From Kitchen to Craft: The Lavender and Crate Story
Every handmade product has a story, and ours begins with a simple belief: that self-care should be natural, sustainable, and accessible to every generation of our families. Today, we're pulling back the curtain to share the journey of Lavender and Crate – from our first batch of handcrafted soap to becoming Calgary's growing artisanal wellness brand.
The Spark of Inspiration
Have you ever looked at a product label and wondered why you couldn't pronounce half the ingredients? That's exactly where our story begins. As a mother of three and proud grandmother to three beautiful grandchildren, I (Leanna Marie) found myself increasingly concerned about the products we were using in our homes. The turning point came when I noticed how many harsh chemicals were present in the everyday products my family was using – from my adult children's skincare to my grandchildren's bath products. This awareness, combined with seeing various skin sensitivities within our growing family, became our catalyst for change. What started as a grandmother's concern transformed into an opportunity – an opportunity to create something pure, natural, and truly beneficial for generations to come.
Our Kitchen Laboratory
What started as experimental batches of natural soap in our kitchen quickly evolved into something bigger. Those early days were filled with research, countless trials, and the occasional mishap (let's just say my children and grandchildren became our first – and most honest – product testers!). The joy of creating safe, natural products that my entire family could use became the driving force behind each new formula. My grandchildren's excitement when helping to mix ingredients or test new scents brought an extra layer of magic to the process, reminding me why this journey was so important.
The Heart of Our Craft
At Lavender and Crate, we believe in the power of small batches and family traditions. Every product in our line is thoughtfully crafted with:
Carefully Selected Ingredients: We source local ingredients whenever possible, partnering with Calgary suppliers who share our commitment to quality and sustainability. Each ingredient is chosen with the thought, "Would I feel comfortable using this on my grandchildren's skin?"
Mindful Production: Our small-batch approach ensures quality control, with each product receiving the attention it deserves. Did you know we can produce about 50 jars of body cream daily? This intentionally limited production allows us to maintain the highest standards for every family we serve.
Sustainable Practices: From our eco-friendly packaging to our minimal waste production methods, sustainability isn't just a buzzword – it's our legacy to future generations.
Growing with Purpose
Three months into our journey, we've learned that building a conscious brand is about more than just creating products – it's about nurturing a community that feels like family. Our growth has been organic, driven by word-of-mouth from parents, grandparents, and families who share our values.
Our product line has expanded thoughtfully to serve every member of the family, now including:
Gentle skincare solutions safe for all ages
Artisanal soaps (with their patient 2-10 week curing time)
Aromatic candles for creating cozy family moments
Our specialized Inked Revival tattoo care line (because yes, even mom supports her children's artistic expressions!)
Family at the Core
Lavender and Crate is truly a family venture at heart. While I handle the daily operations, my three children each bring their unique talents to the table. My grandchildren's visits often turn into impromptu "product development sessions," where their natural curiosity and honest feedback help shape our child-friendly products. Their involvement reminds me daily of why we started: to create products that are safe, effective, and made with love for every generation.
Looking Forward
As we continue to grow, our commitment remains unchanged: creating handcrafted, natural products that make a difference in families' lives. Our goals include:
Expanding our reach while maintaining our artisanal quality
Developing new product lines (including upcoming pet products for our furry family members!)
Building stronger connections with our multi-generational community
Reaching more families who share our values
Creating a legacy business that can be passed down through generations
Join Our Family's Journey
Every jar, every bar of soap, every candle we create is part of our family's story – and now, it can be part of yours too. We invite you to experience the difference that mindful, handcrafted products can make in your family's daily routine.
Want to be part of our extended family? Explore our collections, follow us on social media, or visit our website to learn more about our latest creations. Because at Lavender and Crate, you're not just buying a product – you're becoming part of a community that values natural living, sustainable practices, and the art of handcrafted care across generations.