Oh hey there...
It's been a minute. The days are flying by and I'm lucky if I can squeeze in a shower from time to time. My days seem so long, more hectic than ever and I'm struggling to slow down and enjoy those small moments. I'm working on it, and hope to find a nice balance soon. The summer is slowly coming to an end and autumn is peeping its nose around the corner. I would be lying if I said I wasn't looking forward to the change of scenery.
I wrote about seasons when I first started my blog (you can read it here), and I have reread it a handful of times since returning to work...at home..with a new job..and a one year old toddler. It's been comforting to go back and read encouragement from myself. Be gently reminded that seasons come and go, each leaving a little something behind to help you on your way. I know this season now is teaching me of the delicate balance of work and play. To know when to put work down, when to wake up early, when to pull an all-nighter, when to take a mental health day and where to cap my coffee intake (I'm learning 3 cups is tooooo much...lightweight I know).
Now with all that said, I wanted today to focus on a bunch of businesses that are working their ass off and shine light on them. These are all Canadian companies that deserve the spotlight... some small and local and others large and in charge! I asked on Instagram your preference of "local" (KW Based, Ontario Based, Canada-wide Based) and there was a large interest in KW based/Canada-wide brands... so I focused most on those local to me, and threw in some country wide brands I love (it was hard to narrow down, but would love to make a part two!).
AshCo : Strathroy, ON
ALL of my MAMA swag has been purchased from this business. Local to Ontario, they have all the MAMA wear you need.
Attitude : Montreal, QC
Clean products, less plastic and more trees. I love so many things from this brand. If you're in need of a heavy duty body lotion (THIS IS FAB - specifically the avocado oil), the most delicious hand soap in the world ( IS THIS ONE: the Lemon Leaves takes gold, followed by a very close Orange Leaves with the silver...both of which I buy in BULK), and their home cleaners and baby products are a fabulous clean option for your family.
Jed North : Toronto, ON
Reasonably priced active wear, great quality and exceptional customer service. Don't let the models intimidate you! If you're in the market for some new 'fits without looking to splurge on Lulu's or risk a crap Amazon experience, check them out!
Out Of The Woods Elora : Elora, ON
A wonderful family making awesome stuff. I purchased Beau's pikler & accessories, rocker and learning tower from them. They are always quick to respond and build your order. They have customizable options and are always pleasant. We love all our things from them and love to support local!
Bloom With Grace Collective : Mount Forest, ON
Brittany is an artist through and through. Gorgeous hand crafted jewelry with a beautiful cause. A certain amount of each purchase is donated to a local organization creating change.
Little Bright Creation : KW Area, ON
If you want it, she can make it! Leah makes all things home decor, custom apparel and more. She's easy to work with when you have a vision in mind and sends over the proofs for approval.
Pampered Chef/ Brittany Laton : Cambridge, ON (Website)
Any Pampered Chef lovers in the house? Brittany is your gal! She's friendly, quick to answer and knows her stuff!
Sweetlegs : Lake Country, BC
Sizes 00 - 28, these are THE COMFIEST lounging leggings around. My first pair was gifted to me from my Aunt years ago while visiting out west and I've been hooked ever since. Not a workout legging... BUT the legging you melt into butter in.. the one you wear to walk the dog, have your coffee, nap on the couch, roast marshmallows and (dare I say) go to bed in. Yes.. they are that amazing.
Birch & Bark Natural Wood : Cambridge, ON
Natural toys for imaginative minds. Beautiful craftsmanship, thoughtfully packaged and a fabulous (battery-free) collection of toys for little ones. For my Montessori based/inspired mamas out there, this is an amazing option to connect learning through play with nature (perfect for when natures not available... or cooperating!). We're obsessed with our goodies from them.
Little Dreamers Dough : Angus, ON
100% non-toxic playdough.. can I get a hallelujah? Sensory rice, scented playdough, sensory kits, accessories and sensory playboxes are what they offer. And they certainly don't disappoint. Beau quite literally plays with playdough every single day.
Linen & Lavender Cleaning Co. : Kincardine, ON
Home, cottage/air bnb, life events and move in/out cleaning services. Jodee encourages you to delegate the things you can, to make time for the things that matter to you. We aspire to create space for living. Local to Kincardine and serving surrounding areas.
Windchime Realty Ltd. : Flesherton, ON
Don has been in the business for a hot minute. Living in the area he serves has made him a bit of an expert in all things country real estate. Specializing in hobby farms, waterfalls, valley views, century homesteads, lakefronts and riverfronts.... sounds like a dream to me.
CodyBuilt & Chambers Designs : Hawkesville, ON
Cody & Ashley (hubby & wife duo) have your wooden decor needs taken care of. Chambers Designs focuses on plant stands and CodyBuilt makes everything from coffee tables, charcuterie boards, welcome signs and more. You can find his things at Magnolia's (in St. Jacobs, which also carries other products from local businesses!), or message him directly.
Shine Soap Co. : Kincardine, ON
Handmade, natural ingredients & plastic free packaging. Michelle's soaps smell amazing, lather like a dream and are locally made. My favourite? Spiced Indigo ALLLL DAYYYY.
Paperbag Thrift Co. : KW Area, ON
Nadine... the master of thrifting. The things she finds, the way she styles them and with a price that can't be beat. I must say, this new way of thrifting is amazing. Styled pieces with some history and a lot of love, has made purchasing her finds even more exciting!
Courtneys Custom Cookies : Listowel, ON (Offers Pick-Up Mississauga, ON)
THE BEST CUSTOM COOKIES EVER.
Enough said. Not only beautifully executed but they taste amazing... which in my experience beautiful cookies don't always taste good.
Blank Slate Wellness : Aurora, ON
Raw cold-pressed juices + live vegan probiotics + single serve of adaptogens = LIQUID GOLD.
I've always loved fresh cold-pressed juice, and have tried many different brands.
This is worth every penny.
Addy & Anna Woodcraft : Vancouver Island, BC
Personalized wooden decor... name signs, name puzzles, keychains, and more. Beautifully done and quick service.
Minika : Granby, QC
Dinnerware that is as functional as it is beautiful. Silicone products to help your little one grip. The aesthetic is beyond beautiful and a stunning plastic-free option!
Lady Glaze Doughnuts: Kitchener, Guelph & Statford, ON
DELICIOUS. This shop blew up faster than a rocket ship! And for good reason too. Gourmet doughnuts made DAILY plus milkshakes, floats, hot/cold drinks and changing specials/seasonal treats.
Shopping local is fun! You find unique and wonderful things right in your backyard.. and shopping Canadian brands always makes me feel good. May you have a beautiful day.
All my love,
Ellie
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