Local Buys: Summer 2023

Soaps from Scratch

MB Soap Co., Creemore

Beer. Soap. Each excellent on their own. But Megan Brozic and her Creemore company MB Soap Co. combine the two to yield a sudsy, exfoliating shower superhero thanks to the malted barley and natural amino acids in the hops – Creemore Springs Premium Lager in particular. The new blend joins Megan’s bestselling Lavender Eucalyptus soap, made with essential oils and coloured with natural clays and botanicals, just like her entire lineup. (Soap, $10)  @mbsoapco

Table Stakes

Jardin Bleu, Creemore

Patty Lant crafts a range of linens for home and patio under her Creemore label Jardin Bleu. She renders her trademark napkins and reversible table runners in soft, muted colours and classic prints. Patty also takes custom orders for duvet covers, curtains and cushion covers. And her fabrics of choice are sustainably sourced Belgian flax linen and vintage cottons and cotton-linen blends. The pieces are easy to care for; simply machine wash and hang to dry or tumble dry on low. Ironing is optional, depending on who’s coming for tea. (Cocktail napkins 6-pack, $36. Dinner napkins $10–$13 each) @jardinbleu_linens

Modern Embroidery

How Lovely How Twisted, Ballinafad & Toronto

Rachel Mein’s whimsical embroidery business How Lovely How Twisted started with clever pin and badge designs. Now, bigger canvases beckon. Her floral-embossed cotton totes are the perfect hold-alls to carry on summer adventures. The Ballinafad-based artist also sources vintage clothing from thrift stores and secondhand boutiques to liven up with modern stitching – think campy fruit designs to 1980s-inspired squiggles. (Tote bags, from $45) @howlovelyhowtwisted