Agnes Jean Boutique

Must.Have.Pockets.

2012-02-01T12:29:00.000-08:00

Pockets are a big deal for my two year old niece. She loves them! Loves putting things into them, loves the surprise of finding those goodies later, and she's equally excited when she realizes that other people have pockets too! We're hard pressed to get this little one into anything that doesn't have pockets. I soon realized that I also have a thing for pockets. Enter the Ukiah Pullover by Curator. This is a new line for us, and we're pretty excited about it. Colours are great, fit is great, and ta-da pockets!!! I think my niece would approve.

Falcon Wright

2012-01-27T11:48:00.000-08:00

My good friend Danielle is one of the most creative people I know. Her sense of style, and ability to find an interesting use for almost everything is like no other. And now she's combined forces with a friend to bring you the amazing creations by Falcon Wright. Handmade leather pouches, clutches and headwear, all printed and sewn by this talented duo in Toronto. These gals are in their first year of production, and already making a name for themselves. Their new online store has just launched, and my mom and I were among the first to order. Our goodies arrived yesterday, and I'm stoked. I will be making the "are you wholesaling yet?" call later this afternoon:)

New Tunes

2012-01-25T13:45:00.000-08:00

This song has been stuck in my head for the past few weeks. After seeing Walk Off The Earth's YouTube cover, I searched out Gotye's original, and have probably watched both versions of the video 20 times each. Can't get this song out of my head, so now I pass it on to you. Also, check out Walk Off The Earth preforming it live on Ellen! Awesome!

Points to remember...

2012-01-08T13:26:00.000-08:00

Over the past year, we've been working closely with Kate from Sea to Sky Babies to bring cloth diapering to our store. She puts on monthly workshops for free, and answers the bazillions of questions that new parents generally have when it comes to reusable diapers. Check out the latest Vitamin Daily article about the 5 myths of cloth diapering. Once a new parent has made the decision to cloth diaper, there seems to be an adjustment period, and more questions that arise. Here are our top 2 things to remember.

1) Be patient. Obviously every baby is different. Skinny legs, Buddha bellies etc. All these factors effect the fit of the cloth diaper. Chances are, you'll have to try a few different brands to determine which works best for your wee one. There are tons of options out there, so try a few brands before you commit to just one. You'll probably find that certain diapers work better for nighttime, while others are better for your baby-on-the-move. Bum Genius Free Time All in Ones, and Oh Katy Pocket Diapers are both great options. Check out Sea to Sky Babies inventory in person at Agnes Jean Boutique.

2) Research your creams and detergents. Zinc based bum creams and common detergents will effect the diaper's absorbency. They will leave a residue on the diaper which will repel as opposed to absorb. If you're experiencing leaks, run your diaper under a small amount of water as a test. If the water beads off, you have a residue issue and stripping the diapers is necessary. Check out Rockin Green Detergents and All Things Jill Bum Balm for cloth diaper friendly options!

Happy Diapering!

so long 2011!

2011-12-30T16:27:00.000-08:00

Well, it's that time again. Time to look over the past year and reflect on everything that's happened- the good and the bad. Instead of making a resolution that I almost never keep, I like to take a look at the year that has just passed, write down what comes to mind as I think about it all. Take the time and appreciate the new relationships I've made, the ones I've lost, my personal accomplishments and disappointments and everything in between. More often then not, I usually find myself thinking "this is not where I thought I'd be when I grew up". No, 12 year old self, I'm not an accomplished-archaeologist-wealthy-mother-of-10-who's-cured-cancer, but I'm doing pretty good. So here's to 2011- thanks for the memories! Have a fantastic New Years, whatever you do, and we'll see you next year!

Great Gift Idea!

2011-12-15T14:53:00.000-08:00

New in the store and just in time for Christmas are these amazing handmade ceramic travel mugs. Nancy popped into the shop last week to see if we'd be interested in carrying her mugs. Needless to say, we love them! They're a functional piece of art, and an amazing gift for the pottery lover in your family, or that person on the go. Available in all different shapes, sizes and colours.

Let the countdown begin!

2011-12-08T18:30:00.000-08:00

The season is in full swing, and we're ready for it at the store! Christmas tunes playing all day (don't worry, we've got some good ones), holiday window done, and fully stocked with goodies for everyone in the family. It's a great weekend to get your tree up and decorated, and we've got some amazing felted and paper mache ornaments.

Check them out on our online store or pop in downtown Squamish for a visit!

2011-11-30T16:33:00.001-08:00

Sure to make you smile too!!

2011-11-22T21:09:00.000-08:00

I received this photo in my inbox this morning and it certainly made me smile, so I thought that I would share it with everyone! It is definitely a one in a million shot....

New Photos

2011-11-19T11:03:00.000-08:00

It's been forever since we've had photos done of the store. The older photos are well done, and captured our store beautifully, but things don't look like that anymore. We've changed a lot over the years- my sister is constantly bringing in new finds, and getting inspiration from everywhere. I sometimes don't see her vision right away, but it always comes together, and I'm always willing to try whatever she's got in mind. She literally dreams things up, calls me in the morning and says "I've got an idea!". These ideas have included 1950's fridges (VERY heavy!), vintage sewing machines, and loads of pieces that "just need a little love". Georgia has an uncanny ability to see the potential in something that looks like junk to most people. Here are a few photos that our friend Megan Daly took the other day. Thanks to Megan for capturing our store so nicely!!! Can't wait to see the others!

Feeling Festive

2011-11-16T13:54:00.000-08:00

Snowing in Squamish today, and I'm feeling a bit crafty and festive. I've been wanting to try this project for some time, and it's working out very well. Take old Christmas or chandelier light bulbs, coat them in glue and roll them in glitter. Remember- glitter likes to stick to everything and anything!

Ways to Wear a Scarf

2011-11-14T11:22:00.000-08:00

Need some new inspiration for a scarf? Check out this website or this video we recently posted to our Facebook page for some amazing ideas on how to wear your scarf!

Great Ideas!

2011-11-02T14:31:00.000-07:00

Love this idea from the Hip Baby blog courtesy of a great blog out of the UK! Old markers = new water colours! Can't wait to try this out.

Soda Pop Hazards

2011-07-27T12:21:00.000-07:00

I have a new obsession with the website Pinterest. It's like an online bulletin board where you can "pin" all the things you come across while surfing the net without having to remember each, individual website. Recently, I came across and "pinned" this breakdown of all the hazards of drinking soda. Check it out below or click here for a full size version.

Father's Day Ideas!

2011-06-16T15:10:00.000-07:00

We're trying something new at Agnes Jean, and it's perfect timing for Father's Day and BBQ season. Our home decor section has been growing steadily with goodies to liven up your cooking. We couldn't resist bringing in Rufus Teague's highly recommended BBQ sauces from Kansas City. Made from all natural ingredients and gluten free, try the "Touch o' Heat" or the "Honey Sweet" for $8.99 a bottle. Also new in store, tasty rubs from The Metropolitan Chef of Port Alberni have hit the shelves. Choose from 4 different flavours: Pacific Seafood Rub, Beer Can BBQ Chicken Rub, West Coast Salmon Rub or BBQ Steak & Rib Rub for $3.99 a pack. Stop in the next time you're downtown Squamish, or, check out on online store for the latest arrivals.

2011-06-09T15:28:00.000-07:00

Cloudy day? No problem!

ReMake It! $14.95

Crafts with Kids $17.95

Making Books $14.95

Flat Tires=Great Bags!

2011-06-02T15:10:00.000-07:00

New Flat Bags have arrived from Nelson, BC. These durable bags and wallets are made from recycled bike tubes and reclaimed fabrics. Pop by the shop and check out the new Summer colours!

Summer... sigh....

2011-05-24T11:24:00.000-07:00

A little blast of summer from our trip to Thornbury, Ontario last week. Can't wait for the summer weather to hit Squamish- and stick around for a little while!!

Gourmet Cooking!

2011-05-03T13:45:00.000-07:00

Since the sun is trying to shine a little more often, that means that fresh, local produce is on its way. I have built two fairly large vegetable boxes to start my own mini-farm, and I am so excited. To help with these renewed culinary endeavours, we have started carrying Whistler's Nonna Pias Balsamic Reductions...available in Classic, Rosemary & Strawberry + Fig. So dig in and enjoy!

We love Elroy Apparel

2011-04-23T16:41:00.000-07:00

New arrivals from Elory Apparel this week- very exciting stuff!

Above: Zahra Dress $105- 60% Pineapple (yes! Pineapple!), 30% silk, 10% Viscose
Middle: Poppy Jacket $130 65% Hemp, 30% Cotton, 5% Spandex
Bottom: Raffia Dress $115 55% Hemp, 40% Cotton, 5% Spandex

It's Easy Being Green....

2011-04-19T12:09:00.000-07:00

Above: Little Dump Truck $10, Linen Lithe Pants $92, Full Flower Cosmetic Bag $40 and Daydream Romper $28. Available at Agnes Jean Boutique.

Cloth Diapers

2011-04-14T16:38:00.000-07:00

For us, cloth diapers are a no brainer. Yes, it takes some getting used to, but once you have your diapering system set up, you'll see it's not all that hard. Cloth diapers have come a long way from the folding and pinning of your parents/grandparent's day. Now, snaps, velcro, and even flushable and compostable options, make cloth diapers easy for anyone, anywhere. Plus they're just so darn cute! We've recently started working with Kate from Sea to Sky Babies, and are so excited to offer a great selection of diapers and accessories here at the store.

Contact Sea to Sky Babies to sign up for the next free diaper workshop happening May 29th at Agnes Jean Boutique!

Handy Little Bins...

2011-03-26T08:33:00.000-07:00

Just in....these fabulously handmade fabric storage bins are great for keeping things organized! Made in Pemberton BC, these little gems tie up any loose ends. Also great for putting a cute little potted plant in!

Hooray for Colour!!

2011-03-25T16:39:00.000-07:00

Kelly B Couture from Venice, California, does not shy away from colour- and good thing, cause we love it! Three new styles have arrived in store, and like always are moving fast. The soft fabrics, great fits and bold colours are a great way to brighten up your Spring wardrobe. We can't seem to get enough of Kelly B's "hibiscus" colour!
Left: Cypress Batwing Shirt $114
Middle: Coco Ruffle Cardigan $148
Bottom: Cedar Voile Dress $189

Yummy Spring!

2011-03-21T13:22:00.000-07:00

It is March 21 and Spring arrived yesterday! Yippee. We are ready and waiting for the sun to start shining. Lots of bright coloured SKIRTS, DRESSES, TEES, etc are filling the store.

It's also that time of year again to dust off the gardening gloves, rakes and shovels and start to prepare our veggie and flower gardens. We have some great GARDENING BOOKS in stock with lots more to come this season.

Simple Shoes- "if they were called "difficult" no one would wear them!"

2011-03-16T13:08:00.000-07:00

New designs from Simple Shoes arrived in the store this week, and are moving fast! Simple Shoes have now been around for over 20 years and are still going strong. Using materials like recycled car tires for the soles, natural rubber, and certified organic cotton these shoes are stylish, comfortable and environmentally friendly!
The following styles are available at Agnes Jean or our online store
Take on Elastic $84

Aloha! Sneakers $84

Hola! Microperf Slip-Ons $74

Food for Thought...

2011-03-05T16:45:00.000-08:00

As the first signs of Spring start to appear, I can't help but think of gardening, and, of course, farmer's markets. Let's face it, food is getting expensive. And the more gas prices go up, the more food prices will too. Buying locally and growing your own is becoming increasingly important. I planted my first veggie garden last spring, and was so excited to see the progress. Yes, there were some failures (cursed eggplant!) but the successes were well worth the time. I had more carrots then I knew what to do with. Carrot Ginger soup for everyone!

We've been preparing for Spring in the store, and we're excited to have some new garden and cook books. Jamie's Food Revolution has become a fast favorite, and I definitely spent a lot of time with Grow Great Grub by Gayla Trail last summer.

Make sure you check out the next Squamish Farmer's Market- Winter Market happening Saturday March 12th at the Railway Heritage Park!

Sunna Designs Pottery

2011-03-03T18:03:00.000-08:00

There's something about locally made pottery. I love the look, I love the feel, and I love that it's a usable piece of art. I love the slight differences between each piece, reminding me that someone made this, and it's totally unique. It's a functional work of art, and I can't get enough of it.

Sunna Designs by Amy Hazeldine is exactly that kind of pottery. Unique, modern and a great addition to any kitchen. Handmade by Amy in Pemberton, BC, Sunna is a perfect addition to our store. Make sure you stop by the store for a peak!

Available at Agnes Jean Boutique downtown Squamish, or our online store

Rice Bowl with Chopsticks- available in violet, teal or blue ($34)

White ceramic mugs with dots ($30 each)

Sake Set with handcrafted walnut tray. The perfect wedding gift! ($120)

Spring has Sprung....

2011-02-25T16:49:00.000-08:00

Well, maybe not outside, but definitely in the store. New Spring clothing arriving all the time! Plus these amazing one-of-a-kind leather flower brooches! Stephanie from Upcycled brought in her amazing creations last week and they're a huge hit! Made from old leather jackets, these brooches are a perfect way to brighten up your wardrobe.

photo credit: Cinci Csere
Available in various colours, $20 each.

POSSUM UMBRELLAS ARE HERE!!

2011-02-16T20:38:00.000-08:00

Wow, has it ever been raining these past few days...to keep us all dry and smiling, Vancouver's Possum Umbrellas have just arrived!

I have been waiting eagerly for their arrival with my window display in mind. So excited to hang crystals in the window as rain drops and have the umbrellas opened up - they look so great! Possum umbrellas come in an array of super fun colours and patterns, including birds, circles + poppies and they all have a multi-functional pouch that folds out into a carrier tote bag!
They are all original prints screen printed by hand, designed in Vancouver and ethically manufactured with fair labour and wages.

Drop by the store to get out of the rain and grab a Possum umbrella to keep you dry and cheery! They are also available at www.agnesjean.com

A Successful Trunk Show!

2011-02-06T09:16:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who came out for yesterday's MOVEMENT DESIGN'S Trunk Show and Sale. It was a huge success and loads of fun! The line was well represented and everyone could see how all of the different pieces work together to create a variety of outfits. Versatility is key.

We do have a bit of stock left over, some of the ever-popular Flow Pants, Gina Cowls and Margarita Wrap dresses are on the rack, as well as the new Sonia wrap and Hannah Skirt (pictured here) which were big sellers yesterday. Pop by to check them out.

Also, NEW Spring goodies are starting to arrive this week, so hang on to your hats - it's going to be good!

Phthalates Restricted in Canadian Children's Products!!

2011-02-03T14:58:00.000-08:00

Great News! On January 18, 2011, the Canadian government announced new regulations to restrict the use of six common phthalates in children's products, including toys, soft vinyl pacifiers, teether, rattles, bottle nipples, etc. Phthalates are recognized hormone disrupting chemicals used as softening agents in the manufacture of certain plastics, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is widely considered an extremely hazardous consumer product as well as one of the most harmful plastics to the environment. They are also used in air fresheners and perfumes to maintain a product's lingering fragrance.

This action follows the lead of Europe and the USA, where the same six phthalates have also been restricted to 0.1% (or 1000ppm) or less by weight in children's products. It is a significant change given that the concentration of phthalates in PVC toys is usually in the range of 10% to 40% of the total weight. Phthalates have been linked to various serious health problems, including allergies, diabetes, and weight problems in children, early puberty in girls, testicular cancer in men, as well as urinary tract and testicular malformation in young boys.(excerpt taken from Life Without Plastic)

Way to go Canada, and here's hoping that the push to ban phthalates all together will soon take place.

If you're looking for non-toxic toys for babies, check out Agnes Jean's new online store, or drop by our location in person!!

For further information and sources please read the following:

Environmental Defence Blog (Canada)

CBC News Article - Phthalates: Soft plastic's hidden hazard

Health Canada Press Release and summary of new regulations

NEED HELP WITH FAMILY?

2011-02-02T14:34:00.000-08:00

So, my mother has just moved to Squamish from Ontario and is looking to start up her own gig for helping people out. This is her thing....

CATHY-FOR-HIRE
Relief / Home Care Support

Offering companionship, appointments, pickups, groceries, light household duties, house-sitting and pet care.

Are you a family who needs help with a loved one?

Are you an elderly person who needs a helping hand?

Are you a caregiver or a new mom who just needs a break?

Cathy has many years experience with seniors and elderly (including those with Alzheimer's and Dementia), and with babies and young children

Trustworthy and Professional
Police Check
First Aid Certificate

NO JOB TOO SMALL ($15 - $18 PER HOUR)

Excellent References available

Please call 604 848 4045 or email cathylancey@gmail.com

Dirty Dozen and Clean 15

2010-04-29T16:19:00.000-07:00

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has released an easy to use list of foods containing the most amount of pesticides, and those that contain the least. Buying organic foods is the most effective way of avoiding pesticides in our diet, but there are times when it's too expensive or difficult to find. The "Dirty Dozen" list gives consumers the knowledge of which fruits and vegetables to avoid when buying organic is not an option. Click here for EWG's complete Shopper's Guide.

Why Organic Cotton?

2010-02-26T17:51:00.000-08:00

Although many of us are conscious of what we put into our bodies, most of us are not as careful with what we put on them- especially when it comes clothing. Seems silly when the thing that touches our bodies all day every day, that we spend a fortune on, can be so harmful in every stage of production. Cotton is integrated into every part of our lives. We sleep on it, wear it, clean with it and rarely think about where, or how, it's made. Although it only takes up 3% of the world's farmland, cotton crops use over 25% of the world's insecticides: more then any other crop per unit! Take the cotton in your t-shirt for example, most of us are unaware that 1/3 of a pound of pesticides were used to create it. And according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 47% of these insecticides are considered "possible", "likely", "probable" or "known" human carcinogens.

But never fear, there are alternatives! Organic cotton is quickly becoming a well known option. Certified organic cotton farmers must adhere to strict guidelines. It's a process that takes years, since one of the main requirements states that pesticides must be discontinued for at least three years. All fertilizers must be natural and hormone free. In general, the method of growth must promote sustainability, which means composting and crop rotations to encourage biodiversity. By cotton farmers abstaining from pesticides, the birds and bees are happy and so are the humans that harvest it. Yes, it may be more expensive- but in the long run it's well worth it. And the more people who choose organic, the more crops grow it and the cheaper it gets! Certified organic cotton is a softer, thicker material with a longer lifespan that doesn't cause skin irritation, and won't harm farmers or the land on which it's grown. What more do you need to know?

LunchBots are back!

2010-02-19T14:00:00.000-08:00

Back by popular demand, LunchBots are a healthy alternative to plastic containers for packing meals. Different sizes and colours make these containers a perfect option for anyone on the go. Made from the highest quality 18/8 stainless steel, LunchBots do not leach chemicals like plastic does. Eco-friendly and reusable means saving money and the environment!!

Chloe Angus Wrap

2009-11-21T12:51:00.000-08:00

The Chloe Angus Wraps are back in stock! These wraps can be worn a million different ways- there's even a step by step instructional video on their website! Check it out here Available in either wool blend or bamboo, and a variety of different colours, it's this season's solution to a bulky sweater or jacket and can be worn dressed down with a pair of jeans or worn out with a cute dress. Great for all ages and sizes and is even a chic option for maternity or new mothers. Made in Canada, it's the perfect gift for the Holiday season.

Some Good Stuff

2009-10-16T17:10:00.000-07:00

In a time when we are being bombarded with information about all the terrible things happening in our world, it's refreshing to see the positive changes being made. People all over the planet are taking steps to reduce our impact, change our habits, and eliminate older, less efficient technologies. For me, it's more motivating to see progress, and get motivation through other people's actions. Here are a few examples of progress from "How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint":

** In Australia the sale of incandescent lightbulbs will be banned in 2010. California is planning to phase them out by 2012.

** Refillable plastic bottles are common in Scandinavia- you put your used bottles into a reverse vending machine and get your deposit back.

** Thanks to water saving publicity campaigns, water use in Finland has gone down by 40% in the last 20 years.

** Composting organic waste from the home saves approximately 30% of our trash from going to the landfill.

** Between 1994 and 2006, the value of U.S. agricultural products directly sold from farm to customer increased 37% from $592 million to $812 million.

** Organic farms have been found to contain 85% more plant species, 33% more bats, 17% more spiders and 5% more birds than nonorganic ones.

** A tax on plastic shopping bags in the Republic of Ireland has cut their use by more than 90%.

Plastic Plague

2009-09-05T14:45:00.001-07:00

We recently came across this National Geographic video about the damaging effects of plastics. Check it out- scary!!!! A good wake up call to help kick your plastic habits....

New Tea Thermos Has Arrived

2009-03-20T15:33:00.000-07:00

For those of you who love to drink tea...

I have just come across this fabulous new B.C. - based line called Libre Tea....They have designed a very chic loose leaf tea on-the-go thermos and it is absolutely fabulous!! They just arrived and they are flying off the shelves.

The Libre tea glasses are leak-proof and thermal with removable stainless steel filters. They have a heat-resistant GLASS interior for great taste and are non-leaching!! So no plastic tasting tea. Yummy! The exteriors are made of a durable polycarbonate and the cap is made of BPA-free polypropylene.

So easy to use and to carry with you everywhere you go! I am loving mine. You should check them out!

The Truth About Plastic Bags

2008-09-23T15:45:00.000-07:00

The plastic bag is an accepted part of Canada’s shopping culture, but it shouldn’t be. Every year we use over 9 billion plastic shopping bags in Canada. That’s 17,000 bags a minute.

Here are 10 things you need to know about plastic bags:

1. Canadians use 9-15 billion plastic shopping bags every year. Is that number too big to think about? Then picture this: if we tied 9 billion bags together they would circle the earth 55 times.
2. Plastic bags are made from non-renewable resources. Just 8.7 plastic shopping bags contain enough embodied petroleum energy to drive a car 1 km.
3. Five minutes versus 1000 years. The average plastic bag is used for five minutes to carry your purchases home, yet these single use plastic bags can take up to 1000 years to break down.
4. Plastic bag recycling is inefficient. The market price for recycled bags in Canada is $55 per tonne which is about 150,000 bags. The energy and funds required to collect and process plastic bags far exceeds the $55 market price after recycling. Recycling plastic bags just isn't worth it.
5. Plastic bags kill birds, wildlife, and livestock. Plastic bags are known to kill sea birds, sea mammals and fish. Turtles, dolphins, and whales can choke or starve by confusing plastic bags for jellyfish. On land, plastic bags kill birds, livestock, and deer.
6. Plastic bags block drains, leading to flooding. Plastic shopping bags have been banned in Mumbai, India, and in Bangladesh after they were blamed for clogging drains and sewers, leading to severe floods that killed over 1000 people in 2005.
7. Every piece of plastic ever made still exists. There are approximately 46,000 pieces of plastic floating in each square mile of the world’s oceans. In some places there's more plastic than plankton. Plastic bags are in the top 12 items of debris most often found in coastal cleanups.
8. Plastic bags don’t biodegrade, they photodegrade. Photodegradation is a chemical reaction between plastic and sunlight. It means that the plastic bags break down into smaller and smaller toxic bits contaminating soil and waterways and entering the food web when animals accidentally ingest them. Yuck!
9. Canadian plastic bags have been found as far away as Scotland. Because plastic bags are easily transported by wind and water they can travel great distances. Plastic bags are now common everywhere from Spitsbergen (78° North latitude) to the Falkland Islands (51° South latitude).
10. Not all litter is deliberate. Up to 47% of wind borne litter escaping from landfills is plastic, mainly plastic bags. These end up in our forests, grasslands, waterways, and oceans. Approximately 80% of marine trash is swept by wind and rain off highways, streets, and landfills, down streams and rivers, and out to sea.
11. Reusable bags are the solution. A sturdy, reusable bag will last for years, and only needs to be used 5 times to have a lower environmental impact. Buy a bag at Agnes Jean Boutique today!

Information obtained by the following resources: www.greenerfootprints.com