The Eco Market vendor spotlight: Melissa's Makes, a KW eco-conscious brand making family every day products. We sent their founder, Melissa Verkley, a few questions about the work she does. Here are her answers!

1. Tell me about your business/organization.

I started Melissa's Makes in 2011, with menstrual pads being the only product I was making. The disposables were no longer working for me, so I figured I would make my own. Things took off from there as many other women felt the same way. A year or so into my business, a friend asked me to make her a cloth diaper. I was flabbergasted - I didn't feel I was skilled enough for that challenge! That night, I went home and attempted my first. I fell in love, and realized my true passion.

2. How do you work to keep sustainability at the core of your business?

There are so many aspects to any business. Whether it be sourcing, marketing, packaging, creating. I only use recycled packaging, or those that have been recycled into newer products. With sourcing, I prefer to use Canada post as they have made a commitment to minimize carbon emissions with their deliveries - every little bit counts!

3. Tell me about you/your team. What got you/your team here to a green business/organization? Why?

It's actually just me working behind each and every product. I plan to keep it this way, as I love what I do. I wouldn't want to expand to a big energy-sucking warehouse somewhere else. By working in my home, I don't have to travel to work, and the earth thanks me!

4. What are you up to? Any new events? Products?

2019 is a new year for everyone, but Melissa's Makes is cutting out some smaller events, and trying to focus more on larger events, and reaching those whom are like-minded in their sustainable ways. On April 22nd, my diaper covers were released, during an online shopping party. I knew they would be well received, as a lot of parents do use a diaper service that require covers.