About Heather Camlot
A freelance writer, crafts junkie and mom of two, Heather Camlot is constantly on the lookout for that elusive work-life balance she hears so much about. Read about Heather's never ending search for five minutes to herself while trying to meet deadlines, make the school bus and raise two fantastic children.
I headed to the Children’s Trunk Show at Toronto’s Distillery a few weeks ago and I couldn’t help but pull out my wallet and buy stuff for my kids that they really didn’t need but were just oh-so-irresistible. The Trunk Show, for those who don’t know – and I didn’t until SweetMama editor Nadine Silverthorne informed me – is an annual marketplace where mom entrepreneurs sell their kid-geared clothing, jewellery and art.
It was my first time attending the cute and colourful shopping show and I liked what I saw – one part innovation, one part practicality (hey, they were made by moms after all) and one part sweetness. I’ll provide specifics in our Monday Sweet columns, but I’ll give you a taste right now.
The Polka Dot Moose is a relatively new web site where crafters can sell their Canadian goods, be they toys, quilts, artwork or clothing. Lindsay Mount, owner of the site and crafter of the Tickle Stitch line, was at the Trunk Show and brought her passion for designing and designers with her. I picked up one of her superhero long-sleeved Ts for Alexandre, similar to the one shown here.
Monkey Business Clothing Inc. features yoga-inspired tops and bottoms designed by Tobie Loukes, a graduate of the Ontario College of Art and Design. Although she began working in adult-wear, the birth of her daughter changed her calling. For Juliana, I bought a pair of yoga pants with cherry blossoms and the message, “Energy rightly applied can accomplish anything.” I’m hoping they’ll inspire her to apply her energy towards good (potty training would be lovely) and not evil (making her brother cry).
Vintage Paper Parade creates a variety of paper goods, like invitations, gift tags, and even cupcake toppers. The simple images – such as fawns, giraffes, girl skipping and boys on a tractor – are just striking against the white paper and have a really retro feel. Best yet, they aren’t expensive, about $15 for 10 invites and they can be customized at no extra cost.
If you can’t wait for more vendor spotlights in the weeks and months to come, visit the list at the Children’s Trunk Show. Enjoy!
Do you have a favourite children’s vendor that you want to share with our readers? Log in and leave a comment below.
