Happy Leap Day! Bonus Day = Bonus Blog!
We are Loco For Local so I would like to share the inspiring story of one of my favourite local businesses:
First, we need to start where is all began. Once upon a time, just outside Edmonton, Alberta, a young girl named Katrina Hillyer discovered a deep connection with nature. Her grandparents, avid gardeners and Earth enthusiasts, instilled in her a profound appreciation for the environment. Katrina’s Grandma taught her to cherish every living thing, while also passing down her artistic skills, sparking a passion for fashion design in the young girl’s heart.
Katrina pursued her dream, attending fashion design school, securing a degree, an apprenticeship, and her dream job. However, her journey took an unexpected turn when she learned about the environmental impact of the textile industry. Determined to make a difference, she adapted her dreams, creating a zero-waste studio that upcycled unwanted textiles, and Earth Warrior Lifestyle was born.
Earth Warrior isn’t just about creating sustainable fashion; it’s a lifestyle that brings together compassionate individuals to make a positive change in the world. Katrina’s unique skill set and dedication paved the way for a brand that inspired people to live their values easily and joyfully, without any sacrifices.
The journey to being a zero-waste studio reflects their commitment to environmental stewardship. Katrina’s creative process begins with collecting textiles from the community, now working closely with other businesses, repurposing donated fabrics and ordering raw materials with minimal packaging waste. The studio collaborates with other upcyclers and recyclers, creating a network that breathes new life into unwanted materials.
It starts with the meticulous process – cleaning, sorting, and repurposing every textile. From laundry to cutting, Earth Warrior employs sustainable practices, partnering with local makers for eco-friendly detergent and repurposing packaging. The scraps that remain are carefully sorted, with natural fibers supporting mushroom farms (mulch) and synthetic fibers finding use in other community projects.
Additionally, Katrina’s commitment extends to the sewing process, where they use 100% cotton thread and repurpose spools for seedling starters, minimizing waste in every aspect of production. Packaging and shipping are handled with the same dedication, using preloved packages or sourcing 100% recycled materials.
The Earth Warrior Lifestyle goes beyond individual products, inviting others to join the cause. From hosting local community clean ups to extending their principles to the corporate world, offering upcycling solutions that not only minimize environmental impact but also provide avenues for new product creation and waste reduction. This corporate upcycling initiative promotes environmental stewardship, customization, employee engagement, and brand enhancement.
As Earth Warrior Lifestyle continues to grow, Katrina’s vision remains clear – to live in a world without waste. With every recycled textile, they strive to create a more sustainable and circular economy. The story of Earth Warrior is an inspiring tale of one woman’s journey from fashion dreams to leading a group of compassionate Earth Warriors, all committed to defending our planet. Follow along Katrina’s journey and watch out to fun community events!
Why not shop LOCAL sustainable, eco-friendly products and receive 10% off while you’re at it – use code YOGA10 at checkout! Plus 15% of proceeds from YOUR purchase goes back into the Edmonton community!
BUT WAIT THERE’S MORE!
Coming up in April, to kickoff our 3rd Annual Earth Month, we will be hosting a collaborative workshop – Stay tuned for our yoga workshop announcement coming March 3rd, 2024!
Plus, both Katrina and I will be hosting an Earth Day clean up – Announcement coming soon!
Sustainable Yoga & Wellness 