At the Green Metropolis Fair

For Earth Month this year, Mindful Metropolis held the Green Metropolis Fair to celebrate spring, sustainable living, and wellness.  The event was full of fun activities and a great way to meet with local green businesses. I got a ton of inspiration, met really cool people, and, with all the delicious samples, I left with a full stomach and happy spirits.

At the fair I ran into Katherine with Katherine-Anne Confections (she was sampling her handmaid truffles, which are truly amazing) Urban Worm Girl (ok, not edible- but lots of fun composting action!), and my favorite grocer- Irv and Shelly’s Fresh Picks.

I found a lot of inspiration from the food vendors set up around the venue. Green Monkey Catering focuses on providing local and organic lunches for Chicago schools. Providing healthy food for our youth is something I am really passionate about- oh, and they also cater parties and weddings.  Score!

B True Bakery really takes the, um, cake. Nine years ago B True’s owner, Barry, cut all processed foods from his diet and lost 100 lbs! Because he still had a sweet tooth, and since most sweet options are highly processed, Barry started making his own. His baked goods are made with all-natural ingredients, whole grains, and local whenever possible.  They can do anything from scones to butter cream wedding cakes, and even dog cookies. Barry was incredibly generous to send me home with some edible inspiration for the road- the cranberry muffin was absolutely amazing! With each bite you could taste the quality grains and the fresh cranberries. It was the perfect balance of tart and earthy-sweet. Did I mention they do cakes?

Being a huge fan of tea, I have to mention my latest tea find: Shui Tea. After circling around their booth, like a vulture, I got my chance to sample the last cup of Guayusa (a tea only found in Ecuador- and now Chicago). I have to say, I was impressed. Not only are their teas delicious, they also select fair trade and organic teas. Plus they offer custom packaging for free! This has wedding favors written all over it!

Speaking of favors and even welcome bags, beeline is a one-stop-shop.  They offer raw urban honey, which is packaged fresh with all the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They also have a line of body care products infused with their high quality honey. To sweeten the deal, beeline also provides full-time work for those who have significant barriers to employment.

And finally, I love these handmade felt flowers by Denise with Feltwerker. She makes all her accessories from recycled sweaters and was really excited about the idea of doing a bridal bouquet.

Wow, I could keep on going, I can’t wait for next year’s fair!