Our Story - Part 2

The more I contemplated the idea of this sustainable lifestyle store, the more I recognized the need for just such a place. I figured, I’m certainly not the only one who wants to do more for the environment. When asked, most folks want to protect our natural resources (for future generations, if not themselves). It’s clear, I thought, that people want and need more sustainable options. With sustainable options available, we can first introduce, and then maintain, sustainable habits. Altogether these sustainable habits become sustainable lifestyles. In order to get on board, though, folks need convenient and accessible avenues of choosing sustainable alternatives.

Out of this need, the concept of Juniper began to take shape, throughout the summer of 2019. One day, I was clicking around (somewhat aimlessly), exploring the vast array of entrepreneurship resources available online. Then, with a stroke of outstanding luck, I stumbled across an invaluable opportunity: the Economic Development Greater Saint John Paid Start-Up Program. This pilot program was a new offering, with limited availability and an application deadline quickly approaching. I applied the very next day, had an interview a week later, and was accepted into the program three days after that. Over the following month, I quit my job, gave up my apartment (I was living in Fredericton at the time), and moved to Saint John. It seemed so fast at the time, but really the timing was perfect.

The Paid Start-Up Program provides entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 - 29 with the opportunity to build their business ideas from validation to launch. And bonus - you get paid to do it! Participants work collaboratively in ConnexionWorks, SJ’s very own entrepreneurial hub, with the help and training of subject matter specialists in the areas of sales, marketing, financial planning, and more. So often, entrepreneurs are in the position of attempting to create a business while still working full time to pay the bills. I am so grateful that I was granted the opportunity to not only learn (so much!), but also to focus my time and energy on shaping my business idea.

After a lot of hard work, the idea became reality. I am thrilled to say that Juniper will be opening soon in uptown Saint John, at 80 Prince William Street. Juniper will offer sustainable clothing, skincare, gifts and small home goods, as well as a refillery for natural cleaning supplies and personal care products. All products and wares are carefully curated, with makers and artisans chosen for their commitment to sustainable business practices. With full transparency, Juniper strives to tell the stories of the people and production behind each item in store.

What You’ll Find In-Store

Juniper products and wares promote quality over quantity, with the understanding that an item bought should be an item kept:

• Clothing options are intended to provide wardrobe staples, made with natural fibers like linen and organic cotton.

• Effective, natural and vegan skincare lines provide nourishment and care with clean and safe ingredients.  

• An array of household goods, from ceramics to candles, are made with care by Canadian artisans, many living here in New Brunswick.

• Zero / low waste alternatives that are both functional and beautiful, made with natural resources, allowing for earth friendly disposal at the end-of-life cycle.

The Refill Station provides customers with the opportunity to reduce their waste consumption by eliminating the packaging of both personal care and household cleaning products. Customers can refill products bought in store, or bring their own clean bottles and containers from home. Our refillary includes:

• Shampoos and conditioners

• Liquid soaps

• Body lotions

• Bath oils and salts

• Natural laundry soap

• Natural all purpose cleaner

• Dish washer tabs

• And much more!

At Juniper, we are dedicated to continuous learning and growth. In future, we will offer a calendar of in-store programming including sustainability-oriented information sessions, workshops, and documentary screenings. These events will be open to all, by optional donation.

We do not claim to be perfect, but then again, perfection is not the goal - instead let’s all try to do a little bit better when and where we can. Stay tuned for our launch date!

Warmly,

KP