#carylb

[jonfarreporter]

Holiday season is coming! How about something with Vetiver!

As the holiday season is approaching quickly, many businesses and merchants are preparing for the annual array of holiday craft fairs and Christmas markets/boutiques. Among them is Caryl Brandes of Caryl B - Gifts That Pamper!

As November begins, Brandes will be featuring her line of high-quality lotions, creams and bath salts as she returns to the annual Sonoma Women’s Club in Sonoma, less than a block from the historic plaza.

And then by the middle of November, she will be bringing her products to the Marin County Mart Farmers Market in Larkspur. Located between the Larkspur Ferry Terminal and the new SMART Train Station, the Mart serves the communities of Marin County, as well as San Francisco locals who want a break from The City.

Then for Thanksgiving weekend, Brandes will be at the Crocker Holliday Artisan Market in downtown Sacramento at the Scottish Rite Center.

Described by co-chairs of the fundraiser, Lesli Pletcher, Jean Schaffer, Connie Spickelmier & Pamela Trump as “a tradition” and the place to find “one-of-a-kind treasures.”

Proceeds from the annual event support participating artists, Crocker Art Museum’s exhibitions and educational programs. Proceeds also go to Creative Arts League of Sacramento’s arts outreach to Mustard Seed School, Stanford Settlement, Sojourner Truth (SoJo); to low-cost art tours, and other important community programs in the Sacramento area.

During the three-day weekend artisan-crafts-extravaganza, Brandes will be among over 100 artists and craftspeople all providing the best in original works and special products.

Brandes strives to create the best in personal care items and just about every season she debuts a new item or product line variety.

Just in time for the holiday season, Brandes is introducing Warm Woods. “It’s really yummy with notes of Sandalwood, Cedar, Amber, Musk and Vetiver,” said Brandes.

Vetiver is considered to have health benefits and has been used for centuries like aloes, lavender and lemongrass. Like Sandalwood, Vetiver can be traced back to India. The Kannauj region was a major center of trade for this and other aromatic plants, herbs and spices.

During the reign of Emperor Harshavardhana, trade and demand for this perennial plant was so great, a tax on Vetiver was introduced. A very enduring plant it is both resilient and non-evasive.

Used in cosmetics, skin care and aromatherapy, Vetiver has been known in India for more than two millennia and is used in making soap. Naturally antiseptic, Vetiver it has been used to treat acne and skin abrasions.

Because Caryl B products are specifically designed to travel easily in purse, handbag or carry-on luggage, it’s all in the packaging. “This year I am concentrating on gift boxes pre-made or the customer can ask for specific items/fragrances,” Brandes said.

Caryl B schedule for the remainder of the Fall is as follows:

Sonoma Women’s Club on weekend of November 4 & 5 from 10 AM to 4 PM at 574 First Street, East in the town of Sonoma.

Marin County Mart Farmers Market in Larkspur at 2257-C Larkspur Landing Circle; for two consecutive weekends of November 11 and November 18, from 9 AM to 2PM.

Crocker Holliday Artisan Market, Thanksgiving weekend of November 24, 12 Noon to 5 PM, November 25, from 10 AM to 5 PM and November 26, from 10 AM to 4 PM at the Scottish Rite Center, 6151 H Street, downtown Sacramento (cross street is Carlson Drive).

For more details visit each of the events’ websites in the links within the highlighted text.

To learn more about Caryl B and to order directly from Caryl Brandes, visit the Caryl B website.

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[jonfarreporter]

Dry skin? A royal Drupe can help...

For centuries the walnut has been referred to as a nut. Derived from the Old English word wealhhnutu which loosely translated means “foreign nut” a walnut is really a seed and part of the “drupe” family of fruit trees.

The popularity of walnuts has been increasing as more people embrace a vegan diet. You can buy veggie burgers made with walnuts and walnut milk is in the non-dairy section of the grocery store. Yet walnuts have always been highly regarded even in ancient times.

Referred to by several names among the ancients, like ‘Nux persica, and juglans, etc. “Such taxonomic variations usually indicate a long and involved history” says Egyptologist, Prof. JoAnn Fletcher, PhD of the University of York, England.

While the Romans and Egyptians valued nuts, including the walnut, it was the Persians who cultivated the variety that the Romans and Egyptians enjoyed. “Evidently, says Prof. Fletcher the walnut was not known in Egypt prior to initial contacts with Persia, for there are no records of its existence in Egypt before the Ptolemaic Dynasty”

Traded along the Silk Road, ‘Persian walnuts’ eventually reached England and were given the name we know them by today. The word ‘walnut’ is based upon as mentioned before an Old English word which basically translates to ‘foreign nut.’ This nut or ‘drupe seed’ literally was from far away and for this obvious reason was considered as special, only for royalty.

Fortunately, there are 22 varieties of the walnut. And that means that some are native to the Americas.

When the Spanish arrived in California they quickly recognized the benefits of the Mediterranean-like climate and began cultivation of crops through the Missions, Haciendas and Rancheros.

While walnuts are grown in many places throughout the world, California and the United States is a leading producer of walnuts.

Prized even in ancient times as a food source the delicious and unique flavor of walnuts are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers have noted that walnuts boost the skin's vitamin B-levels, which researchers also say is responsible for improving skin health by combating wrinkles and fine lines.

Finely ground walnut shells can exfoliate. Yet as skin care product specialist Caryl Brandes points out, “the shell can be too aggressive for delicate skin, especially on the face.”

“The walnut shell scrub I make for my product line is a powder so, gentle. But the Walnut shower wash and walnut/mint I made are not for the face, she reiterated. These scrubs/wash have AHA - Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Rosehip Oil, Wheat Protein, Peppermint and Jojoba Seed Oil in them for moisturizing one's skin. But I recommend something else for the face,” she said.

For almost a decade, Brandes with the Caryl B product line has been providing high quality artisan made skin care products that are specifically designed for people with sensitive skin.

Facial serum formulas and gentle exfoliating organic fiber cloths are what Caryl B offers for facial care.

Especially designed and made with natural ingredients Brandes uses only the best.

This is why she refers to her product line as “Gifts that Pamper!” Caryl B skin and personal care products are exceptional, uniquely designed from content to packaging with an understated elegance, that stands out in quality.

The wealth of skin-fortifying elements found in walnuts, include antioxidants and vitamin E. These help in removing dead skin cells, dirt and grime from accumulating on the surface of the skin, thus preventing excess oiliness and clogging of pores.

As summer approaches, and the onset of hot weather can induce stress, Caryl B is offering a discount on her Walnut Shower Wash and Walnut/Mint Exfoliating Scrub for bathing.

To learn more about these Walnut-ingredient specialties, gentle facial serums and other natural products offered visit the Caryl B website.

[jonfarreporter]

Those Smoldering Embers Do S’mores Than Toast

Smoldering embers evoke a mellowness during winter. Dry, chapped skin, like colds and other discomforts during wintertime is not.

Yet softly glowing embers are ideal for roasting chestnuts and making s’mores, once they flicker out, believe it or not, the charcoal from those embers is useful.

The Japanese have known this for centuries. Called ‘Binchotan’ the white charcoal has been used in a variety of ways. From softening water or clearing the air, to adding a hint of flavor to rice and grilled foods, Binchotan is believed to be a detoxifier.

It’s absorbency pulls out impurities. When applied to help the skin, it can exfoliate, cleanse and aid in moisturizing.

While some studies have questioned the traditional use of Binchotan for skin, this form of specialty charcoal is similar to a mud-mineral face pack. It’s how Binchotan is applied and what it is mixed with.

Artisan skin care producer Caryl Brandes of Caryl B understands this well and has just released her winter product-line.

Among them is a cleanser made of Japanese white charcoal (Binchotan) mixed with Green Tea.

“This cleanser is rich in humectants and skin soothers to soften and rejuvenate,” said Brandes.

Those unfamiliar with the word, a humectant is a hygroscopic substance used to keep things moist. It is commonly used in cosmetics and topical solutions such as creams and lotions.

Like Binchotan, Green Tea has been known and used for centuries.

Containing antioxidants, one type of antioxidant that Green Tea has is Catechins. These types of antioxidants serve as an anti- inflammatory and cancer-fighting combatant.

Just as with white charcoal, researchers are questioning the actual properties within Green Tea and its effects. Even so, as reported by WebMD research over the past 20 years at Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, is persistent.

“The components of green tea are the most potent," says Hassan Mukhtar, PhD who has been quoted in the Archives of Dermatology. He is now professor of the Dermatology Dept at University of Wisconsin at Madison.

Brandes agrees with researchers like Mukhtar as well as others in the quality skin care professions, regarding moderation as she said. “Give your skin time to adjust - start small, a few times a week. Don't over-exfoliate.”

Applying skin serums as part of a facial routine is helpful. The Caryl B line has several.

Yet Brandes notes that there’s a correlation between dry skin and oily skin, it’s dehydration.

“Avoid harsh astringents and exfoliators. Use a gentle soap,” she said.

Dehydrated skin is common during winter season. Drinking more water and eating healthier will help replenish.

Because winter can be a stressful time (with or without the celebration of holidays), stress can contribute to skin issues.

When stressed cortisol increases inflammation throughout the body. This can lead to skin inflammation and aggravates conditions such as eczema.

Taking time out from a hectic day to care for oneself is essential in maintaining good health. A little thoughtful pampering is one way. And this is a practical yet basic resolution to start the New Year.

For a limited time, a 10 percent discount is being offered. Use code NEWYEAR21 when placing an order.

To learn more about Caryl B Personal Care Products “Gifts that Pamper!” visit the Caryl B website.

[jonfarreporter]

As autumn turns to winter one of the most recognizable scents of the season is pine. Various forms of the evergreen tree have been used for centuries. Long before the celebration of Christmas, gathering of evergreen was a way to bring comfort into the home and hearth camp amid the cold of winter.

Caryl Brandes of Caryl B Personal Care Products – “Gifts that pamper,” has assembled together a selection of high quality glycerin soaps, just in time for the holiday season. They are vegan and made with natural ingredients.

Traditionally the color red accompanies the evergreen, and so for this winter season, Caryl B is offering Hibiscus soap as she noted, “it has a beautiful floral fragrance.” Usually when people see Hibiscus they think of a tropical island, like Hawaii. For the Hibiscus is the state flower of Hawaii.

But, surprisingly, researchers today do not know for certain exactly in what part of the world the ancient ancestor of the flower originated from. There are at least eight varieties in several colors that can be found in places like China, Japan and Africa. Even so, the most widely used and popular is the red Hibiscus.

Separate from their beauty and fragrance, Hibiscus flowers have been used for medicinal purposes over the centuries. It is believed that they can help with high blood pressure. The use of them for that purpose can be traced as far as Persia and even ancient Egypt.

While more research is still being done to verify this scientifically, it is thought by most practitioners that calyx as well as anthocyanins in the Hibiscus is what helps in treating conditions such as some forms of cancer and even lice. It is also thought that Hibiscus has an effect upon metabolism and so has been used for dietary supplements to help fight obesity among other conditions.

Paired with the Pinon Pine, the red Hibiscus will certainly bring the spirit of the winter festivities into your home or office. “Bring a little Fall Fragrance into your home or the home of others with our Pinon Pine Fragrance or the beautiful floral Hibiscus fragrance, reiterated Brandes. Or try our very popular Sugar and Shea. All of these high quality Vegan Glycerin Soaps have the most yummy fragrances and creamy lather, which leaves your skin so soft,” Brandes said.

To learn more about these and other products visit the Caryl B website.

CARYL B

Caryl B offers Artisan personal care and home products which are crafted in the USA offering unique packaging.

[jonfarreporter]

Got Goat? Goat’s Milk Soap that is...

With autumn and October festivities comes an abundance of naturally made products. These are especially offered at all the harvest and fall festivals throughout the SF Bay Area. 

Items such as wine, cheese and olive oil are particularly in the spotlight because at this time of year is the time of 'The Crush' as it is called. And, whether you know it or not, milk and olive oil are very good for the skin. In particular, goat’s milk.

Caryl Brandes of Caryl B Gifts and personal care products recognized the vitality that goat’s milk and olive oil provide. She will be at the Mill Valley Makers Market this Saturday featuring among many other items, a Goat's Milk soap made with glycerin. “Glycerin pulls moisture from the air, Brandes noted and it gets absorbed by your skin. This helps in moisturizing one's body.”

Soap made with goat's milk is extremely rich in lactic acid is an excellent exfoliator, helping increase blood flow to the skin. This also helps removes dead skin cells. This results in skin that is smoother and has more vitality. 

While the first thing that might come to mind is Feta Cheese when mentioning goat's milk, use of milk or some form of fat in a soap has been a basic ingredient for centuries.   

People with dry or sensitive skin; conditions such as eczema and psoriasis do benefit from goat's milk soap. It also promotes healthy skin to stay that way. 

Do you recall the alpha-hydroxy fad back in the 1990's? Well the natural lactic acid within goat's milk is a form of alpha-hydroxy, only naturally. This is why soaps made with goat's milk provide a natural exfoliator for the skin.   

Goat's milk is particularly high in Vitamin A which some researchers in dermatology believe is needed to repair damaged skin tissue. Some even consider use of a goat's milk soap or cream helpful in reducing wrinkles and even soothe some forms of acne.   

Goat's milk also contains minerals such as Selenium which some researchers think, may have a role in preventing some forms of skin cancer.   

With the warm weather continuing through this fall season, utilizing natural skin care products could be very beneficial.   

Makers Market at 129 Miller Avenue in Mill Valley, CA opens at 10 AM on Saturday Oct. 5 and will be open until 5 PM. For more info visit Makers Market web site.

article by Jonathan Farrell, photo of Caryl B goat soap by Hal Brandes, photo of  local goat in Marin, courtesy of KRON TV news.

[jonfarreporter]

Facial Serum helps restore summer-effected skin

In this extended splurge of summer weather intense heat can make skin feel try and tired. Many people don't realize that skin uncared for does impact one's overall radiance and vigor of appearance.

Use of moisturizing products such as skin cream and what is known as a facial serum can restore the skin's suppleness. This is especially so, when a sunburn occurs. Serum helps protect face from extreme weather like the Indian summer heat wave we have been having here in the SF Bay Area.

“After washing one's face, says Caryl Brandes, Serum is a product that goes on next. It is a base (like a paint primer) that prepares your skin for moisturizing, and softens skin. Brandes is founder and owner of Caryl B personal products.

She will be at the Makers Market at the Old Lumber Yard off of Miller Avenue in Mill Valley this weekend. Brandes and her line of locally-made products having been doing well; so much so that the Marin Independent Journal mentioned Brandes last year in its ‘Lifestyles, Home and Garden’ section. 

She took a moment to explain the use of a facial serum in skin care. “It tones, said Brandes, facial serum like the one I make and sell is a moisture booster. A facial serum revitalizes and then renews skin texture.”

While according to some dermatologists as reported by the Huffington Post, it is true use of a face serum is not absolutely necessary. They are an added benefit to those with sensitive or dry skin impacted by intense weather such as a heat waves and prolonged exposure to the elements outdoors.

“After using a serum, says Brandes, a face cream is wonderful for that added boost of moisture. Face cream is slower absorbing and keeps your skin feeling hydrated all day.”

Both dermatologists and cosmetologists agree keeping your skin hydrated is essential in maintaining its health and natural beauty. Unlike plain lotions and creams a facial serum has a much higher concentration of ingredients actively working to maintain the skin. This is usually why facial serum costs more.

Yet, with Caryl B’s facial serum, like all her personal care products, only the best and most natural ingredients are used. Attention to high quality and excellent production techniques/procedures makes Caryl B outstanding in direct to customer, locally made personal care products.

Look for Caryl B at the Makers Market at the old Lumber Yard in Mill Valley this Saturday, Sept. 21. For more info visit Makers Market website

[jonfarreporter]

Summer is Tea time and Green Tea for skin care is refreshing

Tea is universally a summer time drink; even for those who don’t take tea on a regular basis. It is cooling and refreshing. Both nutritionists and doctors note tea has health benefits, among them is being good for the skin.

Spas for years have used ordinary fresh steeped tea bags to cover the eyes. Tea helps reduce inflammation, puffiness in the eye lids, etc. If ordinary basic tea can do this, just imagine what green tea can do. 

Green Tea since the 7th Century has been treasured for its health-promoting qualities; its antioxidant elements and of course, polyphenols. 

Caryl Brandes in her Caryl B skin care line is now offering a Green Tea Face Wash in travel size, perfect for summer vacation adventures. 

With the high temps and scorching sun, skin can get dry if not burned. Drinking plenty of liquids; yes, even green tea is very beneficial. Yet the skin is cared for the best when cleansed and moisturized.

Researches in Dermatology such as at the University of Cleveland and University of Wisconsin in Madison have noted the health benefits of green tea and its use for skin-care.

Some studies have suggested that because of its high antioxidant content among other qualities, that green tea helps prevent some forms of skin cancer.

In addition to Green Tea Face Wash, Caryl B also includes in the travel kit another natural product, Rose Water Face Toner. Like green tea, Rose water has been used for centuries. Essence of Rose has the ability to restore the skin’s natural pH balance and also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Caryl B is offering a 15 percent discount from now until July 31. For details visit the Caryl B web site.

[jonfarreporter]

Local vendors like Caryl B. are welcome at Makers Market in Mill Valley

Eight out of 10 Americans say they would prefer to buy American-made products over mass-produced foreign ones. This statistic comes from a survey that Consumer Reports included in a feature article from four years ago on how to discern if a product is made in America. For someone like Caryl Brandes the discernment is simple, by local.

Whether from local Farmers' Markets to annual or seasonal arts & crafts fairs, buying locally made products is one way to ensure what you are buying is not only made in America, chances are it is made right in your own home town.

Brandes and her husband Hal have been making and providing locally-made personal care products for years. And the one aspect that keeps them going is the desire and commitment to "high design and quality to retail customers" as Caryl noted. People appreciate quality and in this current 'global market' atmosphere of just about everything being 'outsourced' for a cheaper price, what then happens is dissatisfaction.

Caryl's business savvy is clear, make a good product, provide excellent customer service. And, the result is more than just customer satisfaction, you have items that are eagerly utilized and gratefully cherished. "For as long as I can remember, both Hal and myself have had a love affair with art and product design, Caryl said. It started in New York and followed us to California."

Since settling in the Bay Area, Caryl and Hal have worked tirelessly to make a positive impact. Their efforts have resulted in luxuriously rich Sandalwood hand and body cream and a premium body wash made with Gardenia; along with many other bath and personal care items. 

Interest in their product line has increased experientially. Yet they are not alone.

Growing up in the Deep South, Suzy Ekman appreciated the exceptional work her father did in his workshop. She is the founder of Makers Market. "There was a time when our communities were more connected, said Ekman. When iron gates were custom built by the village blacksmith, when the older generation passed on their skills to the younger ones, and when consumers knew exactly where their goods came from and who made them."

She and her company see it as their mission to restore the legacy of the American made product and service that placed America at the forefront of the economy on the world stage. Having the ability to make just about anything, along with that strong American work ethic is what catapulted America to being #1. 

"It was before the hustle and bustle of shopping in superstores - overwhelming with their sea of products that are out of touch, generic, and mass-produced with no face, no story, no meaning behind the product. We knew we weren’t the only ones craving authentic goods, said Ekman. Goods with the sign of the soul or the mark of a proud maker." 

Inspired by her father's workshop and the many artisans and craftsmen she sought out, Ekman started the search and by 2014 what has emerged is 'Made in the USA  Makers Market handcrafted goods.' Her vision and entrepreneur outreach is part of a growing movement that seeks only to provide high quality - locally made products. 

On a regular basis with the help of Makers Market, local artisans artists and craftsman like the Brandes' are able to present and sell their locally made merchandise at local places. This coming Saturday June 8, Makers Market will be held at The Mill Valley Lumber Yard, only two blocks from downtown. "Glad to see Makers Market in Marin," said resident Kathleen Walbridge in her review on Google. 

And the fact that an old historic building gets to be revived and utilized again is another way to build community locally. "It's a great location to have it in the old lumber yard in central Mill Valley," added Walbridge. Which, for first-time visitors makes the event very accessible. 

More than 20 local artisans participate monthly and more are encouraged to participate thanks to the staff and crew at Makers Market. Admission is Free and Makers Market has locations throughout the Bay Area, California and the rest of the United States. It is all part of Ekman's vision to bring back the legacy of quality merchandise being made right here in the USA. 

Caryl and Hall Brandes and many others are looking forward to a great turn out. Located at 129 Millers Ave in Mill Valley, Makers Market begins at 10 AM. It is family-friendly with activities, food and live music provided. For more information visit the Mill Valley Lumbar Yard - Makers Market web site; Or, call 415- 326-5111.