Tag Archives: non toxic

Just the Goods Newsletter – Winter/Spring 2019

Happy new year! I hope this message finds you rested and well, and enjoying a wonderful start to 2019!

As you may know, I like to share a newsletter 3 or 4 times a year, and this one is intended to provide a coupon code,  future product info, and details about an upcoming giveaway opportunity. In this newsletter, you’ll also find a head’s up on a two temporary absences that may affect production/shipping, my tips for at-home pedicures, and more!

Thank you so much for welcoming me to handcraft healthier skin and body care products for you! I look forward to keeping in touch for years to come!

Warmly,
Milena

 

petal, leaf, root. by Just the Goods Sale

If you follow Just the Goods on Instagram or Facebook, you might already know that I’m having a lil’ sale on petal, leaf, root. by Just the Goods products, just because 😉  Take 15% off all products from this 100% organic line with coupon code “15in2019” until the end of January.

  

Beyond this, I’m excited to announce that research is well underway for the next range in petal, leaf, root. by Just the Goods — 100% organic cleansing grains, toner, mask, and serum for oily skin! Many of you have been asking about this, and to be honest, my naturally oily skin has been asking me to get going on this, as well! *haha* Thank you so much for your enthusiasm about the first releases in this line, which makes it possible for me to expand! I’m thrilled!

And, in case you were wondering, there won’t be a new facial steam created for oily/congested skin since the primary Just the Goods line already has something quite fantastic featuring organic lavender petals, organic parsley leaf and juniper berries, so I’d be hard pressed to improve on something that already works so well 😉 If you’re curious to know more about this existing item, please visit: https://justthegoods.net/products/just-the-goods-facial-steam-for-oily-skin

 

Upcoming Giveaway
 

Just the Goods has been proudly certified cruelty-free by the Leaping Bunny program since 2013 and from time to time I get to enjoy the fun of co-hosting a giveaway with them! On February 11 we’ll be teaming up to give away a full-sized bottle of petal, leaf, root. by Just the Goods cleansing grains for normal/sensitive skin so, if you’re on Instagram, be sure to follow @leapingbunnyprogram to learn how to get in on this opportunity!

Photo by @hexmetalsminerals

 

Planning Ahead: Short Absence in March; Slightly Longer One in April/May

In March I’ll be attending a herbal medicine making workshop at The Institute of Traditional Medicine in Toronto, so I’ll be away from the lab March 7 – 12, returning on March 13. I’ll be making extra large batches in the days before my departure, and Amanda will continue shipping during my absence, so I don’t imagine any orders will be delayed during this time. However, if you definitely need to receive something ASAP early-to-mid March, please order before Feb 22 to ensure your order is shipped by March 1. Thank you!

This is also advance notice about a two week absence from Friday April 26 – Monday May 13. As usual, I’ll make extra large batches before I leave, and Amanda will continue shipping, but since this is a more lengthy absence, I’d like to suggest ordering by April 19 to ensure your order is handmade and shipped by April 26. Thank you again!

 

At Home Pedicure Tips

  

When you think about it, foot calluses are quite interesting because even though most people don’t like having them, they can be useful signals from our body. 

For example, if you have any foot, ankle, knee, or hip problems, the location of calluses on your foot could indicate where your body is trying to compensate for an imbalance. One way to prevent these calluses from forming would be to get an insole for your shoe that helps establish better equilibrium. Many people can use generic varieties sold in stores, but in cases where joint pain is pronounced, folks might need to visit a certified Pedorthists for a set of custom orthotic insoles.

Of course, calluses also form to protect the foot from blisters resulting from frequent rubbing of the foot against a shoe. In that case, it helps to thoughtfully pair socks and shoes to minimize both slipping and excess pressure. Adhesive heel cushions and toe pads are useful in shoes not designed to be worn with socks.

With respect to removing calluses, this is something I’ve been thinking about for years, and I’ve picked up some tips through trial and error… but mostly error especially where the long term impacts of certain methods are concerned.

I used to file my feet daily (especially the side of each big toe and around the heels), but it seemed to get worse and worse over time, and *even worse* after each professional pedicure. It wasn’t until I coincidentally learned about bricklaying [and how bricklayers used to rub their hands on bricks to intentionally form calluses as a means of protecting their hands back in the days before suitable gloves were readily available] that I realized filing triggers skin to form calluses for protection from the very abrasion being used to file. And yes, I also tried the blade method (introduced to me at a spa), but I discovered it’s just as bad, if not worse due to risk of injury. And yes, I have tried chemical exfoliating, too… It worked nicely the first time, but did almost nothing the second and third time I tried.

After all my trial and error, what I recommend is the following at night (weekly or more often as desired):

  • soak feet in comfortably warm water for 20 minutes. Add a bath salt to the water that contains epsom salt — also known as magnesium sulfate — to help soften and lift dead skin. In some ayurvedic treatments, I’ve soaked my feet in oil, but while this is very effective, it can be cost prohibitive to do at home on a regular basis
  • lightly exfoliate with a gentle scrub (not hard, high pressure filing)
  • apply a thick plant-based moisturizer and put on a fresh pair of socks to allow the feet to absorb as much moisture as possible overnight. Remember: petroleum based products do not impart nutritional value into the skin; all it does it create the illusion of moisture is draw moisture from deeper layers of skin to the surface. Use of petrochemical products can contribute to drier skin and even cracks
  • in the morning, apply moisturizer again — it doesn’t have to be as thick if you’re worried about an unpleasant slip in your shoes kind of feeling 😉

If you would like to try any of the products I offer, here are some links:

 

Cool News!

  

On January 16 I received news that Brooklyn Decker was a guest on Mom Brain — a podcast co-hosted by Hilaria Baldwin and Daphne Oz — and she mentioned JTG’s deodorant! As she explained, her mom introduced her to it and she has been enjoying it ever since. So awesome! I’m grateful to the client that shared this news with me — I was both surprised and delighted to listen in on this conversation shared so far and wide. It’s so cool to discover all the ways Just the Goods make their way out into the world =-) Thanks again for your shout out, Brooklyn!

 

Keep in Touch!

Don’t forget, the best way to keep in touch for the latest Just the Goods news – especially deadline reminders relating to temporary lab closures – is via social media: 

 

Final Note

You are receiving this newsletter because — as per the conditions outlined by the Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation that came into effect July 1, 2014 — you’ve been in touch with Just the Goods in the past either by making a purchase or requesting wholesale information within the last two years, or you have chosen to remain subscribed to this quarterly newsletter rather than choosing to click the unsubscribe link at the base of each of each one. With that said, if you would prefer to no longer receive communications from Just the Goods, please let me know and I will remove your email address immediately. And of course, you may also unsubscribe using the link below =-).

As always, thank you for your ongoing support! It is an absolute pleasure to handcraft natural skin and body care products, providing a healthier, small-scale alternative to the corporate “beauty industry”. I wouldn’t be able to do it without you!

With all my best,
Milena 

Just the Goods (Winnipeg, MB)
handmade natural + affordable skincare for everyone
http://www.justthegoods.net

Just the Goods Newsletter – Spring 2018

Hello!

Today is May Day, an opportunity to recognize the value of our collective labour and to remind ourselves of the importance of work/life balance. Today is also Beltane, the festival that confirms Spring has sprung and anticipates the hot days of summer with a celebration of fire, flowers, and more. It is in the intersection of these two meaningful occasions that Just the Goods was created 9 years ago. I know I write this every year, but I still can’t – honestly and truly – believe that I get to independently handcraft skin and body care products each day! It is thanks to your ongoing interest that I can do this, and I appreciate that so very much ❤

If you follow Just the Goods on social media, you may already know about some of the news contained within. However, in the event that you don’t, please read on for news about a fun giveaway, new products, and an international shipping update =-)

Thank you as always for making Just the Goods what it is! I love handmaking skin care products for you, and always appreciate keeping in touch!

Warmly,
Milena

 

#justthegoods turns 9 today… Let’s have a giveaway!

As noted above, today marks 9 years of handmaking plant-based cruelty-free skin and body care products as Just the Goods. Some elements of JTG such as a commitment to non-binary and gimmick-free safe cosmetics offered at public wholesale rates has remained steadfast all this time; however, some things have changed including, for example, shiny new product labels!

To celebrate 9 years of Just the Goods, it’s new look, and the fact that I love seeing photos of your orders on Instagram, I’m hosting a giveaway open to all clients.

Enter to win one of three $25 CAD gift certificates by sharing a photo of your past, current, or future order on Instagram with the hashtag #justthegoods. If your account is private, please tag @just.the.goods so I can see and include your entry.

One image from all of the photos shared within the month of May will be selected by random drawn on June 1, 2018. One image from all photos shared in June will be drawn on July 1, and one image from all photos shared within the month of July will be drawn on August 1.

Each of the three randomly selected winners will be contacted via Instagram and will be awarded a $25 CAD gift certificate to be used at justthegoods.net toward their choice of JTG products and/or shipping. Please visit https://tinyurl.com/JTG-IG-Giveaway for full details… including how to enter if you’re not on Instagram.

I think this will be a fun way to keep in touch, and I hope you enjoy participating! Thank you helping to make Just the Goods what it is today — it is always a pleasure to handmake your orders, and I look forward to doing so for many more years to come ❤

 

Limited Edition Four Elements Conditioning Hair Rinse

This unique item was created while studying herbal correspondents to the four elements — I noticed that my four lists each included a herb I already knew to be fabulous for use in hair care, so I mixed one part of one each, let it infuse into cold water overnight, and used it as a hair rinse the next morning. Oh wow!! The results were fantastic — soft and shining hair that was easy to comb *and* it gave me a tangible example of herbal balance in action ❤

This blend features USDA Organic and EcoCert ingredients as well as one home garden grown 😊

  • Slippery elm – earth – detangles while promoting smooth texture and shine
  • Lavender – air – contributes volume
  • Rosemary – fire – stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, which can contribute to hair growth, while also moisturizing scalp and adding shine
  • Catnip – water – moisturizes and conditions

In case you’re curious, no, your cat will not likely be attracted to this blend because the catnip is mixed with so many other things. Mine wasn’t, anyway 😉 Oooh, and please note that this product is probably not suitable for chemically lightened hair because rosemary may potentially cause it to darken.

I had enough slippery elm on hand to make 10 jars, and have noticed that one is already spoken for, so there are 9 remaining at the time of this post ❤ If there is enough demand, I’ll order more slippery elm and make more ❤ Enjoy!!

 

Exciting new range coming soon

Cleansing grains, toner, facial steam, mask and serum… These new formulas are just about finished, the packaging has been selected, the graphic designer has started on the new look, and I can barely contain my excitement. Something very special for Just the Goods is aiming to launch at the end of Summer and I can’t wait to share all the details! Stay tuned!

 

Reminder regarding international shipping… Plus a little more info…

As mentioned in February, Canada Post rates have risen again and, while clients in the US can still take advantage of delivery via USPS domestic mail, it is more challenging for folks abroad.

The good news, however, is that clients in Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Portugal, Romania, and Quatar have successfully received their orders through re-shipping through consolidators such as ViaBox and Borderlinx!

What do re-shippers do? They…

  • provide you with a US mailing address that you can use when ordering online
  • receive parcels at that address on your behalf
  • ship your order together with other orders to their warehouse in your region
  • re-ship your parcel to you from their warehouse

And yes, since it is far more affordable for me to ship to addresses in the US than it is to ship within Canada thanks to USPS offering light packet rates, this can make a huge difference for clients in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and South America to ship to the US and let a re-shipper take care of the rest.

Indeed, re-shipping is far more affordable than shipping parcels individually, and it’s better for the environment, too! I encourage you to find which service best serves your region.

I hoped to integrate this into my website but companies like Borderlinx would need me to guarantee a minimum of 150-200 international parcels per month, but that is not currently attainable. Instead I encourage folks to let me know how things go with the re-shipper of their choice – when you have a good experience with a company that primarily serves your region, please do let me know and I can include your recommendations on my website for the benefit of others =-)

The newest information about this topic is that I’m looking into offering international shipping via USPS instead of Canada Post so you can get lower rates *AND TRACKING* with every order at no extra charge. Currently Amanda checks both sets of rates before shipping orders and, in cases where USPS is more affordable, we automatically make the switch and refund the difference. What I am working on is having USPS rates appear to you at checkout so you can compare Canada Post with USPS and UPS and make your choice accordingly. I have found a provider, and now need to do some work behind the scenes to make my web store compatible with their app… I hope it works and I’ll keep you posted!!

 

Keep in Touch!

Don’t forget, the best way to keep in touch for the latest Just the Goods news – especially deadline reminders relating to temporary lab closures – is via social media. Find me on Instagram @just.the.goods or on Facebook @justthegoods =-)

 

Final Note

You are receiving this newsletter because — as per the conditions outlined by the Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation that came into effect July 1, 2014 — you’ve been in touch with Just the Goods in the past either by making a purchase or requesting wholesale information within the last two years, or you have chosen to remain subscribed to this quarterly newsletter rather than choosing to click the unsubscribe link at the base of each of each one. With that said, if you would prefer to no longer receive communications from Just the Goods, please let me know and I will remove your email address immediately. And of course, you may also unsubscribe using the link below =-).

As always, thank you for your ongoing support! It is an absolute pleasure to handcraft natural skin and body care products, providing a healthier, small-scale alternative to the corporate “beauty industry”. I wouldn’t be able to do it without you!

With all my best,
Milena

Just the Goods (Winnipeg, MB)
handmade natural + affordable skincare for everyone
http://www.justthegoods.net

Just the Goods Newsletter – Winter 2017

Hello everyone!

Heavy snowfall and bracing winds in Winnipeg on Friday means that – without a doubt – it is officially winter! I haven’t had much chance to get out there and breathe in the crisp air, but I’m looking forward to embracing winter a little more this year than I have in the past thanks to the magic of a little more time 😉

Actually, scrolling down to review what I’ve written below, reveling in an increased availability of time since hiring in August seems to be a recurring theme in news about limited edition products, exciting shipping changes, and even advance notice regarding a few dates I’ll be away. It seems to be a bonus that keeps on bonusing… or something like that *lol* Please check it out!

Thank you everyone for your support as Just the Goods has shifted from a teeny tiny one person side-project [while I was still focusing on another full-time career, no less!] to what it has become today. I remain forever grateful to all of you over these past 8.5 years. Best wishes for a fabulous winter and happy new year, too!

Warmly,
Milena

Faster Shipping to the USA

Some of you may have already noticed that Just the Goods has been shipping parcels to the US via Runnin’ Red twice per week. We’re doing this on a trial basis throughout the months of November and December and, if all goes smoothly on our end, we’ll continue to do this into the new year. Which is to say that after approximately 3 months of Just the Goods being a two-person project, we’re starting to hit our stride — I’m able to focus on making larger batches and Amanda is packing and shipping and looking after so many other things like a star, whooo!

Some of you in other regions may have also noticed shorter turn around time, as well. This is because — whenever possible — we’re pulling orders forward from future production/shipping cycles into the current cycle, which is of course another benefit of handmaking larger batches. Behind the scenes tweaking and adjusting and rethinking of everything from raw materials procurement to paperwork processes has been a bit of an adventure, but it seems to be working out and I couldn’t be more thrilled. I hope it’s working out nicely for you, too!!

New Seasonal Product: Winter Solstice/Yule Ritual Bath and Lotion Set

The Wheel of the Year is almost finished yet another turn and with it – this – the fourth and final ritual bath and lotion set.

Winter solstice marks the longest night of the year after which the days slowly become longer. Festivities during this time celebrate the rebirth of the sun and honour the horned/antlered god, a symbol of natural wilderness and the cycle of life — when the two are paired in harmony, a bountiful spring will arise. Yule is therefore the perfect time to both indulge in much needed rest and spark new ideas with those closet to you to keep you going through the remaining cold months and to be ready to hop into action when the Earth re-emerges from slumber.

The bath salts and lotion to celebrate this season are both fresh, bright, zesty and invigorating like a deep breath of crisp fresh air.

Yule sea salt soak (270 g) features:

  • Cedar tips bring confidence, strength, protection, healing, and purification
  • Rose petals and rose otto cultivate love and friendship, and promote domestic peace/happiness, and lasting relationships, all of which are especially helpful as we spend more time together indoors
  • White spruce essential oil encourages adaptability, balance, clarity, enlightenment, intuition, and memory

Yule hand/body lotion (118 ml) features:

  • Blood orange inspires creativity and imagination as well as courage and strength. Requiring the cool of the night to develop and ripen, they are a perfect metaphor for the way we ourselves can blossom during the winter months
  • Juniper attracts healthy energies and love. It is also calming and grounding while fostering strength and transformation through learning, harmony and community

Find it here: https://justthegoods.net/products/winter-solstice-yule-bath-and-lotion-set

New Limited Edition Product: Meditation Enhancing Hair Perfume

Once I’ve established a formula, making new batches of it each week easily becomes part of my routine; however, there are a few things I’ve created for my own use that tend to feel quite personal. This is one case in point – an aromatherapeutic scent to facilitate quiet, generative meditation that helps mark the self-care time I need to manage chronic illness.

I don’t have a diffuser and sometimes want to be enveloped with scent rather than simply place it on my pulse points, so I created a hair perfume to settle my mind and focus my thinking. I also enjoy how it lingers with me in the most lovely way for several hours later – the initial notes are fresh, spicy, and cardamom forward, which then give way to the soft warmth of sweet vanilla-like benzoin.  The base of this perfume is rosewater, which doubles as a gentle conditioner cuz you know I love those multi-function creations 😉

Each element in this hair perfume was selected according to their aromatherapeutic values:

  • Geranium and lavender are centring
  • Cardamom is centring and focusing
  • Rosewater and neroli are both centring and uplifting

Beyond this…

  • Vetiver helps us connect to our roots so that we may ground and become present
  • Benzoin is widely regarded as helpful for meditation, but also encourages dreaming
  • Petitgrain clears the mind while also alleviating emotions such as anger, shock, and fear

Each 65 ml / 2.19 fl oz bottle comes in a white organza gift bag with 4 gemstones to hold or ponder as desired:

  • Amethyst chevron enhances relaxation to facilitate self-discovery and peace of mind
  • rose quartz opens the heart, increases self acceptance and the ability to love others
  • Moonstone provides the patience needed for inner work and grows intuition
  • Lapis lazuli clears the mind and is said to be a powerful thought amplifier. It furthermore is said to helps access the universal knowledge and cultivate the wisdom needed to understand it

Find it here: https://justthegoods.net/products/limited-edition-hair-perfume-meditation

Renewed Limited Edition Product: Matcha, Lavender + Jasmine Face Mask


Since you asked, yes, I have made some more matcha, lavender and jasmine face mask using organic matcha from AOI Matcha organic lavender from WestPoint Naturals in British Columbia ❤ It’s online now! There were 20 containers available and that the type of typing this newsletter, there were 19 😉  … I think I have enough matcha on hand to make 10 more this year, just in case 😉

Find it here: https://justthegoods.net/products/limited-edition-vegan-matcha-lavender-jasmine-facial-mask-for-most-skin-types​

Local Pick Up Continues

Great news! Parcel pick up at Organic Planet Worker’s Co-Op (877 Westminster Avenue – Wolseley, Winnipeg) continues to go well and will be available for the foreseeable future. As a gentle reminder, the pick up start date for you order is noted at check out, so before you complete your order, be sure to put that date into your calendar. The automated message indicating when orders are en route serve people in as many as 45 countries and I have to create a message that serves everyone in all circumstances, so when it says your order is ready to be shipped, locally that means orders will be ready for collection at OP anytime during their open hours within 4 weeks after the pick up date selected at check out. I hope this help =-) Thank you so much!

Upcoming Temporary Closure: December 23 – January 1

Since I’ve recently discovered the joys of evenings and occasional weekends for rest and personal time, I’m happy to announce that Just the Goods will be taking only one week away from the lab at the end of the year instead of the two weeks which as become customary. This will mean shorter turn around time for any orders placed mid-December to early-January.

Just the Goods will be closed Sat Dec 23 – Mon Jan 1

To ensure smooth production, Wednesday, December 13 will be the last day to place orders for shipping by Friday, December 22.  

In the case of local orders, December 13 will be the last day to place orders for pick up at Organic Planet beginning on December 23.

In both cases, orders placed December 14 – 29 will be handmade beginning on Jan 2 and ship as quickly as possible thereafter. JTG’s regular production/shipping cycle resumes with orders placed December 30 – January 5 shipping on January 12. Thank you!

We will be unable to check email during this holiday closure and look forward to responding to everyone upon our return.  Thank you!

Head’s Up: March 2 – 9

Additionally, please note that I will be away March 2 – 9, 2018 and that, in my absence, Amanda will continue to ship orders involving in-stock items. I will build up extra stock of the most popular items before I leave to facilitate smoothest possible order flow while I’m away and, upon my return, I’ll handmake any items that may have ran out or were otherwise unavailable. This is a completely new and different situation for Just the Goods – Amanda and I are feeling positive about it, and we hope you’ll enjoy the convenience of this, as well =-)

Ooh! I should say – I won’t have WiFi while I’m away, so I’ll look forward to responding to your messages as soon as I get back to work. Thank you!

Keep in Touch!

Don’t forget, the best way to keep in touch for the latest Just the Goods news – especially deadline reminders relating to temporary lab closures – is via social media. Find me on Instagram @just.the.goods or on Facebook @justthegoods 🙂

Final Note

You are receiving this newsletter because — as per the conditions outlined by the Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation that came into effect July 1, 2014 — you’ve been in touch with Just the Goods in the past either by making a purchase or requesting wholesale information within the last two years, or you have chosen to remain subscribed to this quarterly newsletter rather than choosing to click the unsubscribe link at the base of each of each one. With that said, if you would prefer to no longer receive communications from Just the Goods, please let me know and I will remove your email address immediately. And of course, you may also unsubscribe using the link below =-).

As always, thank you for your ongoing support! It is an absolute pleasure to handcraft natural skin and body care products, providing a healthier, small-scale alternative to the corporate “beauty industry”. I wouldn’t be able to do it without you!

With all my best,
Milena

Just the Goods (Winnipeg, MB)
handmade natural + affordable skincare for everyone
http://www.justthegoods.net

Just the Goods Newsletter – Autumn 2017

Hello everyone!

I hope you have been enjoying your first week back to school and/or work as the case may be, and otherwise settling nicely into Fall 🙂

This is my favourite time of year. I always loved back to school season and later – in my former career – I enjoyed what was the start of the new gallery programming season. To this day, I still associate September with new beginnings, and this is especially true after August being so full with exciting changes!

If you follow Just the Goods on social media, you may have noticed that – in addition to a fantastic new person joining JTG on a full-time basis, and another person starting part-time next week – we completed a great renovation to make the shipping/storage room more productive. And, if that wasn’t enough, JTG has new product labels on the way, as well! Each week has been busy with orders coming in at an increasing pace so much that – to be honest — I was really caught by surprise, but it’s thrilling to know changes made to shipping last year has helped Just the Goods become more accessible than ever. I’m so happy it’s working out!

If you are curious, a short video tour of the new shipping/storage room is available here: https://www.instagram.com/p/BYOYi4UB1ZT/

And, for a preview of the new product labels forthcoming, please click here: https://www.instagram.com/p/BYYh6_ghz09

In this newsletter you’ll find information about new and limited edition products, as well as advance notice regarding a temporary lab closure at the end of the year. There’s also great news for folks in Winnipeg, if they haven’t already spotted it at justthegoods.net 😉

Please read on for details but, before you do, please let me thank you for your ongoing interest in Just the Goods because it wouldn’t exist without you!

Warmly,
Milena

New Product: Autumnal Equinox/Mabon Ritual Bath and Lotion Set

The third ritual bath set in the solstice/equinox series for 2017 is now available! Marking the end of summer, Mabon reminds us that we reap what we sow and thus encourages us to be grateful for everything provided by the sun and soil while prompting us to wrap up incomplete projects because winter’s cold will soon demand that we turn all energy inward. Mabon is also the time of year when day and night become equal, so it’s an opportunity to find balance before the earth falls quiet with the symbolic death of winter.  This bath salt and lotion set features ingredients such as calendula, oak moss, sweetgrass and patchouli to create smoldering, earthy relaxation vibes.

Find it here: https://justthegoods.net/products/autumn-equinox-mabon-bath-and-lotion-set



 
Two New Limited Edition Products

Earlier this week I launched two limited edition items, each using ingredients that I came across rather serendipitously.

The first is a face mask using dehydrated organic strawberries from our greenhouse, which we weren’t expecting to harvest since wildlife enjoyed everything that sprouted earlier in the season. The total strawberry powder available after dehydrating and grinding was 17 g, which allowed me to make twelve 10 g jars. I hope to have even more luck with strawberries next year, but we’ll have to wait until then to find out! A few jars of this unanticipated offering remain and can be found here: https://justthegoods.net/products/limited-edition-vegan-strawberry-chamomile-mask-for-most-skin-types

The second item is, unfortunately, already sold out but – due to popular demand — I will be making a few more jars with the raw material that remains: coffee scented body butter! I’m not sure when I’ll be able to do this, but hopefully within the next few weeks. Please follow Just the Goods on Instagram for news as it becomes available. And, for more information about the product now, please visit: https://justthegoods.net/products/limited-edition-coffee-body-butter-fat-lye-soap-brew-duo

Local Pick Up Continues

Folks ordering from within Manitoba may have already noticed the option to select parcel pick up at Organic Planet Worker’s Co-Op throughout the month of August. Following a successful 4-week trial run, I’m delighted to announce that OP has agreed to continue this collaboration making it possible to pick up orders at 877 Westminster Avenue (Wolseley, Winnipeg).

If you have not already tried this option, please feel welcome to do so by selecting this at check out. The $4.00 charge associated with this options covers the cost of parcel packing and delivery to Organic Planet, as well as an honorarium for the awesome folks at the shop.

Orders will continue to be handmade/packed as part of a weekly cycle. When your order is complete, you’ll receive an automated message via email from justthegoods.net indicating that your order may be picked up at OP beginning the next day (that is, the same day noted at checkout). Since Organic Planet is a very small shop and is already packed full of fantastic organic and local products, I kindly ask that orders be picked up within 4 weeks. Orders can not be held longer than 4 weeks.

Thank you to everyone for their patience during the past few years as I explored a whole spectrum of pick up options at the lab, delivery by local bicycle courier, etc. I’m absolutely thrilled to be partnering with OP ❤

Upcoming Temporary Closure

I’m happy to announce that since I’ve very recently discovered the joys of evenings and occasional weekends for rest and personal time, Just the Goods will be taking only one week away from the lab at the end of the year instead of the two weeks which as been customary. This will mean shorter turn around time for any orders placed mid-December to mid-January.

Just the Goods will be closed Saturday December 23, 2017 – Monday January 1, 2018 inclusive. To ensure smooth production, Wednesday, December 13 will be the last day to place orders for shipping by Friday, December 22.

In the case of local orders, December 13 will be the last day to place orders for pick up at Organic Planet beginning on December 23.

In both cases, all orders placed December 14 – January 1 will be handmade beginning January 2 and be shipped January 5 or 12 depending on available inventory and ready for pick up at Organic Planet on January 13.

Thank you!

Keep in Touch!

Don’t forget, the best way to keep in touch for the latest Just the Goods news – especially deadline reminders relating to temporary lab closures – is via social media. Find me on Instagram @just.the.goods or on Facebook @justthegoods 🙂

 

Final Note

You are receiving this newsletter because — as per the conditions outlined by the Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation that came into effect July 1, 2014 — you’ve been in touch with Just the Goods in the past either by making a purchase or requesting wholesale information within the last two years, or you have chosen to remain subscribed to this quarterly newsletter rather than choosing to click the unsubscribe link at the base of each of each one. With that said, if you would prefer to no longer receive communications from Just the Goods, please let me know and I will remove your email address immediately. And of course, you may also unsubscribe using the link below =-).

As always, thank you for your ongoing support! It is an absolute pleasure to handcraft natural skin and body care products, providing a healthier, small-scale alternative to the corporate “beauty industry”. I wouldn’t be able to do it without you!

With all my best,
Milena

Just the Goods (Winnipeg, MB)
handmade natural + affordable skincare for everyone
http://www.justthegoods.net 

Handmade on a human scale

Hi everyone! Thank you so very much for all the orders that continue to flow in every hour of every day — I’m truly grateful for your enthusiastic interest!! ❤ ❤ ❤ I must admit, however, that this enthusiastic interest has become a lil’ bit overwhelming 😉

Just the Goods was formed almost 8 years ago as a part-time side-project to share the results of my personal research into safer plant-based and cruelty-free skin care. When I decided to launch beyond my circle of friends, I intentionally established public wholesale rates because I wanted to provide an affordable alternative to what I still perceive as unreasonable luxury branding in the world of natural skin care and cosmetics. I did the math and realized that yes, I could still make a modest living, and thus began my one-person eco-feminist anti-capitalist operation. Late 2013, I realized Just the Goods was becoming more popular than anticipated, so I decided to follow that excitement and make it my full time occupation. Since then JTG has continued to grow, particularly now that I am able to offer US clients more affordable shipping via USPS instead of international shipping via Canada Post.

Over the course of the past 3-4 months, orders have increased at a rather staggering rate. If I work 80 – 90 hours per week, I’m able to handmake enough product to ship anywhere from 150 – 200 orders on a weekly rotation, and I’ve been doing that quite consistently since September, but my body is really starting to protest. And, having reached the 200+ orders per week mark, I know I need to make some changes.

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Yes, I have explored hiring someone to work with me, but I’ve discovered that the time it takes to find, train, and coordinate with someone is actually time I don’t have. So, for now, I think the best option is to continue working alone, but to reinforce that Just the Goods is a one-person — I dare say “artesinal” — project committed to staying small and operating on a human scale. This means that I will continue to work as quickly as I can, but that I will also acknowledge my need to sleep, eat, and spend personal time with people I care about for the sake of my physical and emotional health, both of which are currently in decline.

If I decide that I have no option but to hire someone, please know that I will be obliged to raise prices, which is something I’ve worked *very hard* to avoid over the past 8 years, especially when the Canadian Dollar dropped in relation to the US Dollar. In the interim, I’ll be taking these steps:

  • Most orders will continue to be shipped within 5 – 7 business days, but some may take as long as 2 weeks to ship… hopefully not, but it could happen, so please accept my apologies in advance
  • I will not be able to resume local pick up services
  • I will not be able to undertake any custom orders, which includes modifying existing formulas
  • I will no longer be able to manually calculate alternative shipping rates as the rates on the website are very accurate and the best available for the service speeds they offer
  • I will sadly not be able to reply to all email messages (especially not those requesting free samples and/or coupon codes)
  • My response time to other messages will inevitably become much slower than it has in the past
  • I may start to remove some products/format variants from my catalogue of 150+ products

Since I currently work 7 days per week, every week, I’m going to do my best to take Thursdays off for sleep, exercise, friends, etc., as I’ve realized that the only way I can legitimately facilitate self-care for others is to ensure I take care of myself, too.

Thank you for making Just the Goods possible, and thank you in advance for your understanding. Please know that it has taken me a very long time to not only share my experiences, but to recognize how important it is to make these and other changes. I don’t take these decisions lightly and I offer this behind-the-scenes look because I’m learning that acknowledging vulnerability is not only healthy and healing, but an important challenge to the normative self-exploitation of capitalism.

xo
Milena

End-of-Year Production and Temporary Lab Closure News

Hello!! In case you were wondering, Just the Goods will be closed from December 18 – January 2 this year, which makes ✨ December 9 ✨ the last day to order for shipment in 2016.

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Orders received by this date will be mailed December 14 (USA), December 15 (Canada/International), or may be picked up at the lab on December 17 between 12 – 4 pm during a lil ‘open house with vegan treats prepared by Organic Planet Worker Co-Op 😊

Orders placed December 10 – January 2 will be handmade as quickly as possible upon my return 😊 Thank you!! ❄♥

Pretty scary… A disturbing report on the toxins lurking in makeup designed for children!

A shocking new report released by the Breast Cancer Fund’s Campaign for Safe Cosmetics revealed the
widespread presence of toxic chemicals in children’s shampoos, lip balms, makeup, nail products and
face paints.

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  • Labels revealed hormone disrupting parabens and preservatives that release the carcinogen
    formaldehyde.
  • Laboratory testing unmasked lead, a neurotoxicant, and cadmium, a hormone disruptor, in face
    paints.
  • Laboratory testing also revealed developmental toxicants like toluene and possible carcinogens, such as ethylbenzene and vinyl acetate in fragranced products.

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The presence of toxic chemicals in products marketed to children is of serious concern because kids are
especially vulnerable to the effects of toxic chemical exposures during critical windows of development.
Toxic chemicals don’t belong in kid’s makeup and face paint, especially when more and more science is
linking childhood exposures to cancer-causing chemicals and endocrine disrupting compounds to later in
life breast cancer or other diseases. Tell Congress to act now to make children’s health and safety a
priority!
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Click here to read the report: http://www.safecosmetics.org/prettyscary

Urge your U.S. Senators to support meaningful, health-protective federal cosmetic safety policy reform that protects children and other vulnerable populations.

We don’t have an active campaign like this going on in Canada right now, but your MP, MPP, and/or MLA needs to know about this issue. It’s a perfect time to contact them, as well sharing the information compiled by Breast Cancer Fund as it is still wholly relevant to everyone on this side of the border, too.

See you at Etsy Made in Canada Manitoba Edition on Saturday, September 24!

I’m delighted to announce that Just The Goods will be participating in this year’s Etsy Made in Canada – Manitoba Edition 2016 on Saturday, September 24 from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm at Neeginan Centre Inc. (181 Higgins Avenue, Winnipeg). Whoo!

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I’m planning to be at only two sales this year — and this is one of them — so it’ll be a great opportunity for us to meet in person!

I’ll attempt to bring as much as I can of my 150+ product catalogue, but since that’s awfully difficult to do, I readily welcome you to pre-order at http://www.justthegoods.net by September 18 using the coupon code

>> MadeinCanada2016 <<

Doing so will waive your shipping/local courier fee, and indicate to me that I should bring your order with me so you can pick it up at any time you wish during the official hours of the event. Super easy, and you’ll always get exactly what you want without having to worry about arriving in time. A great option, especially if you’re like me and prefer a late, leisurely breakfast 😉 *lol*

I’m looking forward to seeing you at this event! If it’s anything like last year’s inaugural event, this is going to be fantastic!!

ps. The graphic reads 11 – 4, but it’s definitely 10 – 4 🙂

Just the Goods Newsletter – Summer/Fall 2016

Exciting changes to US shipping, upcoming end-of-summer closure notice,
new limited edition product, and more!

Hello everyone,

Happy Summer! I hope you’re finding time to play in the sun, rest under trees, and watch plants and animals grow =-)

Summer/Fall 2016… Meep! No one wants to think about autumn quite yet, and it surely seems too soon for another newsletter, but I have *so* much to share and ultimately decided sending one extra communiqué this year will be worthwhile, especially for clients based in the US. Please read on for details…

Deepest thanks and best wishes always!
Milena

Shipping news for clients in the US

I am thrilled to announce that Just the Goods now ships to the US – from the US – via USPS, which means lower shipping rates for all US clients including access to flat rate shipping boxes (great for orders over 1 kg / 35 oz), and tracking + insurance automatically added to all parcels without additional cost or effort.

The first three weeks operating under this new procedure have been successful and, going forward, parcels will be driven from Winnipeg to Pembina (ND) every Thursday, excluding weeks when Just the Goods is closed, of course. Tracking numbers will be forwarded directly via USPS and shipping will now take an average of 1 – 4 days after mailing, instead of 10. Rush shipping from Canada (via Canada Post or UPS) is still available. Please enquire before making very time sensitive purchases.

This change has been a long time in the making – thank you for your patience while I assessed viability and found someone fully committed to driving three hours each week and clear customs at the border on my behalf 😉

Shipping news for local, national and other international clients

Those within Winnipeg who receive parcels via local courier will also experience a shipping-related change. Natural Cycle Courier closed operations after serving Winnipeg for 17 years, so I’ve worked out special rates with Ghost Rider Messenger, who is similarly able to deliver to all accessible locations within the Perimeter; however, delivery will now take place within 1 business day (most often on the same Thursday the parcel is picked up). The cost of local courier is now now $6.75 for any parcel under 1 kg to any address within the Perimeter with an accessible mailbox, safe drop location, or where someone is available during regular business hours to receive the parcel in person. Thank you!

Finally, shipping news for all other clients: Those in Canada may know that Canada Post has agreed to a 30 day extension on current labour negotiations, which means employees who work hard to maintain a well functioning, public network over such an expansive landmass will not fear being locked out of their jobs, nor will they need to take strike action at this time. As such, I am continuing to ship as usual to locations across Canada and around the world, with pleasure! Still, I have retained shipping by UPS as an available option on the website, for those who prefer it. Please be confident that I will not made arbitrary switches between carriers: if you choose Canada Post, I will ship with that method; likewise if you choose UPS. Thanks!

Upcoming Temporary Closure

My recent travels were fantastic – I came back invigorated and inspired, and I was blown away by the sheer volume of orders that arrived during my absence – thank you! In contrast, things quiet down a little in the summer, which I hope means that everyone is spending time outdoors having fun! And, knowing that things once again become wonderfully busy in September (and continue straight through until the end of May), I’ve learned that it’s a good idea to schedule rest and relaxation at the end of each summer.

As such, Just the Goods will be closed August 26 – September 3. Orders placed by Friday, August 19 will be mailed by August 25. Orders placed August 20 – September 3 will be handmade and shipped as quickly as possible thereafter. Orders involving in-stock items will be shipped on September 8 and all other orders will be shipped on September 15. I have decided to limit my access to email from August 27 to September 3 and will therefore reply to all messages when I return. Thanks!

New Product

It has been a while since I released a new product, and this one is unique in that I can only offer it as a very small batch, limited edition item.

Celebrating the height of summer, this facial mask features two of my favourite things: vibrant matcha and aromatic, home grown lavender!

Kaolin is a mild yet effective clay suitable for all skin types selected for its ability to absorb accumulated oil and dirt from pores without over-drying. Organic AOI matcha is prized as a high quality beverage — applied to skin, it promotes cellular regeneration and decreases sebum production making it beneficial to all skin types, particularly when weathehttps://justthegoods.net/products/limited-edition-vegan-matcha-lavender-jasmine-facial-mask-for-most-skin-typesr is hot and humid. Lavender also stimulates cellular regeneration while offering mild antibacterial support that leaves skin feeling fresh and clean. Jasmine is softening, mildly exfoliating, and promotes radiance, which is useful for all skin types, but especially great any time skin feels dull or dry and needs a boost.

This product is suitable for most skin types. It contains no essential oils, but does include a large quantity of recently dried and freshly ground lavender, so it is fragrant and thus potentially not suitable for those allergic to botanical ingredients.

There are only 6 tins available, and when they’re gone, they’re gone… until maybe next summer 😉

Find it here: https://justthegoods.net/products/limited-edition-vegan-matcha-lavender-jasmine-facial-mask-for-most-skin-types.

Product Packing Changes

When developing Just the Goods products, I carefully consider how packaging will promote both safety and affordability. Safety is reflected in my choice of heavy glass and/or BPA-free plastics; affordability comes into play by maintaining uniform bottle sizes and caps, thus limiting the range of things I need to order/ship so I can take advantage of volume-based discounts.

I recently learned the perfume bottles I’ve been using for the past few years have started to leak during shipping, especially in winter when the perfume freezes and expands while the packaging contracts and ultimately prevents effective sealing. I’ve chosen another type of perfume bottle – a more traditional vial without a roller-ball and I feel confident it will perform much better. I am in the process of switching over to those soon – please stay tuned!

I’ve also decided that it’s time to offer resealable pouches for body scrubs, which means less weight and a smaller carbon footprint for shipping, which also means lower shipping costs. The same packaging will now be used for bath salts, bath melts, and facial scrubs. I hope this decision will increase access to the body scrubs in particular, many of which have recently become EWG VERIFIED.

Upcoming Local Event

Those in Winnipeg may be interested to know that Just the Goods has been accepted to participate in Etsy Made in Canada 2016 on Saturday, September 24 from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm at the same location, Neeginan Centre (181 Higgins Ave). As always, I welcome pre-orders from http://www.justthegoods.net for pick up at this event – please use the coupon code MadeinCanada2016 by September 18, and I’ll meet you there with everything you choose!

Other events for the fall/winter season will be announced as they are confirmed – follow me on social media for the news as soon as it becomes available (*Hint: One of them includes Scattered Seeds!*)

Cooking + Home Spa Stress Management Retreat

The stress relieving cooking + home spa retreat co-hosted with integrative nutrition health coach Katie Schmidt of Whole Nourishment (http://www.wholenourishment.net) in St Gallen, Switzerland at the end of May was a fantastic success! We are thrilled so many people were able to join us for a packed day of discussion, making, and eating on a holiday long weekend, and we deeply appreciate all the wonderful feedback we received. At this time I would once again like to thank Mara from Urban Earth Teas (http://www.urbanearth.ca) and Angela of Ground Soap (http://www.groundsoap.com) for their kind contributions to the participant gift bags, which were greatly enjoyed!

Katie and are I definitely interested in co-hosting another event in the future that once again combines easy to prepare foods that help our bodies thrive with home spa self-care practices that promote comfort and rest, and we’re already mulling over possible dates and/or locations. Our principal criteria involves us being on the same continent at the same time, which will be North America next July (2017).

We established this time of year is not good for an event in Winnipeg due to all of the festivals taking place… but we’re wondering, what about other cities? Katie and I are both willing to travel within Canada and/or the US … Are you interested in helping us find the perfect event space + promote the event within the area? If so, please get in touch – we’d love to chat!

Just the Goods is EWG VERIFIED™

Just the Goods has partnered with Environmental Working Group to become EWG VERIFIED™

Environmental Working Group is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to protecting human health and the environment. It’s mission is to empower people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment, and it does this with breakthrough research and education to drive consumer choice and civic action. Just the Goods is grateful for it’s commitment to rigorous scientific inquiry and unwavering standards.

As of today, 26 Just the Goods products have been accepted into the program, and I’m continuing to add as many others as I can, as quickly as possible. Twenty seven makers worldwide have now accepted and met EWG’s challenge to offer only the safest cosmetics and personal care products. The standards are high — as the should well be — and I will continue to emphasize the importance of being not only vegan and cruelty-free, but wholly committed to safety at the same time.

To quickly view which Just the Goods products are EWG VERIFIED™, please click here: http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/search.php?query=just+the+goods&h=Search.

Recent Media Coverage

Final Note

You are receiving this newsletter because — as per the conditions outlined by the Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation that came into effect July 1, 2014 — you’ve been in touch with Just the Goods in the past either by making a purchase or requesting wholesale information within the last two years, or you have chosen to remain subscribed to this quarterly newsletter rather than choosing to click the unsubscribe link at the base of each newsletter. With that said, if you would prefer to no longer receive communications from Just the Goods, please let me know and I will remove your email address immediately. And of course, you may also unsubscribe using the link below =-).

As always, thank you for your ongoing support! It is an absolute pleasure to handcraft natural skin and body care products, providing a healthier, small-scale alternative to the corporate “beauty industry”. I wouldn’t be able to do it without you!

With all my best,
Milena

Just the Goods (Winnipeg, MB)
handmade natural + affordable skincare for everyone
http://www.justthegoods.net

Instagram: @just.the.goods
Twitter: @justthegoods
Facebook: @justthegoods