Miss Eco Glam

Set at the magnificent new convention center at Canada Place there were over 300 exhibitors showcasing stylish fashions, inspiring ideas, high-quality products and services that are better for your health and friendlier to the earth.  You could also take in a fashion show  (Vancouver's own ECO designers Nicole Bridger and Pure Magnolia just to name a few), test drive luxury and concept hybrid cars, and sample from some of BC's finest restaurants, wineries and breweries.  I had only two hours to run around and see the entire show, although I could have stayed all day talking to and being educated by green-minded people.

Among my favourite things at the expo was a beautiful bike made from bamboo poles by a company called Grass Frames!  Super light and super strong, I could really picture myself cycling the seawall on this beauty. 

Living in a small apartment I am starved for greenery so educating myself on how to bring gardens in small spaces was important to me.  EPIC had an abundance of exhibitors showcasing vertical gardening ideas,  living wall frames, local florist designs and herb patch ideas.  While you are planting your garden why not pop one of these babies on your patio?  The futuristic "Deck Pods" rotating lounger made with sustainable timber beams and UV protected polycarbonate tinted windows,  also comes with a pretty hefty price tag!

I also purchased a 2012 Green Zebra coupon book, full of amazing deals, freebies and discounts.  It's just like the entertainment coupon book many people buy, however this one is focused on helping you find new ways to live healthier, happier and greener for less. Do you fancy 2 for 1 at an awesome organic restaurant? Super cheap zip-lining in Whistler? Free yoga class? Yes please, this book pays for itself in one use!

The most valuable thing I took away from the show was knowledge of how easy it is to get local fresh produce and the desire to create, create, create! In the next few months I will be making my own living frames (just like the By Nature Design ones below) and living vases and exploring the greener side of Vancouver thanks to my Green Zebra Book. 

 If you can, I strongly urge you to look out for an Expo like this and GO TO IT!  If only for the free taste samples, you will still pick up an abundance of information and inspiration!