This is our first show, and to be honest we're a little nervous. But the opportunity to showcase what we believe to be a pretty incredible company along side some of Canada's leading green organizations is pretty exciting.

So what exactly are we offering at the event?

Little did we know at the time, that our journey had only just begun with that trip. The months of work renovating an average space into a unique & welcoming creative studio were shared by family, friends and strangers alike. In itself an incredible story of the power of community and a desire to be a part of something good and different.

The challenge was to design and make bridal and engagement jewellery that was worthy of these ethically mined metals. And in doing so, to make a strong statement of intent to the established order. At this point, we feel we have accomplished both.

Our community outreach work which began with HoHoTo, SpinTO, and WarChild is only the start. But it was a good one. In the coming months we will announce some new partnerships and collaborative programs designed to change the way non profits connect with creative communities and their donor base.

The delay: Our original date of September 25th was delayed for a number of reasons, which was somewhat disappointing but this project has never been about rushing the idea or our products. The extra month has allowed us to prepare for the next stage next journey the one that starts after all excitement the next day, on the 24th.

We hope you can join us for what promises to be a wonderful evening. Because this is a private event where cocktails are served please take a moment to RSVP if you have not already on Facebook or our invite page: http://reno.ftjco.com

Schedule for the evening:

19:30 – 20:15 Hor’dourves, cocktails & our specially brewed ‘Stein Paper Scissors’ ale in collaboration with  Beer sponsored from Simon Rollason of Great Lakes Brewery
20:15 – 21:00 Special screening of our documentary (working title) ‘The Last Gold Rush’ by Michael Penney of Afterlight Films
21:00 – 21:20 Ryan Taylor introduces the Fair Trade Jewellery Company
21:20 – Interviews, Meet, Mingle… Dance! Thanks to Duarte DaSilva

*Updated*

The big day is almost here, and we certainly picked a busy week in Toronto for our launch. Though unintentional, it’s somehow appropriate that the (2nd) date we chose to ‘officially’ launch was during LG Fashion Week. The event provides an elegant back drop to our project,  making it impossible to escape the excitement generated by local designers inspiring us and providing a goal for our anniversary. To our friends attending that event we’re preparing a special private gathering just for you.

For all our friends attending our launch we thought we’d make a few local suggestions in the spirit of  #fireplacefriday / #patiofriday. Here are some options for those in the area early, and where to continue the party.

Food & Drink: 

House on Parliament Toronto’s best ‘Gastro pub’.

The  Cobourg  just north of the atelier is a wonderful little pub with a decent wine and scotch selection.

Jam Café has a big wine selection and a very cozy environment.

Big Mamma’s Boy Excellent food, a great place for a group meal.

& Samovar Our local ‘Night Club’ has a special on Vodka bottle service and a Dj Friday night(s) 

 There is so much more to discover in Cabbagetown here’s a complete list of our neighbors: http://www.cabbagetowneat.blogspot.com

We’d also like to share the ‘You Say Yeah!’ Toronto event calendar http://yousayyeah.com/calendar (thanks for the support Lee!) which also lists our friends at GenYTO who like totally copied our date! But they’re supporting Unicef at this months event so we’ll forgive and probably pop in to spread the love

The Fair Trade Jewellery Company will be unveiling the Cabbagetown atelier on August 1st  2009.

The 950 square feet atelier on Parliament Street in Toronto, under construction since January, has been a labour of love.  FTJCo founder Ryan Taylor with a talented team of designers worked to create an inviting, modern space for guests and to showcase the company’s sophisticated jewellery collection. As part of the design, there was an environmental responsibility to build the atelier with as much recovered material from the existing property as possible. From wood to piping to nails, every component was considered for reuse. You wouldn’t be able to tell by looking at the atelier, however, as the old elements complement new elements like the stunning tile wall shown above.

The construction of the atelier was truly a community effort. Ryan has been an active member in the tech community in Toronto and has been sharing the FTJCo’s journey through his Twitter account. To his surprise, upon hearing about his hands-on efforts working on the atelier, friends from the community offered to lend a hand, sometimes for a few hours, sometimes over a weekend. (You can catch the atelier in progress at reno.ftjco.com.) Grateful for everyone who helped haul in material, sanded, scrubbed, or painted, Ryan likens the communal effort as a throwback to "an old-fashioned barn-raising." What’s amazing is that, in this day and age, how often do you hear of people voluntary pitching in to help someone literally build their passion and livelihood? (And wouldn’t it be great to hear more of it?)

We’ll be posting pictures from the renovation and the atelier in the near future. The wait is nearly over for your chance to check it out for yourself. Make sure to sign-up for our launch party and to stay updated on the latest news.