Here are a few Valentine’s ideas that are gentle on the earth while still fun loving.

Treat your sweetheart to a bottle of organic ice wine from Summerhill Pyramid Winery. The grapes are left on the vines until the first frost after which they are picked and immediately crushed while the water is still frozen. This crushing results in a sweet concentrated juice from which to start the wine making process. The finished wine is refreshingly sweet which is balanced by its high acidity. Canada’s climate lends to some of the best icewines in the world.

Try the 2007 Riesling Icewine with the Robert Bateman label, pictured here. With every bottle sold there is a $1 donation to his not for profit society called ‘Get to Know Your Wild Neighbour’ which brings kids away from their computer screens, and our into nature.

Such a special wine deserves a beautiful earth-friendly wrapping. Try a wine bottle bag from eco-handbags.ca. They are made from discarded advertising billboards diverted from landfill. Not only that but they are made in Montreal by Petites-Mains, a non-profit organization that teaches industrial sewing as part of the fight against exclusion, poverty and violence.

If your sweetheart is gorgeous and green, you’ll want to check out these earrings. Made out of reclaimed purpleheart, these beautiful earrings are made here in Canada by Billy Would. Gorgeous and Green has many fabulous gift ideas for your sweetheart divided into categories such as Canadian-made or natural.

To set the mood, why not buys some soy wax candles with

Over 150 million fresh cut flowers will be sold in Canada for Valentine’s Day. That’s 4.5 flowers for each person living in Canada! As you set out to buy flowers this year, consider where they are coming from and how they are grown.

The majority of fresh cut flowers you see in our stores have been shipped in and/or trucked in for thousands of kilometres. Then, on top of that they are full of pesticides and other nasty chemicals, which the flower workers breathe day in and day out. Sometimes the workers are surrounded by these nasty chemicals for endless hours since they often work long hard hours for very little money.

I am not going to suggest that you don’t buy flowers or even that you don’t buy flowers that have been shipped in. I don’t want my words to fall on deaf ears and in the end there is nothing wrong with beautiful fair flowers.

So what I am asking? Or better yet what should you be asking?

Ask your florist if they sell fair-trade flowers and where the flowers are coming from. Ask what types of pesticides are used. If they don’t know, let them know that you are interested or ask if they can find out for you. If they are in the know, make sure you buy toxic free fair flowers for your love. Let them know that you are interested in supporting florists who support fair-trade and local producers.

Supporting your local florist - who is educated on the issues and who does their best to support a fresh cut flower industry - is good for everyone.

You can find a fair-trade florist in your area in our directory under Gifts->Flowers.

Planet Forward is a GTA- based purveyors of hip, functional eco-products that promote living a greener lifestyle. Whether you are looking for stainless steel bottles, reusable baskets or organic fashions, this is a great site to check out. Not only do they look for products that are environmentally friendly, all of their products are made in facilities that adhere to fair wage and labour standards. Further still, they strive to keep life affordable for their customers.

It so happens that they are having a blow out warehouse sale in early December. Just in time to buy and fill up your eco-basket with stocking stuffers and Christmas gifts. If you are in the Toronto area on December 3rd, 4th, and 5th, check them out at 5-51 Roysun Road, Vaughan. Starts each day at 10am and goes to 8pm, except on Saturday when they will drop dead at 4pm from all the excitement.

If - like me - you can’t make it to Toronto that weekend, you can still get in on the action by ordering online and using the following coupon code XMASDL25 which will get you 25% off your online order. Offer ends December 24th.

June is here and father’s day is just around the corner. At our house, dad is one of the most difficult people to buy for and I always appreciate some ideas. Here are some eco-friendly picks for dads everywhere that show love for dad and the planet.

For Sporty Dad
Bamboo socks: great for warmer weather, these socks are cooler, drier and odour-free. They’re 2-3 times cooler in warmer temperatures, absorb moisture 3-4 times better than cotton and contain the anti-bacterial cultivating agent ‘bamboo kun’. Ankle socks $10, crew $13

For more information about wearing bamboo in warm weather:

http://lavishandlime.blogspot.com/2009/05/be-cool-in-bamboo-must-have-for-summer.html

For Take-a-Lunch Dad
Reusable sandwich wrap: save money on plastic baggies and reduce landfill waste with this simple, fresh idea that can be used for a whole year. Folds out into a place mat for a clean place to eat and keeps sandwiches/snacks fresh. Classic black is great for dad and fits perfectly into a briefcase/laptop bag. New golf and camouflage designs or classic black are ideal for dad. $10.50.

For Naked Chef Dad
He can cover up in the kitchen or at the barbecue with this funky grey cafe-style half apron featuring a unique bird design. Made of a linen/cotton mix with eco-friendly inks. $35

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For Shower-Lovin’ Dad
Remind him every morning he’s a star with this handy little star-shaped digital shower timer. (It will also be a big help keeping him on schedule in the morning and go a long way to reducing water use.). The timer displays a no-fog real time clock and easy-to-program count down timer that beeps when your shower time is up. Battery operated, steam proof, shatter proof and water proof. From Australia, land of the 4 minute shower. $16

Enjoy your day with dad!

Weddings have traditionally been all-out affairs – for good reason, but also with no shortage of help from the all-encompassing “wedding industry” which can include everything from the obvious (dress) to the more obscure (releasing butterflies). Rebecca Mead has even written a whole book on the subject entitled One Perfect Day: The Selling of the American Wedding. EC believes your special day doesn’t have to be a resource-intensive consumption blitz to be unforgettable. You can celebrate your eternal love both stylishly and thoughtfully if you go over the details with a green-toothed comb. It’s not as complicated as it might sound, we promise!

At EC, we can get a little wrapped up with what’s going on here in British Columbia but we love to learn about your favourite resources from across Canada. Please email us or add your suggestions in the comments section if there’s something you’d like to share – perhaps we can even get a Green Wedding Resource section going for all you conscious brides and grooms out there!

EC spoke with two different specialists in the field about their work and to find out if the “going green” trend has truly permeated the wedding industry. Of course, we also asked if they had any handy tips to ensure your wedding is as eco-fabulous and hassle-free as possible. Vanessa Fedorkiw is the Victoria-based designer behind Isadora Bridal Wear and Stephanie Happach runs Vancouver’s Forever and a Day Weddings & Events.

Isadora began a few years ago as a general clothing line and started incorporating green fabrics last year as the designer learned of the consequences synthetic fabrics have on our planet. Fedorkiw claims she is still a sucker for print and texture so “…making the shift completely is still in the works as green textiles move toward a more fashion-forward vantage point. That being said, I saw this incredible hemp satin the other day – yum!”

Fedorkiw suggests there are many reasons to choose Isadora’s Eco Chameleon Gown or Bridesmaid Dress – they are organic, sustainable, and can even be worn after the wedding. The dresses are also locally made, and potential clients receive personal contact with the maker of the gown. Try that with something shipped in from overseas!

As far as the wedding industry’s growing shift toward Earth-consciousness, Fedorkiw believes we may have a ways to go. “While my line has been well received online, it has been harder to get it into traditional bridal wear stores, perhaps because they are not yet seeing a shift in brides’ priorities.” You see? It is up to us green-minded ladies and gentlemen to increase demand, putting pressure on retailers to supply greener options.

Happach finds today’s brides both environmentally and budget conscious. “A lot of times I see brides looking for items that can be purchased and re-used or rented, and this reduces waste and consumption as well as cost.” Happach notes that personalizing your wedding with your own original details makes it a true reflection of who you are as a couple and avoids making it yet another cookie-cutter event. There are many ways to do this and remain friendly to the Earth at the same time – just use your imagination. You can also check out our Green Wedding Buying Guide for plenty of inspiration and more tips.

How does an eco-conscious wedding planner differ from a traditional planner? Happach finds herself somewhere in the middle. “As someone who’s been quite earth-conscious for many years now, I like to incorporate recycling practices into my work as much as possible and make materials stretch. I always recycle all the packaging of purchased decor items like plastic wrap, paper and cardboard. I try to come up with ways to cut down on materials as much as possible, for example, favours can double as placecards.” Happach suggests working with local vendors and industry professionals where the wedding is going to be held to support local business and economy – this is a green choice for many reasons and also reduces travel.

Other tips for greener weddings an eco-diva may not think of?

VF: I think it’s a simple reduce, reuse and recycle if possible. For our wedding, we had a simple cake but it was decorated with organically grown edible flowers – so pretty. We also decorated with feathers; feather boas at the head table instead of disposable paper stuff. My bridesmaids also got to keep the boas afterwards – who doesn’t need a feather boa in their wardrobe? Also, vases of small peacock feathers became the wedding favours for the guests.

Need help? Here’s Happach’s checklist of what to keep an eye out for in order to land a stellar wedding planner:
- Do you get a quick response to email, phone contact?
- Will they offer you an initial consultation (usually complimentary)?
- What services do they offer?
- Ask for recommendations
- Do they have a portfolio?
- Number of events/weddings completed
- Will they work within your budget?
- Most important – do you connect with them and do they listen to you?

Have you had a wedding recently? Planning one? Let us know your own tips and stories, we would love to share them.

This is the time of year when many of us review what we have accomplished and set goals for the new year.  For Christmas I received a Business Calendar from Polestar, located in Slocan Valley, British Columbia.  My calendar was printed on 100% post-consumer recycled off-white text paper, processed chlorine- and acid-free, using vegetable-based inks.

After having a look through it, I really like it and look forward to using it over the year. At the beginning of each month, there is a page with Goals & Objectives, To Do This Month, and New Projects/Ideas. Then, each week, there is a space to write in meetings, deadlines, work as well as space for weekly correspondence and a weekly to do list. For more information, check out Polestar Business Calendar.

If you are looking for a more family or school oriented calendar, they have them as well. You can order them online or go to their website for a list of stores in your area where you can find them.

I know, there are many online alternatives that would eliminate my need for a paper version but I am just not there and may never get there. It’s not that I don’t use them. I do. My online calendar lists all of my life’s activities, including my children’s current athletic adventures, family appointments, school events, work, and the list goes on. I find I need a separate calendar just for work so that I can focus my attention where it needs to be.

If you are like me and still need to hang on to one paper based calendar, then Polestar is a great option. Not only are they a fabulous Canadian success story, they are an ethical business and they have put a great deal of time into making calendars that really work.

In my previous holiday-gift-related post, I promised to give some more attention-worthy local designers/independents some justice. The definition of “green” is definitely not static; different designers and businesses are inevitably going to be transforming business-as-usual in different ways, whether it is using reclaimed materials or contributing to small-scale business and strengthening local economies. 

I’m going to do my best to list some notable hip-to-the-groove designers and local business owners from across Canada but please feel free to add suggestions in the comments section if I missed someone spectacular! Some of my picks were influenced by the oneofakind show that made its first stop in Vancouver and of course BC’s funky design community. I apologize if I’m leaving out the guys a little; I’ll square things up in the new year.

Since I can’t be everywhere at once I’m sure some of our readers in different areas can clue us in to what’s happening in their particular region. If my suggestions are cutting it a little too close to the big day, don’t forget - everyone loves belated gifts! Oh, and I’m generally a size medium, for the record…you know, in case you’re feeling generous.

ST. JOHN’S, NF
Johnny Ruth
Not only does this store cater to women of many different sizes, it is a “socially responsible, ethical and transparent retailer.” At EC, that’s what we like to hear. Johnny Ruth researches suppliers to ensure manufacturers abroad are complying with the International Labour Organization’s standards for fair labour practices and urges shoppers to opt for “clean” clothes. Nice work, Johnny Ruth! We hope other retailers follow the great example.

Living Planet T-Shirts
Wow, a screenprinting company that uses soy-based cleaners and the most eco-friendly processes available? Awesome. A screenprinting company that specializes in printing works by local artists? That’s awesome too. A company that does both? Double awesome! Owner Dave Hopley’s been at it for 20 years so it sounds like a guarantee you’ll be happy with what you find here - and can feel good about it to boot.

MONCTON, NB
Sandstones Art Gallery and Flower Shop
If it’s special artistic treasure you’re after, look no further than Sandstones Art Gallery and Flower Shop which features items created by local artisans. Find everything from pottery to stained glass to jewellery and candles. Sounds just about right for last minute holiday purchases! My mom would love this stuff.

HALIFAX, NS
Love, Me Boutique
This cute little boutique stocks Canadian handmade, small-run independent products that are far from crunchy. In fact, they are quite funky! Perfect for aspiring eco-fashionistas and grown-up ones alike.

MONTREAL, QC 
OOM Ethikwear
“Today’s responsible consumer is more conscious and understands that his purchase has great influence and wlll encourage the awakening of a mentality that values equality.” Hurrah! OOM makes clothing that is both ethical and urban, supporting local social causes as it goes. Clothing that expresses the owners’ social values? OOM gets our vote.

OTTAWA, ON
Kania
Ok, a piece from this designer is definitely on my wishlist. It was love at first sight the minute I came across the vibrant and cozy designs from Kania, a luxury street style clothing line based out of our nation’s capital. Oh, Canada! You do know how to dress a girl.

GUELPH, ON
Sole Earth Apparel 
An environmentally and ethically conscious company, S.E.A sells everything from unique recycled paper beads to household items. Guelph has always had a bit of a green thumb so if you’re in the area, support this new local venture!

TORONTO, ON
green is black 
green is black backs its chat when it comes to “being green.” Their assertion of “voting with our dollars” to support socially responsible business aligns quite well with what EC is all about. The store came into being when the green is black owners-to-be were frustrated with not being able to find sustainable fashion that was actually fashionable. Each product’s environmental and social impact is measured before being purchased by the store, ensuring its origins are the best they can be. All hail green is black.

WINNIPEG, MB
Andrea Pelletier Experimental Designs 
This designer caught my eye due to her interesting credentials and, of course, passion for the planet. Pelletier enjoys using reclaimed materials and old clothing when possible to reduce the impact of textile waste, which is a huge issue in the clothing industry - and everywhere else. Pelletier makes clothing, wedding gear, fashion, custom and remade clothing. She also offers DIY sewing advice for free…and you can’t get much for free these days, now can you?

SASKATOON, SK
Cassie Danielle 
Independently owned Cassie Danielle creates eco-friendly garments in-house and are committed to sustainable business practices, like using strictly ecologically sensitive fabric, responsible production techniques and keeping environmental impact as low as possible. Cassie Danielle also plants one tree for every item sold to help offset their carbon footprint. Did I mention the clothes are also pretty cute!?

CALGARY, AB
Shisomiso Boutique & Gallery
A crafty three-in-one venture dedicated to independent fashion and design, Shisomiso is a boutique, gallery and work space all in one. Shisomiso’s focus is to support young Canadian designers and offer up hand-selected wares from across the country. Their lovely website, which appears to be designed by one of the two owners, is also a breeze to navigate and browsers can find links and details about all the designers found in the store.

VANCOUVER, BC
Billy Would Designs
Like your jewellery funky, chunky and reclaimed? Look no further than Billy Would Designs. Designer Adea Chung rescues exotic hardwoods from local woodworkers who can no longer work with the “leftovers” and crafts handmade, one-of-a-kind and sustainable jewellery. This stuff is sure to please the “au naturel” beauties in your life…and just might look pretty gravy on you too!

Olie
Get cozy with Olie! This line of cozy, handmade knits is sure to keep snuggle bunnies happy and loungin’. Designs are styled decidedly with city folk in mind; this ain’t your grandma’s poncho! Made locally with 100% Baby Alpaca wool, Olie’s line keeps growing and we can’t wait to see what’s next.

Apart from the books listed below, why not give a gift of a local book, whether it’s a local cook book, hiking book, day trips, or any topic of interest. Giving a family a book that lists family activities in your area will be a welcome gift on that day when the kids whine, “We’re bored.” When this happens at my place, I hand them a broom and mop so I know my kids would be relieved to have an alternative.

Canadian books to give and enjoy this season

The Better World Shopping Guide: 2nd Edition
By Ellis Jones
Published by New Society Publishers

This is a new edition of this pocket-sized book that grades products. If you would like something you can toss in your back pocket, jacket pocket or purse and pull out for reference when you get to the store, then this is your answer. You will find that some of the products reviewed are not available in Canada. Although published in Canada, this guide was researched and written by an American.

Hope in Shadows: Stories and Photographs or Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside
By Brad Cran and Gillian Jerome
Published by Arsenal Pump Press

For five years now, residents of the Downtown East Side (also known as Canada’s poorest postal code) have been provided with cameras to document their lives, thus giving them a voice and us an opportunity to leave our stereotypes and stories behind. This book allows the residents to tell the real story of life in their neighbourhood.

“A sense of kinship and peer support, above all else, comes through in the 32 intimate, engaging stories in Hope in Shadows…. The stories crackle with energy, individuality, and often a determination to be heard.”

―Georgia Straight

How It All Vegan: Irresistible Recipes for an Animal-Free Diet
By Tanya Barnard and Sarah Kramer
Published by Arsenal Pump Press

Whether you are vegan, vegan curious, or just want to eat fewer animal products, this is a fun book to check out. It has a range of recipes from soups and salads to entrees and desserts. Did you think you couldn’t make delicious cookies and muffins without eggs? Not only is it possible, they can be downright dangerously delicious. Bon appetite!

Almost Green
By James Glave
Published by Greystone Books

I admit that I haven’t read this one yet, but it’s on my list this season. (hint, hint).  I have really enjoyed reading the author’s website, so I am looking forward to reading the book.  I really think the subtitle says it all: How I Built an Eco-Shed, Ditched My SUV, Alienated the In-Laws, and Changed My Life Forever.

The 100 Mile Diet
By Alisa Smith and J.B. MacKinnon
Published by Random House Canada

I really enjoyed this one. Their journey is inspiring, thought-provoking and downright funny at times. They are honest in their telling, yet still in love with each other at the end of the story. If you haven’t read this one yet, do so soon. I owe my love of local/seasonal cook books to them, once you are inspired you will be amazed at the gems that await you.

If you would like to be a truly green bookworm, check out www.ecobrain.com. That way you read the books you love and save trees. At the time of writing 10,704 tress had been saved so click on over and check out a couple of titles so we can save entire forests. I don’t know where they are located but I’m guessing they are not in Canada. Since shipping from great distances isn’t an issue, I thought I would sneak this one in.