Uptown Sweets’ (Exeter) shot-of-colour sign promises a unique candy experience. Coming from a candy-loving family was the inspiration for owner Lisa Johnson, who recently moved with her family to Exeter. Walls of packaged sweets and a bulk candy wall fulfill sweet tooth dreams of popular and nostalgic treats. Rent an 18-flavour cotton candy machine for fun parties. Allergy-free party bags are available on request.
The newest edition to Bayfield’s quaint downtown is Déjà Vu, which offers a curated mix of high-end consignment clothing, accessories and fine estate jewellery. Owner Micheline Notte remarks that “only one per cent of textile waste is actually recycled”, and with a love and appreciation for estate jewellery and the skills used to design and create fashion, it was an easy decision to establish a business that supports lowering our carbon footprint. Book a private appointment with a knowledgeable professional for an estate jewellery consultation or trade unused gold or silver for cash in a secure environment.
With its aim of elevating outdoor leisure experiences, Cottage Culture (Hensall) is the newest division of Iceculture. Inspiration for this venture came from the effects of Covid-19 on the Canadian lifestyle, with a newfound comfort in staying at home. Backyards and patios gained importance, and Iceculture realized their international partnerships offered a new opportunity. Source high-quality, stylish, unique-character Scandinavian-designed outdoor furniture, outdoor kitchens, Canadian-made fire pits, sofas, sectionals, dining tables and accessories. Delivery and on-site assembly are available.
The General Store (Grand Bend) features products from more than two dozen local entrepreneurs. Among them are Sunstone Souvenirs with ready-made and build-your-own energy talismans; Avianna Candles’ cruelty-free, 100% soy wax candles with essential oil elements; and chef-created products to spice up your cuisine from Wholesome Herbs & Spices. From jam, canned pickles, beans and relish, herbal tea, maple syrup, jewellery and artisan greeting cards, you are sure to find something to tempt.
Original, representative oil and acrylic paintings set the scene at Beanstalk Art Gallery & Studio (Hensall). Artist Robert Johnson’s realism giclée-on-paper, hand-signed prints feature buildings and places; they are offered at various sizes and prices. Robert’s favourite subjects are historical or visually interesting buildings (such as the Flatiron Gooderham Building in Toronto), wildlife, nature and animals. Art commissions are accepted. Future plans include lessons and paint nights in the gallery’s ample, airy space.
Merchant 6 Home Interiors + Kitchen Market (Exeter) arrives on-trend and will reinvigorate your nesting instincts. The Home Interiors side of things focuses on comfy items that make relaxing home spaces. Down-filled pillows, oversized sofas, cotton pouffes, jute rugs and pendant lighting - furniture and accessories au naturel. While Kitchen Market offers products to enjoy while cooking and dining, sharing space with 2GO fridge and freezer food items from smoothies, juice and ice cream to frozen meats.