jenn, Author at Look Local - Celebrating Community

In Articles

The Sweet History Of Canadian Maple Syrup

March 29, 2023 No Comments

Each February or March, with lined boots and knit mittens, Canadians head to the sugar bush in search of something sweet. Sure, the photo ops are great – but at the heart of these experiences, there’s a harvesting history with Indigenous roots.

The story has it that Chief Woksis of the Iroquois found “the sweet” (syrup) when he threw his tomahawk at a maple tree in the cold of winter. The next day, the sun warmed the sap inside the tree, and syrup sprung from the hole. European settlers began to adopt the practice from Indigenous communities in 1557 and were shown how to harvest the sap, boil it, and turn it into syrup. This sweet staple was the initial form of sugar in North America until sugar cane became available in 1875.

Since then, maple syrup has become a beloved staple on Canadian breakfast tables. It’s also become a significant Canadian export, with 60 million kilograms exported to 50 countries in 2020 (valued at $515 million). Ounce for ounce, maple syrup is worth more than oil in Canada, with Canada supporting 75% of the world’s demand.

As with any product of value, there runs a risk. In 2012, a suspected insider stole 9,571 barrels of maple syrup valued at $18.7 million from the Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers (FPAQ). “The Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist,” as it’s become known, made global headlines, even making it to Netflix in the documentary Dirty Money.

The incident shed light on the value and importance of maple syrup in Canadian culture and our economy. It’s a reminder that even the most unexpected things can hold value.

At this time of year as the winter thaw begins, across many regions, you’ll discover maple syrup festivals of activities and educational opportunities for the whole family. And with additional knowledge of its history and value to our economy, we’re sure you’ll find the experience even more special.

Bronte Creek Provincial Park

1219 Burloak Drive, Oakville
Ontarioparks.com/park/brontecreek

Fresh Ontario maple syrup begins flowing at Bronte Creek Provincial Park on the first Saturday in March when the park’s annual Maple Syrup Festival gets underway. Enjoy a guided tour of Maple Lane, where 1890s costumed interpreters demonstrate how to tap maple trees and make maple syrup and maple sugar. View artifacts in the maple museum or tour the 100-year-old Spruce Lane Farmhouse. Be sure to browse through the maple products and souvenirs available in the Maple Gift Shoppe and pick up a bottle of syrup to take home. Hop on a wagon that will take you to a heated pancake house where you can enjoy fresh, hot pancakes with pure maple syrup and sausages, served up throughout the festival hours.

Another great local option is Maple Town at Mountsberg, hosted by Conservation Halton.

Maple Town Mountsberg

2259 Milborough Town Line, Campbellville
conservationhalton.ca

This is the sweetest time of year at Conservation Halton! The Mountsberg sugarbush has been producing maple magic for over 150 years and educating the public for over 40 years. Your 2-hour reservation includes access to Maple Town, gift shops, Pancake House, Farm Animal Barn, Raptor Centre Wildlife Walkway, Natural Playground, and park trails. An optional Guided Tour featuring tree tapping and syrup samples may be added (additional per person fee applies).

Just north of Halton Hills, in the Town of Erin, you’ll find Elliot Tree Farm and their annual Maple Syrup Experience. It’s also worth a visit!

Weekend Maple Syrup Experience Elliot Tree Farm

9467 East Garafraxa Erin Townline, Hillsburgh
elliottreefarm.ca

Beginning on Family Day and running through to April 9th, you can immerse yourself in the maple syrup experience at Elliot Tree farm. Enjoy an all-you-can eat pancake breakfast or brunch followed by a maple treat sampling in their tree cellar. Follow up with a walk through the sugar bush, where you can try sap and explore buckets. Tickets are available through their website.

The next time you pour maple syrup over your breakfast, take a moment to appreciate the rich and unique history behind Canada’s liquid gold!

by Nicole Lischer

In Articles

Impactful Giving: Unique Charitable Opportunities With Oakville Community Foundation

March 29, 2023 No Comments

Everyone has something they wish they had more time for in their busy schedule. Time for yourself. Time for your family. Time to give back to your community. Ideally, we all want time to do the things that truly matter. But the more balls we have in the air, the harder it is to find “time” (and when we do find time, it’s usually because something else had to give).

But just like your relationships with yourself and your family, your relationship with your community is deeply personal and important. Togetherness is central to our experience as humans, and that feeling that we are part of something bigger can help give meaning to our lives. Most importantly, it can make a difference in the lives of others.

This is where the Oakville Community Foundation (The Foundation) comes in, offering flexible charitable giving in the Oakville community. The Foundation is a charity and granting organization, and is also a philanthropic solutions provider for donors with all interests and goals, offering donors a personalized use of their donation – now or in the future.

With a local community focus, The Foundation undertakes research in Oakville and Halton, identifying various needs and possible solutions. The relationship with local donors is a true collaboration built on trust. And together, The Foundation and donors work to fund the needs of our community with both resources and support.

The Oakville Community Foundation is truly a charitable umbrella, offering great insight into the diverse needs of our community. Here are some of the many ways The Foundation can help you make a difference:

GIVEOakville

The Foundation has a vast knowledge of other charitable organizations in our community. GIVEOakville, hosted every fall, is an annual giving campaign that allows donors to complete their end-of-year giving in one place. The campaign features over 50 charities and enables the public to crowdfund, with 100% of donations going directly to their charity or charities of choice.

Family Funds

Setting up a Family Fund is a great way to have your own named Foundation without the admin work. The Foundation will help you set up a long-term or short-term fund and guide you toward achieving your charitable goals. Allow your funds to build up over time, or contribute a one-time lump sum – it’s entirely up to you!

Scholarships, Bursaries And Education Awards

Post-secondary school can come with a hefty financial burden. By creating a scholarship, bursary, or education award, you can change the lives of youth in the community. The criteria for the scholarship are always in your hands, and you can decide if the funds are gifted as needed or in a lump sum. From there, The Foundation does the heavy lifting, while you rest assured knowing your generosity has helped a student achieve their dreams.

Memorial Funds

Honouring a loved one through a Memorial Fund offers a beautiful legacy. The Foundation can quickly initiate and manage these funds in the event of a loved one’s passing or to meet one’s wishes. With a dedicated link, Memorial Funds can be shared online and set up to readily accept donations worldwide. You can honour your loved one by dedicating these funds to cherished charitable passions or beloved community organizations. The Foundation handles all of the admin work and disbursement of the funds, so you can focus on what matters most.

Women’s Giving Collective

Tap into the collective giving power of incredible local women with the Women’s Giving Collective. Members learn about prevalent issues in the community while enjoying a like-minded group’s camaraderie, connections, and support. The collective pool of funds makes an impactful difference toward selected causes.

Want to take a next step with your personal relationship with your community? Contact Sarah McPherson, VP of Philanthropy, at sarah@theocf.org to help find what’s right for you.

By Anneliese Lawton

In Articles

A Cut Above: How To Choose Stone For Every Room In Your House

March 29, 2023 No Comments

When it comes to home renovations, natural stone is a popular choice. It doesn’t matter if you’re replacing those old linoleum floors with gorgeous granite tiles or turning your bathroom into a marble palace. Something about natural stone feels timeless, elegant, and like a good investment in your home. There are also some spectacular artificial stone options to expand your options even further. Here’s how to choose which products to use in different parts of your home — no matter what you end up going with, we’re sure it will look amazing.

In The Kitchen

There are a lot of opportunities to add natural or artificial stone products in your kitchen: on the floor, on the counter, in a beautiful backsplash, or even as an accent wall.

Let’s start with flooring — you want to look for something durable and low maintenance (especially if you have kids or pets). However, it’s important to be realistic about what ‘low maintenance’ truly means. “Stone is a natural, porous product,” explains Natasha Altena of Eden Tile-It in Burlington. “No matter the application, stone is going to require some level of maintenance.”

Granite and marble countertops are classic, but they aren’t the only option. An artificial product like quartz may provide a similar look and is incredibly durable. Quartz is scratch-resistant, bacteria-resistant, and difficult to damage, but it’s not heat-proof. It doesn’t require sealing, but it may discolour somewhat over time. Granite requires a bit more maintenance — ideally, you should seal it every year, but it withstands heat well. It’s not as strong as quartz, but it’s still pretty tough and looks great. And what about marble? It has a stunning aesthetic and is great for bakers because it remains cool, but it won’t withstand heat like granite will (meaning, you can place a hot pan on granite but not marble). Marble also stains more easily than other stones because it’s more porous.

You can use just about anything as a backsplash. This might be where you want to splurge on marble if you choose a more costeffective product for your floors and countertops. Altena notes that while marble is one of the softest types of stone, it performs well once sealed. “Marble stands up to the job as a backsplash option — it tends to come in lighter colours and less busy patterning, which seems to be trending still in the industry.”

In The Bathroom

Consider porcelain or ceramic tiles if you want something practical and budget-friendly for your bathroom floor. They come in various colours, patterns, and shapes, and you can choose ones with a higher friction rating to avoid slips. Porcelain tiles are often the same colour through multiple layers, so it’s easier to hide chips if they happen (the same can’t always be said for ceramic tile, however, beautiful they are).

“For a shower, marble tile and slabs are still popular, although porcelain tile and slabs have come a long way,” Altena says. “It would definitely be less maintenance and more affordable to check out what is available in porcelain options for showers over natural stone, as they can look identical after a proper installation.”

Everywhere Else

If you’re looking for stone tiles for your foyer, hallway, fireplace, or another spot in your house, consider the room’s function, the look you’re after, and the budget you’re working with. You may want to go with a natural stone like granite, limestone, travertine, slate or marble. Look at different finish options — honed or polished, for example — and take samples home to see what looks best in the space and lighting you’re working with. There are several stores in Oakville and Burlington with some beautiful options!

by Erin Pepler

Local Links

Eden Tile-It, Burlington
tileit.ca

Tile Giant, Burlington
tilegiantcanada.com

The Flooring Gallery, Burlington
eurostandardinc.com

Deco Tile, Oakville
decotile.com

Speers Flooring, Oakville
speersflooring.com

In Articles

The Secret Ingredient Is Cinnamon

March 28, 2023 No Comments

If you’ve been looking for that “secret ingredient” in a recipe handed down by previous generations – try cinnamon. It’s the one spice you’re likely to find in everyone’s pantry and a key ingredient used in dishes worldwide. From desserts to savoury dishes (even ones with meat), it’s hard to find another spice with this type of versatility… and one with such a unique history.

Once considered more valuable than gold, cinnamon was a highly valued spice in ancient trade. Ancient Egyptians were the first to use cinnamon in cooking but also viewed it as a prestigious gift for pharaohs and used the spice during embalming rituals.

Sourced from the Cinnamomum tree (a variety of evergreen), native to Sri Lanka and south India, cinnamon is most often used these days in cooking and baking. The world’s insatiable demand for cinnamon has resulted in different varieties of the spice being grown in countries including Myanmar, Indonesia, China, Vietnam, and some countries in the West Indies and South America. Workers score and peel the outer bark of the trees with a few simple tools during harvest. Large pieces of bark are peeled, dried, and ground into powder, while smaller twigs and shoots dry into familiar curled sticks.

There’s no doubt this spice packs a powerful punch. Sprinkling it in desserts, seasonal drinks, and even main dishes, our culinary community uses it well. We’ve rolled our way through Oakville and Burlington to discover some of the best cinnamon-inspired dishes – check them out:

Cinnaholic

259 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
cinnaholic.com

All hail the cinnamon roll. With over 20 flavours of frosting and a variety of toppings, Cinnaholic delivers the optimal cinnamon experience. Design your own roll, or choose from Cinnaholic’s suggested combinations – like the S’mores Cookie Roll, with gooey chocolate chip cookie rolled in graham cracker crumbs and topped with marshmallow, or the Candied Almond Roll, topped with marshmallows, pretzels, and homemade candied almonds.

Cobbs Bakery

Multiple Locations In Burlington And Oakville
cobbsbread.com

Cinnamon is the star in two of Cobbs’ best-selling baked goods. Their Cinnamon Scone is filled with generous cinnamon flakes and topped with cinnamon sugar; warmed up, it’s a great treat with your morning coffee. And their Classic Cinnamon Bun is a must-have with your Sunday breakfast. Unwind the spirals of sticky dough to reveal an ooey gooey cinnamon sugar-glazed centre!

Kelly’s Bake Shoppe

401 Brant Street, Burlington
kellysxo.com

Plant-based and dusted with cinnamon, Kelly’s Bake Shoppe makes a must-try old-fashioned snickerdoodle cookie. Their Morning Glory Muffin with sweet potato, carrots, cranberries, and a cinnamon cream cheese filling also makes a great morning treat.

Pur & Simple

1940 Appleby Line Unit 22, Burlington & 350 Dundas Street East, Oakville
pursimple.com

Another cinnamon twist on a breakfast classic! Pur & Simple’s Carole’s Cinna- Cakes are cinnamon swirl pancakes topped with icing glaze, caramel, and whipped cream. Pair with a mimosa or freshly brewed coffee for breakfast or brunch.

Coop Wicked Chicken

370 Brant Street, Burlington
thecoopwickedchicken.com

While famous for its fried chicken, The Coop has cinnamon all figured out – and their Cinnamon funnel cake isn’t exactly what it seems. Consisting of fries topped with cinnamon sugar and accompanied by vanilla ice cream, have it for lunch or dessert – all of the components are there.

Oko Bagels

499 Cornwall Road, Oakville
okobagels.com

Oakville’s hot spot for Montreal-style wood-fired bagels handcrafts a perfect cinnamon sugar bagel. Pair with a wide selection of flavoured cream cheese (Canadian Maple makes a good match) or other toppings like Nutella or peanut butter.

Duck Donuts

5010 Pinedale Avenue Unit 1001a, Burlington
duckdonuts.com

Cinnamon bun or donut? You don’t have to choose! Burlington’s newest donut establishment, Duck Donuts, serves a Cinnamon Bun Donut made with cinnamon sugar and vanilla icing. The best part: it’s made fresh on-site, just for you.

Cinnamon… it really is everywhere. Inspired by her Nonna, our editor mixes a little into her ricotta cheese when she makes lasagna or ravioli. It’s a basic ingredient in a traditional Greek moussaka. And for me, I sprinkle a light dusting on top of my coffee grounds. My guests always ask, “What do you put in your coffee?”.

My secret ingredient? Cinnamon. How do you use cinnamon? Why not share your recipes with us on Instagram @looklocal.ca ?

by Lisa Evans

In Community

Taste of Burlington Winter Prix-Fixe Program

February 28, 2023 No Comments

Cheers to 15 years! Burlington takes pride in its diverse culinary offerings, and Taste of Burlington’s prix-fixe dining offerings for the Winter Program are the stars.

Taste of Burlington, presented by PV&V Insurance, is celebrating its 15th year with rich and diverse culinary offerings in convenient prix-fixe menus. Starting February 21st and running to March 12th, 2023, residents and visitors can taste-test their way through the city. This season we have more than 25 restaurants with a wide range of mouth-watering menus from fine dining to quick lunches, so be sure to explore each menu and try something new. This year we have some beloved as well as new restaurants serving up dishes from lobster poutine to lamb burgers, or seasonal soups and yummy risottos.

Burlington has quickly become known as a culinary destination with so many great restaurants, pubs, cafes and more! We are excited to showcase Burlington food & drink all year round. What started as a prix-fixe dining program twice a year now features Burlington restaurants and eats all year long with blog posts, event updates, a directory of restaurants and more! Our prix-fixe dining program is featured twice each year in the winter and fall. “Taste of Burlington is the city’s most appetizing event and it takes place at the most convenient time of year. It gives visitors and residents a chance to sample the best of our foodie scene. We encourage
everyone to get out there and try something new with a mix of unique menus and old favourites.”, says Kristene Smith, Executive Director.

Burlington has something to offer every taste bud from casual – fine dining and intimate bistros to pubs, fast food, and specialty shops. The Taste of Burlington program encourages diners to try something new at one of our many dining establishments. This winter program features the following restaurants: Barra Fion, Bistro Restaurant and Lounge at the Courtyard, Burlington Pump & Bistro, Burro Tacos, Cherry House Restaurant, District Kitchen + Bar, Downtown Bistro, Earl’s Kitchen + Bar, El Inka, Familia Fine Foods, Gator Teds, Industria Pizza & Bar, Isabelle’s, Jackson’s Landing, Lowville Bistro, Milestones Grill & Bar, Montfort Mediterranean Gill –
Brant, Paradiso Burlington, Pepe and Lela’s, Pepperwood Bistro, Pizza Boat, Rock Bistro @ RBG, SB Prime, Scaddabush, Spencer’s at the Waterfront, The Express Italian Eatery, The Platter Company, and The Slye Fox.

See a full list of participating businesses, by visiting https://tasteofburlington.ca/prix-fixe-program/

About Taste of Burlington Taste of Burlington had humble beginnings with just twelve restaurants in 2008 The program has grown, running twice a year each winter and fall. Burlington has established an urban culinary. A Taste of Burlington is managed by Tourism Burlington destination in the GTA, showcasing the variety and uniqueness of a large city combined with the accessibility and service of a small town.

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For more information on our 2023 Winter Taste of Burlington Prix-Fixe program, please visit tasteofburlington.ca. Contact us at 905-634-5594.

In Community

Playground of Light is Coming to Downtown Oakville This March

February 27, 2023 No Comments

Wip Wap is coming to Towne Square in Downtown Oakville from March 4 to 23. This interactive art installation features luminous musical seesaws that invite visitors to co-create when the lights and music intensify as the planks swing up and down. Dreamed up by Canadian designers from Lateral Office and CS Design, Wip Wap has traveled the world visiting cities and towns, including Montreal, London, and New York City.

We invite adults and kids of all ages to play from 12 PM to 9 PM daily. The seesaws are part of the GLO DTO experience, an initiative poised to shed light on the dark days of winter. “While residents and visitors are Downtown riding the seesaws, we invite them to play, shop, and dine,” said Adrienne Gordon, Executive Director of the Downtown Oakville BIA. “We hope our downtown businesses benefit from what is traditionally an off-shoulder season for our restaurants and retailers while creating an illuminating experience for visitors,” she said.

Beginning March 4th in Downtown Oakville

Other GLO DTO activations include an all-ages LED Dance Party On March 11 beginning at 5 PM, featuring a giant Lite Brite board, glow-in-the-dark face painting, and LED buskers. There will also be fire pits and free hot cocoa, courtesy of our Downtown Oakville cafes, served from a vintage 1966 airstream every Saturday and Sunday beginning at 1 PM, while supplies last.

To find out more about GLO DTO visit oakvilledowntown.com

In Articles

Shop Local: Thoughtfully Curated Products For Home And Body

February 17, 2023 No Comments

Eco-friendly” products aren’t only beneficial for the environment; they have other benefits, too! Shop thoughtfully formulated products from local boutiques that carry ethical fashion, socially responsible goods, sustainable products, give-back brands, fair trade clothing, and more.

Ten and Co.

The Ten and Co. Swedish Sponge Cloth is the ultimate eco-friendly kitchen accessory. Depending on your use, your sponge cloth can last anywhere from 6-12 months and replace up to 40+ rolls of paper towel.

414 Speers Rd, Oakville,
437-247-1222
tenandco.ca

Refillery Market

This Canadian-made lemongrass-scented all-purpose cleaner does the dirty work for you with nothing but clean ingredients. Safe for your family, eco-friendly, and available in refillable bottles.

Waterdown
905-580-7832
refillerymarket.ca

Maison Apothecare & Lemon Aide

Soothe your baby’s delicate skin with this naturally blended lotion made with skin-soothing organic lavender essential oil as well as calendula and chamomile. Gently massage your baby’s skin for hydration and relaxation.

1173 North Service Rd W Unit D3, Oakville
(888) 232-9468
maisonapothecare.ca

A Greener Place

Express your own unique beauty with these vegan and cruelty-free LipColour Pencils. The Elate LipColour Pencil is made with low environmental emissions and COSMO CERT ingredients for a positive impact on the planet – with YOU in mind. Available in a range of colours.

331 Dundas St E Unit 2, Waterdown
289-895-7429
agreenerplace.ca

Rustic Daisy’s

Soothe and protect your baby’s tiny bum. The healing power of Calendula makes this Butt Balm a must-have in the diaper bag, and it’s cloth diaper friendly!

25 Main St S, Waterdown
289-260-7414
rusticdaisys.wordpress.com

Bos & Co.

Ground yourself in nature with Style Care (seen here in vibrant Orchid Rose). Their S Café technology combines an energy-saving process to transform used coffee grounds and recycled plastic bottles into yarn. The sole is a natural “cork” born off a tree and is retrieved every nine years without the tree even being cut down.

3300 Fairview St, Burlington
905-639-2016
bosandco.com

In Articles

A Frozen Era: Cootes Paradise Has An Icy History

February 16, 2023 No Comments

Kitty-corner to the bustling hub of McMaster University and Children’s Hospital, you’ll find 600 acres of preserved paradise. Birdwatchers flock to the boardwalk that meanders through the marshland, but back in the early 19th Century, hunters frequented the spot for its hearty waterfowl population. Captain Thomas Coote, a British naval officer, was one of those hunters. He spent many days pursuing the land for fowl in the 1780s. Rich in history and named in Captain Coote’s honour, “Cootes Paradise” is a crucial wildlife habitat and the only remaining wetland in western Lake Ontario. But there were other uses for this popular spot. Because of its sheltered location, accessibility, and tendency to freeze at a suitable depth, it was an ideal spot to harvest ice. Before the development of refrigeration, ice harvesting was an important activity for many communities across Ontario. It provided a much-needed income source and helped sustain local economies. The practice continued until well into the 20th century when artificial cold storage methods became more widespread.

Natural ice was used domestically to preserve food, and was also an essential element of commerce throughout the 19th and early 20th Centuries, with many industries relying on it for refrigeration. Breweries utilized extensive quantities to cool their wort before the advent of artificial means. Railway shipping used such a considerable volume that the Canadian National Railway maintained its own ice operation on Lake Simcoe, with steamboats packed full of natural ice to keep goods fresh while enroute.

The harvesting process involved cutting large chunks of ice, called “cakes,” up to twenty inches thick, with longhandled saws and loading them onto sleds pulled by horses or oxen. The harvested blocks were then transported off the lake, packed in straw and sawdust, and stored in icehouses until sold off in the summer months. The practice was an arduous job that required a great deal of skill, effort, and perseverance. Drowning and hypothermia were a dangerous and very real possibility, as workers and animals risked falling through the ice.

For many years, ice harvesting from Cootes Paradise and the adjoining Burlington Bay, known now as Hamilton Harbour, was a significant source of employment for the local community and provided ice to many cities around Lake Ontario. At its peak in the early twentieth century, over 600 workers were employed in the trade, cutting ice daily while the conditions were favourable. Over 60,000 tons of ice were cut in a typical winter season.

Many ice harvesters were farmers, and there are strong parallels in the language and equipment used in the process. Ice blocks were referred to as “the winter crop” and cut with a specialized “ice plough”using the same draft animals used to work the land. An example of overlap between farming and ice harvesting was the Raspberry family, whose 1864 farmhouse still stands on the north side of the marsh. The Raspberrys had a dairy farm and operated an ice-cutting business in the winter. In her journal, then-teenage Elva Raspberry tells us how in the winter of 1912, one of her brothers bought his own ice cutter to help with the family business.

Today, Cootes Paradise is a protected area – and while ice harvesting in the marsh is a thing of the past, this picturesque and naturalized gem is a popular spot for leisure activities like canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Cootes Paradise is owned and managed by the Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG), which plays an integral role in conserving and protecting these precious wetlands for generations to come. The Raspberry Farm is now the RGB Arboretum.

Ice harvesting is still occasionally practiced in Canada, serving as an important touchpoint with history and our continued dependence on the natural world. As we work towards a more sustainable future, it helps to remember our roots and the traditions that sustained us in the past.

by Julian Kingston

In Articles

Unique Boutiques: Local Refilleries Offer More Than Sustainable Solutions

February 15, 2023 No Comments

I‘ve been working as a writer for just over five years now, but in my previous life – before kids – I carried a fast-paced nine-to-five job in environmental management and sustainability. My career kicked off with the Town of Oakville as a sustainability educator in their Environmental Policy Department. It was a meaningful and fulfilling job, where I collaborated with internal departments, local school boards, conservation authorities, and Halton Region to develop community-based environmental programs. My deep love for our natural environment inspired that career. And while my path in life has changed, my appreciation for the seas and the sky has not.

Environmentalism dates back to the late 19th Century, but the 1960s saw a second wave in environmentalism, marking a different area for conservation. Land and water pollution became a growing concern, not just for naturalist groups but the Canadian population as a whole.

At the turn of the 21st Century and in the early 2000s, Canada experienced a third and fourth wave of environmentalism. Youth began to take an interest in the future of our planet, and large corporations received pressure from both consumers and government to improve sustainability. Greenwashing became a prominent marketing tactic to create a false impression of a company’s “green” practices. While greenwashing is still a thing, today many companies have stepped up to meet or exceed government requirements, earning themselves accreditations (which really helps us as consumers).

This idea of “sustainable” or “eco-friendly” products extends beyond our environment. Intending to live a full, healthy, and long life, consumers have pushed for non-toxic products containing either organic or natural ingredients, especially in items we put on our bodies or use on our most precious population – children and babies. There has even been increased demand for all-natural pet products. The goal: to limit exposure to less-than-ideal ingredients in our environment and our bodies.

But how can you read between the lines on a label? Refillery Market’s Koby Hicks says to start with the ingredients. Victoria Garofalo, founder of A Greener Place in Waterdown, agrees, saying, “Hard-to-pronounce ingredients aren’t necessarily a bad thing (plant names can be long and confusing!), but there are some common words you should look for. Parabens, parfum, aluminum, and mineral oils aren’t something you want to put on your skin.”

Where’s the best place to find these types of natural products? Look for businesses that not only sell clean products but root themselves in ethical business practices. A Greener Place, EcoFillosophy, Refillery Market, The Kind Matter Company, and Ten & Co. – locally-owned businesses based in Waterdown, Oakville, and Burlington – strive to do just that.

With a “refillery” business model, these zero-to-low waste boutiques carry consciously selected products for home, body, and beyond. Customers can refill glass mason jars (provided with a deposit) with their favourite soap, shampoo, cleaning products, or laundry detergent. Even toothpaste and deodorant can be refilled.

Each boutique meticulously reviews the lifecycle of every product or brand they source, considering ingredients, ethical manufacturing, packaging, and end-user consumption. Oneka, available at Refillery Market, The Kind Matter Company, and A Greener Place, is a popular Quebec-based bulk supplier. They farm their own botanicals for personal care products like shampoo and conditioner. Garofalo notes, “For babies, children, or highly-sensitive individuals, look for products that are unscented or minimally scented with natural oils.” Despite being naturally derived, essential oils can cause skin and breathing irritation to those with sensitivities. Sleepy Owl Baby, an all-natural, small-batch baby care line by Natacha Rey is produced right in Oakville. Rey also created popular cleaning brand, Lemon Aide, and an extensive line of bath, body, and beauty products available through her company, Maison Apothecare. Oh, and those beautiful Swedish Sponge Cloths that everyone loves so much? They’re designed by Ten & Co’s founder, Christen Irwin.

These small-batch products and safer ingredients usually come with a higher price tag – but that’s actually a benefit. High-quality ingredients and ethical business practices (such as not testing on animals and limiting waste) require more time and resources. Plus, Hicks adds, “The cost savings come with refilling.” An example would be that a bottle of Oneka shampoo costs $15 before tax. Refillery Market on the other hand, charges $11 pre-tax when you fill your own bottle. “That’s a $4 saving every time you refill,” notes Hicks. Of course, in the end, the biggest benefit is how a product makes you feel – from the experience at the local refillery to the soft touch of the product on your skin to the impact you leave behind on the seas and the sky. Feeling good can come naturally.

by Anneliese Lawton

Local Links

Ten & Co., Oakville
tenandco.ca

Refillery Market, Burlington
refillerymarket.ca

A Greener Place, Waterdown
agreenerplace.ca

The Kind Matter Company, Oakville
thekindmattercompany.com

EcoFillosophy, Oakville
ecofillosophy.com

Masion Apothecare, Oakville
masionapothecare.ca

Oneka
onekaelements.com

In Articles

Don’t Let Love Get Lost in Translation: Valentine’s Gifts for Every Love Language

January 27, 2023 1 Comment

Romance, it’s the language of love. Though if you ask Dr. Gary Chapman, there are five “official” love languages: quality time, words of affirmation, receiving gifts, acts of service, and physical touch. Through years of counselling couples, Dr. Chapman analyzed the unique needs and communication styles within a relationship. Taking what he learned, he turned his observations into a best-selling book, The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts.

While many of us can relate to the five love languages above, understanding and acting on your partner’s love language can lead to a deeper connection. So, this Valentine’s Day, why not try a gift to resonate with your partner in a new way? Gift their love language.

Quality Time
If quality time is your partner’s love language, then the gift they really want is you! Book an evening at the Pearle Hotel and Spa to connect, unwind, and relax with views of Lake Ontario. Enjoy in-room dining, in-room soaker tubs, and luxurious amenities. Plus, their full-service spa on-site offers a 90-minutes couples’ massage. Another great way to spend quality time together is right at home! Order in from one of your favourite restaurants or make your own heart-shaped pizza with House Sauce and Pizza Dough from Son of a Peach Pizzeria. Once dinner is made, hop into your jammies (Bocana on Pearl has adorable Valentine’s jammies), throw on your favourite movie, or get competitive in a game of Scrabble.

Words of Affirmation
If words of affirmation aren’t your love language, coming up with verbal ways to connect with your partner may feel a bit daunting. But fear not, there’s at least one card on the planet to thoughtfully get your feelings across. People who seek verbal affirmations are looking for words of encouragement and compliments through cards, conversations, phone calls, or texts. In other words, say “I love you” in any number of ways. Burlington’s Waves in the Village has witty and hilarious cards for everyone. While Cards N’ Such in Oakville is a great spot for something a bit more classic and romantic. To step it up a notch, write a love letter (or two) in a beautiful journal from The Handmade House in Burlington.

Receiving Gifts
This is where you can go fairly traditional with classic, elegant, and timeless gifts. Jewellery and flowers may be an obvious choice, but adding a personal touch can really elevate a gift. Design custom jewellery or incorporate a family heirloom into a beautiful keepsake at Diamond Boutique in Hamilton or Avalon Jewellery in Oakville. With Brant Florist, you can create a floral arrangement featuring your loved one’s favourite colours and flowers, or select a pre-arranged bouquet. Shops like Pure Boutique, Bluboho, and Homebody have unique, modern gifts from jewellery to home décor perfect for any style and stage of life.

Acts of Service
Acts of service is the love language for people who believe actions speak louder than words. Things like a fresh cup of coffee (grab some fresh beans from Vereda Central and make a pot at home), prepping dinner (The Platter Company and Familia Fine Foods have incredible homecooked frozen meals), or tidying the house (Mint-Maids of Waterdown & Burlington offer plant-based eco-friendly cleans) will make your loved one feel seen and appreciated.

Physical Touch
Some people just love a good ole fashioned hug – and there’s nothing better than snuggling in something cozy. New from Joseph Tassoni is the JT Spa Collection, available for both men and women, so you can cocoon yourself in the softest dream robe. Or, turn the heat up with a little something from Goodnight Goodmorning in Oakville. Their silk robes are beautiful and sophisticated, available in a number of fun colours and patterns.

While speaking another love language may take some practice, with these gift ideas, there’s no doubt your partner will love what you’re trying to say.