About Me
My name is Sylvia, and I am a Food Scientist and Professional Agrologist by trade. I moved to British Columbia 16 years ago, bringing with me a passion for creating, developing, and crafting products. True to my love for innovation and quality, I founded Foundtree Product Design, a consulting business focused on product development for the food industry. While my original vision was to help companies create new products, I soon found myself meeting a different need: helping food processors and producers navigate the complex world of food safety and regulations.
Though I’m proud of the work I do with clients, my heart has always belonged in “operations”—the space where products are created, not just designed. Prior to consulting, I spent many years in corporate product development, but it wasn’t until I began crafting products with ingredients that resonated deeply with me that I truly felt fulfilled. There is no greater joy for me than creating products that have a real, meaningful impact on people’s lives—products that align with my own values of wellness, sustainability, and the natural world.
Running a small business and keeping it small is important to me because it allows me to stay connected with my customers. I’ve always loved vending at local markets and having the chance to hear firsthand how my products have helped others. As my business grows, I’m committed to keeping it personal—operating on a scale where I can still make that genuine connection and provide products that truly serve my community. I want to remain “small” in the sense that I never lose touch with the people who have supported me from the beginning.
Truly Canadian
For me, the beauty of British Columbia lies in its vast, untamed landscapes—its endless forests, its rich ecosystems, and the abundance of plants that grow in the wild. When I first moved here, I was awed by the sheer magnitude of what the land could provide. But I also felt a sense of confusion: why was there such a strong push to localize our food systems, yet so many of the resources available in our own backyards seemed largely untapped?
Over time, I came to understand the complexity of our food systems. I learned that turning to the forests to feed us would upset the delicate balance of nature. In my wild-harvesting practice, I’m committed to being mindful of this balance. I take only a small percentage of what is available, ensuring that the land continues to thrive for generations to come.
At Forage & Soothe, I honor the land by using wild-harvested plants and locally cultivated botanicals from British Columbia. Every product is made in small batches, ensuring that each item is crafted with care and intention. For me, the process of foraging, growing, and working with plants is more than just a profession—it’s a joy and a grounding practice. There’s a sense of peace and connection that comes from being in harmony with nature.
I see myself as a bridge between the land and my community, offering products that highlight the incredible, healing power of botanicals that are native to this land. By sharing these plants with others, I can connect people to the earth in a meaningful way and help them experience the natural wellness that comes from these amazing ingredients.
I believe in supporting the Canadian economy, so whenever possible, I prioritize local suppliers over foreign ones—especially for the ingredients in my superfood line. I’m proud to contribute to the growth of our local food systems and am always looking for ways to keep things as sustainable and regional as possible.
My Philosophy
My philosophy is simple: I believe in the power of natural ingredients and aim to create products that highlight nature’s true wonders. In a world filled with harmful chemicals and additives, I take pride in carefully researching every ingredient to ensure it is safe, effective, and nourishing for you. My goal is to provide you with products that support your wellness journey, from the inside out.
The small batch mentality is central to everything we do. By keeping our production small, we can ensure that each product receives the attention it deserves. This allows me to exercise my perfectionism, appreciating the subtle differences in plant materials from year to year, from different growing locations, and even between species. It’s these nuances that make each batch unique and that add to the potency of the botanicals we use.
I believe that small batches also help maintain the quality and integrity of our products. Every ingredient is chosen with care, and every step of the process—from harvest to creation—is an opportunity to slow down, connect, and truly appreciate what nature has to offer. It’s this hands-on approach that makes each product not just a creation, but a labor of love.
Above all, I want you to feel connected to nature when you use my products. My hope is that every time you experience the soothing effects of our skincare or superfoods, you’re reminded of the healing power of the earth. I want you to love the products you use and feel a deeper sense of wellness, grounded in the natural world.
