May Newsletter
- Maple Hub Community
- May 1
- 5 min read
April was a blink and you missed it situation.
One minute we were dodging snowflakes, the next we were panic buying allergy meds and wondering how it was already barbecue season.
But May? May is coming in soft and sweet - like the first patio drink of the year.
She’s warm, she’s got plans and she's bringing good vibes.
And speaking of good vibes - we’re starting something new this month: Inside the Hub.
Think of it as your backstage pass to meet the brilliant small biz owners behind the brands you love.
First up? A business that’s hot, cold and totally transformative.
Inside the Hub:
Dark Barrel Saunas
Born and raised on a farm right here in the Lakeland - the founder of Dark Barrel Saunas is no stranger to hard work, healing and building something meaningful from the ground up.
And this business? It started with a moment of stillness, breath and a whole lot of heart.
In 2019 - Brittany faced a major health scare. One that led to a journey of recovery, reconnection and eventually, a deeper commitment to wellness. While traveling in BC with her high school sweetheart - Noel, the idea sparked in the heat of a sauna session (literally).
They were sitting, breathing, reflecting and realized how powerful that space had become in their healing.
“We loved how when you entered a Sauna, and sat down, the first thing you do is take a deep breath. It helps us slow down, and take deep breaths.”
From there, the vision grew: to make saunas more accessible in the Lakeland. Private. Convenient. Restorative. No strangers. No interruptions. Just you, your people and the space to unwind.
Enter Dark Barrel Saunas. A traditional mobile cedar barrel sauna rental service that brings the calm to you.
And when it’s not booked? You bet Noel and the fam are soaking it in.
“My passion. My 'job' has many roles, but its all guided by passion for Saunas.”
Brittany referencing what her favourite thing about what she does is.
Now Dark Barrel Saunas is dreaming even bigger: custom sauna builds for your own backyard, a cold cedar shower + plunge that is now available to rent and hopefully, one day, a sauna + plunge event at Maple Hub. (We're manifesting it.)
May marks their 2-month anniversary, and trust us—something fun is coming. Stay tuned.
What’s New at the Boutique?
May 9 || 6:30pm - 8:30pm - Sugar Dough Co. Cookie Decorating Class
The class is FULL (you guys love your sugar cookies!), but if you’d be interested in another one, let us know - we might just whip up Round 2.
May 10 || 11:00am - 3:00pm - Mother’s Day POP UP! @ the boutique
Join us in store for a sweet little shopping event featuring some of our fave local businesses. Last-minute gifts? We got you.
May 25 || 10:00am - 12:30pm - Crafts + Yaps: Tote Bag Painting
It’s happening! Grab your besties and come paint your own tote. Morning of laughs, snacks and making something cute you’ll actually use? Say less!
May 31 || 11:00am - 3:00pm - Ray of Sunshine Clothing POP UP! @ the boutique
We’re ending the month with a burst of brightness - Ray of Sunshine Clothing Co. is popping up at the boutique! Come browse their feel good, Canadian made apparel and treat yourself to something that lives up to the name.
Boutique: 904B 10 Street, Cold Lake, AB
New in Store!
Fresh from Kelowna - these gorgeous handmade mugs + spoon rests are something you don't want to leave behind!
Their spoon rests were just featured in The Jilly Box AND NOW they’re here! Run, don’t walk.
Maple Hub Highlights
Your fav store just dropped the cutest Mother’s Day collection - and we’re swooning!
Think: soft PJ sets, stunning dresses, warm sweaters and our personal fave… matching swimsuits for mama + mini.
Yep, you read that right. Adorable. Practical. Photo-op ready.
Grab your faves while they last.
If you're looking to capture sweet spring moments - there are a few last minute spots available for her Spring Mini Sessions on May 3 + 4—don’t wait, they’ll go fast!
Sarah is also booking full sessions year round. Whether it’s family, newborn, couples or those everyday moments you never want to forget.
On the art side - you can catch her painting LIVE at the Hearts for Healthcare Gala on May 3 - HOW FREAKIN' COOL?!
She will be showcasing her incredible talent in real time. She’s also accepting custom water colour commissions. Just send her a reference photo and she’ll turn it into a timeless piece that captures the heart of your pet, home, landscape or special memory.
Maple Hub's May Must Have Picks!
Discover our hand-picked selection of must-have items this month – perfect for the month of luck and what you can find in the boutique!
FOUR – Tippy Tallow – Sun Mud
Upcoming Events
Check out these fantastic events! There is something for everyone!
May 10 - Hearts for Healthcare Gala
Cold Lake, AB
Join Hearts for Healthcare at the Cold Lake Energy Centre for an evening of giving back.
Lily + Lavender will be there doing live art and the incredibly talented Patricia Coulter will be showcasing three large contemporary abstract pieces - one of which will be donated to the silent auction.
Come support a great cause and soak in some serious creative energy.
May 10 - Mother's Day POP UP!
11am - 3pm || Maple Hub Boutique, Cold Lake, AB
Celebrate the mamas in your life (or yourself because you deserve it) with sweet treats and thoughtful gifts.
G&B Confections will be popping up with their beautiful, handcrafted chocolates that taste just as good as they look.
May 25 - Crafts & Yaps: Tote Bag Painting
10:00am - 12:30pm || Maple Hub Boutique, Cold Lake, AB
It’s back! Our next Crafts + Yaps is all about creating your own custom tote bag.
Grab your besties, sip something fun and paint your new go to summer accessory.
May 31 - Ray of Sunshine POP UP!
11:00am - 3:00pm || Maple Hub Boutique, Cold Lake
We’re wrapping the month in good vibes with a boutique pop up from Ray of Sunshine Clothing Co.
Come browse their feel good, Canadian made apparel and leave with something that makes you feel like the walking version of sunshine.
May 31 + June 1 @ The Barn RR104 - Soul Retreat & Market
More info HERE
Big love to this community for showing up, cheering loud and shopping small.
If you’ve made it this far, go treat yourself to something cute. You deserve it.
Love,
Maple Hub
