Bargainista interviews Edmoure Ralph

I discovered a real hidden gem during my recent visits to LIV by Au Lit, a new jewellery line called Edmoure Ralph founded by two talented women both named Julie. As a gift for attending the private party, I received my first pair of Edmoure Ralph earrings. I received another pair as a gift a couple days later, as a thank you for spending more than $100 at LIV during a holiday event. Part of my purchase included an outstanding Edmoure Ralph necklace.

Today marks the official opening on Edmoure Ralph’s online store so I thought it was only fitting to publish my recent interview with Julie and Julie.

Where does the name Edmoure Ralph come from?
The name Edmoure Ralph was inspired by our grandfather’s names. We wanted the name of our company to reflect the bold yet timeless quality of our design aesthetic. The names are classic in themselves and the combination of the two evokes a certain unexpected impact – just as jewellery pieces do. It's also nice to have some sentimental meaning behind the name of our brand!

What inspires you?
Before we started Edmoure Ralph, we struggled as consumers to find jewellery that satisfied our desire for well-made pieces that are priced reasonably and look like a million bucks! There's a lot of costume jewellery out there, but it often caters to specific trends and is not necessarily designed with longevity in mind. We believe that jewellery (even if it's not “fine jewellery”) should uphold a certain quality and deserves to be enjoyed for many seasons to come. We’re inspired to produce Canadian-made, original pieces that can effortlessly transition between seasonal trends.

What inspires your designs?
We both come from design backgrounds – graphic design and art history, so we are intrinsically inspired by all things beautiful. While we constantly look to current fashion trends for ideas, we can't help but find inspiration from the past and we're naturally drawn to vintage-inspired materials. Materials like raw brass, pearls and cameos often influence our initial designs, but we also incorporate more contemporary design elements to achieve our final look. For example, the pearls might be the inspiration, but the way in which we layer them with other materials is how we achieve the Edmoure Ralph look.

When did you start designing jewellery?
For years we’ve shared design ideas and often joked about starting a jewellery line. It wasn’t until the last year or so that we joined forces to satisfy what we believe is a growing niche for a well-priced, good-quality jewellery line.

What would you like people to know about your approach to design?
The Edmoure Ralph approach to design stems from the idea that jewellery is the icing on the cake when it comes to putting a look together. We all know how our wardrobes can feel tired at times and accessorizing is an easy way to freshen up any outfit. We approach our collections with versatility in mind and strive to design jewellery pieces that can stand on their own or be layered for varying looks. Each piece is an accessory staple in its own right, but can be transformed when mixed with another!

Why Twitter and Facebook? Are they helping you build your business? How do you know?
Both Twitter (@edmoureralph) and Facebook have been essential networking tools for the growth of our new business. We’ve made so many connections with new clients and other professionals in the industry and we've also been able to get some honest feedback about our product. For a new small business, it's also been a cost-effective way to launch our line and get our name out there!

When is Edmoure Ralph’s online store opening?
Today! To celebrate the opening of the Edmoure Ralph online shop, we’re offering complimentary shipping on purchases over $100! Place your order by December 16 and we’ll make sure you receive it by December 24. Enjoy!

I Love Sample sale

What?
I Love Sample sale featuring premium denims, clothing and more for both men and women all at fantastic discounts. Designers include citizen of Humanity, Robins Jeans, Christian Audigier, Dylan George, Tenstate, Local Good, Paco Chicano, Crystal Rock and Glamour Campaign.

Where?
90 Wingold Ave., Unit 7 (map)
Toronto

When?
Wednesday, Dec. 9: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 10: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Friday, Dec 11: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Cash, Debit, Visa, Mastercard, Amex

Parasuco Jeans Warehouse Sale

What?
Up to 80% OFF
5 days for men’s and women’s fashions.

Just in time for the holidays, an awesome selection of world famous Parasuco Jeans for women and men, including Awesome Denim, T-shirts, Jackets, Leathers, Accessories, Party Dresses and lots more – all at up to 80% off. Hurry in for the best selection.

Where?
The International Centre - Hall 4 (map)
6900 Airport Road
Mississauga, ON

When?
Thursday, Dec. 10: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 11: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 12: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 13: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Visa, Mastercard, Debit or Cash

Lots of free parking

Gotstyle Ladies Only Exlusive Shopping Event

What?
Gotstyle - Ladies only exclusive shopping event. Shop for menswear while drinking champagne and having hot male models try on clothes for you! Beats the mall any day.

When?
Wed Dec. 9- Thurs Dec. 10

Where?
Gotstyle
489 King St West (map)
Toronto, ON

If you go, leave a comment and let us know what you find.

Baby Teresa – the gift that keeps on giving

In this week’s baby bargainista column, Rebecca Atkinson shares this gift idea courtesy of Kathryn Lagden (@klagden) who suggested the idea.

If you’re looking for a gift this holiday season for a baby in your life that keeps on giving, consider a Baby Teresa outfit. The brainchild (and passion) of Tasmanian entrepreneurs Sammie Appleyard and Kirsty Dunphey, Baby Teresa “gives you an opportunity to Buy Once, Share Twice.”

When you purchase a Baby Teresa onesie, not only does the baby you purchase it for get an outfit, but so does another baby in need. For every outfit you buy, a second one is donated! At a cost of just $29.95 for a short sleeved onesie and $34.95 for those with both long sleeves and those adorable covered feetsies (Prices are in Australian dollars, which are nearly equivalent to CDN dollars right now.) That’s one feel-good holiday gift you can get behind. It’s only $5 for International postage – a bargain when you consider the cost of shipping some items across the border or across town these days. 



These 100% cotton onesies currently come in two colours, Lan Orange and Hieu Blue, and in two sizes: 0-6 and 6-12 months. There are plans to expand (at least colour wise) in the coming months/year.

Having just launched three short months ago, the first donation site was for newborns and moms in need, in the home state of the organization’s founders. Eventually these two ladies made a goal of clothing babies in need around the world. So far they’ve managed to make a second set of donations in Uganda and are looking to continue from there.

They “are inspired by the Mother Teresa quote ‘If you can’t feed 1000 people, then feed one,’ and want to help people clothe one baby.”

You can also help by spreading the word and/or by becoming a Fan on Facebook.

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Experiencing FACE atelier at IMATS

By now you know I’m a big fan of both Canadian businesses and cosmetics. So, when I had the opportunity to meet Debbie Bondar, CEO of FACE atelier, I jumped at the chance. FACE atelier has developed a cult following with celebrity make-up artists and can be seen on many famous faces including Madonna and Lady Gaga.

To be honest, I’m not sure what I was more excited about – meeting an inspiring and successful woman behind a cult cosmetics firm on the verge of greatness or checking out some of the unique products in the FACE atelier line. 


Thanks to FACE atelier. I had a press pass to the recent IMATS show in Toronto. So did my friend, Anita Clarke so we decided to check it out together. We spent most of the time having our make-up applied by a make-up artist at the FACE atelier booth.

What we heard was true, the foundation is fantastic – we each got to take some Ultra Foundation Pro home – and I’ve been using mine faithfully ever since. Sorry Bobbi Brown I really liked using Skin Foundation SPF 15 but FACE atelier is a bit easier to apply, feels just as light but seems to really enhance my appearance. I’m not ready to hand over my Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge just yet but I have been alternating with FACE atelier’s powder blush that comes in an easy-open, one-piece compact for easier handling.

Two products I’ve tried and will be adding to my make-up bag soon are the lip glaze (it’s not gummy or sticky like other products I’ve tried) and the transforming gel – it turns any powder into a paint – perfect for turning regular eye shadow into gel liners – I’ve either been using other gel liners but have been disappointed in the lack of colour options or mixing contact lens solution with my eye shadow with so-so results. I also came to the realizing that make-up brushes really do make a difference and it’s worth investing in the best quality ones you can afford.

Find FACE atelier online or in select locations.

Bargainista’s shopping tips at Yummy Mummy Club

I spend a lot of time on Twitter and one of the things I’ve noticed over the past several years has been the rise in activity among Canadian moms. At the centre of much of it is a woman you may remember from her MuchMusic VJ days, Erica Ehm. Over the past several years, she reinvented her brand. Now she’s known as Erica Ehm, the mom and founder of the popular and newly, redesigned YummyMummyClub.ca – an online community with a realistic view of moms. Say hi to Erica on Twitter - @YummyMummyClub - she’s very real and friendly.

Regardless, you don’t need to be a mom to check out the 16 shopping blog posts on YummyMummyClub this month. While you’re there, check out Tips to Save You Time and Money this Holiday Season by yours truly. (Big thanks to Erica for including me.)

Join Yummy Mummy Club. It’s free, you’ll have opportunities for all sorts of giveaways and receive the newsletter. Rumour has it tomorrow’s issue has my post and other great shopping tips.

Anything I missed? Add it to the comments.

Bargainista’s visit from Little Kitchen

About a month ago I was on Facebook and saw my friend Alexa Clark won a dinner for four prepared in her home from a company I’d never heard of called Little Kitchen. They give away a dinner for four to one of their Facebook fans through a random draw each month.

I’d never entered a Facebook contest before but with Alexa’s pedigree, I figured if it was good enough for her, it was good enough for me. Speaks volumes for the value of recommendations from friends doesn’t it? So, I entered and next thing you know, I was the next month’s winner. Whoohoo!

Chef Matt Kantor spent the evening at our house last night. He designed the menu, prepared, served and cleaned up one of the most enjoyable meals we’d ever had. Talk about hidden gems. Little did I know Little Kitchen had a chef trained at the Culinary Institute of America at the helm. You can check out our dinner pics in the slideshow and watch for my interview with Matt coming soon.

A Festive Social at LIV by Au Lit

Wednesday night I had the pleasure of attending an intimate event for members of the online fashion and shopping community courtesy of Danielle Meder. You can read all about it on her blog, finalfashion and LIV by Au Lit’s blog too. If you have a chance today, check out their Holiday Shopping Party.

Everyone I spoke to was blown away by LIV by Au Lit. Most of the women were surprised to find such a great find north of Queen Street. No me. It was spacious and impeccably laid out, thanks to owner/creative director/author, the lovely Joanna Goodman.

Merchandise ranged from clothing and accessories, including jewellery from the new design duo Edmoure Ralph (thanks for the amazing brass bow earrings), to baby clothes, books (Joanna gave me a copy of You Made Me Love You and has another novel in the works, home décor and linens – perhaps you’re familiar with her other store, Au Lit Fine Linens.) Prices were very reasonable. For example, they range from about $60-$300 for sweaters with most at the lower end and jeans start at about $100.

I’m thrilled LIV by Au Lit also supports Canadian designers (not exclusively). I’ll be back!

Guests included (thanks to Danielle for the list):

• Briony Smith and Danah Abdulla of blogTO
• Rea McNamara of EYE WEEKLY and Metro
• Emma Yardley of Canadian Living
• Johanne Durocher and Rachel of Fashion In Motion
• Jennifer Campbell of FASHION Magazine
• Gail McInnes
• Anita Clarke of I want – I got
• Jen Tse
• Linda Gaylard
• Nathalie Atkinson and Elyse of National Post
• Ashley Bartlett of She Does the City
• Afiya Francisco of The Style House
• Stefania Yarhi of Textstyles
• Tricia Campbell
• Renee Williams of Yahoo Canada Life
• Kimberly Lyn of The Souls of my Shoes

LIV by Au Lit Holiday Shopping Party

What?
LIV by Au Lit Holiday Shopping Party
Up to 30% off clothing and accessories, jewellery trunk show, gift with purchases over $100.

Where?
418 Eglinton Ave. W. (map)

When?
Saturday, Nov. 28: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

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Davids Private Sale

What?
Davids Private Sale
Preview of Fall/Winter sale with merchandise up to 50% off.

Where?
66 Bloor St. W. (map)
Bayview Village (map)
Yorkdale (map)

When?
Wednesday, Nov. 25
Thursday, Nov. 26

Public sale begins Friday, Nov 27

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Jenny’s family visits Great Wolf Lodge

In this week’s baby bargainista column, Jenny shares her family’s mini-getaway experience (and great tips) at a nearby resort.

With fall upon us and summer vacation just a distant memory, my husband and I were feeling a little cabin fever and decided it was time to take the family on another “staycation.”

We decided on Great Wolf Lodge, an “indoor water park resort,” because our 5-year-old adores swimming, it’s less than a 2-hour drive (the maximum nap time our 10-month-old will sleep), and we figured if the water park got boring we could visit any of the other great attractions in the Niagara Falls area.

We needn’t have worried. We ended up spending all day, every day in the water park, except for meals and sleeping! Unlimited access to the water park is included in your stay, which is just one of the pros of staying at this family-friendly resort.

Pros
• At check-in you’re given a wristband, which functions as both the key to your room, and a charge card (only adults can charge) – infinitely convenient, as you don’t have to worry about misplacing your key or cash while in the water park, and even our 5-year-old soon became adept at scanning the band to get into our room.

• Every night at 8 p.m. there’s story time in the lobby – arrive early for this don’t-miss event to see the lobby floor packed with kids, and enjoy the theatrics from the live storyteller! (The picture above is taken during Saturday night story time)

• Towels are provided in the water park – they’re a bit small, but at least you don’t need to lug wet towels back to your room.

• The water park features lots of different pools and many sizes of waterslides for all ages, from tot to adult. Our 5-year-old enjoyed the slides in the tot pool and our 10-month-old was delighted with the waves in the wave pool.

• There’s both a snack bar, and a licensed bar in the water park for when you inevitably get peckish.

• There’s an arcade, too, which keeps older kids entertained after the water park closes in the evening.

Cons
• The single in-house restaurant’s dinner buffet is quite carb-heavy, with barely a cooked vegetable in sight, and costly for its limited selection (although kids 3 and under eat free with an adult dinner).

• Although the water park is staffed with lifeguards, there is limited actual supervision – it’s not a daycare centre, after all; you’ll want to keep a close eye on young ones.

• Lineups for the bigger waterslides can be longer than expected, especially on busy Saturdays. Expect to wait 10 minutes or more.

Tips:
• Save money by bringing your own food for breakfast and lunch – every room has a fridge and microwave and you can easily make a “picnic” meal in the galley kitchen.

• Bring more than one swimsuit so you don’t have to put on a wet bathing suit after lunch.

• Bring a robe, cover-up, or an extra-large t-shirt; and, crocs or shower shoes for walking back and forth to your room. The hallways feel chilly after the warmth of the water park!

• Hit the water park early – at or close to opening at 9 a.m. daily – to secure a table near the pool your kids are likely to use most, so you can supervise while seated.

• If you can, get a room on the first floor, the same level as the water park, for ease of travelling back and forth to your room.

We had a fantastic time and would definitely go back!

Rita Tesolin's Holiday Sample Sale - Extended

What?
Rita Tesolin Jewellery Design inventory sale

Canadian jewellery designer Rita Tesolin is having an inventory sale with up to 80% off her regular prices and items starting as low as $5. You’ll find a mix of stuff including costume, sterling silver and semi-precious jewellery collections and a wide array of one-of-a-kind belts. Different items will be throughout the weekend. Now is the time to buy designer accessories at bargain prices.

Cash only!

Where?
63 Wingold Ave., Suite 103 (map)
Toronto

When? - New dates
Saturday, Nov 28, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Sunday, Nov 29, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Friday, Nov 20, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Saturday, Nov 21, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday, Nov 22, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Cash only!

Annual Bargains Group Friends and Family Warehouse Sale

What?
The Bargains Group Friends and Family Warehouse Sale - Don’t miss this annual blowout! It’s a good old-fashioned warehouse sale with savings up to 80% off retail prices.

The Bargains Group is only open to the public once a year. Need to stock up on basics? Buying items to donate to charities over the holidays? If you’re a true bargain hunter, this is one sale you won’t want to miss!

When?
Weekends starting Nov. 13 thru Dec. 24
• Fridays: 3 p.m.-7 p.m.
• Saturdays: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Sundays: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where?
The Bargains Group (see map)
890 Caledonia Rd.
Toronto, ON
(south of Lawrence, betw. Keele and Dufferin)