Rachel, we are so thrilled to now have Wilder on Rêve en Vert! We’d love to know a bit of history about the brand – why you created it? 

So incredibly happy to have Wilder with you at Rêve en Vert. Thank you!

Wilder was created from my practice as a naturopath & herbalist, I started practicing in 2004, and after a few years I noticed that many of my clients were seeking herbs to help support them with their healing journey but there was also a disconnect or lack of familiarity with the herbs even ones that grow seasonally around us, and I thought how wonderful would it be to create an extension of the formulas, and start to retell the herbs stories and traditions, something our forebearers would have done. Inspiring people to forage and to feel confident and connected to healing herbs. To inspire people to be wilder!

Can you tell us a bit about your background? 

I grew up just outside of Manchester on an old farm. My mum was incredible at growing all our fruit and veg. She was a teen in the second world war. Her frugality and ‘make do and mend’ philosophy on living was ingrained in us. Having said that I ended up working as a fashion model in the 90’s. An experience that I look back on now and feel very grateful for. But at the time it was something of an emotional rollercoaster that I so wanted to get off. Even though I was told by all that I should get on with it.

As an introvert it wasn’t a natural environment for me. It was a brilliant life lesson, and I had something of a good fight going on. Learning to survive in not the best of spaces, but saying that I got to travel and live in incredible cities. One being New York where I began to look at my own health holistically.

What were the first products you ever launched at Wilder? 

The first products were our Flourish, Serenity, and Solstice Tea formulas. Ones I would prescribe to my clients for detoxing, supplementation of minerals, calming the nervous system and for prevention and symptoms of colds and hayfever. We also launched our Tranquility Soak and Flower Of the Sun Body Oil that I created for myself. Infusing the oils in the light of a full moon! I would gift it to close friends. It was loved so much that we added this as Wilder’s first skin and beauty product.

What inspires you for new formulations and new product launches? 

With new formulas our philosophy is, if our family needs it then we make it and add it to the Wilder collection only if everyone falls in love with it. As a family of 6, we only create what we need. Or what we feel is absolutely needed out there. For example, Heartfelt Tea was created during covid to hold and nurture the emotional and physical aspects of the heart, helping us to adapt more positively to stress and to add vitality. We will soon be adding a shampoo to our collection, called Gift Of The Earth and our Sacred Hand Cream too, with the same herbal extracts as our Sacred Wash, something that I’m using daily and loving.

What are a few of the many ways Wilder as a brand is committed to sustainability? 

There’s a slowing down within Wilder, we preserve all the plants vital properties within each formula often with a 42 infusion process. Sustainability starts from our ingredients only using organic, careful wild crafted so the growing environment can continue to thrive. No chemical perfumes just the highest quality plant extracts. We have a re-use system in place with a 100% fully recyclable system so minimum use and re use of plastic closures and pumps. Our teas have a refill system with fully compostable pouches, and eco recycled boxes and paper to ship, and we continue to constantly research, sustainable options this is so important to us for Wilder.

For those who aren’t familiar with flower remedies, can you tell us how they work? 

Flower essences work uniquely on our emotional and spiritual health on a vibrational level. Helping to recharge and reset the whole body system, harmonizing how we see the world and speaking directly to the nervous system. We are true to the Dr bach method. So each ingredient is added to spring water to infuse for a few hours in the sun giving time to imprint with the water. This is then carefully strained and added to organic alcohol creating the mother essence. From here we mix and create our Wilder Essences from each indicial formula.

How do you begin your day intentionally personally? 

I am conscious that I’m always grateful for a new day, but as a mum i find myself being taken into each morning with gusto.. full speed, so i try and ground myself with cup of herbal tea often our Sunrise. My only other intentional offering to myself would be dry body brushing and stretching I often don’t manage to do as much as I would like but its enough to allow my body to exhale and connect as a whole!

How do you weave Wilder products into your everyday rituals? 

I only use Wilder! We always have a pot of one of our teas on the go. Often its Flourish or Lilli who works with us mixes it up and chooses which one we have ‘on tap’ for that day. Into my tea I’ll add Sacred Drops and in my water flask I always have a mixture of our other tincture formulas depending on my needs at the time, I sometimes add a flower essence too. I start the day using Sacred Wash, Phyto Radiance on my face and Goddess on damp skin. At night its Immortelle Cleansing oil with my Cloud Cloth a ritual I love, and the heavenly Recovery Night Oil.

What is the flower remedy you are reaching for at the moment and why? 

Revitalising Essence is the one right now, the build up to the end of the school year, theres so much juggling with the kids and work this is the essence to take when you’re feeling over extended and exhausted!

Work herbal remedies into your routine.

Herbal remedies and beauty is a great thing to add to your daily routine. Shop Wilder Botanics below or check out our other recommendations with these 5 Steps for a Great Start to Your Day.

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First of all, can you tell us a little bit about your background in the food and womens retreat space?  

Over the past two decades, I have been hosting, teaching, and practicing at various retreats. Initially, I began as a yoga teacher and later expanded my role to include culinary creativity. My journey started with studying Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga in Mysore and eventually led to hosting surf and yoga retreats in Costa Rica and other destinations. After teaching yoga for 25 years, I felt the need to broaden the concept of retreats.  

One thing that has struck me is how the wellness and yoga retreat space has become increasingly exclusive, to the point where it stops including those who need it the most. This space has evolved into a binary environment. And this all-or-nothing atmosphere creates a significant barrier for many individuals seeking wellbeing and connection. 

Our pilot retreat for the Asparagus season revealed this starkly. 100% of participants felt they had never truly belonged at a retreat before. This suggests that the current system is failing to be inclusive. Furthermore, despite the abundance of self-help publications, podcasts, and posts, mental health continues to decline. Highlighting the broader failure of these systems. There is no blame here; I include myself as part of the problem, as I live and work within many failing systems. As artists and practitioners, we have a responsibility to share our stories and create spaces that foster genuine connection and inclusivity.

What was Food For Thought Womens Retreat born out of?  

It has been brewing in me for quite some time. After 15 years of teaching yoga full-time, I stopped because I felt something was missing. Parts of me, especially my artistic side, didn’t get enough space to flourish. So, I returned to what I now call my day job. Despite working in industries like Beauty, Fashion, and PR, I still felt something was amiss. Ironically, the reasons were the same as why I left fashion years ago at the beginning of my yoga journey.  

Looking back, I realize my approach was too romanticized. Influenced by what I thought it should be rather than trusting my gut instinct. My vision didn’t emerge from enlightened illumination; it emerged from discomfort. Like a pebble in your shoe that you try to ignore, but its presence becomes increasingly unbearable. My mother once said that sometimes I say yes but then act no because I don’t listen to my inner voice, the “gut” instinct. So now, I listen. 

For years, I’ve had a vision to weave the act of storytelling, culinary arts, and movement with crucial topics like human induced climate decline and social justice into my work. I wanted to develop a space for people to explore this—something beyond a retreat. Nonetheless, let’s not complicate things; this is a retreat.  

However, instead of retreating into oneself and staying there, we want to invite practitioners to step out and react to what is happening around them. Through the art of storytelling in various forms. We get to ask ourselves: Where do stories come from? We make space to pay attention, listen, and process. 

You and Charlotte come from two relatively different backgrounds – can you tell us why you came together to co-create this womens retreat?  

Actually, Charlotte and I share a similar background, and I mentioned this to her the other day. Inviting her to be part of this came to me clearly, and I spoke the words in that instant. The idea came during the afterparty of my 50th birthday, an eve for new beginnings.  To put it simply, we both cherish poetry and storytelling, and at times we both feel excluded from creative spaces that still favor like-mindedness. 

Charlotte was born in Sweden to a Swedish-American mother and an African American father, and she was raised in Minnesota from the age of four, attending an American school. Although I have no real connection to my birth country, it has consciously and unconsciously shaped who I am. We moved to Sweden when I was 12, so I spent my childhood, the years of wonder and mystery, living in magnificent countries and cultures. 

Charlotte and I share a bicultural experience, often feeling only partially at home in either place or culture. I struggled to settle in Sweden, but connecting with people like Charlotte made it feel okay to live here.

You are combining so many amazing facets of life like ecology, story-telling, culinary arts and movement to bring into this women’s retreat….can you tell us a bit about how you decided what would be included in the retreat and why?  

Honestly, the primary reason is that I feel the wellness space has lost touch with what well-being truly is. It has become overly “edited,” and I wanted to delve deeper than just the surface. Hopefully, in the future, we can offer different forms of storytelling—oral, crafting, movement, or the profound silence of listening. 

After the retreats, you don’t have to feel the need to write a book or poetry, but hopefully, you will find what moves you. The world needs storytellers who can inspire our families, communities, leaders, organizations, and educators. Intellect comes with responsibility and should be practiced with humility. Storytelling is more than words on a page or screen; it runs deep in our veins and connects us to nature in unseen ways. I can’t stress this enough, and I have said it before for every percentage of intellectual knowledge, groundbreaking facts, and financial acumen acquired in educational institutions, there should be an equal inquiry into emotional and spiritual intelligence. 

Remember that language is a powerful tool that can empower, motivate, and inspire us, but it can also perpetuate harm. We want to extend an invitation to study yourself and the stories you live by. Some of these stories might not even be yours, but over time, you have come to accept them as such. These are the stories you need to challenge.

You guys will be working on “confronting the state of the world” which is so incredibly important – how do you plan on doing this in a gentle way?  

That’s a tricky, because people tend to look away when you mention the “state of the world.” But it is possible to confront these realities and still believe in the world’s wonders. I am a living example of that. Most of the time, I feel we humans have messed up. But then I notice the small things, the random acts of kindness that happen around us in daily life. It is a gift to be here, and it’s challenging to share the hardships and make them bearable. This is where I believe storytelling can ease its way into human hearts. Learning can be an act you do at your own pace—not driven by the noise of the media, but in a quiet and expansive way. Pay attention, listen, and learn to marvel at every curb and cobblestone of your life. 

Where did you decide you wanted the first womens retreat to take place and why there?  

I was overjoyed when Magdalena, a dear friend and the driving force behind Hermelins Farm, approached me five years ago about hosting retreats in her future project, The Red Greenhouse. Hermelins is a certified organic vegetable farm in Skänninge, Sweden, growing over 30 varieties of vegetables, and has been home to the Hermelin Family for nearly 40 years. The family includes Olof and Magdalena, their three children, Sonja, Sixten, and Sigge, two Westie dogs, Peggy and Polly, and several farm cats. Since 2007, Olof has managed the farm, continuing a tradition of family farming spanning generations. 

The newest addition to the farm is The Red Greenhouse. This cottage-inspired residence is intimate and newly renovated, accommodating 6 – 8 people and overlooking the farmland. Amenities include a greenhouse, outdoor kitchen with dining area, pool, sauna, showers, three root vegetable-themed double bedrooms with private bathrooms, an industrial kitchen, a communal area, and a private “hen house” in the backyard. Additionally, the farm boasts acres of land and a family-owned grocery store and coffee shop. This bright and welcoming residence is what inspired our retreat concept.  

The land and the farm itself are a retreat. Stepping onto the soil, feeling the earth, and witnessing the struggle to adapt to the volatile weather patterns that have emerged over the last decade provide a grounding experience. This is reality, and reality is a great muse for storytelling. 

How are you going to focus on the very important theme of inter-connectedness?  

Cora, everything wraps into one another whether we want it to or not. How can storytelling connect to movement? Through the stories of the body. The formation and structuring of fascia begin in the development of the fetus, laying down the groundwork for the complex web that permeates the entire body.  Fascia is not simply mechanical; it’s deeply integrated into our biological development from the earliest stages of life. It serves as a portal for memories, instinct, and nature. Nature and humans share the ultimate bond, reflecting the same rhythms and cycles. Our bodies adapt and transform as the seasons change and the Earth breathes. 

The history of ecology is fascinating, and I love to merge it with physical teachings and movement. For mammals and the Earth’s soundscape, the most significant event in early mammalian evolution was the development of milk. This gift led to the growth of the throat and jaw, enabling young mammals to suckle. As a result, throat bones and jaws evolved and became more complex, allowing for a wide range of sounds. Human speech and vocal culture come from ancient mammalian developments, giving us the ability to communicate and share stories.

We know today that plants and all living beings communicate, even bacteria and yeast. Still, it’s not the same way as us humans. Human language is unique to our species, requiring a combination of genetics and culture. The development of brain, memory, speech, and hearing allowed us to communicate and share ideas and emotions through sound. The subtlety and range of human speech and vocal culture is a heritage from ancient mothers. They gave us human speech and song. 

I believe that all the Earth’s sentient and non-sentient beings have a soundscape of their own, and through them, we can connect to those primordial sounds—be it earth, wind, water, or fire. These sounds are our heritage, interwoven with the stories we tell. 

By embracing this dance, this beautiful web of connectivity, we are not merely improving our physical form. We are attuning ourselves to the ancient melodies of existence, resonating with harmony, balance, and grace. It is a practice not just for the body but for the soul—a way to move with strength, wisdom, and understanding. 

Can you tell us a bit about how food will play an important role in the womens retreats?  

Hehe, well we named the retreat “Food for Thought” for a reason, and I have punctuated this text with analogies referencing food. My travels have influenced my approach to wellbeing and our relationship with food. Over the past 100 years, we have developed a broken food supply chain and lost much of our knowledge about living in harmony with nature. When I am at my mothers in France, we go to markets, get to know the farmers and suppliers firsthand, and I am lucky to have gotten to know Magdalena, who is the true hero in this story. 

I am amazed every day when I see health posts in media promoting unseasonal foods packaged in plastic wrappers to “save time.” This convenience comes at a significant cost. Saving time in this manner only prolongs the healing process for ourselves and the Earth. Fast food and fast fashion are the slowest ways to sustain the overall health of our planet and humanity.  

Take food, for instance—something we all need to survive. Learning more about the food we eat can significantly impact sustainability. One important step is to assess the value chain: Does the product support a sustainable value chain? For example, in Sweden, most vegetables come from greenhouses in Almeria, Spain. This system is fundamentally extractive, often involving modern slavery, and produces around 33,500 tones of plastic waste annually. By choosing not to support such industries, we can make a difference. 

We can collectively contribute by making informed choices. This shift in perspective has deeply influenced my daily practices and routines. I now focus more on actions beyond personal well-being to contribute positively to the wider community.

Can you tell us a bit more about the upcoming womens retreat in September? 

Oh, it is the harvest season. We are currently reaching out to chefs and culinary experts to host the communal kitchen, as we prepare all meals together with our guests. Charlotte and I are also curating the structure for storytelling and movement, aiming to leave guests enriched and full of nutrition for the soul. 

We also want to incorporate fun and relaxation, as the topics we discuss can be hard to digest. We aim to utilize storytelling in an uplifting way. Guests can expect plenty of freshly harvested vegetables, flower and herb binding classes, nature walks, spa time with facials and herbal teas, and much more.

Our goal is to create an experience that nourishes both the body and the soul, providing a harmonious blend of enrichment, connection, and enjoyment.  

Useful links

For anyone wanting to learn more about this womens retreat, or Johanna Ljunggren:

@foodforthought_retreats or reach out via mail: whatdoyouhungerfor@gmail.com

Keep a look out for their new website coming soon! @foodforthought_retreats  @the.redgreenhouse

Learn more about Johanna Ljunggren here

An Earth Flow Fascia Yoga Routine by Johanna Ljunggren

Sustainable Eating for Longevity with Johanna Ljunggren

Finally, what does sustainability mean to you at Food for Thought Retreats?  

One of my biggest concerns in the fields of healing and wellness is that many innovators operate within competitive systems for attention, funding, and business. This can detract from the true essence of healing and helping others. By focusing on sustainable and mindful consumption, we aim to create a retreat experience that nourishes both the individual and the planet.

About Obakki

Founded by Treana Peake (read our interview with her here), Obakki is a purpose-led lifestyle brand that connects people through modern design. Everything they curate is hand crafted and produced in partnership with their network of world class artisans. Real people making products that bring meaning and connection to your home.

“The core of the Obakki brand has always been about giving back and making an impact. This new skincare collection was a natural extension of that idea.

I’ve been traveling to Africa for decades now because of the development work that I do in that region, and it was on one of these trips that I met the talented community of women that we now work with to source our Shea Butter and natural oils. I realized that I could use a skincare collection as a vehicle to launch several new livelihood initiatives for these women. Generating income for their communities in a very holistic way, and I loved that concept.” – Treana

Obakki Skincare’s Key Principles

100% Natural  

Made by hand in small batches

Never contains palm oils, artificial fragrances, colorants, parabens, sulfates or animal products

Hand cultivated with wild harvested ingredients

The Ingredients

What is so unique about this range are the ingredients. Typically a very long lists of ingredients makeup conventional formulas. While there of course is nothing wrong with that, there is such beauty and power in simplicity. Obakki’s skincare and body care range are really focused on individual ingredients that are incredibly effective on the skin. Sourced ethically and transparently. Female co-ops in Africa source these wonderful ingredients. Together, Obakki contributes to positive environmental impact for communities throughout northern Uganda, South Sudan, Ghana and Tunisia. To ensure respect and integrity while preserving, promoting, and protecting local economies and environments for our farmers. When you support and shop Obakki, you are supporting local communities and traditions.

Macadamia Oil – 

Rich in naturally occurring omega-7 fatty acids. This is a highly absorbent and moisturizing treatment softens and nourishes skin for a balanced complexion. Macadamia Nut oil has many health benefits for the skin, including a high concentration of Squalene, an essential fatty acid that locks in moisture. Squalene reduces oxidative stress and helps prevent aging. Macadamia nut oil also combines certain fatty acids to produce keratin. A protein necessary for healthy skin and one that repairs scars and stretch marks.

Balanites Oil –

Rich in naturally occurring antioxidants and antimicrobials, this highly absorbent multitasking regenerative treatment diminishes signs of aging, dullness, dryness, acne and scarring. This highly coveted “liquid gold” is extracted from the seeds of the fruit of the Desert Date, a hearty tree indigenous to Africa, and is prized for many therapeutic uses. Imbued with a subtle, nutty scent, Balanites Olis is truly the hardest working serum in Mother Nature’s arsenal. The high concentration of antioxidants and unsaturated fatty acids (omega-6 and omega-9) in Balanites Oil makes it a feast for the skin––endowing it with rich moisturizing properties and a luxurious texture. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties makes this precious oil beneficial for reducing minor skin irritations, as it penetrates the skin easily without clogging pores or aggravating the skin condition. Perfect for dry, rough, aging, sensitive, or irritated skin, Balanites Oil has rich, healing properties that are scientifically proven.

Baobab Oil – 

Rich in naturally occurring vitamins A, D, E, antioxidants and fatty acids, this highly absorbent and moisturizing treatment relieves tired and inflamed skin. Baobab oil is recommended for deep skin rejuvenation. Rich in Omega 3, 6, 9 and other fatty acids, including palmitic, oleic, linolenic, and linoleic acids, clinical research has shown baobab oil to improve skin texture and elasticity. Full of antioxidants, it can help heal skin faster and reduce inflammation.

Prickly Pear Oil – 

Rich in naturally occurring vitamin E, antioxidants and fatty acids, this brightening and moisturizing treatment improves tone and texture for age-defying results. Prickly Pear oil has many hydrating, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. High concentrations of linoleic and other fatty acids help boost the skin’s water- retaining properties, and the fat content of this oil is highly effective at delivering Vitamin A to the skin. Research has shown that it is effective in preventing skin damage and acne. Learn more about the benefits of Prickly Pear for skin here

Nilotica – 

Obakki’s 100% pure wild Nilotica shea butter night cream is rich in anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants. It soothes, protects, and moisturizes dry skin. Shea butter has been proven over centuries to help soothe, heal, and restore elasticity to the skin. Nilotica shea hydrates, brightens, and evens out your skin tone as a single organic ingredient. Nilotica shea has vitamins A, E, K, and lots of catechins. It also contains 25% more oleic acid, an essential fatty acid, than regular African shea butter.

Oleic acid is what gives shea butter its outstanding moisturizing capabilities, making it easier to spread and absorb into the skin or hair. These fatty acid components of shea also help protect the skin’s natural oil barrier, which is essential for keeping skin hydrated and plump. Although the shea found in West Africa is far more popular and prevalent, Nilotica (found only in South Sudan and Northern Uganda) is the more rare and highly valued shea because of its superior moisturizing properties––it’s the gold standard. The lotion has a mild, natural and nutty scent.

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Has sustainability always been a key aspect of your stroller brand, or was there a pivot in the company’s history?

Since we started a stroller revolution 25 years ago, Bugaboo has created award-winning products with a sustainable mindset. We believe parenthood has the power to shape the future, which is why everything we do is designed with the next generation in mind. 

By pioneering modular designs for our strollers, we’ve always made sure that parts are easy to replace or repair, if needed, giving strollers a much longer life and reducing waste as much as possible. 

But now we’re taking our commitment to the next level. In 2021, we set ourselves the goal of pushing down our CO2 emissions to net zero by 2035. We’ve certainly not taken the easy road, but it’s a goal we’re determined to reach, and we’re already making huge steps on our path to zero.

Here is where we are making progress:

Strolling more sensibly:

As well as Buy Back, customers can join the circular economy by buying Certified Refurbished strollers or by leasing. This gives push chairs a longer life and reduces its environmental impact . 

More sustainable materials:

On top of that, we are switching the materials in our strollers to more sustainable ones. Replacing fossil-based plastic with bio-based material – which is made from organic waste. We’re also using recycled aluminium to further reduce our products’ footprint and are gradually introducing recycled fabrics throughout our products. 

Our own factory:

By owning our factory in Xiamen, we can ensure safe, fair, and humane working conditions. Our commitment to preventing modern slavery extends to our supply chains and making sure our suppliers work to high standards too.

For the future:

From installing solar panels on our factory roof to using bio-fuels for our ocean freight, we’re finding more and more ways to push our CO2 footprint to net zero by 2035.

Supporting families everywhere:

We’re committed to supporting great causes and families around the world. In 2023 alone we’ve donated over 2,200 products to hospitals, women’s shelters, SOS Children’s Villages, and families who’ve been displaced by conflict or natural disasters.

Our people:

It’s our responsibility to create an environment that enables well-being and success. To do this, we raised the standard of paid leave, so eligible employees have equitable access to time off for maternity, parental bonding, and family care leave. We pay a living wage, provide private pension plans, and offer career development opportunities. We also provide mental health support through OpenUp.

When did the brand become B-Corp Certified? What went into that process?

Our products account for around 90%* of our company’s environmental footprint. Ensuring we reduce this is therefore our key priority. To ensure all our products are designed for the future we have three key principles:

Built to last:

We craft premium products that last by:

– Always choosing high quality materials

– Applying 25 years of engineering excellence

– Enabling repair and refurbishment 

– Testing our products beyond industry standards 

Use low-impact materials:

We prioritise materials with the lowest possible environmental footprint by: 

– Using low-carbon and recycled materials — without compromising quality

– Avoiding harmful substances

– Ensuring fair value chains where we set the social and environmental standards  

Close loops and cut waste:

We apply circular economic design thinking to close material loops and prevent waste by:

– Enabling recycling of each component

– Prioritizing mono-materials

– Designing for easy disassembly

Product features:

– Our Bugaboo Giraffe is made from certified bio-based material and FSC®-Certified European Beechwood. 

– Our main strollers, Fox5, Donkey5, Dragonfly and Bee are all made with  ISCC certified bio-based plastics, and we are gradually introducing recycled fabrics and recycled aluminium. So far we’ve managed to reduce our average product’s footprint by 22% in 2023. 

– Bugaboo Butterfly is made with recycled aluminium

– Backpack made from PET bottles 

– Cupholder 100% bio-based materials

*Based on 2023 numbers

I’d love to hear more about the bio-based materials – what are they?

Most of Bugaboo’s impact — 90% of our total emissions* — comes from the materials in our products: plastics, aluminium, and polyester fabrics. In 2022 we boldly became the first stroller brand to swap out fossil-based plastic in our products for ISCC certified mass-balanced bio-based material. 

This game-changing innovation up-cycles plant-based waste to give it a new life. It’s a milestone step in our ongoing journey to reduce our impact and build a better future for all.

Our award-winning Bugaboo Giraffe is made with mass-balanced bio-based material and crafted from FSC®-certified beechwood.

*Based on 2023 numbers.

Can you let us in on the company’s sustainability roadmap for the future? What steps are you making to be even more sustainable as a company?

We have committed SBTi targets to reduce the environmental footprint of each Bugaboo product by 47% by 2026. We’ll continue to lead the stroller category fearlessly and hope to inspire others to make more sustainable choices.

In 2024, we’ve been working on expanding the use of recycled aluminium and recycled fabrics, so we can get another step closer towards our net zero ambitions. But we’re not stopping there. We’re constantly exploring innovative materials that’ll help us push to zero CO2 emissions, without compromising on our products’ performance. In addition:

Next-level service

To support new and second-hand push chair owners, we’ll keep rolling out our service centres across Europe. Our innovative modular designs mean we offer spare parts and repairs globally, to give our pushchairs a longer life.

Strolling to a circular economy

Our circular services have been going strong since 2021, and we’ll keep expanding them in 2024. Our Certified Refurbished program keeps our designs strolling for longer. We’ll continue to give parents the option to lease our pushchairs, so they can be enjoyed by more than one family.

More responsible shipping

We are doubling our use of biofuels across all our tradelines, so your Bugaboo delivery can reach you more responsibly.

You can learn more about our sustainability story here: https://www.bugaboo.com/gb-en/sustainability/

SHOP BUGABOO SUSTAINABLE STROLLERS HERE!

CHECK OUT OTHER RELATED CONTENT HERE

“I have had several friends tell me how much Portugal is prioritizing sustainability. In all aspects of the country. And my stay at Quinta da Comporta really brought these sort of efforts to life. The hotel’s use of the sun is the first thing I noticed. With solar panels on the roof that are used to power most of their energy. Little things followed that were so impressed with – reusable water bottles, a local wine list, huge organic gardens on property.

This is a hotel that understands that human health is intrinsic to environmental health and I love that so much. Below are some of the highlights I learned about during my trip. And the hotel’s commitment to their ethical approach to tourism.”

– Cora Hilts

Quinta da Comporta Design

The eco conscience of the Resort prolongs itself into the use of locally sourced materials. And artifacts that artisans continue to craft genuinely. “Bunho” and “vime”, rattan décor details, handcrafted wooden furniture. Traditional ceramics and tableware from Caldas da Rainha city and other carefully chosen pieces are an integral part. Miguel Câncio Martins designed Quinta da Comporta to be a place where authenticity and simplicity is considered a luxury that remains timeless.

From traditional architectural lines to all décor details. Everything at Quinta da Comporta was thought of to be a genuine translation of the local way of living. And at the same time provide a deeper connection to the neighbouring natural reserve for a real journey inwards. Inspired by the beauty of the surrounding environment. An open and connected to nature concept privileges every room and all outlets with breath taking views. The neutral palette of tones is set by the use of salvaged natural materials of the area. Wood, wicker, glass and stone with décor motifs designed by local artisans that colour in each space with authenticity.

Renewable Energy

You cannot miss the huge roof full of solar panels on the main buildings. The hotel’s water is heated by the sun through our thermal solar panels and by pumps that receive energy from the photovoltaic panels. The use of over 600m2 of solar panels creates sustainable electricity for the entire hotel. The temperature variation follows the rhythm of daily light and the seasons of the year. They also avoid the consumption of fossil fuels through our electric fleets within and outside the resort. They have electric buggies, tuk-tuks, and vans for the transportation of our guests. So the whole hotel feels very quiet and free of pollutants.

Organic Vegetable Gardens

To the left of the restaurant you will find the most beautiful beds of vegetables and flowers. You are encouraged to explore and engage. By creating the vegetable garden and making their food menu seasonal, they allow their garden to provide most of the vegetables and herbs you will find in the restaurant’s dishes and drinks. This way they reduce the impact of transporting ingredients to the hotel. All the rest of their food and ingredients are sourced locally (mostly from Alentejo region). The freshness is evident in every bite!

The Quinta da Comporta Spa

The spa is one of the most stunning spas I have ever been to. And my facial one of the best I have ever had. Because they believe that real indulgence comes from reconnecting through nature to ourselves, by nurturing our mind, body and spirit in a peaceful environment, ORYZA SPA’s barn-like structure was rebuilt using 100-year-old reclaimed wood, with organic elements such as stone, bamboo, metal and other natural materials to furnish its interior. On top of all of this, the hotel recycles their water for the spa – the warm water that is not consumed in the hotel is reused to heat the pool of the Spa. 

I would highly recommend their line of organic beauty products as well in case you aren’t able to make it all the way to Coimporta! ORYZA LAB pays tribute to a precious resource of Comporta and a unique element of Quinta da Comporta’s story – Rice. Inspired by ORYZA SPA’s lush green environment and Comporta’s surrounding rice plantation ORYZA LAB – an exclusive scientific skincare brand that uses rice as the core element of its expert formulas – came to life. Find them here: https://en.oryzalab.com

Energy and Waste Reduction

The restaurant’s unused water is recycled and used for irrigation of the gardens. They also cut back on any sort of toxic usage in controlling the mosquitos with cutting edge methods that preserve their ecosystem and Comporta’s natural beauty. Bed linens and towels are replaced every three days and washed during the day to make use of the heated water and energy produced by the hotel’s solar panels.

Also this is very much a plastic free hotel. They encourage guests to reuse their water bottles. For this purpose, we have four water stations distributed throughout the hotel which guests can use to refill your bottle: reception, entrance, restaurant, and gym.

Conclusion

Portugal is an amazingly beautiful country and there is so much opportunity to take advantage of the sunshine, ability to grow year-round and land to be cultivated responsibly. Things like regenerative farming, solar panels and local production can really flourish here and it’s incredible to see a hotel embracing that. If you are visiting anytime soon, we can’t recommend visiting Quinta da Comporta enough, and if you are flying into Lisbon do see our sustainable city guide to Lisbon HERE.

What To Wear at Quinta da Comporta:

Dal the Label! This line is our co-founder Cora Hilts’ go to for sustainable fashion that is versatile and easy to style in the warm weather. Her top picks are the bodysuit in black and terra cotta and slip dress.

Ethical Fashion

Our collection of ethical clothing at Belmond El Encanto comes from California. It uses eco-friendly manufacturing and mostly natural materials. These materials are sourced from local, regenerative farms. They prioritize sustainability and social responsibility in their brands. They do this without sacrificing quality.

Dāl the Label – Los Angeles, California

The creative force at the helm of  Dāl, founder and designer Dana Mortada felt a lack of sustainable, long lasting garments in her closet. She felt compelled to create an LA-based brand providing ethically-made clothing with complete transparency. But Dāl is more than just a brand; it is a community of those turning towards responsible living. Meticulous craftsmanship, consciously selected fabrics, and functional design compose the nature of their luxury collections.

Dāl places the health of our planet at the forefront of their craft. They work in minimum order quantities, and work exclusively with small factories based in their home of Los Angeles. They  prioritise local mills that omit synthetic materials and harmful compounds and instead use eco-friendly fabrics such as 100% linen, organic cotton and cupro, each with its own unique qualities, grown without the need for pesticides or excess water to thrive.

Now available at Rêve En Vert’s boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

Industry of All Nations – Joshua Tree, California

In 2020, Industry of All Nations sought to rethink methods of production for consumer goods in the industry, bringing production back to the original makers through new responsible manufacturing techniques.  They are based in Los Angeles, California and work with communities around the world, developing sustainable processes, and preserving the identity of people and places which are bound up in the products they make. 

Industry of All Nations use a range of low-impact, eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, recycled fibers and vegetable tanned leather that remain 100% natural and biodegradable. This approach helps limit chemicals, water and wastewater used in their supply chain. Many of their pieces are made by hand within cooperatives that use renewable energy for production, such as solar power or recycled water, highlighting both the artisanal nature of the production and their commitment to environmentally sustainable practices.

Now available at Rêve En Vert’s boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

KYE Intimates – Los Angeles, California 

KYE is a considered intimates and lifestyle collection made for your everyday. Made with sustainability and conscious production at the forefront of their values, they are inspired to create timeless pieces that feel deeply personal. Inspired by real people and genuine connections, KYE is a reminder to foster a gentle relationship with ourselves, those we love, and Mother Earth.

Each piece is lovingly designed and handmade in Los Angeles in close partnership with a local, female owned factory, championing local production to minimise their environmental footprint. KYE intimates are made from carefully selected deadstock or renewable materials to further minimise their impact on the environment. The swim collection is made from Amni Soul Eco yarn, chosen for its ability to biodegrade. This collection was inspired by the spirit of Sea Ranch’s Ohlson Recreation Center, an open-air complex on the California coast where built structures complement the surrounding landscape. 

Now available at Rêve En Vert’s boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

Janessa Leoné – Los Angeles, California

Janessa Leoné is an elevated accessories label based in Los Angeles, where Janessa was born and raised. Since inception, Janessa  Leoné  has been committed to fostering a conversation around conscious consumption and subscribes to buying fewer, but buying higher quality items that transcend trends and will last for many years to come.

Janessa Leoné fosters working practices that prioritise quality of life, well-being and open communication for every individual on the team, from vendors, retail partners and their local communities. From the farms where they source wool and leather, to the  manufacturers and production facilities in Los Angeles, New York, Pennsylvania, Madagascar, and Ecuador, to their shipping warehouse, they demand supply chain transparency, ethical work environments and environmental accountability from every partner who touches their products.

Now available at Rêve En Vert’s boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

Savannah Morrow – Los Angeles, California

Savannah Morrow designs with the forces of nature. They believe true sustainability is an artform, and that creativity, in sync with our planet, is the path to our better future. Savannah Morrow only works with living, natural fabrics that are truly one-of-a-kind, intentionally and sustainably grown, sourced and processed in ways that reduce environmental harm and support local, small businesses and industry innovators. 

Their makers are the heart of Savannah Morrow. From the farmers who grow our fabrics, to the artisans who weave them, from the animals they protect to the children whose education they help support. Savannah Morrow values every in their pursuit of sustainability and believes that fostering change requires recognising the care that goes into crafting pieces in harmony with nature. For them, care means partnering with makers and craftspeople in places like Pere and parts of India that pour their energy into safeguarding local and traditional hand-loom techniques.  

Now available at Rêve En Vert’s boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

Beauty and Wellness

These wonderful brands offer a collection of organic products to revitalise your body and skin, crafted with locally sourced, natural ingredients that are gentle and kind to your skin. Made here in California, they ensure the highest quality by partnering with local farmers who share our commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.

Wonder Valley – Joshua Tree, California

Welcome to Wonder Valley – a world where health is a priority and olive oil reigns supreme. Since 2014, Wonder Valley has championed the holistic power of extra virgin olive oil, hand-pressing antioxidant-rich oil every November in the groves of Northern California. Wonder Valley curates high-performing, plant-based skincare and hair products, emphasising quality and transparency by growing and producing their own olive oil as their hero ingredient in all products. 

Their small, family-owned team also mindfully sources raw ingredients globally from clean, high-quality suppliers, collaborating with skilled craftsmen for small-batch production. Committed to sustainability, they design packaging with foresight, prioritising recyclable materials and continuously seeking more sustainable options. They do not see this as a static process, but one that is in constant motion.

Now available at Rêve En Vert’s boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

Mini Bloom – Los Angeles, California 

Rooted in nature and backed by science – Mini Bloom represents a thoughtfully crafted line of organic skincare products tailored for both moms and little ones, embodying a commitment to social responsibility and eco-consciousness from seed to skin. From innovation to carefully considering their product supply chain, everything they do is brought to life with the safety of babies and family at the forefront, as well as sustainability and the health of the planet. They recognise that the earth’s resources are not limitless, and do their best day by day so your little ones have a bright future awaiting for them. 

Mini Bloom are inspired by the remedies of Mother Nature and the science of plant-based botanicals to calm your baby’s skin while also caring for the planet. These ingredients are organic-derived and sustainably sourced throughout the US. Their collection of gentle products are always 100% vegan and free from parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, silicones, synthetic fragrances and any nasty chemicals.

Now available at Rêve En Vert’s boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

Le Prunier – Sutter County, California

Founded in 2017 by siblings Jacqueline, Allison, and Elaine Taylor, Le Prunier is redefining the beauty industry through innovative, sustainable, and organic practices. Built on an ancestral legacy that began in 1960 with their grandfather, who farmed the rich soils of Northern California, laying the seeds for four generations of family-operated farming. At the heart of the harvests – luscious purple-red, California plums. 

In 1985, the Taylor family shifted to organic farming, expanding to Asia and Europe. During their travels, they were inspired by the Caucasus region’s reverence for dried plums as the ‘Fruit of Life’. The sisters explored the benefits of the farm’s main commodity, partnering with world renowned beauty laboratories to develop Le Prunier, an organic skincare line handcrafted from the Taylor’s sun-drenched plum orchards.  Their organic, herbicide-free farm focuses on regenerative practices, ensuring full control of the supply chain from raw materials to manufacturing. Committed to sustainability and eliminating waste, they utilise plum-based ingredients using by-products from their family farm.

Now available at Rêve En Vert’s boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

Owl Venice – Venice, Los Angeles

The foundation of OWL was built on founder Lindsey Erin’s personal journey to health. And her mission to heal the body through holistic remedies. When her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, Lindsey committed to living in a way that would minimize the risk of disease. Lindsey began her research on wellness, nutrition and the importance of healing our gut. Gut healt plays a crucial role in our overall health, which would eventually lead to the creation of OWL Venice.

Her edible products are now designed for optimal gut health, meaning they are void of common allergens, and instead packed with nutrient-dense ingredients that are easily absorbed by the body. As well as promoting our personal health, OWL Venice are also committed to healing the environment.  All of their goods are handcrafted in Los Angeles, California using organically grown ingredients or wild-crafted herbs, and packaged in 100% recyclable glass, free of chemicals that negatively affect the environment and impact the efficiency of their products.

Now available at Rêve En Vert’s boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

J.Hannah – Los Angeles, California

J.Hannah offers a line of carefully-edited, high-quality nail polishes alongside her exceptionally crafted jewelry. Her shades are inspired by artists’ palettes, natural elements, and the muses we vision. Embracing rare and unusual palettes which consider the gracefulness of hands, and the role of subtle color as an element in the considered wardrobe.

J.Hannah Révész’s journey into jewelry was sparked by inheriting her grandmother’s vintage pieces. These held the charm of a different era and became enduring muses for her own designs. Each piece in J.Hannah’s fine jewelry collection is crafted from 100% post consumer recycled 18k, 14k gold and sterling silver. Their casting grain is made of 100% post consumer recycled metals, salvaged from old jewelry and scrap gold. Each piece is individually handmade in Los Angeles. An approach that allows J.Hannah’s team to carefully oversee craft, quality and detail while honoring longstanding and valued relationships with local craftspeople, artisans, and family-owned-and-operated manufacturers.

Now available at Rêve En Vert’s boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

Home

Thoughtfully crafted, our collection of homewear pieces are designed to elevate your conscious home. Each piece is created with care, using sustainable materials and skilled local artisans. Blending aesthetic and functionality to bring beauty and meaning into your living space.

Homecourt – Santa Monica, California

Homecourt was founded by Courtney Cox with the belief that our homes are our sanctuaries. And the household products we use everyday should not only look and smell beautiful, but also should be safe for people and the planet. They dedicated to sustainability throughout their collection. Using environmentally friendly and responsibly sourced, plant-derived and upcycled ingredients, that are always non-toxic vegan and cruelty free.

These ingredients are sourced through various sustainable practices. Such as utilizing waste from the primary distillation of botanicals through an additional filtration process. As well as the use of rotational harvesting and using more gentle methods of fetilisation to grow their crops. Homecourt’s beautiful collection offers refillable options to reduce the need for replacement. All of which are made from 100% post-consumer recycled materials. This diverts existing plastic and paper from the waste stream. Helping to curb the global demand for virgin materials and minimizing their environmental footprint even further. 

Now available at Rêve En Vert’s boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

GLŌAM Candles – Santa Barbara, California 

A lit candle has the power to nurture joy, intimacy and is a subtle yet powerful reminder to slow down. With this, Gloam nurtures a deep appreciation for nature and how it has the power to provide us as humans with all the ingredients needed to illuminate our lives. GLŌAM was created by Sigal, a designer with a background in anthropology, interior design and psychology. Sigal has brought the essence of her Mediterranean roots to Santa Barbara, California. She now hand-dips candles out of her backyard studio with her daughter, just down the road from El Encanto. They use beeswax, cotton and natural pigments created from the soils, minerals, herbs, fruit peels, leaves and flowers – the precious gifts from our planet. 

Over the years, Sigal has spent Mediterranean summers collecting wildflowers from a nearby field and mixing these pigments with flowers, leaves, sand, and water. This exposed her to a deeper understanding of color, a curiosity for nature, and an appreciation for art and experimentation. It was amidst these serene countryside moments, in the depth of nature that Sigal’s passion for crafting candles from raw, natural elements was ignited.

Now available at the Rêve En Vert boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

Coyuchi – Point Reyes, California 

Since 1991, Coyuchi has connected people to the raw beauty and transformative power of nature. Pioneering conscious luxury in organic home goods. Their indulgently soft, heirloom-quality pieces draw inspiration from nature’s hues and facets, enriching living spaces with effortless elegance. Each element reflects the earth’s restorative energy, with each piece being sustainably sourced and thoughtfully crafted from organic cotton. 

‘Coyuchi’ – derived from the word ‘Nahuatl’, refers to the brown hue of cotton. Like the layers of the Earth, these natural variations in fiber, yarn, and finish are a celebration of nature, and cotton’s versatility.  Coyuchi are committed to helping our environment, farmers and crafts people thrive. Staying connected to their global community, serving  as a reminder of the collective effort behind each textile.  Their organic cotton relies on regenerative agriculture. Encouraging the land to thrive in its natural form, relying on ecological processes and cycles instead of human input.  

Now available at the Rêve En Vert boutique at the Belmond El Encanto

Dumæ – Los Angeles, California

Dumæ is on a mission to elevate traditional craftsmanship. To bring beauty to the spaces we share by enhancing our living spaces with thoughtfully hand crafted ceramics. The name pays a heartfelt homage to Point Dume. The majestic bluffs overlooking Malibu, California, where founder Kym Gold grew up and later raised her family. It remains a constant source of inspiration. ‘Mae’, translated as ‘mother’, pays tribute to her great-grandmother, who embodied the values of love, wisdom and family. The name Dumæ reflects the inspiration behind their products and the strong bonds that unite us as humans. 

Their one-of-a-kind, versatile pieces are designed and made in Los Angeles. Skilled ceramic artists, pride themselves in keeping the tradition of ceramic art in America alive. Each piece is handmade, designed with intention and intended to be kept forever. They tell a story of craftsmanship by using traditional wheel throwing and hand building techniques. Created in small batches to ensure the highest quality and prevent wastage.

Now available at the Rêve En Vert boutique at the Belmond El Encanto

The Kitchen

Our collection of kitchen pantry staples are designed to elevate your culinary creations. Using locally sourced produce while supporting small, local farms and businesses. We believe food is a powerful way to bring people together. Fostering connection and community around the table, while bringing the essence of California into your home.

Westbourne – Los Angeles, California

Westbourne was founded with purpose and rooted in a love for hospitality. This stemmed from founder Camilla Marcus’ childhood memories of gathering around the dinner table. Trips to the farmers market, and cooking with everything on hand, from seed to stem. Inspired by the bounty of California, Westbourne brings you their chef driven snacks and pantry staples. These are intended to dress up everyday cooking by using restorative ingredients that harness the supernatural powers of vegetables.

For Westbourne, sustainability begins at the source. They champion regenerative agriculture, and growing ingredients in a way that nurtures soil health and biodiversity. They see the single biggest impact we as humans can have in mitigating climate change is to decarbonise our soil. Rooted in their restaurant heritage, they collaborate with local farmers that share their passion for preserving our natural resources. They use regenerative methods that yield more nutrient-rich, delicious, and environmentally sound food than traditional growers.

Now available at the Rêve En Vert boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

Flamingo Estate – Los Angeles, California

Flamingo Estate is the home of founder, Richard Christiansen. But it’s more than that. It’s a story of a lush orchard and pleasure garden on a California hillside overlooking Los Angeles. And the many hands that have helped tend it. They grow sage for soap, tomatoes for candles and harvest salt from the cliffs of Big Sur. It’s an ancient philosophy that champions slow ways and traditional practices. Showcasing some of California’s most precious produce, connecting people to the natural world. 

Flamingo Estate began as a pandemic project when Richard helped a woman at risk of losing her farm by selling her fresh produce in $35 boxes to friends. As word spread, other farmers were eager to join in. Meeting with small, family-run farms, who saw first hand how climate change and industrial agricultural practices were affecting the land, these farmers showed Richard the beauty of employing regenerative farming techniques. Removing heavy machinery, focusing instead on the health of the soil and employing ancient wisdom. Richard now thinks of Mother Nature as the great luxury power house. Things they grow and make from her are the most precious gifts. 

Now available at the Rêve En Vert boutique at the Belmond El Encanto.

If you’re in the area, stop by the Rêve En Vert boutique at the Belmond El Encanto. We’d love you to come along and visit our sustainable space in person!

Sustainability At Wimbledon Is Big…

English weather is unpredictable at the best of times. But with climate change and the increase of torrential rain, outdoor sporting events are being impacted more than ever. Wimbledon has taken several significant steps towards becoming a more sustainable event. Aiming to reduce its environmental impact and promote greener practices throughout the club and its event. They want to increase the climate conversation by being environment positive by 2030. Encouraging people to be more climate positive everyday. As a sustainable living platform, this is something incredibly close to our hearts. It’s great to see large-scale events like Wimbledon being proactive in their efforts for the planet! 

Quoted from the official Wimbledon website – ‘Changes to our climate are accelerating and we have a responsibility to play our part. Mitigating our own impacts, ensuring we have a climate resilient estate for the future and using our influence to support this important cause.’

Their Policy and Focuses

As stated by Wimbledon, they are making efforts now to address the environmental concerns that having large events can cause and how they can offset the carbon footprint in the best ways possible. As their own site says:  ‘To sustain the running of the Club, our year-round operations and The Championships in a way that ensures we work towards our aim to have and advocate for a positive impact on our environment. We will be honest, transparent and act with integrity in what we can and cannot do. We will innovate in ways that respect our traditions and values.’ 

Plastic Reduction 

– Players are given reusable, refillable bottles in a bid to eliminate single use plastic. The refillable culture is further encouraged with refillable water stations around the grounds.

– The tournament has introduced biodegradable and recyclable packaging for food and drinks stations 

Resource Efficiency 

– The grounds are powered by the use of renewable electricity including the use of solar panels and LED lighting has been installed to improve energy efficiency. 

– Wimbledon prioritises local sourcing of food, with low carbon options included at venders. 

– Leftover food is donated to City Harvest, a food redistribution platform who provide food to charities and community organisations. 

Green Transportation 

– The tournament promotes the use of electric vehicles, including electric shuttles for players and staff.

– Wimbledon offers secure bicycle parking facilities, advocating spectators to cycle to the event if they live nearby.

– London also has a comprehensive public transport system, reducing the reliance on personal vehicles. 

Water Conservation, Biodiversity and Green Spaces 

– Wimbledon has systems in place to harvest and recycle rainwater. Some of this is used as part of advanced irrigation systems on the courts to minimise water use. While maintaining the high quality of the grass. 

– The grounds are managed to enhance biodiversity. With initiatives to create habitats for local wildlife and planting native species (green roofs and walls have been incorporated into the architecture).

What To Wear To Wimbledon

While there is no official dress code for Wimbledon, spectators are encouraged to dress in smart-casual attire. Particularly if you have tickets on centre court or court 1! Those attending typically opt for a sophisticated and elegant look. Think polished silhouettes crafted from good quality fabrics and thoughtful accessories that elevate the overall look and add a touch of refinement!

What To Wear To Wimbledon – Your Favourite Day Dress 

The perfect dress for Wimbledon strikes a balance between elegance, comfort and practicality. Consider a lightweight, breathable fabric like organic linen or cotton to stay cool in the warmer weather. Even if you’re watching with friends and family, it’s the perfect time to make an occasion out of it and showcase your sustainable summer dress! 

As part of the tournament’s traditions, players at Wimbledon are required to wear white attire. Some spectators opt to align with this tradition of wearing white, adding to the overall aesthetic of the tournament.  

A white day dress can be incredibly versatile and the ultimate elegant piece in your sustainable wardrobe. It’s a colour that never goes out of style, making it a timeless choice for many occasions, including Wimbledon! It can be styled with a tailored jacket and accessorised with some colourful, statement jewelry to bring the look together! Our go to for a sophisticated day dress is French sustainable luxury brand, Olisitic The Label. The Pluma Dress in White embodies minimalist elegance. With its pleated skirt, a v-neckline and a rafia belt to flatter the silhouette. It’s made from luxurious organic cotton poplin for greater comfort and lightness.

We also love the Momo Dress from Olistic’s Ikebana collection, a mid length dress made from organic linen. Artist Amélie Lengrand designed this beautiful print, drawing inspiration from the timeless beauty of Ikebana, the traditional Japanese floral art. This is great for those wanting to add a subtle pop of colour, reflecting the vibrant summer season ahead.

What To Wear To Wimbledon – A Tailored Trouser 

A pair of tailored trousers are a great alternative to a summer dress for slightly colder weather. They offer a sophisticated and polished look while still providing comfort for walking around and exploring the Wimbledon grounds. You could wear them with an organic cotton blouse to create a chic ensemble that balances elegance with practicality. 

One of our latest arrivals is from Dāl The Label who offer a beautiful collection of timeless pieces, featuring striking silhouettes to empower the modern women. All their pieces can be dressed up or down, making them the perfect brand for smart-casual events. Their Linen Wide Leg Pants in Mist are super flattering and made from 100% linen for a lightweight feel. Wimbledon and tennis in general are often associated with green. So we love the idea of incorporating these into your outfit. If you’re looking to make a statement this year while still dressing practically, pair Dāl’s wide leg pants with the matching Signature Linen Double-Breasted Blazer in Mist. It’s tailored to a structured silhouette with notched lapels, made from 100% linen with coconut button closure. They also offer these pieces in Natural, for a slightly more muted tone! 

What To Wear To Wimbledon – An Organic Shirt 

An organic cotton or linen shirt is a staple in our sustainable wardrobe. It works well paired with a pair of tailored trousers or a midi skirt. It’s a versatile and practical choice for Wimbledon, allowing you to stay comfortable while still looking stylish and put together. They’re also great for layering under a tailored jacket, if it’s a slightly chillier day. 

Grammar is our go-to for the perfect white shirt, featuring flattering, timeless silhouettes that can be dressed up or down. These are handmade using 100% GOTS certified organic cotton by a handful of local artisans, craftspeople in New York City. We love the charming detail of the collar on Grammar’s Preposition Organic Cotton Shirt, which extends into ribbons and can be elegantly tied into a bow. The Linen Oversized Shirt from Dāl The Label’s new collection has an oversized silhouette, a pointed collar and dropped shoulders. Both pieces incorporate elements that add a fresh and stylish twist to the classic staple white shirt.

What To Wear To Wimbledon – Some Classic Gold Jewelry 

Jewelry is a fantastic final touch to elevate your outfit and give it more of a polished look. If you’re opting for a colourful outfit that doesn’t need any bold accessories, we recommend choosing a simple pair of sophisticated gold hoops. This classic style of earrings effortlessly elevates your look with their understated elegance, allowing your outfit to take centre stage while adding a touch of refined glamour to complete your look.

EVA REMENYI has a beautiful line of ethical jewelry, handmade in a small workshop in Budapest from locally sourced recycled gold and silver. Each of her classic pieces are designed to be worn every day, including subtle chain necklaces, small studs and simple gold bangles. Featured here is the Gold Talisman Fortune Necklace and the Gold Nautilus Earrings, curated to add a touch of refinement to your look. EVA REMENYI mixes a fresh approach with the age-old-jeweler tradition, representing a minimal design both with geometrical shapes and with the use of natural elements. They’re perfect for pairing with other sustainable gold jewelry you might own!

What To Wear To Wimbledon – A Spacious Bag For Your Essentials 

We’d recommend taking a spacious bag to visit the event. You might want to bring essentials such as sunscreen, water, a hat, a camera or even some extra layers. Our go to for this sort of event is an Uri Studio bag. Featured here is the Medium Flora Bag, made from 100% plant fibres such as hemp canvas, vegetable tanned Italian leather and abaca, a natural leaf fibre that comes from a relative of the banana tree, native to the philippines. Dāl The Label’s new Structured Tote Bag in Tan is also a great option for a classic, smart day bag. It’s crafted by women, for women using clean, weighted 100% cotton canvas.

What To Wear To Wimbledon – Skincare Essentials 

It’s always good to have a few skincare staples in your bag, particularly on a hot, sunny day! Going to Wimbledon involves walking around various courts and exploring the grounds, so it’s important to have an SPF with you. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate through clouds causing skin damage, so a good SPF is essential to protect your skin throughout the day. Dr Joseph’s High Protection Sun Cream SPF30 is a light, fast absorbing sunscreen made with hyaluronic acid and sea buckthorn. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which nourish and hydrate the skin for a healthy, radiant complexion. Team Dr. Joseph’s Hyaluronic Blossom Facial Mist is great for when your skin is feeling a little dehydrated throughout the day. This moisturising facial spray with prickly pear, rice extract and aloe vera refreshes, hydrates and gently soothes the skin, even on top of makeup!

Whether you’re attending, or watching at home with friends and family, we hope you enjoy the two weeks of tennis in July!

What’s So Bad About Plastic?

The Plastic Free July movement has never been so relevant than it is this year. Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. It poses a huge problem to our planet simply because it cannot be broken down naturally. Plastics are non-biodegradable, meaning they persist in the environment for up to 500 years. So every plastic item you’ve used in your lifetime will exist for over five generations to come. Everyday items like plastic bags, bottles, straws and packaging (most of which we only use once), end up in landfills or oceans. Causing a huge deal of harm to ecosystems and natural habitats.

Over time larger plastic items break down into tiny particles called microplastics. These contaminate soil, water sauces, and are ingested by marine species, posing health risks to both wildlife and humans. Of the 7 billion tonnes of plastic waste generated globally so far, less than 10% is recycled. Millions of tonnes of plastic waste is lost to the environment. And sometimes even shipped thousands of miles to destinations where it is sadly mostly burned or dumped.

Some Facts

– Global plastic production has doubled since the beginning of the century, to almost 400 million metric tons per year in 2021.

– One million plastic bottles are purchased every minute, while up to five million plastic bags are used worldwide every year. Half of all plastic produced is designed for single-use purposes – used just once and thrown away.

– 36% of all plastic produced are used in packaging and approximately 85% of which end up in landfills or as unregulated waste.

How did we get here?

From the 1950s-1970s, only a small amount of plastic was produced, and plastic waste was relatively manageable. However between the 1970s and the 1990s, plastic production and waste more than tripled and in the early 2000s. The amount of plastic waste generated rose more in a single decade than it had in the previous 40 years. Today we produce about 400 million tons of plastic waste every year. Since the 70s, the rate of plastic production has grown faster than that of any other material. Without changes to current policies, global plastic waste is projected to triple by 2060.

Plastic Use In the Home

Traditional Products 

One of the most commonly used household items which pose a risk to both the environment and our health are traditional cleaning products. The plastic packaging and even chemicals within these products are derived from crude oil. A non-renewable resource which is not biodegradable. The production of these throwaway plastics generates huge amounts of pollution through the extraction, refining and transportation processes. The waste generated by single-use plastics contributes significantly to landfill overflow and ocean pollution. While toxic chemicals are washed down our sinks and into our water systems. It’s food for thought when you consider the amount of conventional bleach, antibacterial sprays, hand washes, dish soaps and detergents you use every year. 

Sustainable Alternatives

Opting for refillable and eco-friendly cleaning products is a great way to reduce your own plastic usage. While also allowing you to see the benefits of natural, non toxic products which don’t harm the planet. A brand which we are loving and is a household favourite amongst the Rev team is Kinfill. Kinfill have a wonderful range of plastic-free, biodegradable and refillable cleaning line, as well as other home-care products. All products are made using clean, safe ingredients that are also vegan and cruelty free. We think they set a fantastic example in the industry. Encouraging us as consumers think more mindfully about the products we buy. And the effect these everyday items have on the environment.

Conventional cleaning products typically come in larger sizes because the chemicals used are diluted with water. All of that water or liquid needs to be packaged with a water-proof barrier, and that’s where plastic comes in. Kinfill provides a more sustainable solution with their compact Glass Forever Bottle. Which contains a concentrated formula, made to blend at home with tap water. This significantly reduces waste by allowing you to re-use the same bottle time after time, saving companies the need to manufacture new packaging with each purchase.

This approach not only helps to reduce the amount of plastic entering our landfills and oceans. But also promotes a more circular economy where resources are conserved and reused. Kinfills Glass Forever Bottle speaks for itself – it can be used and refilled as many times as you please! These bottles have also been developed to be fully and easily recyclable, including the aluminum caps. Ensuring materials are properly disposed of and do not end up in landfills like many conventional cleaning products.

Their Spotless Home Bundle is the ultimate cleaning kit for your conscious home. It includes all the essentials you need to keep your living space sparkling clean, without any plastic or harsh chemicals. This is a fantastic eco-friendly alternative to streamline your cleaning cupboard to just a few multi-purpose staples, and embrace plastic-free cleaning. We’ve also featured Kinfills Soap Bar Bundle as a sustainable, plastic-free alternative to conventional bath-care products. It comes with a lavender hand soap bar, a body bar and a shampoo bar, each offering a unique set of benefits to elevate your bath time routine and are suitable for all skin types. These Kinfill boxes are made from FSC certified recycled cardboard and are completely free of toxic- adhesives.

Plastic Use In The Beauty Industry

Traditional Products 

While there is an increasing effort by sustainable beauty brands in using recyclable materials and packaging for their products, the majority of conventional cosmetic brands have a long history of relying on single-use plastic packaging. It’s convenient, lightweight and easy to manufacture, but it comes at a huge cost to the environment. The most obvious use of plastic in the beauty industry is for packaging, whether this is bottles and tubes for skincare, compacts and cases for makeup, or wrappers and seals to protect the product itself. Even the beautiful cardboard outer packaging or glossy, shiny packaging you often see in the industry can just be a cover-up for a hidden plastic problem in the form of oil laminations and gloss coatings that contain plastics, hindering the recyclability of the cardboard underneath. 

Microbeads are also a huge environmental problem in the industry. These are tiny plastic particles that are commonly used in skincare products, such as exfoliating scrubs or cleansers, which of course end up being washed down our drains and into our oceans, as these are small enough to pass through water filtration systems. Even many conventional lipsticks contain microplastic ingredients to make them last longer or act as an emulsifier, making them harmful to our own health and the planet. In fact, the use of microplastics being found in various beauty products is unfortunately pretty common!

Sustainable Alternatives

When shopping for sustainable alternatives, choose brands that offer product refills and use natural ingredients, without plastic packaging. Opt for beauty products packaged in materials like glass, aluminum or cardboard, which are far easier to recycle and have a lower environmental impact than plastic. 

Madeleine White, the founder of Juni, felt a strong responsibility to ensure her products were not only vegan and organic, but also free from plastic, unlike many traditional beauty products. Her lipsticks are free from microplastic ingredients and instead made using certified organically farmed and sustainably sourced botanical ingredients. Juni’s packaging is also 100% plastic-free and 100% recyclable. Another brand that prides itself on sustainability, waste reduction, and being plastic-free is the luxury skincare range Albiva. Their products are packaged in beautiful wooden bottles that are PEFC approved (an NGO dedicated to sustainable forest management) and fully recyclable while their external packaging is made from handmade, plastic-free paper.

Plastic Free Fashion

Plastic in clothes is probably something the majority of people know little about. Most of us are probably that clothing can be made out of natural fibers or synthetic fibers. Perhaps even a combination of the two. However, what synthetics fibers actually means is they are essentially forms of plastic. Materials such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic are all derived from petrochemicals (fossil fuels). These are incredibly damaging to the environment. The production of these fibers generates significant greenhouse gas emissions and because these materials are non-biodegradable. They contribute to the growing problem of textile waste in landfills. 

We are big advocates for mindful consumption, particularly when it comes to clothes. We’d always recommended opting for sustainable fashion brands, who use natural materials as well as ethical labour practices. Look for brands who are totally open and transparent about where their clothes were made and under what conditions. For example, the wonderful brands we stock often have long-standing relationships with their suppliers. And frequently visit the farms where the organic cotton or linen they use is grown. If you’re interested in the stories behind some of our sustainable brands, we have the perfect editorial for you – https://reve-en-vert.com/editorial/who-made-my-clothes-at-reve-en-vert/

We thought this would be a wonderful opportunity to showcase some of our brands who use only natural materials such as organic cotton and linen. These natural materials are grown on organic farms without the use of pesticides, herbicides or fertilisers. And use more sustainable and regenerative farming practices. This helps maintain the long-term health and productivity of the land. Compared to energy-intensive practices required for the production of synthetic materials. 

Fawn and Freda offer a beautiful collection of womenswear, embodying a love for thoughtful simplicity and easy femininity, as well as a commitment to a way of making that is kinder both to the planet and people. Rooted in traditional heirloom craft, each piece is hand crafted in Britain using only natural fibers such as linen or organic cotton. Everyone needs a white cotton shirt in their wardrobe and our go-to for these is Grammar, who handcraft all their pieces from 100% organic cotton, emitting 95% less greenhouse gasses and a quarter of the energy compared to conventional cotton.

Campo Collection has a wonderful natural line of breathable night wear, perfect for these summer months. They recognise the importance of having the purest and most organic products on our skin, so all pieces are made using 100% GOTS certified organic cotton, and dyed using natural or plant-based dyes. A Perfect Nomad has a beautiful range of luxurious resort wear who design their pieces to be as environmentally conscious as possible. Inspired by the rugged elements of Ibiza and a deep connection with nature, A Perfect Nomad only use natural fibres that are kinder to our skin and the planet.

Our Top Tips

Plastic Free July – Consume Less, Consume Better 

Quality over quantity is super relevant here. This goes for everything we’ve talked about today – beauty, household products, clothing! As consumers, we must play our part by swapping out plastic products and packaging for products that are more environmentally friendly. 

Plastic Free July – Opt For Reusable Everyday Items  

Whether it’s a reusable coffee cup, a reusable bag or a reusable wooden toothbrush – small changes can make a big difference – In the 2022 International Coastal Ocean Clean Up, almost 1.2 million plastic bags were collected over 15,000 miles of coastline (and these were just the ones that were washed up and found!)

Plastic Free July – Avoid Buying From Companies That Won’t Change

We can demand action as a collective. By boycotting manufacturers and brands that lack a clear strategy for adopting plastic-free products or packaging. This will force them to innovate and respond to changing consumer demands. 

Plastic Free July – Use Refillable Alternatives 

Some of us may be fortunate enough to live in areas that have refill shops, where customers are encouraged to bring their own containers to refill a variety of products. This is a fantastic way to reduce your own plastic usage.

Here are some examples of where you can find these in LA or London –

https://reve-en-vert.com/editorial/6-zero-waste-refill-stores-in-los-angeles/ 

https://reve-en-vert.com/editorial/10-zero-waste-refill-stores-in-london/ 

Eating Seasonal Foods 

Seasonal foods are typically grown locally, supporting local farmers and reducing long-distance transportation needs. They are often sold loose or with minimal packaging and are harvested at the peak of ripeness, so don’t require extensive packaging to extend their shelf life. Growing your own seasonal vegetables is an excellent way to avoid plastic all together! 

Summary

Plastic Free July is more than a month-long challenge; it’s a step towards a sustainable lifestyle and a cleaner planet. By participating together, we can all contribute to a significant reduction in plastic pollution and champion a healthier environment for future generations. If we all made more conscious decisions and small changes in our everyday lives, these changes would soon add up – no one can do everything, but everyone can do something!

Follow @revenvert for more tips on avoiding plastic

What is Regenerative Agriculture?

Regenerative agriculture is one of our greatest hopes for human and planetary health, and the wonderful thing about it is that it honors so many climate solutions at the same time – indigenous wisdom, community, physical well-being and carbon capture. All from the notion that healthy, less disturbed soil can do its job feeding us while keeping carbon out of the atmosphere and in the ground where it can benefit rather than harm us. 

This version of agriculture takes a systems-based, holistic look at the land being farmed. It applies various, simple techniques with the goal of making the land more productive and more biodiverse over time. In most situations, improving soil health and function is also key to improving productivity.  You can grow more with less without needing  chemical input as we continue to discover the toxicity of pesticides in our food systems. One of the key components of healthy soil within the regenerative methodology is organic matter, which is anything that is alive or was once living:such as a plant root, an earthworm, or a microbe. You can think of this more holistically as compost, which we all need to get much better at creating from our food and garden waste! 

Why do we need to make the switch to regenerative agriculture? Well, due to the majority of human land management practices and our growing population, we are experiencing soil degradation and desertification at an alarming rate. Rich living soil has been turned into dysfunctional dirt. Drylands now cover about 46% of the earth’s surface, 9% of which are facing severe desertification. In the last 40 years, we have lost about 1/3 of our arable land (Kiss The Ground).

Conventional agriculture is defined by the USDA as the use of seeds that have been genetically altered using a variety of traditional breeding methods, excluding biotechnology, and are not organic certified. In reality, it’s much more destructive than this simple definition. 

Regenerative Agriculture looks to not only stop damaging our ecosystem but improve it, all while continuing to produce our food, fibers and other soil grown necessities. It focuses on improving soil health by moving carbon from our atmosphere back into our soils using a variety of agricultural management practices. These practices work in alignment with natural systems instead of against them. It’s a beautiful way of farming that’s also an incredible climate solution.

Our top 5 tips for engaging with regenerative agriculture:

Find your local organic farmer’s market.

This is always step one as shopping with your local farmers directly and as often as you can is one of the best ways you can support them. Many small scale farmers are engaging with regenerative methods and understand intrinsically that soil health is imperative for the most delicious, nutritious and beautiful produce. They may not all be able to afford certification so feel free to chat with them as they would likely love to tell you about their processes anyway. We know that shopping this way can be a bit more expensive, but we find if you switch a few meals to meat free / plant based it can compensate for the extra spend!

Start a small garden.

The amazing thing about gardening regeneratively is it can actually be less work than you might think. The principles of it are so rooted in  minimal intervention it stands to reason you may find this an easier way to grow full stop! With this sort of gardening, you should look into no till practices where you disturb the soil minimally, companion planting to help with natural pest management, and home-made compost which is an added layer of sustainable living we love! Our favorite resources for getting started this way are Charles Dowding, Poppy Okotcha, and Farmer’s Footprint’s Garden Club!

Try and discover stores near you that are selling organic, local and seasonal produce.

It’s wonderful to see that there seem to be more organic food stores opening.  Many of these places love to talk about what they are selling as they tend to work a lot more closely with their farmers / suppliers than huge super markets. Stores like LA Home Farm and Paradise Farms in Miami are amazing examples of small-scale retail that love working with regenerative practices.

(Below image source: Gardenista)

Plant a fruit tree.

Fruit trees are amazing sources of a regenerative cycle because they can grow food, improve soil health, and biodiversity . We suggest thinking about the zone you are planting in first, then to consider the fruit that you are consuming the most of when choosing a tree to select. For many people in hotter climates, citrus is amazing to start with as so many of us use it in our cooking! Our personal choice is a lemon tree as lemons are such a great source of interesting acid in plant based cooking. Check out our Lemon Cake recipe by Anna Jones!

Look for online platforms and brands that are selling regenerative products digitally.

If sourcing fresh produce or growing your own is difficult for you, don’t worry – there area lot of online shops that sell pantry staples, oils, preserved goods, etc. so you can start to work with these in your cooking and daily consumption. We love Flamingo Estate and Westbourne, for some great places to start exploring regenerative products!

Want to learn more? Here are some of our favorite documentaries to bring this all to life a bit more for you: Kiss the Ground, Common Ground, Feeding Tomorrow.

Listen to our podcast episode below with Camilla Marcus of west~bourne!

About Alisal Ranch

Located in the Santa Ynez Valley, just above Solvang lies Alisal Ranch. Which has a very long history and is now a working cattle ranch along with a hotel. When we arrived, we loved that we could charge our Audi EV. The hotel has 10 chargers, where you can charge for free. The ranch has 73 spacious rooms that are all unique. When the ranch renovated their rooms, they focused on keeping the beauty of what they had. And what they could find around them.

They brought in local craftsmen to reupholster things like old couches and sand + varnish old wooden tables. When they could not fix and redo, they went local and vintage – something we are so passionate about ourselves. When I checked into our room, just beyond the beautiful creek that runs through the property, I was delighted to find there were no electronics in the room. Phone signal was also sparse. Coming to Alisal Ranch helps you check out a bit from everyday life. Limiting the screen time that comes with the modern age.

The Santa Ynez Valley

The Santa Ynez Valley hotel sits on 10,000 acres of protected land, so there is more than enough to explore. When I spoke to Kathleen (Alisal Ranch General Manager) about the property and sustainability efforts, she shared how important it was to her when she first arrived to convert the gardens around the hotel to completely native plants. Surrounding each room, and in every shared green space is an abundance of beautiful flowers, herbs, succulents, and native Californian plants.

Kathleen felt it was key to the biodiversity of the local area. To bring back the pure native plants that probably called this land home long ago. Black sage, mint, strawberries, rosemary, roses, a plethora of fruit trees, and more line the roads and rooms adding such beauty. The ranch actually waters their land from their own well and water reserves from yearly rainfall. Every direction you look while you are at the hotel, you see green, nature, and hills. Beauty is seriously in every direction – it is such a refreshing feeling.

The Food

While we were there, we got to experience their yearly BBQ Bootcamp and learn from the hotel’s chefs and guest chefs alike on live cooking. Talking to Kathleen, I learned that they are passionate about sourcing as much as they can from local sources. They have a winemaker neighbor up the road. Growing most of their vegetables so the chefs don’t have to travel far to collect their ingredients.

On their wine list, you will find tons of local organic and sustainable winemakers. Which is a huge plus in our book. During the BBQ Bootcamp weekend, we were all given these wonderful Alisal branded backpacks full of goodies. Spices, trail mix, a reusable water bottle to fill up around the property with their many filling stations. And a sustainably produced bottle of local red wine. The food, dancing, and overall family fun was truly food for the soul and the whole family.

Alisal Ranch Activities

Alisal Ranch offers a huge range of activities for guests of all ages – the hotel is so kid friendly and my two year old loved every moment of our stay. Horseback riding is something they take seriously at the ranch, and you can explore much of the land by horseback. I loved hearing that they look at their horses as part of their staff, so each week their horses are set out onto pastures to roam, run, and enjoy the land.

When grass is rich and green, like it was when I was there, their roaming animals get to eat off the land and when it turns to drier summer the ranch switches over to hay that they’ve even grown themselves. While exploring the land, we got to see tons of cattle enjoying the land and black tailed deer too. Being this submerged in untouched nature was a one of a kind experience and something that nowadays unless you live in the countryside, is just not something one gets to experience enough. This is why Alisal Ranch is our favorite out of all the Santa Ynez Valley Hotels

Click here to book your stay at Alisal Ranch!

Also don’t miss our city guide to the nearby Santa Barbara

24 Hours In Santa Barbara

First of all Heather can you please give us a bit of a background in the world of interiors? 

I have always had an interest in interiors. When i was 12 or 13 my parents indulgently let me splatter paint my bedroom black, white and grey. It was horrendous, but it was the end of the 80’s and I blame all of the hairspray fumes. My first real project was my first home purchase, which I gutted and I still love. I’ve put my stamp on every place I’ve been in since, whether rented or owned.

What drew you into the world of Frances Loom and its vintage, antique rugs? 

I started using antique rugs in my homes many years ago, when they were much harder to source. When Kelly (who started FL) moved in with me, my London flat was filled with a mix of antique and new rugs – straight away we knew we were kindred spirits. I was in tech full time during this period, but when I left, we decided to partner up and the rest is history.

And how have vintage rugs and pieces played a role in your design ethos in the past? 

My style shifts all over the place, depending on my current inspiration, the place I’m living in and what I have access to. But the constant is a layered look. I prefer to mix styles, eras and textures for a very collected look. Antiques are the best way to give your space a personal and interesting vibe – no one else has that same rug/sculpture/piece of art. I steer away from a showroom/shiny and new feel and think that antiques from markets or shops are a great way to achieve that.

Can you tell us a bit about the sourcing process? It feels like it’s still quite an intimate experience!

I am not an early bird. Any day that starts with an alarm clock is automatically painful, buuuuuut, flea markets, antiques fairs, even yard sales are best early hours. So on market days, lots of coffee it is. We also have trusted sources that know just what we like, so that’s fun too. Sourcing is my version of treasure hunting; the idea of finding amazing pieces is so exciting. I fall in love with most rugs I buy and consider keeping them all. haha!

In your opinion, what are some of the ethical benefits of choosing an antique, vintage rug over something new? 

In a throwaway culture, anytime we buy for the long haul is a victory for the environment. It’s an investment, for sure, but they’re so versatile, I feel they can compliment a lot of different styles and feels, which means it can stay with you as you evolve. I’ve had some rugs for 4 or 5 houses, and I’m the queen of starting with a blank slate. These rugs have also already existed for 100 years, which is a testament to the quality of the materials and the construction, the opposite of fast fashion (for home), but you don’t have to wait the 8-12 weeks to have it. Best of all worlds really.

And what about the design benefits of working in antiques? 

Antiques are one a kind – special. It’s the antidote for the sameness that we all see. Trends go viral and all of a sudden everyone has what you have. Unless, of course, you use antiques. They also just add a feel that you can’t get with new items. Some things in your home need to be comfy and durable (sofas and mattresses), but with most other pieces, you can choose antique or vintage of lots of styles and get something that no one else will have.

We know you are working in a few new products into the Frances Loom curation – can you tell us about these? 

We have added some items that we feel compliment the antiques we carry. Some layering rugs (in the most sustainable, handmade way) that can make odd sized antique rugs work in any space. They can also add stability to very fine and thin rug styles. We have also added new pillows and throws, some graphic prints and some pieces made from beautiful rug fragments that we come across. Layering is my favorite trick for a cozy vibe.

How should we think about taking care of our antique, vintage rugs to make them last? 

Antique rugs are wonderfully durable. They are made from wool most of the time with some cotton on occasions. Wool is naturally stain resistant, so spot treating with folex is our best recommendation. But if a major spill happens, we recommend taking the rug to a local professional for a shampoo.

And what about the benefit of your new, all recycled rug pads? 

We had so many questions about rug pads and we used to make recommendations on pads I had tried and liked. But in order to really provide the convenience to our customers, we decided to carry them ourselves. This way they can come with your rug and no extra waiting. As with all things, sustainability is a core value for us and the all recycled is a great way to buy new.

Finally, what does a sustainable home look like to you? 

I think that you can buy with longevity in mind at all price brackets. We used to buy from craftsman and pass things down through generations. That’s a bit rare these days – but you can find those quality items at markets and fairs. Buying recycled, natural and ethically sourced materials, and of course, pre-loved are all great ways to practice sustainability and do what we can individually for the environment.

Words by Heather of @francesloom

For more content like this, check out our other home editorials

Why I chose MasayaCo for our outdoor dining set.

I fell in love with this line when I first heard of their seed to seat ethos. Aram, the founder, completed a Peace Corps assignment in Nicaragua. He noticed the harm caused by abusive forestry practices and decided to create a business that promotes social responsibility and environmental sustainability. Aram and Michael Terry founded Maderas Sostenibles. This company focuses on reforestation and sustainable management of tropical forests.

Maderas Sostenibles has spent years creating tree farms on deforested cow pastures. They recently opened a production facility in Managua. This facility produces furniture and wood products that capture carbon in our everyday lives.

In 2014, Aram worked with Justin Terry, an artist from the U.S., and Abril Zepeda, a designer from Nicaragua. Together, they added a unique touch to the furniture he started making. The artisanal spirit of Masaya and Nicaragua’s rich culture and nature inspired MasayaCo.

What makes MasayaCo such a special company?

Masaya Furniture has truly set the bar high for what sustainable furniture can look like. MasayaCo makes conservation central to their business. They plant hundreds of thousands of trees every year. Above all, they plant more trees each year than they cut. This creates a cycle. This cycle brings environmental and economic benefits. So far their designs have planted over 1.2 million trees. Around 40% of the forests they maintain are kept untouched, allowing for carbon capture and for nature and fauna to thrive and be free.

A key point often overlooked in reforestation is that a sustainably managed forest can boost local economies.  In many poor regions of the world, like Nicaragua, it is vital for locals to gather some economic benefit from their land.  Out of economic necessity, people will often accept a minimal payment and allow their land to be clear-cut for uses like cattle farming. Masaya Furniture provides a new way to use furniture. This option helps the environment and offers a better business model.

How does MasayaCo operate sustainable forestry?

They collect certified seed stock and germinate seedlings on site. Each nursery produces between 50,000 -200,000 seedlings. These are then cultivated over 3-months before being planted. Masaya donates trees for planting in parks, riverbanks, public roads, and other areas. This shows their commitment to making a broader impact as a company.

Trees are then planted on lands that had previously been harmed by intensive cattle farming. This often happens in the livestock industry. Large areas of forest are cut down to make pasture for cattle. Usually, because the land is not suitable for pasture, the pasture use fails in the short term and more forest is clear-cut, creating a domino effect. Masaya’s business model focuses on reforesting degraded lands. It restores the forest to its natural state. They use selective and sustainable harvesting methods.

They keep replanting to sustain the forest. By the second year, some seedlings reach six feet tall. They also make a big impact on the surrounding environment. Sustainably managed forests and tree farms create jobs. This happens because planting and maintaining the forest is an ongoing process. A sustainably managed forest is forever. Earth’s forests are very important to the balance of nature and to the people who live and work in them. MasayaCo as a company are rebuilding the forest around them which is an incredible feat.

When it comes to the wood that they do collect it is graded, trimmed, and air-dried. Biomass, scrap, and other waste are sent to a biomass generator and converted to sustainable energy.

The MasayaCo design ethos and why I loved styling it.

I chose this set as an investment piece. It won’t go out of style, and it’s built to last in Maine’s coastal climate. MasayaCo artisans craft renewable wood into timeless designs. Their pieces are made to last for generations. They are offering well-paid jobs to local craftsmen who take pride in their work. Every time I see our beautiful table set, I appreciate it even more. I know it was hand-made and came from an incredible place. This is a slow and thoughtful process of design and I am so incredibly happy to have a bit of it at our home.

Learn more here.

Shop Cora’s set here.

Masaya is also offering incredible eco homes now which we are loving! Find out more here.

See more of Masaya’s outdoor dining table here