Life,Lifestyle,Travel
My husband, Wes, and I moved here from Toronto 4 years ago and it was the best decision we ever made. We enjoyed the energy and convenience of living in Toronto and loved living in the city where everything happens so […]
My husband, Wes, and I moved here from Toronto 4 years ago and it was the best decision we ever made. We enjoyed the energy and convenience of living in Toronto and loved living in the city where everything happens so moving away was a little scary but it was the easiest transition. Everything is within walking distance including amazing shopping and restaurants where we dine on our weekly date nights. Four years, one dog and two babies later we are fully invested in this city so I thought I would put together a quick guide of some of my favourite places in my neighbourhood. I want to put an emphasis on “some” because there are a MILLION great places here and things to do and I’m just touching on a few. Including everything would make this a novel.
The weather is finally warming up and Mother’s Day is around the corner so I thought it would be fun to tell you about my favourite gift shops. I have included two areas: King Street East and James North. At the bottom of each section I have other suggestions on where to visit to make it a fun day out with family and/or friends.
If you’re around for Art Crawl it’s a fun event that you shouldn’t miss. It’s a monthly festival supporting local artists and stores on James North. Stores stay open late so it’s a fun time to shop! Make it a date night by making a reservation at Nique or Born & Raised and shop after eating a great meal.
Outfit details | Sézane Abby Top | Necklace | Jeans (thrifted) | Tote | Shoes
When I need a gift for anyone Studio 205 is one of my first stops. The service is friendly and informative and you can find cute and unique gifts for everyone: babies, mom, friends, (yourself!) and they have a great selection for the men in your life. I love their jewelry, prints and cards made by local illustrators, candles, tea, home decor and everything for kids! They have everything you need for the perfect gift for a loved one!
Make a Day of it: After stopping by Studio 205, visit Girl on the Wing, the Thrifty Designer, pick up a bouquet at Thuya Floral Arts, and visit Cafe Oranje for lunch and a traditional Dutch pastry.
If you’re looking for a perfectly vintage furniture piece for your home look no further than Vintage Charm. I love visiting this store for decorating ideas and oohing over their latest restored furniture pieces. Along with home decor, Vintage Charm has a great selection of jewelry, hardware, and mugs.
This is my new favourite shopping destination. Once you enter The Pale Blue Dot you’ll automatically want to redecorate your house to look exactly like it. This space has a Parisian and Indie flair with pretty vintage pieces and beautiful chandeliers. The Pale Blue Dot has a thoughtfully curated selection of lifestyle and home decor including wooden toys for kids, the coolest antiques, ethically made clothing, and the latest kitchen ware for the most stylish hostess.
If you like modern design then you will love Pretty Grit. They make your shopping very easy with their lovely Mother’s Day Gift Package of flowers and tea. Pre-order now to pick it up just in time for the big day! If that’s not your thing Pretty Grit has plenty of other ideas for the stylish and modern mom. They carry a large amount of their items online so pre-shop today!
La Bichette is my favourite clothing store on this street. They also have some Mother’s Day packages available to make shopping super easy. Beyond mother’s day come here for pretty pyjamas and stylish basics. My favourite backpack is from here and is a must-have. Follow them on Instagram for their “Try-on Tuesdays” where they try on their latest styles.
Make a Day of it: Have breakfast and coffee at Saint James (our favourite) (Other great options are Jack & Lois and Mulberry), shop at all the stores mentioned along with O’s Clothes and White Elephant. Have lunch at Nique or Born & Raised and end your day with a walk in Hamilton Bayfront Park and a donut at Grandad’s!
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