Independent media needs you. Join the Tyee.

Win one of 13 stylish local prizes and a $500 gift certificate. And help a new online platform grow!

Retailpond is a brand new site for discovering and supporting independent local brands and high quality artisanal products.

Launching the beta version with a focus on its hometown of Vancouver BC, Retailpond’s ambition is to expand to other communities across Canada and the US in the near future. So wherever you are, this contest’s for you.

To enter for your chance at one of the prizes shown below, all you have to do is quickly sign up to explore Retailpond’s beta site.

Once that’s done, you can also enter to win a $500 gift certificate by telling us about the local products you love (or make.) This fun and fast 'crowd curation' exercise will quickly create a great list of quality artisans and locally-owned brands from all across Canada for readers to check out.

For more info on Retailpond, visit their website.

Please note: Contest ends midnight, July 9th.

Fill out my online form.

Check out the prizes up for grabs!

  • All-leather tote bag by Apartment Five

    This classic all-leather tote has a body made from all American oil-tanned cowhide, an adjustable strap made from Italian vegetable tanned leather, and a tall inside pocket for phone and keys.

    Apartment Five strives to bring form and functionality together through strong craftsmanship and quality materials. All pieces are hand -in Vancouver using North American or European leather. Made to last and be treasured.

  • Tassel Necklace by Ana Decourcy

    Refurbished Victorian tassel suspended by pocket watch chain.

    Anna De Courcy is a Vancouver based jewelry designer who comes from a long line of artists. Sourcing rare artifacts from the Victorian era, Anna refurbishes and repurposes these relics into contemporary pieces for both men and women. Although Anna mainly caters to a private clientele, her work has been carried at Barney's New York and Bergdorf Goodman.

  • Sleep Shirt by Sleep Shirt

    The Sleep Shirt is a unisex nightshirt based on a 19th century chemise found at a vintage menswear stall in London's Spitalfield's market. The product is simple: one shape, one size, and two lengths, made from 100% cotton. The shirt's cut is roomy, with a dropped shoulder. The back yoke features a loop to hang the shirt.

    Based in the mountains of British Columbia and manufactured in a family-owned luxury shirt making facility in Ontario, The Sleep Shirt is an entirely Canadian company.

  • Sleep Standing Up by Megan Howard

    This oxidized sterling silver necklace is made by Vancouver jeweler Meaghan Howard, who learned at the side of her grandfather first, then in the Art and Design Program at VCC. Her work has been featured in i-D, Zink, Hobo and The Lab Magazines, and is currently stocked at Obakki, Gravity Pope Tailored Goods, and Nomad.

     
  • Herb Planter by Patch

    The Patch herb planter makes it simple to enjoy fresh herbs all year round. The unique design takes the guess work out of watering: you simply can't over water or under water. Just add soil, a few of your favourite herbs, water, six hours of sunshine a day, and you’re off to the races. Attractive, easy to use, and it’ll grow you some garnishes that will knock your friends’ socks off. What’s not to like?

    Based in Vancouver, Patch’s mission is to get everyone growing their own food—even just a little – with a well-designed and no-fail method of growing.

  • Throw Blanket by dace

    This 100% wool blanket is perfect for your home or to throw on during those cold winter days.

    Based in Vancouver since 2002, dace has attracted a growing local and international following for their sassy, sophisticated clothing designs and clean modern lines.

    Produced locally to high standards of construction and quality.

  • Balancing Skin Care Set by Helena Lane

    This sample sets contain everything you need for your daily skin care routine, and will last about two weeks.

    Helena’s journey into natural skin care products started with her battle with chronic eczema in her late teens and early 20s. With over 10 years of experience working with some of the world's leaders in natural and organic products, she now brings her personal and professional experience into her own skincare line.

    Made in Vancouver.

  • Wulf.one Wallet by Wulf

    Wulf.one is a single-slot wallet designed for those who value simplicity. Designed to hold between 1-8 cards, it features a band on the outside for the purpose of holding cash and business cards.

    Constructed using the highest quality veg-tan leather sourced from Wickett and Craig, a tannery with a rich equestrian history founded in 1867 in Toronto, Canada. The leather is waxed and oiled for greater durability and strength. The stitching is heavy polyester originally made for stitching marine sails.

    Laser Cut and Hand stitched in Vancouver B.C.

  • Eau de Parfum by 1000 Flowers

    Narcotic Flowers: Inspired by the summer nights in the south of France, this 100% natural perfume is full of floral highlights such as Orange flowers, Jasmine, Absinthe, Magnolia, Oleander, Narcissus, Osmanthus, Tuberose, Opoponax resin, Atlas cedar, Labdanum, Rose absolute, Patchouli, Vanilla, and Ambrette.

    Reglisse Noir: For him and for her. Notes of white pepper, ozone, mint, shiso leaf, star anise, fresh ginger, black liquorice, cocoa, patchouli, vanilla, vetiver, cedar, and musk.

    1OOO FLOWERS is an independent artisan perfume house created and directed by Canadian perfumer Jessica Buchanan. Based in Vancouver, her mission is to explore the ideals of beauty, balance, connection, and true luxury through the classic art of fine fragrance creation.

  • Laser cut card case by Anika Yuzak

    Carefully handcrafted in Vancouver from premium vegetable tanned leather, this stylish laser-cut card case is made to last and be cherished.

  • AMIS scarf by ZED

    AMIS is a 100% pure Peruvian highland sheep wool hand-knit unisex scarf with a lofty texture and chunky feel.  At 80" long, it can be wrapped many times or simply tied. AMIS is cozy and warm, and its casual chic style says you don't care about trends - this is a classic.

    Made in Vancouver.

Why Retailpond was created

In this Tyee Presents series

presents

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Love Local? Dive into New 'Retailpond' Site

Help grow an online community for discovering and supporting local. Win one of 13 prizes worth a total of $2,000.

By Michelle Hoar, 19 Jun 2013


presents

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Contest: Win Locally-Made Prizes and Certificates from Retailpond

See what artisans and indie brands our readers recommend across Canada, and add your own.

By Michelle Hoar, 24 Jun 2013


presents

Patch-Planter.jpg

Contest Update: Readers' Fave Local Product Picks Flowing In

See what artisans and indie brands our readers recommend across Canada, and add your own.

By Michelle Hoar, 1 Jul 2013


presents

Patch-Planter.jpg

Win Fab Local Goodies from Retailpond until Tuesday!

For extra points, add to our 'crowd-curated' list of products you love (or make).

By Michelle Hoar, 8 Jul 2013