From the left: Paul Lascelles and Deborah Ladouceur are shown in the front of their booth at the 2022 International Plowing Match. Thompson Goddard Photo

In 2015, Deborah Ladouceur began Delastpillow, a business specializing in weighted blankets and organic buckwheat hull pillows.

Located in Berwick, Delastpillow now offers a wide range of sewn products including beach pillows, cuddle buddies, card holders, beach chair covers just to name a few of the products available.   Ladouceur mentioned the name is derived from her contention this will be “the last pillow you will ever own.”

Speaking with Ladouceur at her booth at the 2022 International Plowing Match, she explained she had been sewing since elementary school. “I love what I do. I love sewing!” she commented. She explained she became interested in assisting people with health concerns that led to her producing the weighted blankets and organic buckwheat hull pillows. Ladouceur enjoys being able to create items that assist people; this provides a sense of accomplishment. She noted how during the pandemic when it was difficult to continue creating her pillows and weighted blankets, she turned the business into a successful mask making enterprise.

The pillows are stuffed with Canadian grown organic buckwheat hulls, are approved by chiropractors, with the weighted blankets approved by occupational therapists, school boards and physicians for use. When approached by a client for assistance, Ladouceur will spend the time listening to their concerns and needs while assisting them in the determination of what is best for them.

Ladouceur has also produced comfort pillows, which can be used by individuals who have had surgery.  Filled with “a soft premium hypoallergenic poly-fil,” these pillows “can be used to protect your incisions, reduce the strain on your surgical areas, and keep you comfortable.” According to information on the Delastpillow Facebook page.

She enjoys being her own boss and can set her own hours, explaining this can be  challenging and has set time boundaries to ensure there is time for her other interests. Ladouceur commented she is thankful her husband, Paul Lascelles, has been a strong supporter of her business throughout the years assisting her in many ways.

When asked about advice she would offer to people beginning a sole-proprietorship business, Ladouceur mentioned the importance of believing in yourself and to research the field. She mentioned it is important to competitively and ensure the quality of the product being offered for sale.

Delastpillow’s Facebook page provides customers the opportunity to view and learn about the wide variety of available products as well as ordering and delivery options or make custom orders.

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