — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 15:50:47 -0500

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C’mon, Get Happy!
You’ve probably heard that omega-3 fatty acids are good for your heart, arteries, skin, and hair. What you may not know is that research shows supplementing your diet with omega-3s is one of the best ways to naturally improve your mental outlook. The o3mega+ joy formula by Genuine Health will keep you singing in the winter rain. It contains the fatty acid EPA, which is proven to assist in regulating mood, seasonal disorders, and depression. Genuine Health also has six other o3mega blends, targeting things like mental acuity, skin, cardiovascular health, and fitness. And for those who want an all-in-one oil blend, there’s o3mega+ 3679. The fish oils used in all formulas are derived from wild, pure sources and tested to ensure the absence of heavy metals like mercury and pesticides. The formulas come in capsule or liquid form (in natural vanilla and orange flavours), and leave no fishy aftertaste. Available at Capers and Choices, or check genuinehealth.com for a store near you.
—Joanne Will

KISS THE BIRKENSTOCK-AND-FLEECE LOOK GOODBYE
Eco-friendly fashionistas: Make room in your closet for Nicole Bridger Designs. The Vancouver-born Bridger, who recently won a B.C. Fashion Week award, earned her stripes interning in London with mother of punk fashion Vivienne Westwood before returning to her hometown to co-create the Oqoqo line. Now branching out on her own with pieces made with natural fabrics like wool and silk, Bridger’s fall series includes classic-cut bottoms paired with feminine, flirty tops that can easily transition from the office to drinks out with the girls. And Bridger has included an affirmation label in every garment, so every time you put one on you’ll be reminded of how wonderful you are—and who can resist that? Available at Lark 8th Avenue (2315 Main St.) and twigg&hottie (3671 Main St.).
—Sondi Bruner

SOLE ASYLUM
After a long day in heels, boots, skis, or wellies, there’s nothing better than a hot, fragrant footbath to rejuvenate your whole outlook on life. The Rocky Mountain Soap Company’s new Mountain Spa Foot Soak Salt is the perfect remedy for aching, chilly, tired (or stinky!) feet. With essential oils of fir needle, grapefruit, patchouli, lemongrass, and chamomile, a soak in these salts will ease your pains, improve your circulation and mood, and may even give you the vigour you need to contemplate a stiletto-heeled night on the dance floor. For a special treat, use the soak salt as a part of your Mountain Spa Foot Facial, a complete treatment to cleanse, nourish, polish, and hydrate your feet to the height of podiatric perfection. Mountain Spa Foot Soak Salt ($15.99) and Mountain Spa Foot Facial ($28) are available at the Rocky Mountain Soap Company (3057 Granville St.) or rockymountainsoap.com.
—Stephanie MacDonald

Heavenly Habitation
You think your new home could use a little celestial help, but how to entice good spirits into blessing your abode? Spirithouse, a Canadian-Thai venture with an eye for fair trade, answers your prayers with just that—a spirit house. Designed to look like mini Thai temples, spirit houses have been used by Thai people since ancient times to encourage celestial beings to take up residence within and watch over the premises without. All Spirithouse’s offerings—including its hand-carved seated Buddhas and panels bearing the Enlightened One’s likeness—are sourced in Thailand and bought directly from artisans whenever possible. Built to last with rot-resistant teak, the spirit house comes in eight different models to ensure even the most discerning ethereal house seekers will find their dream home. Info: spirithouse.ca .
—Tamara Letkeman

TAKE IT OR SLEEVE IT
Coffee addicts, take heart: now you can slip a stylish, environmentally friendly coffee cozy over your morning wakeup call. When children’s clothing designer Stacy Wolfenden found herself with some extra fabric scraps, creating these handy cozies seemed like the perfect way to get people thinking about the paper cups they toss in the garbage while promoting the benefits of hemp. Four times stronger than cotton, hemp also offers great insulation, making it just the thing to pull out of your handbag and wrap around your cup. Since fashioning the cozies last year, Wolfenden can barely keep them in stock (especially around the holidays!). Get yours at tumtumtreedesigns.com .
—SB

CALL OF THE WILD
For a little guy, Scottie the terrier has a lot on his plate. While many dogs are content with chewing on things, shedding, and lounging around, Scottie inspired his human Richard to dedicate his life to creating natural, cozy, beautiful caves for doggies to relax in. Scottie is the CEO of Scottie’s Fine Art Caves Inc., and evidently he runs a pretty tight ship overseeing the creation of the one-of-a-kind habitats, each a unique rendition of a West Coast wolf cave. They’re made with solid papier mâché and Vancouver Island-foraged wood, resulting in a rustic yet elegant canine abode, complete with interior cave drawings. And if Mr. Tinkles is getting his whiskers in a twist with jealousy, fear not: Scottie’s Tofino-based company also creates an impressive Feline Mountain. Check out these unusual indoor pet retreats at scottie.ca .
—SM

Make scents of your chakras
Stuck in a rut? Repeating a pattern that needs to be broken? Catch a whiff of the chakra synergies from Smell This! and you’ll think anything’s possible. Blended in jojoba-and-coconut carrier oils by certified aromatherapist and company owner Arline Trividic, the purse-size sticks are intended to improve the function of the chakras by anointing them with essential oil blends. The seven synergies represent the major centres on the spinal column, and are designed to enhance your yoga or meditation experience. Let your nose guide you, and you’ll be drawn to the scents that enable the chakras you need to open. And when your yoga mat has seen one too many downward dogs, spray on Warrior Wash, a natural cleanser with a cinnamon scent so heavenly it will surely bring you closer to the Divine. See and smell all products (including soap, candles, skin care, and children’s line Petit Pest) at 130-15100 Knox Way (Richmond), or purchase at smellthis.ca or 604-957-9984.
—JW

Fruit of the Loom
If you love art that makes you feel warm and fuzzy, wait until you see Vlinder Fibre Arts’ one-of-a-kind Serendipity Wraps. Third-generation weaver Vanessa Cunningham approaches each shawl as a painting, drawing inspiration from nature as well her favourite foods and folks. With an aim to lighten her carbon footprint, Cunningham uses Tencel (an eco-friendly man-made fibre), bamboo, and soy fibres, which she hand-dyes with natural dyes before spinning them by hand and weaving them—you guessed it—by hand. For a more vintage look, Cunningham also weaves in wool, cotton, or linen passed down from her Dutch oma, who collected fibres in the ’50s and ’60s. An eco-friendly, hands-on approach that promises to swathe you in style, Serendipity Wraps will have you looking ultra-cool while keeping you toasty warm. Available at Starfire Studio (6607 Royal Ave., West Vancouver), starfireattheferries.com .
—TL

October EnVision

admin — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 19:00:19 -0500

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Enlightening Jewels
Hoping for some good karma to come your way? Why not show your intention with a little bling from The Sonja Picard Collection? Designed and made here in Lotusland, Sonja Picard’s jewellery is inspired by the tantric tradition of bodily adornment to reveal a woman’s inner beauty. In the new, limited-edition Karma Yoga series, sterling silver pendants carry divine messages to take you further along the path of enlightenment, with all profits going to local and international charities. Unlike other donations, these necklaces let you stay connected to the cause every time you put them on—perhaps not a completely selfless endeavour, but certainly a good start. Available through sonjapicard.com.
—Erica Gehrke

Ethical Togs for Ethical Tykes

Little Olivia’s first words might not be the showstopper “sweatshop-free,” but you can still dress her for the part. Your ethical tot will love her new duds from Ya for Kids, a progressive and fun clothing company for kids aged six months to two years, located right here in Vancouver. Many of the colourfully patterned fabrics are sourced from employee-owned mills, and the shipping boxes are made from recycled materials. And all that goodwill won’t cost you much: the company strives to keep costs down by selling all their goods through their online store. If you’re lucky, when she’s happily frolicking in her new fleece jacket, Olivia’s second words could very well be “Ya for Mom!” Available at yaforkids.com.
—Jennifer Croll

Organic Matters

You know that good looks start on the inside, so you eat organic fruits and veggies, get eight hours’ sleep, breathe fresh air, and drink plenty of water. But it turns out beauty is partly skin deep. Since our skin is our primary organ for absorption, Elroy designer and vegan Vancouverite Leanne McElroy believes that wellness depends as much on what we put on ourselves as what we take in. Elroy’s stylish, eco-friendly clothing made of bamboo and organic cotton avoids the use of toxic chemicals or fertilizers. This sophisticated street wear proves that organic is a beautiful thing. Available at Twigg and Hottie (3671 Main St.), Shop Cocoon (3345 Cambie St.), Riot (1395 Commercial Dr.), and elroyapparel.com.
—EG

Immaculate Conception

Move over, Mr. Clean: Mother Nature is stepping in to make our houses spic and span—the chemical-free way. Aspen Clean, a home cleaning service in West Vancouver, sources and analyzes all its products to ensure they are unscented, non-toxic, and 100 per cent natural. The company has also ditched rags and sponges for microfibre wipes, which are denser and therefore pick up more dirt and grime. Once the job is done, instead of those sketchy “pine” or “lemon” smells lingering in the air, the only thing left behind is the sweet scent of botanical essential oils, which pull double duty by both disinfecting the house and soothing clients’ nerves. The result: a sparkling, dust-free home that will have everyone breathing easy. Info: aspenclean.com or 604-925-9900.
—Tamara Letkeman

Stop the Flash

Does it get any worse than a hot flash in the middle of giving a presentation at work, or even while picking up groceries? It might, but that’s little consolation for those of us dealing with this uncomfortable reality of menopause. Fortunately, help is on the way with a new product made for women, by women: StopFlash. This all-natural oral remedy, made from a unique blend of black cohosh, dong quai, licorice root, and other herbal ingredients, is proving effective in fighting back. Tests show that within minutes—and in some instances, seconds—of inhaling the spray, hot flashes subside and skin returns to normal. So you can stay cool, knowing you don’t have to worry about stripping down at work again. Available at Supplement Plus (650 W. 41st Ave.) and Country Health (1199 Lynn Valley Rd., North Vancouver). Info: puritylife.com.
—Tara Campbell

Between the Naturally Dyed Sheets

You’re all tucked in with a bowl of popcorn, ready to start a movie, and breaking the rules of eating in bed and snacking too late. But your conscience is put at ease: after all, it’s organic popcorn, and heck, even the sheets in which you commit such folly are organic, thanks to Emily Carr grad Leah Weinstein. Weinstein’s Tenfold Organic Textiles offers customers 100 per cent naturally dyed organic sheets, quilts, towels, and fabric by the yard. She’s also launching men’s and women’s clothing lines in spring/summer 2008. Now that’s looking at the big picture in style. Available at tenfoldorganic.com.
—TC

Up In Arms

For those of you who think chemical- and fragrance-laden deodorants are the pits, get a whiff of this: underarm protection made entirely with plant-based ingredients and scented only with certified organic essential oils. Courtesy of Plant and Planet, purveyors of all-natural solid-stick deodorants, lab-made ingredients like cyclomethicone and prop-ylparaben have been replaced with nature’s own wildcrafted lichen and white willow to have you come out smelling like roses—or almost—with choices like Lavender Geranium, Moroccan Cedarwood, and Orange Petitgrain. And vegans and animal-lovers take note: no furry friends are used in the testing of these products. Our armpits—and the people we love to hug—have never had it so good. Available at Finlandia Natural Pharmacy (1964 W. Broadway), Queensdale Supermarket (3030 Lonsdale Ave., North Vancouver), Planet Organic Market (10-2755 Lougheed Hwy., Port Coquitlam), and plantandplanet.com.
—TL

Pretty and Polished

You loved the shiny, candy-apple red coat of paint on your high-school boyfriend’s hotrod, and after that 20-year reunion, you’ve decided to paint your nails crimson in homage to puppy love. Well, as Frankie says: Relax, don’t do it. (Unless it’s safe, that is!) Pick up some all-natural polish from Nature’s Creations Aromatherapy, and prettify those digits without all the nasty chemicals. While you’re at the store/day spa, check out the fresh-scented organic body lotions, exfoliants, and soaps—and if those scarlet nails have made you particularly passionate, consider the massage oils. Frankie would approve. Available at Nature’s Creations Aromatherapy (205 Lonsdale Ave., North Vancouver) or visit ncaromatherapy.com.
—JC

August EnVision

admin — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 18:41:36 -0500

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Fashion freedom
Ladies, why fake it when you can F.A.K.E. it? Local fashion designer Jasmine Currie releases her second eco-friendly clothing collection this fall. F.A.K.E. Couture (Freedom Action Kindness Empathy) concepts are classically stylish and comfortable. Currie’s first collection features six pieces and two accessories, which, with a few twists and turns, let you go from office to beach to cocktail party. With a standout kerchief top that can be worn at least 12 different ways, a tube dress that can go as a top, miniskirt, minidress, pencil skirt or knee-length dress, and a large wrap, which can be converted into a dress or skirt, the combinations are infinite. Manufactured locally from organic soy and bamboo fabrics, there’s nothing fake about it—and bonus::it’s all machine-washable. Available at Twigg & Hottie (3671 Main St.) or fakecouture.com, 604-715-5553. —Joanne Will

BUG OFF
Compassion often stops at itchy, scratchy, bug-infested camping trips. Luckily for the world (and the bugs), there are tangible weapons available to ensure a successful camping trip, cruelty-free. Mosquitoes and black flies won’t hang around with Adios—a DEET-free bug repellant/sunscreen/moisturizer (yes, all in one!) from Vancouver-based Serf to Surf. This all-natural, biodegradable insect repellent avoids pesky ingredients like petroleum byproducts, mineral or animal ingredients, artificial colours, or synthetic preservatives, using organic hempseed oil, unrefined shea nut butter, and lemon eucalyptus instead. Also offering a skin-care line, this grassroots company has even got celeb client Alicia Silverstone raving about its coconut and peach hemp lip balms. Now this is just the kind of nature you can nurture. Available at 259 E. Hastings St. (604-782-2937) or serftosurf.com. —Erica Gehrke

BASKET CASE
One more wedding, shower, or birthday to attend, and you’re all out of ideas? Put all your eggs in one basket with a little something from Gifted Design. Inspired by the myriad of goody packages they’d seen delivered to actors and directors, veteran set decorators Vanessa and Joy focus on organic, fair-trade, and local. Making sure the “baskets” are reusable or recyclable is top priority; they use beautiful vases, bowls, trays, and recyclable boxes. And only top-quality goods from companies like Ethical Bean, NK’Mip Cellars, and Gone Crackers make the cut. Whether you order a customized package or one of their standards (like the China Blue or Anarchist), you’ll recognize the excruciating hours Vanessa and Joy spent sampling fine chocolates, champagnes, and coffees to bring the best to your basket. Available through gifted-design.com or 778-329-2419. —JW

MUD GIRLS
We know you were thinking this would be about women who mud wrestle. And well, yes, while that could happen in the course of their activities, Mud Girls is a women’s collective that seeks to inspire people to change how we live on this earth—and they aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty. These dirty girls build natural structures such as homes, cabins, ovens, garden sheds, or whatever else imaginable using cob, straw bales, adobe brick, and cordwood. The collective, based on Lasqueti Island, is also for hire in Courtenay, Nanaimo, and Salt Spring Island, and offers assistance to owner-builders embarking on natural building adventures. In addition, Mud Girls provides community outreach and organizes workshops that focus on sustainable living, activism, alternative technology, permaculture, healing with art and play, and earth spirituality. Dig in! Info: lasquetimudgirls@yahoo.ca, mudgirls.ca, or 250-240-0914. —EG

A HANKERING FOR ORGANICS
Feel like you’re killing a tree every time you blow your nose? The next time you have the sniffles, say ta-ta to your box of tissues and reach for a reusable hanky instead. Hankettes, a Roberts Creek-based company, offers organic cotton handkerchiefs that come in reusable boxes. They pull out just like regular tissues, but instead of tossing them in the trash once they’ve done their duty, you simply wash them and pop them back into the box. Hankettes also makes fragrance-free reusable wet wipes and cotton diapers for baby, and even Rover can step out in eco-friendly style in a fetching Hankettes bandana made of organic cotton. The web store is chock-a-block with kitchen and bath products, as well as a line of 100 per cent natural cosmetics—all made on-site in a sweatshop-free environment. Available at hankettes.com or 1-800-917-1377. —Tamara
Letkeman

HOP TO IT
Sure, Google’s all right, but there’s nothing worse than finally finding the perfect place to buy fresh organic brie—only to discover it’s located in Poughkeepsie. Wishing for an online directory of green businesses and services that’s a little more local? Jump on over to happyfrog.ca, B.C.’s brand-new healthy living and sustainability resource. Create a page where you can view, review, and share your favourites; submit and find out about upcoming events; and ask others for advice on everything from ethical investments and the local shaman to Thai massage and renewable energy. Whether you’re the new kid on the block or you’ve been around the block, happyfrog.ca is the new place to be. –EG

BETTER THAN BARBIE
Though it’s never too early to start tormenting your daughter with societal pressure to conform to unattainable stereotypes, a growing movement of parents is embracing a philosophy of play that encourages creativity beyond choosing what skimpy polyester dress goes with which plastic stilettos. Motivated by the desire to create open-ended, imaginative toys made from natural materials that invite and stimulate a child’s natural curiosities and sense of touch, Christina of Natural Pod created her first beautiful Bamboletta doll for her niece. Bamboletta dolls are made from organic cotton, stuffed with lamb’s wool, and use globally sourced, natural fabrics for their funky wardrobes (if little Madison wants a bikini, she’ll have to crochet her own). Each doll is handmade, so they are all completely original, just like the children who love them. Natural Pod also carries a wonderful array of natural games, toys, and instruments that you simply must see. Available at select retailers or naturalpod.com. —Stephanie MacDonald

FURNISHED BY NATURE
If you love the great outdoors and wish you could take it home with you, look no further than Brent Comber Originals to spruce up your living space with a natural touch. The art and design studio allows you to own your own little piece of the Pacific Northwest in the form of distinctive sculptures, coffee tables, and other furnishings, all made from fallen trees and other found materials from Vancouver Island and the Coast Mountains. Specializing in “designing modern urban forms from ancient sources,” Comber’s creative team builds each funky piece by hand, one at a time. The result is one-of-a-kind, eco-conscious works of art boasting a unique Pacific Rim esthetic. Your friends will be green with envy. Available at brentcomber.com or 604-980-4467. —TL