This particular hand cream is Upper Canada Soap Company’s Whipped Hand Repair Balm and it’s worthy of a try for several reasons.  First, the fact that it is “made in Canada,” and more precisely, made in Ontario, makes me stop and consider it over other imported products.  Next, this hand cream is made with 97% natural ingredients and is free of parabens, mineral oil, SLS and synthetic dyes, which also seems sensible to me.  I like the “Pressed Olive Avocado” scent, it’s light and not overwhelming, which is important as I’m sensitive to strong scents.  Lastly, this product has a lovely package which is just a bonus.

I purchased my hand cream at The Old Mill in Blyth for $7.99, where they have a huge selection of Canadian made goods. I like that with this purchase not only do that I get a great hand cream, the proceeds support two longstanding Ontario businesses that offer great quality products. Isn’t that really the kind of “repair balm” our local communities could really use?

Finally, I just have to add Upper Canada’s Soap Company’s ad featuring the Canadian Woman – I love it!

 –Erin

Moms love anything and everything when it comes to Mother’s Day. Breakfast in bed, a handmade card or a hug can be the sweetest gift. However, if you’re looking to take it up a notch rural Ontario has some pretty fantastic offerings that I bet mom would enjoy (at least I know I would). We’ve curated some of our favourite things that are not just great for mom, but for a special women any time of year.

Funky - Bamboo Skate Shades are perfect for your one-of-a-kind mom. Second Shot, based in Orangeville, combines the strength of bamboo with the artistic styling of 100% recycled skateboards creating a unique piece of wearable art. Every pair is handcrafted in Canada, making no two the exact same.

Vintage - If your mom loves plants these vintage plant pots are sure to put a smile on her face! The best thing about vintage is that each piece has it’s own special story. Revival Store in Bancroft is a treasure trove of great finds.

Cozy – A pair of Collegien slippers will warm your mom’s heart as well as her toes. They are as soft as a sock, as comfortable as a slipper, they hug the foot and are machine washable. These slippers are available from Hive of Bayfield and come in many different bright colors and designs.

Sparkly – For the mom who is worth her weight in gold,a handmade resin ring filled with gold leaf. These rings from Rosella Resin in Seaforth come in an incredible array of sizes shapes and colors. Choose her favourite color and you are sure to wow her with these lightweight and durable rings.

Pretty – This lovely dahlia in a ‘tea cup’ from Huron Ridge Acres in Zurich would look lovely on your mom’s patio table! The dahlia will keep blooming all summer as each flower is loaded with buds, just water and enjoy.

Relaxing – Give mom the gift of a weekend away. From May 31st to June 2, The village of Bayfield on Lake Huron is hosting a Girls Getaway Weekend with your choice of three different packages. Her all-inclusive weekend experience will include many extras such as a kick-off cocktail party and complimentary goodie bag.

Handy – If she’s travelling this summer why not get mom a gorgeous new weekend bag. Made by Jenna Rose in the Lanark Highlands, each piece of cloth is hand screen printed using non-toxic water based pigments on mostly organic materials. The colours are all mixed and printed in small runs and each design is initially illustrated by hand.

Nifty – Show mom some love this Mother’s Day with a limited edition upcycled key tag from All Deck’d Out in Brantford. This heart keychain is made from 100% recycled skateboard. The back side is a natural ply and the front side is all graphic with signs of it’s previous life. You can have it laser engraved with a special message for a more personal touch .

Sweet - Your mom is one lucky lady! This tiny necklace from Artisan Tree in Trenton are a lovely way to say Happy Mother’s Day. The delicate golden horseshoe strung on a red silk cord is timeless and sure to bring luck when given on such an auspicious day.

No matter how you choose to celebrate Mother’s Day this year your thoughtfulness will be appreciated. Don’t forget this Sunday, May 12 to remember your mom and take a moment to show her how much she means to you.

–Erin

I stumbled upon Melanie Ferrara and her Device line when I was initially researching this idea last month. I was very impressed by her portfolio and her polished and professional website, and it is a pleasure to feature this young Ontario designer on Ruralist.

Melanie describes her line as made up of “vintage inspired classics.” She incorporates eco-friendly fabrics such as organic cotton, hemp, and modal into her versatile and timeless pieces. Recently she was named one of Canada’s top 15 eco designers.

The Device line is currently sold on Etsy.com. If you like the selections shown here, be sure to visit the Etsy site to see the other colours and styles available.

–Sarah

About the Clothes:

1. Florence Top in white – A simple spring blouse with a touch of sophistication, this blouse is a wardrobe essential- one of those pieces which can single-handedly multiply your outfit possibilities with its versatility.  Proudly made in Toronto, Canada.  Available in sizes XS-XXL.
Price: $74

2. Florence tops, any two – A simple spring blouse with a touch of sophistication, available in many colors and fabrics with two sleeve style choices.  Individually priced at $72 and $74, you can save up to $24 when purchasing two at once.  This blouse is a wardrobe essential- one of those pieces which can single-handedly multiply your outfit possibilities with its versatility. Available in short petal sleeves or elbow-length sleeves. Proudly made in Toronto, Canada.  Available in sizes XS-XXL.
Price: $122

3. Benson Skirt – High-waisted skirt with wide, belted waistband and figure-flattering a-line silhouette. Pleated pockets with tab and button detail add a retro-modern flair. This piece is stylish and unique while still being appropriate for the office. It’s also lined, which means it can be easily paired with tights or stockings in the fall and winter.  Proudly made in Toronto, Canada.  Available in sizes 2-12.
Price: $178

4. Sybil Shell – Eco-friendly, eye-catching printed sleeveless blouse in silky micro-chiffon. The print is a photographic manipulation of feathers and cherry blossom branches on a soft yellow background, with vibrant accents of pink and orange hues. Proudly made in Toronto, Canada.  Available in size 6/M.
Price: $89

5. Hanna Dress – Sustainable and summery in white or black.  Lace adds romance to this cap sleeve dress with contoured stylelines and blouson waist.  Triangular lace insets at side hem.  Proudly made in Toronto, Canada. Available in size S.

Who knew turquoise and emerald were “in” colours this spring? The owner of Elle North, that’s who. Lauren Northgraves’ love of fashion trends and discovering and sharing great products led to the birth of this fun and funky online store that features jewellery, scarves, giftware, candles (made by her parents’ company, Country Home Candle), and more.

Lauren put together this colourful collection for this, Elle North’s second appearance on Ruralist. This time, the store has greatly expanded its inventory, covering everything from wine paraphernalia to handy jewellery and scarf hangers to necklaces and bracelets in many different styles.

1. Hint of Mint Earrings – $15.00

2. Turquoise Floral Patch Scarf – $20.00

3. Studded Leather Bracelet in Turquoise – $20.00

4. Emerald Braid Necklace – $30.00. Hand-beaded in India.

5. Colourblock Top in Turquoise – $45.00. Made in Canada.

6. Candy Waterfall Necklace – $25.00

7. Turquoise Stone Bracelet – $15.00

8. Ombre Blue Chiffon Tunic – $45.00

9. Steel Magnolia Bracelet in Turquoise – $24.00. Fair Trade Jewelry.

10. Versa Wrap Turquoise – $25.00. Wear it in 6 different ways. Fair Trade Clothing.

I’ve said this before and I will likely say it again: Meg Theo has an eye for style. You’ve seen it before here on Ruralist, when she did a special fall style photo shoot for our readers, and then again when she recommended dwell Decor and Design, which I featured this past Friday.

Meg is the proprietor of Fresh Pickings on Andrew, a very unique business in Exeter Ontario that connects shoppers with one-of-a-kind items. Meg uses her style savvy to pick items she knows her customers will enjoy, and then groups the items into styled arrangements. She then photographs them and posts the photos to the Fresh Pickings Facebook page, where customers can notify her of their interest via comments, then pick up the items on Meg’s front porch.

Since she primarily deals in decor and other household items, I thought it might be a long shot to get Meg to do a fashion shoot, but, knowing her skill, I asked her anyway and she eagerly accepted. She has put together these four lovely collections exclusively for Ruralist readers.

To purchase these items, comment on this post indicating your interest, and Meg will be in touch with you regarding pick-up.

–Sarah

About the collection:

pretty in {pink}……
vintage Vera Neumann Scarf $12, short vintage “cherry” beaded necklace
$6, 1960′s handmade Jacket and matching Bonnet (6-12m) $12, petite
baby Shoes $12.

fresh {white}….
vintage Italian chocolate brown polka dot Scarf $5, creamy white Purse
(suitable for a Bride to be!) $12, small chocker style glass Beaded
Necklace $6,1960′s sheer Dress (with slip, great condition, approx
3-9m) $14.

{classy} mama!
vintage Vera Neumann Scarf $12, black patent Clutch (without strap)
$9, small gold coloured Brooch $4, 1960′s Toddler Shoes $12, vintage
glass bead Necklace $16.

you are my {sunshine}….
1960′s homemade Baby Dress (approx 6-9m) $8, 1960′s Toddler Shoes
(made in Canada!) $8, gold coloured Bracelet $6, vintage Vera Neumann
Scarf $12

Hive really needs no introduction here on Ruralist. Most of our readers have experienced Hive before, if not in person at least virtually on our site. Once again, owner Jenny Wallace has impressed us with her creative genius, not only for choosing product but also coordinating and even modelling in a lovely and colourful spring fashion shoot! Don’t forget to stop in the next time you’re in Bayfield.

–Sarah

About the collection:

On Natali:
Yoga Jeans (100% made in Canada) in “Watermelon”
Pink Martini Collection blouse – “The Sommerset Top”
SQ Envelope Clutch
Gold Stud earrings

Pink Martini Collection Dress – “The Pina Colada Dress”
Pink Drop earrings
Pearl and Crystal Bracelet

On Amanda:
Coral dress – Pink Martini Collection “The Grommet Dress”
Hibiscus Necklace
Black Dress – Pink Martini Collection “The Nina Dress”
“Audrey” Pearls

On Jenny A.:
Green Dress: Pink Martini Collection “The Swansong Dress”
Vintage inspired headpiece
Handmade Bracelet by USE artist from Brazil

White Dress: Pink Martini Collection “The Parisenne Dress”
“Molly” necklace and earring set
Vintage beaded clutch

On Jenny W.:
Pink Martini Collection “The Fiji Skirt”
Pink Martini Collection “Caspian Top”
Sugarlime “Lisette” necklace (Made in Vancouver) Sterling silver chain, silver plated pendant

On Elizabeth (Also the photographer):
Pink Martini Collection “The Nautica Dress”

On Jan:
Pink Martini Collection “Shaolin Top”
Yoga Jeans in Black
Braided bohemian bracelets
Sq Purse
Straw fedora Hat

Esha linen dress
Kantha scarf made from Indian Saris
Sugarlime earrings “Talia” Sterling silver wire, silver plated forms (made in Vancouver)

Blanket made from vintage Indian saris. Mad Mat outdoor rug made from recycled plastic.

It is our pleasure to introduce to our readers a brand-new Ontario clothing line, “collaboration,” by Brodie O’Connor and Michelle Vandentillaart. Brodie is the creative mastermind behind doree’s habit, a shop that dubs itself your destination for “fun and funky clothing and accessories” in Almonte and Merrickville Ontario. We have featured doree’s habit on Ruralist before, but this event has allowed Brodie and her store to really shine.

I have invited Brodie to share the story of how collaboration came to be, and to introduce our readers to her new line below. Enjoy!

–Sarah

~~~

This clothing line, which we are unofficially calling collaboration (who knew you had to name a clothing line?! Apparently this is how things are done…) was born out of friendship and the love for great clothes. Michelle Vandentillaart had been selling her own designs at doree’s habit for about 4 years when she and I (owner and general maker of things happen at doree’s) decided to get together and design and construct a collection of clothing.
After more meetings and texts than I would like to admit, we just launched the line on May 4th at Handmade Harvest (amazing ‘craft’ sale) in Almonte. After that it will be for sale exclusively at doree’s habit in Merrickville & Almonte.

The collection consists of eleven styles including skirts, tunics, tanks and scarves. It is a versatile line that is comfortable and fun to wear. We chose fabrics and colors that will compliment any skin tone and figure. These clothes are for anyone, but particularly someone who wants something a little different and a lot awesome! The price point is very accessible, with pieces ranging from $15-$90.

When Sarah asked me to be a part of the Ruralist Spring Fashion Showcase I was super excited! Of course, my mind got going and before I knew it we were having a full blown photo shoot with the most amazing group of women ever!

Meet the ladies responsible for this awesome photo shoot:

doree’s habit – My store is lovingly named after my grandmother. She was the epitome of class and beauty and always loved a great find and a fun little shop where you felt like a friend instead of a customer. The Merrickville location has been open for 5.5 years and the Almonte location 1.5 years. I am so lucky to do what I love and it gives me the opportunity to meet and befriend some incredible people!

vandentillart clothing – Located in Kemptville, vandentillaart clothing offers unique handmade clothing at great prices. Michelle (owner, designer, maker extraordinaire) is possibly the sweetest person you will ever meet. It is difficult to find a ‘designer’ that is as humble as she is. Her clothing speaks to her relaxed and easy going nature and once you have one vandentillaart you won’t be able to stop!

The Sugar Post – Natalie from the Sugar Post is a good friend of mine and is absolutely one of the most energetic and inspired people I know! She has this great little company that rents vintage props to everyone from photographers to brides. Her inventory is stunning and her ability to take someone’s vision and bring it to life is unmatched.

Laura Jane Photography – Laura is a new pal of mine. She is a versatile photographer than adapts to any situation she takes on. I was attracted to her style of photos because they are sunny and soft and most of all…they tell a story. She was a pleasure to work with and I look forward to future endeavors with her.

LMH Salon – If you are tired of the pretentious and intimidating atmosphere that sometimes comes along with going to the hair salon, LMH is the place for you. Located down a country road on a beautiful piece of property- you find yourself exhaling as you drive in. This kind of feeling just carries on as your hair gets masterfully cut, coloured and styled to its fullest potential.

I just have to say that it is the most amazing feeling when you are privileged enough to have the opportunity to do what you love and share it with people that…Get it!

I am one lucky shop girl.

–Brodie O’Connor

About the collection:

1. ‘Mullet’ skirt. High-low is a huge trend right now and we thought it would be fun to mix one into the collection. From the front this is a basic skirt and from the back there are lots of pleats to give it texture. It comes in Black, Brown and Bright Pink. $56.

2. ‘Plunge.’ Everyone loves a great low backed shirt but often you can’t wear a bra with them,  so we added this beautiful crochet strip to give the option. It comes in cream with cream crochet, black with black crochet, brown with cream crochet and pink with black crochet. It sells for $56.

3. ‘Bohemian.’ A dolman sleeve tunic that can be worn with leggings or pants. This is the only piece in the collection that combines all 3 fabrics (a pretty crochet, print chiffon and Ponte knit). It comes in 3 different color combinations and retails for $72.

4. ‘Mullet,’ ‘Plunge,’ and ‘Bohemian’

5. ‘Side Note.’ It is so easy to wear this tank and it looks very bohemian and relaxed. The sides have panels of crochet which gives a pretty flare to the tank. It comes in brown with cream crochet, black with black crochet and cream with cream crochet. It is very accessible at $46.

6. ‘Illusionist.’ Already one of the favorites, this is a fun and colorful little statement piece. It comes in 3 color combinations and sells for $38.

7. ‘Illusionist’

8. ‘All-in-One.’ This tank top is really fun! We built a scarf right into it and it crosses in the back. $52.

9. ‘Trend du Jour’ and ‘Charade.’ This is such a fun little outfit.  is the mini skirt that comes in Jade, Black and Stone. For $28 you can get one in each color! The dolman sleeve top is called ‘Charade’ and we have it in 3 color combinations and it retails for $44.

10. ‘Mullet’ Skirt.

We also have 6 scarves to accent all the pieces, in 3 different patterns and 3 different solids. They are all infinity scarves and they sell for $15.

There are certain people whose recommendations you don’t want to ignore. Meg Theo of Fresh Pickings on Andrew is one of those people. When she told me that dwell Decor & Design in Ingersoll was a do-not-miss store, I took note.

I got the chance to stop in yesterday afternoon, just before owner Lisa Dube closed for the day.

Lisa and her husband Mike have recently re-located their store within Ingersoll. I didn’t see the former location, but the new one is absolutely gorgeous. Each little detail was very well thought-out, from the display installations to the paint colours. Everywhere I looked, there was another unexpected find tucked onto a shelf. And, possibly my favourite detail of all, there was a resident cat, and a very friendly one at that!

I didn’t have time to narrow down all of the things that caught my eye in order to buy any, but I love that I have a very good reason to go back to dwell. You and I both can also look forward to a {Meet} the Ruralist post in the near future – I have asked Lisa to give us the inside scoop on how dwell came to be.

Meanwhile, I encourage you to make a point of heading to Ingersoll this spring and enjoying dwell for yourself!

–Sarah

~~~

Update: After we posted this story, Lisa decided to give our readers a special bonus. She invites you to like the dwell page on Facebook, share the page with your Facebook friends, and then write “Ruralist sent me!” on the dwell page for a chance to win a $20 gift certificate to spend in her store! She will close the draw at midnight this coming Sunday, so don’t forget to head over to the dwell Facebook page this weekend!

Win Your Own Cool Mailbox

These personalized mailboxes are fantastic! They allow you to turn your photos into gorgeous personalized décor perfect for gift giving or keeping yourself. You can wrap your mailbox with a standard images or supply your own photo. Coolmailbox.ca can even do a photo collage of different images on your mailbox! A personalized mailbox would make an excellent wedding, house warming or anniversary gift.

After we featured coolmailboxes.ca in our story on personalized gifts for special occasions, owner Gabe Nowak responded by generously offering Ruralist readers the chance to win one. This custom-wrapped durable plastic mailbox, in white or black, will be delivered free of charge anywhere in Canada. We thought our readers would be thrilled! So here’s what you have to do: complete as many entries as you can over the next week using the widget below. The contest closes at midnight on Friday, May 3, when a winner will be randomly drawn and notified within 48 hours.

For those of you who would like to purchase a cool mailbox right away, you can use the coupon code RURALIST for $10 off your order until August 31, 2013. We are excited to see some finished projects! Please send us a picture of your cool mailboxes and let us know how you like it.

–Erin

a Rafflecopter giveaway

A few days ago, I got an email from EcoPlace Organics, letting me know that they are taking pre-orders for organic food deliveries this year. The idea of getting fresh, local, organic food delivered right to your door is an exciting one, and I thought you might be interested in this idea!

Organic food delivery is a great option for those who aren’t able to grow their own vegetables, or those who can’t make it to a local farmer’s market. Most such services are small businesses that adhere to a Ruralist-approved ethos and which literally bring country to the city!

What is Local?

Local does not necessarily mean organic. It means food sourced from a certain geographic radius around your location. It means supporting your local economy and implies avoiding big corporate stores.

What does Organic Mean?

Organic agriculture puts nature first. It is a method of producing that takes factors like soil quality and degradation, environmental protection, biological diversity, animal health, and renewable resources into consideration.

Organic foods certified according to Canadian Organic Standards have more nutrients, less pesticides, no genetic engineering, and little contact (if any) with synthetic substances. Look for the “Canada Organic” symbol on a product to be sure that it complies with Canadian regulations.

Do they Actually Deliver?

Yes! Different services will deliver to your choice of home or workplace, and other services will deliver to different community drop-off sites.

Why Should I Pre-Order?

Farmers are planning their gardens now, and it would benefit them to know how many people they are growing for. They will of course plant extra, but your local organic food delivery service may only offer one-offs for those that did not pre-order. Pre-ordering also ensures that you will get your regular delivery and means you don’t have to worry about it later!

Where can I Sign up?

Most urban areas have more than one such service, and Toronto has several. You don’t have to live in the city to enjoy this kind of service, though: many towns now have Good Food Box programs or other fresh local food delivery programs.

Here are a few services across Ontario that are worth checking out:

• Wanigan, Brampton
• Durham Organics, Whitby
• Desert Lake Gardens, Sydenham (Kingston area)
• New Earth Organics, Windsor
• Zephyr Organics, Zephyr
• Mama Earth Organics, Toronto
• Front Door Organics, Toronto
• EcoPlace Organics, London & Waterloo

Is anyone else as excited as I am about fresh local produce?

–Sarah