GO ECOLATERAL

STYLE: ECOLATERAL STORES

WORDS Millie Looker PHOTO Wayne Pearson Saving the planet just got easier with the eco experts at Ecolateral.

We all know that we have some serious making up to do when it comes to our beautiful planet. We’ve let Mother Nature down — but that’s where the Ecolateral Stores come in.

Ecolateral is Australia’s longest running retailer specifically devoted to supplying customers with high quality, eco-friendly and sustainable products. If there’s a single-use product on the market, Ecolateral works tirelessly to source a sustainable solution to fill the gap.

CEO Jamie Stott and her team have recognised that with no quick fix waiting around the corner, we all need to make choices that will benefit our planet.

“We want to help educate and inspire people about the importance of living more sustainable lives and then equip them with the tools and resources to do so. And we’ve been doing it for a long time.”

Starting the enviro-fight 27 years ago, Ecolateral has now grown to four stores in Blackwood, Magill, Brighton and their new city store on Charles Street. Each store stocks alternative solutions to items that we use every day — and the range is enormous! Covering everything from cleaning products to party supplies, slow fashion, personal care products and so much more, you’ll quickly realise there’s no reason for us to use disposable products.

FIVE STEPS TO START BECOMING AN ECO-WARRIOR Assuming you’re already using keep-cups, refillable water bottles and reusable shopping bags (all no-brainers!) here are Jamie’s next recommended steps: 1. Use reusable produce bags. 2.Refill household cleaning product containers instead of buying new ones each time. 3. Swap toxic, chemical-filled beauty products for natural, plastic-free options. 4. Use reusable period undies, cups or pads. 5.Invest in reusable stainless steel laundry pegs. WE HAVE SOME SERIOUS MAKING UP TO DO WHEN IT COMES TO OUR BEAUTIFUL PLANET. DOES IT TICK THE BOXES? If you’re just jumping on the ecofriendly bandwagon, it can be overwhelming to work out which products to trust. Ecolateral does the hard work for you by putting every item through their criteria… Is it sustainably sourced? Is it ethically made? Does it have zero-waste packaging? Can it be easily recycled? The list goes on, and ensures that anything you buy comes with eco-approval.

As Jamie explains, “We match products to the criteria wherever possible. For instance, Onya produce bags are made from plastic, but that plastic is from recycled drink bottles. They are reusable, recyclable, replace single-use plastic produce bags and are packaged in recycled cardboard packaging. So they fit the bill!”

@ecolateralstores goecolateral.com.au

Nomad makes scents!

STYLE: NOMAD CANDLE CO.

WORDS Em Worthington PHOTOS Fable & Fig Photography Transport yourself to a time, place or feeling with the strike of a match.

Nomad Candle Co. puts a daily indulgence right at your fingertips. Your sense of smell connects to the same part of your brain that processes emotion and memory — it makes sense that treating your nose does wonders for your whole body.

Local lass Mel Barnes created her sweet-smelling business based on treasured memories. “I grew up spending a lot of time with my late grandma. We were always doing something creative in the garden, sewing, cooking or making candles,” Mel fondly recalls.

Mel started making candles in her mum’s kitchen for herself, friends and family and loved sending them off into the world to do their thing, like happy little nomads. Now, she’s fully embracing her craft in a studio in the outskirts of the Barossa and she’s ready to take you on a journey every time you light one of her masterpieces. Made from pure soy wax, Nomad candles are veganfriendly and completely biodegradable, which is perfect for Mama Nature.

“My range is always evolving and has plenty of zesty fragrances for a warm, sunshiney-feel; and lots of comforting woody, earthy tones. Whatever your mood, you’ll find something to lift your spirits and take you on a little wellbeing journey.”

Mel’s extending her artistry by collaborating with other local creators who inspire her. “I’ve recently released The Artist Collection, which features the incredible artwork of Natalie Broham. I’m also working with an amazing ceramicist, Guy Ringwood of Ringwood Arts Co., on unique porcelain vessels for The Artisan Collection. It’s a real treat for the senses and supports small businesses in the process.” Making these mood-boosters affordable for everyone, Nomad also offers melts, reed diffusers and refills, so setting the scene doesn’t need to break the bank. TREATING YOUR NOSE DOES WONDERS FOR YOUR WHOLE BODY.

Where can you find these bundles of joy? Order them online with a click of your fingers, keep your eyes peeled in plenty of good stores across SA, or look out for Mel at any of SA’s best markets — she’s a delight and meeting her just adds to the feel-good experience. “I love a good market — it’s a great opportunity to chat with people, get feedback on what they love and it can inspire new ideas.”

With so many challenges in this hectic world, putting a match to a Nomad candle is a simple way to add a little self-care and joy into your day. And we say amen to those good vibes!

@nomadcandleco nomadcandleco.com.au