Tag Archives: production

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 – 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 

Just the Goods Summer 2017 Newsletter

Hello everyone,

Happy Summer Solstice! And, to friends south of the equator, Happy Winter Solstice!  I hope the sun shines brightest for you today, literally and metaphorically.

As you might already know, I like to send newsletters three or four times per year when I have something new and/or notable to share. Today’s newsletter is marked by a particularly exciting event: Just the Goods is hiring!

That’s right – after eight years of working solo, I’ve decided to invite someone to join me in a full-time capacity. The position will, ideally, begin mid-August so in the meantime I’ll be making changes to ensure a smooth transition for all involved, some of which are outlined below.

For this, and information about a delicious giveaway launching soon, please read on…

Thank you for being part of Just the Goods’ adventures!

Warmly,
Milena

Just the Goods is hiring!

After eight years of working independently, I’m taking the leap and inviting someone to join me in the lab on a full-time basis! As per the job description available at http://tinyurl.com/JTGHiring, I am seeking someone to fill the role of Shipper + Production Assistant. The successful candidate will ideally begin mid-August, so I’m welcoming resumes now until July 15. If you live in Winnipeg and would like to help Just the Goods continue serving clients worldwide, please view click the link above for details, including qualifications and application procedure. Thank you!

New Shipping Schedule

To better facilitate two people working together at Just the Goods, I’m making changes to the weekly production and shipping cycle to achieve more normal Monday – Friday business hours, instead of the currently 7-day work week.

Beginning in July, the weekly deadline for orders will be Fridays allowing for products to be made and shipped by the following Friday. For example, if you place an order between Monday January 1 – Friday January 5, your order will ship on Friday January 12. If your order reaches me on Saturday January 6, your order will ship on Friday January 16. If there is a statutory holiday on a Friday, parcels will be mailed out on the next business day.

As larger batches begin to be handmade, we can begin establishing a small rotating inventory of products that will ultimately assure faster shipping over time. In that case, if an order placed on Monday needs only items that are already in-stock, that order could be mailed later that same week. Depending how production flows under the new arrangements, we may even begin to offer twice weekly shipping!

Thanks for your patience during this transition. I do believe that, in the long run, it will serve everyone far better.

Upcoming Temporary Closure

With big changes ahead in the lab, as well as a few milestone occasions in my personal life, I’ve decided to take a week off in August to rest, celebrate, prepare, and power up.

The lab will undergo a few small renovations in August to improve circumstances for two people working together. And ultimately, I hope all the new approaches will make the traditionally whirlwind months of September – December far more manageable than they have been in the past.

Just the Goods will be closed August 4 – 10. As such, the last day to place an order before I leave will be July 28 for shipping on August 4. Orders placed July 29 – August 10 will be handmade beginning August 11 for shipping starting on August 18. Thereafter, Just the Goods will remain open shipping weekly until December 22.

Thank you!!

New Product: Litha/Summer Solstice Ritual Bath and Lotion Set


The second ritual bath set in the solstice/equinox series for 2017 is now available, Litha/Summer Solstice!

The longest day of the year, Litha (also known as Midsummer), is an opportunity to celebrate the power of the sun that sustains us, and invite it to recharge our hearts and minds. We can rid ourselves of what no longer serves us and fill that space with the heat we need to thrive. It is a reminder to make the most of each day.

Litha sea salt soak features purifying and healing lemon zest, mint leaves and essential oil to promote energy, communication and vitality, and lavender petals and essential oil to encourage love, protection, healing, and peace. The Litha hand/body lotion features sweet orange essential oil to cultivate love and happiness and lavender essential oil for the reasons described above.

Responding to popular demand, these items can be selected as a two-piece set, or enjoyed separately – the choice is yours. These items will be available until Lughnasadh (Aug 1), when I’ll begin finalizing plans for the autumn equinox set. Please find details here: https://justthegoods.net/products/summer-solstice-litha-bath-and-lotion-set

Giveaway with Urban Earth Teas


Recently Mara of Urban Earth Teas sent me a box of the most beautiful solstice and equinox inspired tea I have ever seen!! I was so touched by her generosity that I proposed the idea of paying it forward and sharing. But how? Together we agreed on an Instagram giveaway and we’ll launch it tomorrow — Thursday June 22 — so visit us at @just.the.goods and @urbanearthteas to find out how to enter ❤

Update:  The Humane Cosmetics Act
Good news!  The Humane Cosmetics Act was reintroduced in the US House of Representatives earlier this month. This important legislation, endorsed by Just the Goods among other makers of cruelty-free skin care products, will prohibit the use of animals to test cosmetic products and ingredients as well as end the sale of animal-tested cosmetics.

Animals in the U.S. continue to suffer and die in experiments to test cosmetics like lipstick, deodorant and shampoo. The Humane Cosmetics Act (H.R. 2790), sponsored by U.S. Reps. Martha McSally (R-AZ), Don Beyer (D-VA), Ed Royce (R-CA), Tony Cárdenas (D-CA), Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ) and Paul D. Tonko (D-NY), will end this unnecessary cruelty by prohibiting animal testing for all cosmetic products manufactured or sold in the U.S.

Alternatives to animal testing already exist: Humane and safe cosmetics can be made using thousands of existing ingredients, and several non-animal safety tests are already available for new ingredients. These non-animal alternatives are often cheaper, faster and more relevant to humans, and therefore more reliable predictors of safety.

In recent years, 37 countries have passed laws to ban or limit animal testing for cosmetics. The Be Cruelty-Free USA campaign, led by The Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society Legislative Fund, needs your help to make the United States the next cruelty-free marketplace.

TAKE ACTION
If you live in the United States, please make a brief, polite phone call to your U.S. Representative and urge support for the Humane Cosmetics Act. Look up your legislator’s phone number. You can say, “I’m a constituent, and I urge you to cosponsor the Humane Cosmetics Act, if you haven’t already done so. This bill would prohibit animal testing for cosmetics manufactured or sold in the U.S.”After making your phone call (please do not skip that crucial step!), fill in and submit the form below located at http://bit.ly/1HCA554 to automatically send a follow-up message. Humane Society of the United States encourage you to add your own thoughts or comments in the editable portion so your representative knows how important this issue is to 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 – Spring 2017

Hello everyone,

I hope you are enjoying signs of spring wherever you are, and that you’re finding fun in scheduling summer plans!

As you might already know, I like to send newsletters three or four times per year when I have something new and/or notable to share.

The first piece of news is that – in a few short days – Just the Goods will be 8 years old, and I can hardly believe it! From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you for being part of this thrilling journey, which is forever taking new and exciting turns. Evolving from a hobby, to a part-time endeavour, to a full-fledged creation with its very own life force, I can’t help being caught aback given that I’ve generally made decisions about JTG quite spontaneously. I’m not entirely sure what direction Just the Goods will take in the future, but being someone who has never lasted longer than 14 months in any job I’ve ever held (*lol*) it strikes me that – for the first time – it’s important to start making plans. It is no longer possible for one person to keep up with all of the orders received each hour of each day, but I want to retain my commitment to handmaking on a human scale, so it’s time to start thinking about how to ensure this without slowing production/shipping time. Thank you for presenting me with this fascinating challenge – I am eager to take it on as Just the Goods moves towards the next 8 years, and beyond.

Apart from this big news, today’s message will be brief in that I mostly want to let you know I’ll be taking a week away at the end of May to recharge my batteries, and to give you an update on recent fundraising efforts and a new collaboration. Please find details below =-)

Warmly,
Milena

Upcoming Temporary Closure

Although I’ve managed to sneak a few days off since the end of February, 12+ hour days are making me sleeeeeepy *lol*. In order to recharge my batteries a little, Just the Goods will be closed May 26 – June 1. Orders placed by May 19 will be shipped by May 26. Orders placed May 20 – June 2 will begin shipping June 7 – 9, with additional batches shipping the following week as quickly as I can manage. I won’t be online during this absence but look forward to replying to any messages when I return. Thanks!

Fundraising for Standing Rock a Success!

Liz of The Granola Goat and I would like to thank you for making our collaborative fundraising effort to support the Water Protectors at Sacred Stone Camp a success – with your interest in Forest Spirit, we were able to raise a total of $534 USD (~$729 CAD). The encampment was terminated in February, but the Indigenous Coalition at Standing Rock continues fighting for all the water, earth, air, and all living things and is calling for global intersectional resistance to fossil fuels and fascism through long-term movement building. I absolutely agree that this is a fight for the long haul, and I’m so grateful to all of you that we could make this modest contribution together as part of the many other actions I imagine many of us are undertaking at other levels. That being said, if you can give more, please do by visiting sacredstonecamp.org, or contributing to other Indigenous led resistance movements in your area.

The image below is of a print by Nicolas Lampert, which is available for sale at Justseeds Artists’ Cooperative, a decentralized network of 30 artists committed to social, environmental, and political engagement. It’s pretty awesome and I thought I’d share it with you ❤

 

Liz and I are looking forward to collaborating on future fundraising projects, and are already concocting something we hope to release in June. Please keep in touch with us via social media to find out more.

Say Hello to Fat Lye Soap Co.!

I love collaborating with other handmakers by offering their awesome work at justthegoods.net. Over the past year, I’ve gotten to know Jennifer Chung of Fat Lye Soap Co., based in Winnipeg and we finally took our Instagram friendship to the next level and hung out in real life. That was super fun on its own, but imagine my smile when I opened a great big box of beautiful handmade soap that I can now share with you. Fat Lye Soap Co., features a range of nourishing plant-based oils and beautiful botanical additives to create a soft, spa-like lather. Every detail is carefully considered, including eco-friendy packaging made from plantable seed paper! Just the Goods is currently offering 4 unique varieties, with a few more on the way. Check it out here.

New Product: Litha/Summer Solstice Ritual Bath and Lotion Set

​In February I co-launched a springtime themed bath salt and lotion set with Canadian online retailer, Tiroir-Noir, designed to welcome the lighter half of the year by gathering our energies and bringing forth new passion and ideas into the world. The soak features dried strawberry, dried jasmine buds, chamomile essential oil and a drop of sunflower seed oil to bring in the light. The lotion features gentle honeysuckle attar. But, as the wheel of the year turns we’re moving toward summer and I’m excited about the plans I’ve been developing for Litha/Summer Solstice! The Ostara set will be available for only a few more days and I’ll be launching the Litha set soon! Stay tuned to Instagram and Facebook for details =-)

 

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.

img_20170302_091558_990000
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

Just the Goods Newsletter – Winter/Spring 2017

Happy New Year!

However you decided to ring in the start of this new calendar year – surrounded by friends, or peacefully focused on quiet self-care – I hope it was exactly as you wished!

The past few months have been quite an exciting whirlwind for me, and I want to thank all of you for giving me amazing opportunities to meet you online or in person, and to provide you with handmade, cruelty-free, safe cosmetics. I’m so grateful for your interest and I look forward to keeping in touch with you as part of another wonderful year!

To those of you who placed orders while the lab was closed for year end, thank you! I will be working on those this week – the first batch of parcels requiring in-stock items only will ship out on January 4, and all other orders placed during the temporary closure will be handmade fresh this week and shipped out on January 11. Please enjoy!

As you might know, I like to send newsletters three or four times per year when I have something new and/or notable to share. Today’s message is short and sweet in that it seeks to mention two things: First, a heartfelt collaboration with another vegan skin care maker, The Granola Goat. Second, a quick head’s up about an upcoming temporary closure in February… please find details about both contained within.

Warmly,
Milena

Fundraising for Standing Rock

To support the valiant efforts of the Water Protectors at Standing Rock, Just The Goods and The Granola Goat have created Forest Spirit, a special and limited edition face mask combining the herbal and cultural value of yarrow and cedar. Water is life and we acknowledge that the struggle continues to protect all living creatures relying on fresh, clean water for survival. This is an important time of transition and allyship is needed as much now as ever.

#NoDAPL
We are donating all proceeds from the sale of Forest Spirit to Sacred Stone Camp knowing they will allocate to the fund with the most need: http://sacredstonecamp.org/donate/. With the recent approval of Kinder Morgan’s Trans Mountain and Enbridge’s Line 3 expansions in Canada, please note deeper resistance is needed here as well. Please visit Treaty Alliance Against Tar Sands Expansion’s website for more information: http://www.treatyalliance.org/. Just the Goods will donate $13.25 CAD per jar of Forest Spirit sold.

Yarrow
Micmac people, as well as ancient Greeks, regard yarrow for its ability to treat sprains by reducing bruising and swelling. In China, it is used to brighten the eyes and promote intelligence. Ancient Roman tradition believes yarrow is ruled by Venus and the element of water. Throughout Europe, yarrow continues to drive away negativity and represent love. The Navajo people consider it a sacred Life Medicine and Anishinaabe people value it for purification. The Teton Lakota people call yarrow “medicine for the wounded.” In the Victorian language of flowers, yarrow represents both war and healing. From the perspective of herbal medicine, it is known worldwide to rid the body of toxins through the provision of anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent and tonic benefits, and it can soothe irritated skin.

Cedar
In many cultures worldwide spanning from Cherokee to Ojibwe to Druids to Norse, cedar is connected with ancestors so it is used to drive away negative influences, cleanse, heal, and protect. It can also promote confidence and strength. From a skincare perspective, cedarwood essential oil it is an astringent and can reduce irritation through anti-inflammatory and antiseptic benefits, making it a positive complement to yarrow, and a wonderful choice for oily or problem skin.

Forest Spirit
In a base of kaolin clay, this mask is soothing, clarifying, and exfoliating. Each tin contains 28 g / approx 10-12 applications. Visit: https://justthegoods.net/products/forest-spirit-facial-mask-in-support-of-the-water-protectors-at-standing-rock for details!

Upcoming Temporary Closure

Just the Goods will be closed February 9 – 25, 2017.

The last day to place orders will be Friday, February 3

for parcels shipped to all destinations on Wednesday, February 8. Orders placed February 4 – 25 requiring in-stock items only will ship on March 1, and orders involving items that need to be handmade upon my return to the lab will ship on March 8. Please note that I will not be checking email during this absence. Thank you! Future temporary closures may take place in May and/or August, but details are not yet confirmed. Please note that I’ll also be trying a different production schedule at the end of 2017 – the last day to order for the year will be November 30 to ensure no one has to worry about late holiday-related parcels 🙂 I will continue to work on orders for retailers and clinicians throughout December. Thanks!

 

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

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!! ❄♥

Changes — a post for clients in Winnipeg

Hello Winnipeg! This post is for you!

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In the past 24 hours, some things have changed. Some is bad news, and I’m sorry about that, but it has led to what I hope will be good news 😊

I am grateful for your online orders — it helps me make Just the Goods my full time occupation! However, in order to continue offering public wholesale prices, I need to allocate my energy as carefully as possible because overextending myself is not sustainable. As it turns out, the bicycle courier with whom I’ve been working since Natural Cycle Courier closed feels the same way.

😿 The bad news: I have had to cancel my participation at WEST Fall Market on November 5 *and* Ghost Rider Messenger informed me a few hours ago that it is no longer able to work with Just the Goods at current rates.

😺 The goods news: I will be offering free monthly pick ups at the lab on a trial basis until the end of the year 🙂

🌼Orders placed by Saturday, October 15 can be picked up at the lab on Saturday, October 22 from 12:00 – 4:00 pm

🌼 Orders placed October 16 – November 19 can be picked up at the lab on Saturday, November 26 from 12:00 – 4:00 pm

🌼Orders placed November 20 – December 10 can be picked up at the lab on Saturday, December 17.

🌟 Bonus: December 17 will be an open house event set up like a mini market with cider and vegan treats available for those in attendance 😊 More news about that is forthcoming!

🌟 + I will be attending Vegan Handmade Market on December 3 as a shopper, and I can absolutely bring orders with me for those who will also be there and want to meet up between 10:00 – 11:00 am. I’ll post news about that in November 😊

As Just the Goods, I’m committed to handmaking the healthiest possible skin, body, and hair care products, while also pricing them as affordably as possible. For details about I price, please visit: http://bit.do/JTGpricing. I can make quality products and I can make them affordable, but — at such intentionally low prices — I can not make them faster, nor can I maintain retail space / pay someone a living wage to answer the door for pick ups. And, since I’m reminded again and again why my original goal of offering affordable pricing for healtheir self care products is essential, my decisions always seek to align. With all that said, don’t forget: if you ever need Just the Goods products faster, you can always go to Generation Green at the Forks, which is open 7 days a week and carries the largest selection of JTG body basis apart from my website 😊 They’re wonderful and you’ll surely find other wonderful things you didn’t know you needed 😉

Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding — I’m excited about continuing to handmake JTG for you! 💕

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

I’m back in Winnipeg, orders are on schedule, and I ❤️ Canada Post!

Hi everyone! I’m back in Winnipeg and yesterday I shipped 70 out of approximately 200 orders based on which ones required in-stock items only 🙂 Today I’ve starting production on the items needed to complete all the remaining orders, and they will be shipped out on June 21st. Given the volume of handmaking, packing and shipping required over the next several days, I won’t be online very much, but I definitely wanted to provide you with an update — everything is exactly on schedule! Yay! 🙂
 
In other news, our friends at Canada Post have provided additional news about their upcoming strike. They are working hard to prevent our national public service from being privatized, and I’m grateful to them for their efforts. The current CEO of Canada Post is formerly affiliated with Pitney Bowes and his goal over the past several years has been made very clear: increase rates, cut service, refuse to replace staff that have retired, and rack up profits while creating the myth that Canada Post doesn’t work so it will be easy for a private company (i.e. Pitney Bowes) to scoop up *our* Canada Post at pennies on the dollar. This is devastating! Their strike is about maintaining a national service that functions well enough to serve everyone equally across Canada, no matter where they live. The last strike was back in 2011 and things really went sideways when employees were locked out. Let’s hope the new government is better at understanding why an affordable public postal service essential for us all *fingers crossed*
 
In the meantime, while supporting our Posties and their amazing ideas for keeping Canada Post vibrant and vital, I’m working on contingency plans so people can continue to place and receive their orders. I will also be attending a public info session on Friday from 7 – 10 pm at Union Centre (275 Broadway, Winnipeg) (https://www.facebook.com/events/653192524834610/657054094448453/?notif_t=admin_plan_mall_activity&notif_id=1466003942574839)

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And, for info about Canada Post employee’s commitment to delivering pension and social assistance cheques throughout the strike, and their commitment to protecting any animals that are being transported, please read the following news release: http://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/posties-pledge-to-deliver-pension-and-social-assistance-cheques-ensure-no-live-animals-are-trapped-in-the-mail-system-582950871.html
 
Thank you everyone for working with me, a small scale online handmaker 🙂 Just the Goods wouldn’t exist without you, nor would it exist without Canada Post. I have a fantastic relationship with my commercial account managers, depot manager, and the postal agents I see each week when they come to pick up bins filled with your orders. I know how committed they are to doing the very best job they possibly can, and I really wanted to share with you my support for them 🙂
 
Thanks again!!
Milena