Tis' the Season!

Baby EMM just had her 3 month (milestone) birthday on November 29 and I'm beginning to witness some definite changes. For starters, the evenings are getting A LOT more manageable and it seems that as quick as the colic stage entered our lives, it's now finally on its way out. It's definitely one stage that I will never, EVER miss. Looks like Christmas came early to our house this year!

To celebrate, we're getting into the festive spirit one holiday bazaar at time. A few days ago I decided to get a bit of a head-start on holiday shopping and took the bebe down to the One of a Kind Show. Last year I was so busy with work that I completely overlooked it, so this year it was nice to get a few hours of browsing time. In its 42nd year (whoa!) it has become a bit of a tradition for many families. Personally I love it because it's the first glimpse of holiday fruit cake. Yes, I'm that weird person that actually likes the stuff. This year didn't disappoint and after taste-testing about four (or five!) local vendors, I found my absolute favourite. There were tons of other ones wrapped in lovely, expensive looking packaging but Grandma's Traditional Fruitcakes simply lived up to its name and is probably the best one I've ever had. A perfect blend of fruit, spices and butter (yum!). This truly makes the perfect hostess gift as you make your rounds this holiday season.

Following my stint down the food aisles, I ventured into the arts and crafts section. I should also mention that I strategically planned this little outing during the time that EMM has her long morning nap so shopping was a (short) dream. With over 800 artisans and makers, time is of the essence with a little one so it also helps that there were plenty of food samples to try without having to waste precious shopping time and stopping for lunch. I was pleased to see a number of new artisans at the show this year, starting with Bobbie Made who hand weaves fibre art for decor purposes, such as pillows, wall tapestries, etc. Not only are her products beautiful, but her booth was probably the most stylized of all! I ended up getting a lovely piece which includes recycled Sari ribbons from India as part of the design. Perfect addition for the nursery.

Next I came across a local candle vendor called Murphy & Jo Candle Co. Jordana and Nicole are the creatives behind the company and let me tell you, these women know what they're doing! Their branding aesthetic is clean and uncomplicated, which compliments the purity of their product line. As a new mom I have started paying a lot of attention to how many chemicals surround us on a daily basis and I am trying to omit them wherever possible. My one weakness, candles. I absolutely adore candles and somehow always manage to come back with one from whatever trip we take but the toxins in them scare me. It is refreshing to see that a company like Murphy & Jo has managed to still make their products smell incredible, all the while creating a line of plant based candles made with pure essential oils and lead free cotton wicks. My personal favourite was the Rose Cardamon scent which I was told is only available a few times a year.

Next I came across Artifact Skin Co. whose products are 99.5-100% natural. That's enough for me! Another super cute company run by two savvy women. Great to see so many female entrepreneurs doing their thing and getting recognized for it. I'm a sucker for packaging, scents and lip gloss. Basically a marketers dream.

When I came across their honey + marshmallow lip masque, well you can guess what happened next. I have been putting it at night which is supposed to regenerate your lips by the morning and I can tell you that after 4 days I'm totally addicted.

There was also a number of vendors carrying kid related products and decor pieces. Low Poly Crafts is a unique company that I have been following on Instagram for quite some time so I was excited to see them at the show. The company is founded by a sweet couple turned business partners, Britta and Adrian. Adrian was actually at the booth and we spoke at some length about his recent success. Low Poly Crafts creates whimsical DIY sculptures which you put together yourself and display wherever your heart desires. Another perfect addition for a nursery or any other part of the home for that matter. They have an array of kits to choose from, ranging from unicorns and beavers to my personal favourite, hot air balloons.

Most of their products sell out fast (including the balloons, sadly) so make sure to get your hands on your favourite piece if you're looking to gift this to your loved ones over the holidays.

As EMM's nap time was quickly coming to an end, I had time to hunt down one more vendor. Fittingly enough, I came across Quebec based Veille Sur Toi who is known for their colourful nightlights which comfort children to sleep throughout the night. The company's owner is an elementary school teacher and mother, as well as a kick-ass entrepreneur. Karine initially started her business by creating these cartoon like nightlights for children and soon expanded her product line to include plushes, wall stickers and other decor. A great stocking stuffer for your little one!

Right on queue, Miss Emilia decided to get up from her nap and as usual was ravenous upon opening her eyes. I quickly strolled my way down the aisle into one of the nursing rooms, conveniently next to the exit! A quick feed and change, and we were off on our merry way with gifts and smiles in tow. Lovely afternoon with Miss EMM.

Happy Holidays everyone!

-Yvonne & EMM