We are so grateful for our community of customers, friends and neighbours. We wanted to take a quick minute of your time to share a few local businesses in the Fraser Valley that could use your support now and in the coming months.
Visit the links below and check out the great people of our community!
]]>It seems its getting harder and harder to go a day without seeing something on the news about the amount of garbage filling our oceans. Every time you walk down the street or go to trails, rivers and lakes its hard to avoid it in even in our own backyard. And as equally heartbreaking as it is, it has given us motivation to want better for this planet. It has helped to open our eyes and look for ways we are able to make changes in our everyday lives. We have seen the ripple effect that can happen when a single video circulates and gets people motivated to change. We have seen what can happen when individuals begin to refuse or change to reusable options such as straws, so why can’t we do the same with other everyday items in our lives?
I know it can be daunting and it can seem impossible to even know where to start.
The trick is to start small, not get to overwhelmed, have fun with it, and most of all don't take yourself to seriously, life happens and no one is perfect or 100% zerowaste.
I'm sure you have seen pictures of people that fit the amount of garbage that they create in a year into a small jar but that isn't the only way it has to be done. It is about becoming more mindful of our purchases and when something needs to be repurchased or replaced, choosing a more sustainable option.I know you may be thinking well I still don't really know where to begin… So here are a few simple ways to get started with the 5 R’s Refuse, Reduce, Reuse (Repair, Replace), Rot, and Recycle. Think reduced impact instead of the term zero waste.
First here is a little bit of motivation to get you started:
Refuse: Say no to single use plastics or unnecessary packaging. This is all about minimizing the amount of waste that enters your life. This could look like saying no to items like straws, disposable coffee cups, or to-go containers by bringing your own. If someone offers you a bag or something you do not need such as freebies or fliers politely say no. This can be hard at first but will give you the chance to think about what is really a necessity and the new habits that you would like to create. You can also think of it in a way of the new things you would like to say yes to instead. Like saying yes to bringing your own water bottle or cup, saying yes to purchasing items without packaging, yes to buying bulk items, getting items refilled, shopping locally and seasonally at farmers markets, and supporting businesses that also care and support sustainable initiatives.
Reduce: Lessen the number of items you buy, simply cut back. It can also mean reducing what you already have in your life by donating or selling items you no longer use. This helps to create more space and lets us be more mindful and focused on future purchases. Avoid buying something just because or splurging on something that may be poor quality which will just end up in a landfill, in the back of our closets, or unused laying around our homes. Let us focus on more mindful purchases, ones of better quality putting more value back into our belongings. Think quality vs. quantity. Even though some better quality items and clothing can be pricier initially, in the end they often end up lasting much longer or are easily repaired instead of purchasing poor quality that often times just falls apart and needs to be replaced more often, thus creating more waste. When looking to reduce items in your life it is also important to look at the way you grocery shop and the food you consume, or rather the food going to waste. Buying dry goods in bulk is a great way to purchase a small amount at a time to have just what you need instead of letting items sit in your pantry that will go bad. The same thing goes for fruits and veggies. Shopping at farmers markets whenever possible and being mindful of purchasing the amount that you need will help to reduce food waste and help cut back on packaged and processed foods.
Reuse( Repair/Replace): This is all about switching out disposable items for reusables. Having a kit that you can keep in your backpack, purse, or in your car. This can include things like a handkerchief, fabric bags for groceries or snacks. Reusable cutlery - stainless steel or bamboo are great options. A water bottle or coffee cup so you don't have to get disposal coffee cups or plastic water bottles. It is also helpful to have a container for snacks, take out, or left overs. Jars will become your new best friends. It’s no wonder why mason jars have become so popular! You can use them as a drinking glass, a lunch container, to fill with bulk goods, for storing homemade remedies, and to fill at refill stores. When it comes to clothing purchasing secondhand or being involved in clothing swaps provide great ways to give clothes a second life. Repairing items for longevity whenever it’s possible is another great option. Clothing articles can be mended ,and when they need to be replaced choose options of higher quality from more sustainable, ethically made sources and support small local businesses when possible
Rot: AKA Composting. Learning how and what to compost is another great step in reducing waste and is also a great way to give back to the earth. Organic matter, food scraps, cardboard, and even natural fibres can be composted, they are broken down and eventually turn into dirt used for growing more fruits and veggies! Each city will have different regulations in regards to composting policies so it’s a good idea to look into what is available in your neighbourhood. Curb side options may be available, or there are many different options for building or purchasing your own compost for at home, there are even compact styles for apartments. Often times if there is a community garden in your town you can check if they will take it as well. Always remember that composting is not the end to food waste. You should be using as much as you can by choosing options such as canning, preserving, freezing, and even turning veggie scraps into stock whenever possible and reducing the amount of food you let go bad.
Lastly probably the most common but often misunderstood R…
Recycle: It can be easy to think that recycling solves all problems and once a plastic bottle or jar ends up in a blue bin its fine and is going to end up where it needs to be. However the truth is that isn't often the case. When it comes to plastic, recycling is more so downcycling. Plastics are melted or broken down and turned into other various items but once there is no long a life for it or it becomes unnecessary, these items will end up in the landfill or worse in our environment. After years they will break down into tiny little pieces and particles that will never go away. Sadly a large amount of plastic also ends up in landfills or in the oceans from being shipped to other counties. So remember to reuse as much as you can, refuse or reduce whenever necessary and available and if you do need to recycle make sure items are washed and brought to the correct facilities or following your cities recycling guide lines.These are just a few of the many many ways to reduce your impact on the planet, reduce your waste, and become more mindful of your purchases and way of life. Remember this is going to work and look different for everyone so always be kind of others journeys. Education and leading by example is the best way to advocate change. Shop locally, seasonally, ethically, sustainably, and package free whenever possible. If you want to do more you can also volunteer with organizations and do local clean ups in your area or facilitate your own!
Author: Erika Arnold
Erika is the co-owner of The Refillery- a mobile Zero Waste ( or reduced waste as her and her business partner Nate prefer to call it) shop in Chilliwack, BC. They offer refills on locally made, all natural, soap, detergents, body care, and household cleaners as well as various package free goodies. Erika began dabbling in the world of zero waste after seeing a video of Lauren Singer showcasing all the trash that she produced in a year fit neatly into a jar and it had her very intrigued as she was already taking some of these steps and she thought, hey I should try that. It wasn't until after a trip to Costa Rica that Erika began to notice the serious impact plastic pollution has on the planet and she noticed it in her own backyard even more once she returned home. It was at this point that she decided to dive in deep refilling all of her items from bulk grains and seeds to makeup and shampoo. She became more mindful of shopping package free, carrying around her trusty kit of necessities to avoid single use items, farmers markets and local options became her favourite hang outs. She now loves to help others on their journey to reducing their waste by hosting workshops and motivating others through her social media platforms the group Zero Waste Fraser Valley on Facebook and @zerowastefraservalley on instagram answering any questions she can and giving tips and tricks when it comes to shopping package free, supporting local and eating more mindfully through Holistic Nutrition. Erika even helps small local businesses do what they can to reduce their waste and was awarded with the 2017 Chamber of Commerce Sustainability award for her Efforts at Studio B Yoga & More. You can find The Refillery moving to various locations in chilliwack and Abbotsford. See where they are and get tips by following @the.refillery on instagram, The Refillery on Facebook and www.refillery.co
]]>Unika's 5 top picks for jackets this Spring!
Deodorant That Actually Works: Commercial vs. Natural Deodorant But what’s the alternative? Using a natural deodorant, of course! However, consumers tend to believe that while natural deodorants may be more safe to use, they’re not as effective as their commercial counterparts. Nothing could be further from the truth! In fact, a high quality, natural deodorant like Pinch All Natural Deodorant can be more effective than commercial deodorant. Swapping out commercial deodorant for natural deodorant will protect you from harmful chemicals while still keeping you fresh.
Protect Yourself from Harmful Ingredients Ingredients in commercial deodorants have been linked to many harmful side effects, ranging from skin irritation to Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. And since these ingredients are being applied directly to the skin, they are even more harmful than simply ingesting them. When you metabolize chemicals, your body has a natural filtration process that reduces their potency. Chemicals applied to the skin, however, can absorb directly into the bloodstream without any filtration process. Women are especially susceptible to these chemicals, since their underarm skin is more likely to be broken by shaving. Almost all commercial deodorants and antiperspirants contain some form of aluminum. Over time, aluminum can accumulate in the brain and cause Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders. Aluminum in deodorants and antiperspirants has also been linked to breast cancer. Furthermore, aluminum mining is harmful to the environment, destroying land and polluting waterways. Commercial deodorants and antiperspirants are also usually made with parabens and cyclopentasiloxane. Both of these chemicals are known to disrupt the endocrine system, which can cause a whole host of hormonal issues. Additionally, parabens can irritate sensitive skin and cause contact dermatitis. The harmful effects of commercial deodorant ingredients don’t just stop at your own health. When you shower, the water washes away the chemicals of your skin care products and introduces toxins into waterways. These toxins are shown to have disastrous effects on marine ecosystems. On the other hands, natural deodorants like Pinch Natural Deodorant are made from sustainable ingredients like arrowroot powder and white kaolin clay, which naturally kill odor-causing bacteria at the source. These ingredients are not only safe for human skincare, but their production and disposal do not have negative effects on the environment.
Deodorant That Actually Works We’ve all experienced this: you start using a new commercial deodorant or antiperspirant and it’s working great. But a few months later, it’s barely working at all. What gives? Although there’s no clear reason why, commercial antiperspirants tend to lose their effectiveness over time. For this reason, experts recommend changing commercial brands at least every 6 months to maintain efficacy. But it turns out, commercial deodorants and antiperspirants aren’t all that effective to begin with. The FDA requires that commercial brands reduce sweat by only 20% to be considered “all day protection”. “Extra strength” products, on the other hand, reduce sweat by a measly 30%. In contrast, Pinch Natural Deodorant is a deodorant that actually works. Pinch is incredibly effective, even with a very active lifestyle, and typically only needs to be applied once per day. And you know how commercial deodorants lose their efficacy over time? Pinch Natural Deodorant users have found that as they become more accustomed to using natural deodorant, they don’t need to reapply as often. So by switching to natural deodorant you are not only saving yourself and the environment from harmful chemicals, but you may also save a little money! What About Sweat Stains? We’re all familiar with the yellow stains that show up in the armpits of light coloured clothing, but did you know that they’re caused by the aluminum found in commercial deodorants and not your sweat itself? Switching to a natural deodorant will save you from embarrassing sweat stains!
Improve Toxin Removal Our bodies sweat to rid us of harmful toxins. However, commercial antiperspirants only serve to block our body’s natural toxin removal system. Pinch All Natural Deodorant is made with white kaolin clay, which serves to draw toxins out from the skin, making your body’s natural toxin removal system more effective. When you weigh the pros and cons, the choice is clear. Using natural deodorants like Pinch All Natural Deodorant is more healthy for you and the environment. Plus natural deodorants are actually more effective than their commercial counterparts. Oh, and did we mention that Pinch All Natural Deodorant comes in six scents, and they all smell amazing! Try Pinch All Natural Deodorant and experience the difference for yourself! Check out all the scents here! |
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Check out this list Celebrate 150 Years by the Vancouver Sun of things to do around you this year for Canada Day!
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When shopping consignment you are able to select one of a kind pieces - perhaps you find a lost treasure from another generation or an amazing leather bag at a huge discount. Whatever the piece, it will be these fashion finds that lend to creating a unique and personal style all your own.
It's no secret that the landfills are burdened with heaps of perfectly wearable garments. Shopping consignment recycles these items, keeping them from turning to waste. I love the feeling that an article gets a second chance. As the saying goes "one person's trash is another person's treasure!"
Resale = Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!
Everyday at a consignment shop is like shopping a super sale at any other boutique. The prices are usually 70% off the retail price and in most cases barely worn. The best place to find designer items for a fraction of the price it would be new and you only pay GST. Who needs the box?!
Spend less - Get more!
This is one of the biggest benefits of consignment. Each and every time you visit your local shop there will be something you haven't seen, as new stock is put out daily. Whether you are 15 or 75 or somewhere in between there is always something for every size and shape. Variety is the key ingredient to a great consignment store.
Shopping consignment keeps the money in the hands of the community. When an item sells you are helping support someone local. You could be helping put food on the table, assisting with tuition or providing savings to help fund a vacation or a dream. Also unsold items are given to local charities that benefit the community.
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As and avid resale shopper I find it hard to believe the number of fashionistas who haven't swooned in on the opportunity of consignment.
Next time you are looking for an addition to your wardrobe think "green" and pop out to thumb the racks of a nearby consignment store. With so many unique and discounted pieces your sure to find a gem.
Ali
xo
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1. T-shirt's that are oh so comfortable and great for everyday, sunshine-y occasions.
2. Use florals as a coverup in a kimono! Perfect for springtime temperatures.
3. Accents on dresses, embroidered or otherwise!
(Pair with booties or cute flats, and tights if it's not quite warm enough).
4. Go for all over floral patterns on a mini, midi or maxi dress.
5. Embroidery on denim is huge. Try it with jeans or denim skirts - blue wash or black!
6. Blossoms and bohemian style bloom so well together, try an all over printed maxi paired with your oldest, most comfy tee + floppy hat.
7. Keep florals as an accent with a light scarf.
8. Go for the real deal and visit your local market for some fresh + fragrant flowers!
What's your favourite way to wear florals in spring?
]]>Sequins and NYE are the perfect match, you must always swipe right with this combo. Go full out and wear a sequin dress - mini, midi, or maxi. Make it fun with cut outs. For a toned down, yet fully festive alternative try velvet. Add your sparkle with accessories.
If something classic is more your style, try a full skirt. If you're looking for classic + fun? Make it sequin!
Don't give up edge on New Years, just top your outfit off with little leather. Our favourite is an amazing leather jacket. And finally, if all else fails, wear the tinsel and confetti come midnight!
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Whether it's a clutch, heel, or a part of your party look, velvet adds a sense of luxury and old-world vintage charm to the modern day. Keep your earring simple - yet still make a statement with dangling, treaded earrings. Loop them through twice, if you can, for an edge-y look.
Chunky Necklaces & Choker Mix
Easiest way to add something to your party look is with a chunky, statement necklace. Looks great on solids colours and under collars! Chokers are on trend, and paired with delicate gold stacking necklaces, liven up any neckline.
Cut Out Heels & Midi Rings
Walk tall in heels with cut outs, perfect for mini dresses, over tights, and even with your favourite pant. Stack on sparkle with little silver or gold midi rings.
The easiest (and arguably most stylish) winter accessory to pop on and go. Channel Canadiana and pair with plaid, or have some fun and wear with patterns. Opt for a pom-pom beanie to add a little extra to your go-to winter wardrobe. Knitted, stretchy, and oh-so-warm our favourites are the Herschel toques available in-store and online in a variety of on point seasonal colours.
Keep those mitts warm when frolicking in the snow this winter. Match some knitted mittens with your scarf like a pro whose headed for Aspen, or find some with suede and other textures sewn in for some interesting edge to your look. Don't forget gloves can be chic and dressed up - black leather ones do the job.
Wrap yourself up in warmth and easy style with the blanket scarf. Whether in plaids, patterns, or solid colours, they elevate any look. Try pairing yours with leather, or oversized sweaters. Top your perfectly layered outfit off with one. So versatile, they are our #1 winter accessory. Visit us in-store in Langley or Chilliwack to see our selection!
Socks are on everybody's Christmas list. This winter, wear them with your favourite boots over leggings and even with ankle booties. Simply roll up your jeans to show a sliver of the chunky knit. Another great way to wear them? At home in your comfiest clothes, hanging out with family and friends.
]]>Each child is provided with a behavioural interventionist and a surf instructor while out in the water, this gives parents a chance to sit back and enjoy these incredible moments.
Surfs Up began when Dennis Nerpio, founding member of the SUPA Society, took his son Braedon (who is on the autism spectrum) to Tofino one weekend to go surfing. The family rented wetsuits, boards and headed into the Pacific. While out in the water Braedon was catching waves and within 30 minutes stood up at that moment something changed, the family knew it wasn't going to be a barrier for them.
In 2012 Surf's Up only had 24 children surfing during a one day event, this year 56 children with autism were able to head into the water over a two day period. This event has really grown into its own community, many volunteers and familes have been with the event since the beginning.
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This 2-week adventure always goes by way too quickly, and in the blink of an eye you are back on the mainland and your every day life resumes. Each year being out on the ocean, and visiting the beautiful islands dotting our coastline, my appreciation grows for nature as well as how incredibly stunning our planet is. As time goes on I know I will always remember the magical feeling of being completely enveloped by nature and the tranquil feeling of looking out and seeing nothing but the vast ocean and blue sky…
- Georgia T. Austin
It's summer, and you know what that means? Getaways and vacations. Whether it's somewhere tropical, cold (no thank-you) or anywhere your wanderlust heart desires there's always the dreaded packing. And by this I mean throwing your entire closet onto your bed the night before and coming to the conclusion you have nothing to wear.
That is why Unika has come up with a little what to pack guide when it comes to those weekend getaways, because we know packing light can be the most difficult words to hear. Some things to remember before you start:
Finally, fold your clothes & carefully because room is valuable! Plus, extra room means that extra dress... Or shirt... Or...
Happy vacationing & getaways! Tell us where you're going this summer in the comments!The Classic stripe is a staple in every girl's wardrobe if you own stripes in Red & White Canada Day is the perfect opportunity to rock them proud!
Are you heading to the Beach to celebrate? If so, make sure to add the spirit into your swimwear.
Not sure where your going to be, but still want to show your patriotism. Just pull in a red accessory and wear any outfit. (Well, maybe not any outfit.)
Go for the full Sha-Bang and get those fingertips manicured!
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The bride brought in some classic girl's night appies and of course a few bottles of wine. Adding the Unika touch we spiced up the table with our signature reclaimed wood accents and a punch of colour. Who doesn't love those two-bite brownies?
Cheers to Jenny and her bridesmaids, and yes! There were a few tears after reading the personalized thank you's from the Bride to Be.
At YVR - Gathering the Troops @ 5am!
We were excited to see TOMS giving in action. Guatemala is one of TOMS major giving locations.
Dr. Francisco using the donated medical supplies to give vitamin shots.
Dr. Francisco standing in front of the future Hospilito being built in partnership with Guatemala Conexions.
A day at the market!
Buying products made by the women's co-operative in Chuk Muk.
A trip to Pana would not be complete without a visit to see the world's most entertaining barista, Mike @ Crossroads Cafe. Trust us when we say "entertaining."
I had the amazing privledge to learn a "little" about back strap weaving from Evelyn's mother. This is how they make their Huipils (the common traditional hand made garment) one shirt can take up to 2 months to make, 5 hours a day.
A stack of Huipils (wee-peels).
A joyous performance of "Head and Shoulders, Knees and Toes."
Gregorio and Candelaria, owner of the Spanish school Jabel Tinamet grew up locally, and worked themselves through school, then started this successful Spanish school for foreign language students. They are intent on giving back to training the next generation with values, leadership, and scholarship for those who are willing to work hard.
Are you thinking about learning Spanish? Check out their online Skype lessons and meet the scholarship students face to face.
We have a quote that sits prominently in our home which reads,
"Happy is not a destination, it is a way of life."
I believe this more than ever, after having the opportunity to share many moments with the some of the most beautiful smiles you have ever seen. Guatemala truly has touched my heart and left me wanting to go back.
Check out our Guatemalan Mini Market in-store now. All the proceeds will go to support future volunteer trips and the artisans we met in Guatemala.
If you are interested in volunteering or know someone who might be please have them contact us!
Cheers
Ali
This year, on One Day Without Shoes, we're honouring your commitment to raising awareness for children's HEALTH & EDUCATION. For EVERY PHOTO of bare feet tagged on Instagram, we'll actually GIVE A NEW PAIR of shoes to a child in need — no purchase necessary.
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Meet Krishna. When he and his father, Bobby, first came to JOYN almost two years ago, Krishna was a shy seven year old, who constantly hid behind his father never wanting to make eye contact with anyone.
Well, it's that time of year again when the temperature drops and we pile on the clothes. Winter layering can be tough because nobody wants to look like the Michelin Man! But do not fret; we've got a few guidelines to help you keep warm while looking fabulous.
First, keep your base layer fitted or define your waist with a belt. This will help to avoid looking frumpy. Skinny jeans, leggings or tights are best for bottoms because they slim us down allowing us to add more layers to the top half. Length is also important when layering; this helps to break it up.
When adding your next layer, try some texture or a different colour to give your outfit more depth. Now it's time to add your coat. If you've already got colour and texture then go with a basic colour like black, navy, green or even camel. If you have kept your first layers basic try going for a patterned or bold colour coat.
Finally, for the finishing touch you can throw on a scarf! Whether it's a plaid blanket scarf or a chunky knit, don't be afraid to play with colours and patterns. As it's already so drab in the winter it's nice to have a pop of colour. The most important thing to know about winter layering is to have fun with it! Don't be scared to mix prints and textures.
Happy Layering!
You're still in love with last years dress, but you don't want to wear the exact same thing again... Well, you don't have to! Just use your favourite dress as a base, and create a whole new look. With accessories, jackets, shoes and jewellery you can update last years dress!
The easiest way to add to any look is jewellery. Think big, bauble earrings and sparkle-y statement necklaces. Depending on the style of your necklace, earrings, or bracelets you can also play around with how you style your dress. Glam or minimalistic?
Switch it up from last year.
Another great way to update a dress is with tights. Go bold.
Play with colours or stay monochrome (which looks amazing with clunky black booties!)
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Raven + Lily was created to alleviate poverty among women. Raven + Lily currently helps employ over 1,500 marginalized women at fair trade wages to give them access to a safe job, sustainable income, health care, education, and a real chance to to break the cycle of poverty for themselves and their families. Raven + Lily is committed to providing products that are made by hand, follow fair trade standards, and honour our eco-friendly commitment.
3. Keep the sparkle - just lengthen it for the office. A sequin midi skirt keeps it festive for day and fun for night. Pair it with a simple top in a jewel tone, and add a little texture (like lace).
4. The casual little black dress. Keep boots with to change into, depending on your office dress code. For a pop add a warm scarf in a fun print and dress it up with jewellery.
5. Layer up with your favourite skirt and top for the office. Add a blazer and heels for dressing up. This will take you right from work to where you need to be.
6. For a simpler look, stick with the midi skirt in a solid (but festive) colour and pair with a turtle/cowl next. Office and after-work drinks appropriate.
Krochet Kids first came to be when 3 friends learned how to crochet. They made themselves headwear for skiing trips and began selling a few of their hats around their home state of Washington. Locally, they became known as the ‘Krochet Kids.’ But when collage came, the friends went their separate ways. It wasn’t until they took up travelling to Uganda and Peru that they saw the potential to use crocheting as a way to change other people's lives...
Sparked by a need to bring resources to the people of Uganda and Peru, they taught the locals to crochet. What began with a few women, Krochet Kids has now grown to 150 women in Uganda and 38 women in Peru. By being able to work in a fair, safe and empowering environment these women can rise from poverty and transform their lives. They are able to invest in themselves by having: a steady income, increased savings, access to healthcare, increased gender equality, and having their children attend school.
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