Spring has sprung here in Toronto, as this weekend marks the beginning of Daylight Savings Time (a concept I still really don't understand the purpose of) and the coming of warmer weather!

First, let’s briefly acknowledge my three-month hiatus. I have had very little time to breathe the last few months, with a ton of changes and transitions coming my way. However, as things begin to even out and Ontario continues to ease its restrictions, I will have more and more to share with you on the blog, yet again!

That isn’t to say that there haven’t been any fabulous new products I’ve discovered over the last few months, but as you know, I like to vet everything on the blog before writing about it! So, let me share with you some of the amazing brands I’ve been loving as I head into a full reset for spring (you know, like spring cleaning but for your entire life).

KAILU OPEN ROAD PORTABLE THROW SET

As the weather gets better, we find ourselves spending more time outside. Not to mention, the pandemic has really forced us to get creative when thinking of fun activities to do. One of the things I enjoyed doing a lot last summer was taking our indoor activities outdoors! Let me give you some examples: movie nights moved to the drive-in, dinners with friends moved to the park, vacations turned into staycations, etc.

Now, because we have to get creative, we of course need something versatile to take along with us for comfort and adaptability. What I’m referring to is the Open Road Portable Throw from KAILU. Their products are handmade with care in the Yangtze River Delta, unveiling years of ancient family traditions that are guided by nature. Not only are the products high quality and special, but the Open Road Portable Throw is also essential for spring stargazing, chilly nights at the drive-in, and even to accompany you during the many, many travels we have coming our way (thanks for nothing COVID-19).

WILD FLICKER SOY WAX CANDLES

I am definitely no stranger to candles, scents and aromatherapy. Everyone who knows us knows that our apartment ALWAYS smells good. Which is why I absolutely had to have the Eucalyptus Lavendar Soy Wax Candle from Wild Flicker.

Handmade in small batches, owner Ainsley and her husband are dedicated to creating products with amazing fragrances that are just strong enough to fill the room, but subtle enough not to cause a headache.

All of their scents smell lush, and I absolutely recommend trying out fresh-smelling Citrus + Sage, heart-warming Spiced Pear, of course, the thematic Spring Punch, and one of my absolute favourite scents in any way, shape, or form - Vanilla Latte. There is definitely an option for everyone, and did I mention they’re made in Ontario?!

SCOTTIES AND HOUSE & HOME DESIGNER SERIES

Let me start by saying that my mother and I have been reading House & Home magazine for as long as I can remember. There was always a copy of it somewhere around the house, and I adore the decorating and design features. I always fantasized about my dream home with all of the beautiful interior design tips and photos that accompany the stories.

When I saw the collaboration between Scotties and House & Home, I knew the universe was sending me a message: even if you’re allergic to the cat and blow your nose 50x a day, you can still do it in style.

Featuring eight absolutely stunning and trendy designs, the new H&H Designer Series for Scotties makes it easy to decorate your home like the pros in the publication. There are fun graphic prints, gorgeous medallion motifs, and fabulous florals to add just a hint of elegance to a runny nose. Seasonal allergies? We’re ready for you!

VIVIER AGE-DEFYING BODY LOTION

Even though winter is winding down, we Torontonians know that the cold weather continues to persist until around the beginning of May (it’s currently snowing as I write this..). With cold weather comes dry, cracked skin, and we all know how obsessed I am with skincare. I literally keep bottles of lotion all over the apartment, especially next to the bed and in my backpack. I will not let dehydrated skin rule the day!

So, naturally, when I was told about Vivier’s Age-Defying Body Lotion, I had to give it a try. An 'all-in-one body lotion that visibly firms and tones the skin, while also providing hydration'? Sign me up!

This bottle is jammed-packed full of peptides, antioxidants, and hydration boosters to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and restore moisture to the skin. The lotion also has a refreshing citrusy scent so I always smell absolutely delicious. Pair it with the Vitamin C Scrub (full of hyaluronic acid and biodegradable exfoliating beads) and you’ve got a match made in skincare heaven!

What are some of your favourite discoveries for spring? Have you done a big reset lately? I feel like I needed some change! Let me know how you’re doing and what you’ve been loving recently in the comments section.