]]>
Well, we have some BIG news and I’m excited to share with all you pals and loyal customers! After six years at our location at 181 King St East, we will be moving about a block down the street to a bigger and better location this July! Our new home is located at 221 King St East (between two awesome neighbours Cherry Birch General on the left and Gameopolis on the right). This move is a big step for us and means awesome things for GOTW! Here’s a bit of the backstory and some sneak peeks…
About a year ago, the owner of the GOTW building decided to put it up for sale. My original emotion was shock/ fear/ sadness. But then I started to think that maybe I should try to buy it from him- I loved the building and with two empty floors above it, I started to dream about living on the top floor and using the second floor as a studio and event space. This was all a wonderful vision, but reality set in and I realized…I’m a small business owner, there’s no way I can afford to buy a building and invest the money required into it! So as much as I tried to negotiate with the building owner to drop the price in the name of me loving it with all my heart- it just wasn’t going to happen. The building hit the market and a few months later, it was sold, along with a few other buildings on the same block. The new owner was willing to work with me and keep me as a tenant. But with new building owners comes new rent prices! My rent would be going up 60% (that is no exaggeration), and while I knew an increase was inevitable, I also felt like for the extra amount I’d be paying, I wouldn’t really be getting anything more- or better. I started flirting with the idea of moving locations. It was scary at first and nothing really compared to my current space. But then, there was some hope…
My friend Lisa who owns Cherry Birch mentioned a few times that the space next door to her was for rent and shared the same landlord as her space. It was an old Money Mart so it was really hard for me to envision the space- I peeked in the windows a few times and didn’t think much of it. On top of that the rent was a lot higher than I’d been paying and the idea of a hugely higher rent on top of moving costs scared me. I worked throughout the winter trying to make a deal with the buyer of my current space- thinking about what I would do and how I could make it work. I felt so unsure for many months- never really being told the exact price I’d be required to start paying. And always secretly hoping they would go easy on me and keep the rent close to what I’d been paying, based on the size and condition of the space. Negotiations weren’t going well and when it got down to final decision time, I decided on a whim to go check out the space that Lisa had recommended. Maybe it would help me negotiating with my current space landlord- I wanted to get a sense of other rentals in the area and thought it may help me come to terms with the inevitable higher rent at the current store. So I made an appointment with the landlord…
I remember being in a rush that morning. It seemed like so much was going on that day. I had just shot some lovely photos of a customer I’d met recently, Angela, in some new spring outfits. I had a bunch on few shipments arriving and knew it was going to be a busy day- I thought about cancelling the meeting but my partner Nikhil had come downtown for the meeting, so I rushed over to meet him. When I first walked in the space I 100% could NOT imagine GOTW there. There was a large desk taking up most of the space and then doors and rooms behind it- it seemed so disjointed to me. But then I met the landlord, and really liked his vibe. The past few months it had seemed between my old and new landlord that all I was getting was confusion. A lot of empty promises and lack of communication- and it all gave me such an uneasy (and honestly, angry) attitude about the whole situation. But the landlord of this space at 221 King East just seemed so refreshing to me. After talking a bit more with him he made it clear he wanted a good tenant and someone who’s business would grow and flourish in his space. In negotiating, he was fair and honest and helped me by lowering the rent he was originally asking for and offering to do a lot of the grunt work involved with prepping the space for me. And there was something inside me that knew I wanted to work with someone who respected me as a small business owner and believed in my shop. After thinking it over for a while, I decided to make a pros and cons list- believe it or not this was the first time in my life I’ve actually done that!
The pros were a plenty- great landlord, bigger space, not too far from my current space. The biggest con was just my fear that a move would disrupt the evolution of GOTW. Everything has been going so well and the past couple years especially have seen this shop growing even more. What if I move and people can’t find me? Or what if there was a certain magic in the current space that I won’t be able to recreate. But then I thought about my vision and how often I wished I had more space, and just longed for a change. Something to get me charged up for the next six years! When talking to friends and mentors- everyone reminded me that I’ve wanted more space for a while and that the magic isn’t just within that one space. I thought more about it and realized the magic is all of you! It’s all of the moments we share within these four walls. And that magic will go anywhere! So once I put that fear behind me, it was full steam ahead. I signed a lease with the new landlord, gave my notice at the current space, and then had a private cry fest (a mix of happy and sad tears)!
After the freaked-out tears, I started to get to work on how I’d make the new space work for me! I thought about the things I love most about my current space and what I’ll be sad to leave behind. The biggest thing for me is my arched ceiling. It was the thing that drew me to the space from the very beginning. Remembering this also brought back how scary the 181 King St East space was to me six years ago. It had been most recently a tattoo shop and had a big desk and was broken up into different rooms. It also seemed impossible to imagine- but look where it brought me! So that was a comforting memory. Anyways, I wanted to reference the curve of my 181 King ceiling in some way at my new space. There will be a few little nods to id- stay tuned! I also am very attached to the vintage wallpapers I found and installed in my changerooms. Sadly, I can’t fully move them over- BUT my goal is to somehow trim off pieces of them that I can repurpose into something else at the new space. The print in the right changeroom (what I call the “good” changeroom) is so iconic and has been the background of so many images through the years. To ease the pain a bit, I went on a quest for new vintage wallpaper. It isn’t easy to find but after months of searching thrift stores, ebay and kjiji, I finally found two prints (one per new changeroom) that I’m super excited about! I can’t wait for you to see them. One really cool process has also been picking a floor for the new space. I love the original hardwood floors at 181- I uncovered them when I first moved in, and my mom and I stained them ourselves! But- they are SO INCREDIBLY HARD to keep clean (so many cracks for dust to get trapped inside) and they are in need of some serious TLC. I wanted to pick a new floor in either a light shade or a fun colour. I went down a real rabbit hole of alternative flooring options- and felt like I’d work all day and then spend my evening on my computer looing things up endlessly. Believe it or not, inspiration came from an unlikely place; schools and hospitals! I found some companies who made bright tile flooring- and if it was suitable for those types of buildings, so I knew it would be good for commercial. I went so back and forth on colour choice, but then it wasn’t until I went to Stradwick’s on the Mountain that I final found it. The guy helping me, Sam, showed me some amazingly unique colours and patterns and I feel in love with a vinyl tile designed by Karim Rashid for the company Tarkett. It’s got a 1950’s vibe to it with an aqua blue base and orange speckles. It actually has made its debut on instagram already- serving as the backdrop for some photos of accessories. I can’t wait to see it as a whole entire floor!
Decisions are still being made every day on the design- and I’m so happy that now you all know and I can start posting the daily happenings of the new space! It’s still got a ways to go but yesterday was the first day I really FELT it. It’s real! And it’s happening! So mark your calendars- our last day at 181 King East will be Saturday June 22nd. We are going to have a BLOW OUT SALE! I have SO MUCH STUFF I’ve been saving for a big blowout. Past season things, some of my own vintage doodads, display items, and the deals are going to be wacko! All the funds made at the blow-out sale will go directly to us making the new space as cute as can be! Then we will be closed from June 23 until the first week of July while we move everything over and set up the space. And of course there will be celebrations once we reopen!
This has been a pretty long post- but it’s been so nice to be able to write about the journey to the new space, and to share it with you all. I’m scared, yes. It’s a big change and I’ll have be on top of making sure everyone finds the new space (my biggest fear is someone missing the announcements, and going to 181 and thinking we closed forever). My rent is going up a significant amount so I will have to work extra hard to ensure we always have new and exciting items for you all, get a handle on our online store and grow that, and try to minimize my expenses wherever I can. But ultimately- I’M SO EXCITED! I really want this and I want a bigger and better space so I can grow things and continue serving you all- you have no idea how much your support has meant to me over the years. Yes I do this because it makes me happy and I love it, but if it wasn’t for my amazing customers I probably (most definitely) would have given up years ago. The positives definitely outweigh the hard times and I know this is what I’m meant to be doing. New space means more awesome products, more awesome events and more space to do cartwheels!!!
Stay tuned for all updates and hope to see you one last time at 181- there’s four more shopping weeks to go! And then after that- see you just a hop, skip, and jump away, down the street at the brand new Girl on the Wing at 221 King St East!
In our first few years we focused on one shelter, and eventually moved on to two. Last year was our most successful yet and we were able to donate to FOUR shelters! Read a bit more about these shelters below. This year our goal is to donate to as many shelters as possible! To help spread the love we will be spreading out the drop-off locations with some awesome community partners. You can always drop off at girl on the wing, but if you are looking for something in your area, we are happy to have drop-off locations at:
Girl on the Wing: 181 King St E
White Elephant (Westdale location): 1032 King St W, Westdale
Hello Baked (East End): 342 Barton St E
Dundurn Market: 346 Dundurn St S
Dundas: Location TBC
And here's a poster you can put up at your workplace/ holiday party/ school/ wherever if you'd like to set up your own donation zone. Just grab a box or bin and tape this poster up!
We will be accepting donations until December 21st. If you donate in-store, be entered to win a GOTW store credit!
LAST YEAR'S DONATIONS WENT TO:
Photography by: Hollie Pocsai
Styling by: Whitney McMeekin
Hair by: Ali Columbus
Makeup by: Ray Allison
Model: Rebecca Sands
All Clothes from Girl on the Wing
]]>Check out some party shots and read the info about or next dance party on Saturday May 21st:
In honour of our love for anything vintage, everything Hamilton and dancing the night away- step back in time to Hamilton in the 1960's. The infamous "Blue Grotto Lounge" was a hopping place for food, drinks and dancing. Designed to replicate the famous Blue Grotto on the island of Capri, the space was sealed off for years and only recently has been reopened.
We've got some special surprises in store and will be setting some serious vibes. Dance in a cave, drink 60s-inspired cocktails and take in the wonder of this amazing space!
9pm-1:30 am. 25 John Street North.
Tickets are available in store or online here.
]]>
CITY OF HAMILTON: WINTERFEST AFTER DARK
It's an honour to be brought on by the City to help with some fun programming for their annual Winterfest. Last year you may remember we coordinated a fashion show…while great, I definitely learned that a fashion show outside in the winter comes with many a challenge :) This year we decided to shake it up a bit.
Movies are great. Canadiana classic movies especially. The past few years I've taken to hosting movie nights for my friends in the shop and have always wanted to do something bigger and better for customers. So in the spirit of Canadian winter, we're excited to announce a screening of the 1983 cult-classic Strange Brew on Saturday February 6th!
"Grab your toques and your parkas and take off, eh!
As part of the City of Hamilton's Winterfest Kick-Off Event, we'll be screening the cult Canadiana classic 'Strange Brew: The Adventures of Bob and Doug Mckenzie'. Originally a skit on SCTV, this film was shot in Hamilton, Toronto and surrounding area and acts as a time-capsule for all things Southern Ontario.
Come join Bob and Doug Mackenzie in their quest for the perfect beer…oh and attempting to save the world from an evil mastermind! Get yourself decked out in plaids, earmuffs and your coziest wares for our Hoser Costume Contest and Great White North photobooth! We'll have some special treats and more surprises in store.
$5 admission. Seating is limited so please arrive early. Movie starts at 8:30 promptly. Theatre is located in the Hamilton Waterfront Trust, behind the skating rink at Pier 8, and beside the restaurant Sarcoa. "
HAMILTON FLEA PRESENTS NIGHT MARKET AT WINTERFEST
In partnership with Hamilton's Winterfest, Hamilton Flea presents a Night Market as part of the exciting "Winterfest After Dark" programming.
Stay warm with hot cocoa and a curated collection of cool vendors in heated outdoor tents! Take in all the sights and sounds of this fun festival and do a little shopping while you're at it. You can expect some of our "Flea Family Favourites" along with some exciting new vendors. There will even be a marshmallow roasting pit- because who says you can only eat those in the summer!?
"In the middle of the winter?" you may ask. "Are they crazy?". Not crazy, just dedicated to creating some cozy winter vibes to get you outside enjoying the beautiful winter weather and exciting cultural programming!
Vendors Include:
Jelly Brothers (Hamilton Neighbourhood Maps) Crown Point Candles(Natural Handmade Candles) / Sweet & Simple (Small-Batch Candies and Sweets) / Wolf Dottir (Sassy Wares) / Group of 7 Billion (Vintage Collage Prints) / Shannon Gerard (Plants You Can't Kill and Crochet Wears)/ Canoe (Canadian-Made Products)/ Hamilton Popcorn Company (Small-Batch Flavoured Popcorn)/ SLO (Mittens and Cute Things)/ Perk Naturals(Body Scrubs)/ Steel City Crate Company (Handmade Crates)
Hope to see you guys there!
]]>]]>
We can't thank the folks at the Rockton Fair enough for all their help in capturing this season's lookbook. I'm already counting the days down until next year! Check out some behind-the-scenes footage of the shoot and we're excited to share the final photos with you next week!
]]>
Can’t wait to share the photos with you on Thursday at our “Summer Never Ends” shopping party!
]]>The dance parties were growing in popularity and at some point Bobby decided he wanted to do other types of music events and somehow turn all this fun into a “full-time” job for himself. In those early days there was a lot of throwing around ideas and concepts, and I remember specifically the moment when we were lying in Bobby’s bed at night when he came up with the idea to create physical membership cards and then the whole idea took shape. I guess I’ve been involved with YLMC since Day 1 as the first ever member, and also as the person that would listen to Bobby’s ideas and help them take shape. The official soundboard, you could say.
I wasn’t really “officially” a part of it for a while, except that I was Bobby’s girlfriend, would go to every single party, and came up with ideas. Bobby sometimes calls me Young Lions Music Club’s First Lady, which seems to be appropriate. I had my own stuff going on – managing a singer and pursuing a career in marketing.
Fast forward to 2014, and Young Lions Music Club was planning the first of several Stanley Kubrick themed parties. This one was themed after The Shining. It was a couple of months before the party, and I asked Bobby “so…how exactly are you going to make this party feel like The Shining?” …he didn’t really know. That’s when we started assembling a team of insanely talented artists ranging from painters to set designers to lighting and projection artists to bring this party to life.
The party ended up being incredible, and changed the way Bobby looked at planning Young Lions events. When people started asking how we made the theme come to life, that’s when we dreamt up the idea of Young Offenders: a collective of artists from different disciplines that we would represent to try to find them work. I was able to apply my experience and passion for working with and managing artists, and Bobby could leverage his Young Lions relationships to find these artists some work. Bobby and I launched Young Offenders together as co-founders, and Young Lions exists as a separate entity, though the two companies work together all the time.
What’s your favourite part of YLMC/Young Offenders?
The best part is coming up with your ideas and bringing them to life without having to go up a chain of command. On the Young Offenders end, I love that we can find really great artists opportunities that they might not have found for themselves. For example, our painter Sarah got to work on a large-scale live painting piece for the Field Trip festival last month in Toronto for thousands to see. I’m proud that I could facilitate that exposure for her, and help her make money off her craft.
What was the most memorable event you’ve been involved with?
Tough question! I’m a huge fan of The Smiths, and one time Andy Rourke from the band DJ’ed on a boat for a Young Lions Music Club party and asked to borrow my headphones. That was a big deal to me.
But probably the most memorable was our Young Offenders launch party. We wanted to invite everyone we knew to see what the Young Offenders are capable of. So we got a warehouse, sent people cryptic invitations in the mail, and got all of our artists involved in some capacity to throw a party in the middle of February fit with a slingshot range, murals, and a giant eyeball installation that projected live surveillance camera footage from the party.
What are the upsides to working freelance/for yourself/from home, etc? Downsides?
The flexibility to work when it feels right and don’t work when it doesn’t is invaluable. Sometimes we get on a creative kick at 9pm and get a bunch of work done, but then we have our fair share of later mornings when we take time to make a nice, big breakfast. I also like being able to test and execute my own ideas.
The downsides are mostly financial. It’s hard to get used to not getting a regular paycheck. Money and projects come sporadically, so it’s important to stay organized and budget myself properly.
Where are your favourite places to go/hang out?
I love doing work at Johnny’s Coffee and grabbing lunch at the Green Smoothie Bar. I do a regular visit to Newold’s, Hawk & Sparrow/Eye of Faith, Girl on the Wing & Out of the Past since I have a vintage clothing addiction that can’t be tamed. I also enjoy hanging at Dundurn Park with my dog Charles and exploring all the parks and trails around Hamilton. I grew up in the country, so I love that Hamilton has so much nature in such close proximity to downtown.
Is there a specific moment that you can remember where you thought “I love Hamilton” for the first time?
I remember my first trip to Ottawa St to go check out some antique shops. I took Barton Street across and was completely enamored with the abandoned storefronts amidst a city that was developing in other areas so rapidly. Because I come from Toronto where everything is hyper developed and established, I see so much potential in many parts of this city, especially Barton St. It’s sad to see the ghosts of failed businesses but exciting to be here in a time when many people are starting new businesses and seeing Hamilton rally around them. It’s an inspiring place, and there’s a certain feeling of soul and community that is often missing in larger cities.
How would you describe your style in 3 words?
Vintage, colourful, comfortable
What’s your favourite thing you’ve found at Girl on the Wing and why?
An aquamarine blue raincoat. Whitney described it as “the coat your mom would wear in the 80s at Niagara Falls” and man do I love sporting that look on a rainy day on a walk with my dog. The colour cheers me up on a dreary day and the pockets are big enough for a ball and dog treats. Perfection!
What can we expect from YLMC at the Hamilton Flea?
Bobby and I DJ together under the name Summer Fling. We’ll be DJing and also selling some special YLMC merch. You can also find out more about Young Lions and sign up to be a member if you aren’t yet.
Who/what are you most excited to do, see, etc at the Flea?
I’m really pumped to eat some donuts from Donut Monster! I’m also hoping to find some vinyl from Roly Poly Records & Retro, and meet some more Hamilton pals.
Anna’s Wearing:
Sunglasses: from a sunglass vendor at Austin Psych Fest
Top: Out of the Past
Jeans: Levi’s - Girl on the Wing
Sandal: American Apparel
]]>
Treble Hall was built in the late 1800s and has been home to a performance hall, the Pagoda Chop Suey House, apartments in the 50s and most recently the mixed-use boutique/cafe/bar Moulin Rouge. The owner of Moulin Rouge has a vast collection of designer samples and beautiful pieces that will be available for purchase at the Flea at huge sale prices. Along with her collection, there will be vendors selling vintage clothing, records, housewares, artwork, zines, patches, tshirts and more!
I was so excited to sign up three brands I admire to travel to Hamilton for the sale. From Toronto, No Fun Press and Yo Sick will be here slinging their awesome wares. And my absolute favourite, Olivia of Stay Home Club will be traveling here all the way from Montreal. Her stuff has been in the shop since we first opened and has always been our best seller. It's so exciting that she will be here in the flesh and I can't wait to check out her full collection. The Flea will be an awesome mix of amazing products, amazing people and an amazing place!
Treble Hall hasn't been open to the Public for ages and is a spectacle in itself. I've been having a total love affair with the building while working on getting it set up for the Flea. The peeling paint, the Art Deco carpeting, the amazing artifacts scattered throughout the space and all the history lingering in the walls. It's truly an amazing place!
Hope to see you all there this Saturday between 11 and 6! You enter the sale through "The Secret Door" and the vendors will be spread out over the 2nd and 3rd floors. On top of the amazing shopping, there will also be donuts by Donut Monster and snowcones by Sweet Ice Snow Cones, two Hamilton treat staples. My friends at Young Lions Music Club will be providing a sweet soundtrack for the day so maybe an afternoon shopping dance party is in order! See you there!
]]>As Cultural Projects Specialist in the Tourism & Culture Division for the City of Hamilton, Jen is a coordinator to some of our City's biggest and best events. She's currently working away on the Hamilton Arts Awards and has lent her professional touch to countless other events in this city. We got our first chance to work closely together on this year's Winterfest. You may remember the fashion show I produced in partnership with Jen, and she was also the coordinator for the entire festival! Working on that project together is what really opened up my eyes to her talents and I couldn't have imagined a better person to work with. She's got such a unique and collaborative work style that is so inclusive and she is so great at bringing people from all over together to build a successful community event. I really admire her for how hard she works and how dedicated she is to supporting local design and talent. I could go on for hours about how inspirational she's been to me in the short time we've known each other, but I can't fail to mention her awesome style.
One thing I've always noticed about Jen is her fearless sense of fashion. She wears what she wants and can pull anything off because she has the confidence and grace to make anything look amazing. The way she mixes and matches her eclectic wardrobe is always great to see and she reminds me that fashion is about being true to yourself and dressing in what makes you feel good. Her closet is filled with pieces that all have stories; whether it's something made by a friend or designer she admires or a totally unique vintage piece, or an article from a distant land. Colours and patterns are what she does best and I can't help but ask her questions about everything she's wearing anytime I see her. We chatted style, what and who inspires her and this fine city of Hamilton.
Occupation: Cultural Projects Specialist in Tourism & Culture Division, City of Hamilton
Years Living in Hamilton: 4 years
Describe your style: Conversations between colour, texture, pattern & form.
What sort of stuff inspires you? Discussions with friends and strangers, vintage and contemporary textiles, people who break the matching rules well, travelling to new cities and exploring Ontario, collaborating with smart people on new projects.
Who is your fashion icon? No one person (my style is too fickle for that!), but I often think of my friend Serene Daoud from Montreal who is extremely experimental with her style. I remember thrift shopping with her and her pulling out things that made no sense on the hanger but totally worked when she put it on. Lots of found textiles from other cultures, plants turned in to temporary brooches, etc. She’s not at all concerned with trends and her eyes are wide open to everyday beauty in a way that’s pretty inspiring. Also, I can’t wait to see the AGH film fest film “Iris” about Iris Apfel, the 93-year-old style hero. I often daydream about getting old and really kicking out the jams with accessories, headscarves, caftans, etc.
What’s your favourite part about working for Tourism & Culture Hamilton? This really is my ideal job – I’ve been active in cultural programming and community organizing for years, and this is the first time I’ve been able to do that for a paycheque! There’s lots I love about it, but I’d say my favourite part is creating opportunities within the arts and culture community for creative workers to share their work and get paid for it. It’s almost a cliché now to talk about Hamilton’s “vibrant/thriving/insert your adjective here” arts community, but it’s pretty cool to be working in Culture in the City at this exploding cultural moment. I feel lucky to have a voice in this conversation, and strive to make it a respectful one that honours the major contributions that creative workers are making to Hamilton.
Who’s one creative in Hamilton that you admire? Aw jeez…Just one? I don’t think I can do it! I’m going to cheat and say the ladies of the Beehive Craft Collective [Roisin Fagan, Courtney Lakin, Thea Haines, Hollie Poscai, Meg Makins, Kate Hunter, Liz Simpson] (of which I am a member). There are so many things I admire about this group of textile artists, entrepreneurs, shop proprietors, garment sewers, engineers, natural dyers canners & picklers, quilters, moms, babes, etc. but I would say that their deep DIY spirit is what inspires me most. Plus they are all pretty snappy dressers!
Where are your favourite places to hang out in Hamilton? I’ve recently discovered the “park bed” – where you bring a blanket and pillows to the park and hang out under a tree for hours on a hot day. So park bed in Victoria Park will be my Hamilton Hot Spot this summer! Vertically, I really enjoy the Brain for cocktails, Needlework for working on sewing projects, walking or biking the Waterfront Trail, and hitting up Aberfoyle for beautiful junk on the weekends.
Favourite piece you’ve found at Girl on the Wing and why: Definitely the embroidered denim shirt I’m wearing in the shoot aka my Spirit Shirt. It reminds me of a traditional quilt pattern and is a bit psychedelic, which is totally my jam. Thanks for bringing it into my life!
Outfit:
Thrifted high waisted wool skirt with burgundy suede church sale belt.
Knit leggings acquired at a Berlin flea market, with Target (RIP) tennis ball yellow socks.
Samantha Pleet x Wolverine lace up boots with stacked wood heel – investment boots, zero regrets!
1950s burgundy cashmere cardigan with brass buttons from Courage My Love.
Block printed made-in-India quilted jacket gifted to me by a dear friend who gets me.
Gold earrings by Oregon-based maker Tiro Tiro.
Yellow enamel studs by White Feather Designs from White Elephant.
Embroidered denim shirt from Girl on the Wing.
Saturday I was in Guelph fulfilling some maid-of-honour duties for my best friend's wedding, happening this summer. We took a little trip downtown to check out the shop Outpost Vintage and Thrift. Owned by the lovely Carolyn Fielding, I first found out about this shop when she followed GOTW on instagram. I was excited to check out her stuff in person and was so happy to see her cute little shop. She had everything displayed so nicely and had such a great selection of pieces. Her store was bright and fun and I scored an awesome vintage team shirt. I always love seeing how other shopowners display their stuff and enjoy experiencing their styles and finds. This gal has such an amazing eye and Outpost is a definite must-visit next time you're around the Guelph area.
On Sunday, my antiquing partner-in-crime, Chelsea, and I headed to our favourite Aberfoyle Antique Market. Chelsea and I met just over a year ago at last year's Vintage Marketplace, which is hard to believe, cause we've already become so close. We are pretty much neighbours, each have such a love for anything vintage, both have two kitties, are from the same hometown and are addicted to 50's and 60's style. It isn't odd for us to both spot the same exact thing from across a crowded room- but luckily for us, we (rarely) have to fight over who gets to buy it. There's nothing more fun to me then a day with this gal, scoring adorable, girly finds, chowing down on burgers and ice cream, and having giggle fits. She truly is the Betty to my Wilma. Anyways, we were excited to hit up Aberfoyle and get our summer antiquing underway.
It was such a perfect day- the sun was out, there was a perfect breeze, and because it is still early in the season, it wasn't overrun with people yet. I of course found a million things I wanted, and felt so inspired. There's nothing that makes me feel more like myself then these days surrounded by old stuff and beautiful illustrations of the past. As always, Chelsea was modest with her buying, picking up an adorable 70's Playboy ashtray. I, on the other hand, stocked up on some of my favourite things: patches, knick-knacks, costume pieces and more!
I had two things that were my absolute favourite finds of the day. The first was a little creamer jug from the 1960's by designer Turi. I collect these pieces and buy them anytime I find one. These are from Norway and I am a sucker for anything Scandinavian. I actually started my love for these designs when I was on a trip to Scandinavia before opening the shop and I hope to one day own the entire collection!
And then the piece de resistance was this beautiful hand-emboridered 1937 Coronation pillow. Two of my favourite things to find are anything regal or illustrated, and this pillow merges both of those! I just love the way it looks and it's so beautifully made. All the colours are hand painted and there is the sweetest, most delicate, embroidery around the edges.
Another special shout-out goes to this amazing captains hat with the embroidered name "Ismailia".
All in all, I had a great weekend of getting back to my roots. Girl on the Wing encompasses all of my loves and I look forward to countless more antiquing adventures! Also had the loveliest weekend soundtrack provided by this sweet man:
]]>
xoxo,
girl on the wing
lovely spring top from Newolds cute little 45
the brownie handbook from 1970
Until next year!
]]>
Rachael and I have gotten to work closely together on a few fashion shows in our time and this year I’m so excited to have her providing an awesome soundtrack to the show featuring 6 of my favourite local shops. She’s been an amazing collaborator, a true inspiration, great pal and customer and I thank my lucky stars for getting to work with her. She talks about some of her own inspirations and favourite things about Hamilton here.
Occupation:
Mother, DJ, Retail Administrator at Art Gallery of Hamilton
Years Living in Hamilton:
15 years.
Describe your style:
Vintage inspired with an eclectic twist.
What sort of stuff inspires you?
Oh gosh... Day to day inspiration comes from my son, Louis. He's the light of my life. My mom has definitely inspired my sense of style, instilling a deep appreciation for well-made vintage clothing at a very young age. I also look to my beautiful friends for wardrobe inspiration. In terms of music, disco is one of my most favourite musical genres and influences most of my DJ sets. Disco tracks usually have the best breaks and are really fun to mix with. I love reading both fiction and non-fiction, sometimes just for leisure, sometimes in search of inspiration. For example, Born to Run played a huge role in cultivating my love of running.
What are some of your favourite go-to records?
That's a tough one... it depends on the gig. However, my ultimate jams include: Blame it on the Boogie - The Jacksons, Sweet Calling - Quantic, If You Want Me To Stay - Sly & The Family Stone, Everywhere - Fleetwood Mac.
What’s been your best record find, to this day?
HUSTLE! Reggae Disco. It's compilation that was put out by Soul Jazz Records. It's my all-time most favourite record.
Where are your favourite things to do in Hamilton?
I love walking through Hamilton's little neighbourhoods with my sweethearts, Louis and Graham. Playing tag at our favourite parks (Gage, HAAA, Durand) is super fun. As mentioned, I love running and Hamilton has some pretty incredible trails. I hold most of my business meetings at either Mulberry or Democracy. And, I love playing Blackout Bingo at the Brain (third Thursday of every month - check it!).
What are you looking forward to at the Vintage Marketplace?
Adding a new dress or two to my vintage dress collection, seeing The Vaudevillian perform, chatting with vinyl record aficionados about vinyl records, and just enjoying all the lovely people!
Favourite piece you’ve found at Girl on the Wing?
I'm going to name my top 3, but there are so many more:
My dark wash Levi Skinny jeans - most magical jeans ever.
Lavender skirt (shown in photo) - the colours are quite unique, and it fits like a glove.
Rachael is wearing a skirt from Girl on the Wing, shoes from Miller’s Shoes (Brako), turtleneck from her sister-in-law (b.u.m. equipment), earrings from her mom’s friend who lived in Egypt years ago.High-waisted light wash jean shorts - So comfy, so cute. Great for riding my bike!
Check out the fashion show at the Vintage Marketplace main stage on both Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm each day.
The show is at the Hamilton Convention Centre this Saturday (9am-7pm) and Sunday (11am-4pm).
]]>
Well this week started with a snow storm and I must say, it officially feels like winter now. After the holidays, it always takes me a while to get adjusted and back into the swing of things. January often passes with it's challenges and the realization that most of the sparkle is gone and now it's on to a few months of hibernation. And although we still have a ways to go, I also find inspiration and comfort in the month of February rolling around. To me it signifies a cozy, fuzzy, rosy feeling and the return to normal life. There's a few exciting things coming up over the next few weeks that are contributing to my love of February. This Saturday marks the City of Hamilton's annual Winterfest; an arts and culture week-long affair! Art installations, family fun, and special events around the city help bring a bit of warmth to this cold season.
I was honoured to be asked to coordinate and contribute to a fashion show as part of the festival's opening ceremony! Teaming up with some of my favourite local shops and designers, including the Eye of Faith, O's Clothes, Hawk and Sparrow, Volver and La Bichette, we'll be showcasing some winter looks that represent each of our shops/labels. The wonderful Rachael Henderson aka "DJ Donna Lovejoy" is signed on to be the emcee and dj of the event and each scene will be set to music by our favourite local musicians. It's all going down at 6:00pm this Saturday February 7th at the Pier 8 Skating Rink, down by the waterfront. It's sure to be an interesting show as we roll the red carpet out on the skating rink and send some local models down the runway.
My collection is inspired by the "Apres Ski" lifestyle; think cozy ski-bunny looks, figure skater approved outfits and all the wooly plaids you can imagine! Very excited to showcase this collection and hope to see you all there!
Link to the Facebook event here.
]]>
vintage Eaton's knit cardigan- would look great with some trousers or over a party dress!
vintage beaded cardigan with velvet party dress.
vintage lace crop top, vintage plaid skirt and crystal pendant necklace.
vintage knit candy striper top with velvet mini skirt.
the perfect vintage red velvet dress with wild moon statement earrings.
vintage beaded poinsetta dress.
be a lady in this 1960's green party dress and then a temptress in this vintage red negligee.
ho ho ho!!!
All Items Available at Girl on the Wing.
Collage Print by Sean Gadoury ($15), Live Long and Prosper patch ($12), Le Petit Prince sweatshirt by Out of Print ($54), Goodnight Moon onesie by Out of Print ($24), Cosmic Light Calendar by Apak ($20), Sleepy Tea ($10), Galaxy Cuff by Dea Dia ($48-54). All Available at Girl on the Wing.
Also have you SEEN this NASA backpack we are carrying?! Totally out of this world!
Backpack by Red Canoe ($75).
Onesie ($64), Vintage Plaid Blanket ($52), Stay Home Club Pennants ($14 each), Moonrise Kingdom Patch ($12), Red Cap Cards ($5 each), Twin Peaks Patch ($12), CBC Backpack ($64), Smash Poster Prints ($40), Lightfoot's Shave Soap ($8)
]]>
We’re back with our second installment of our monthly girl about town blog series. Last month, we focused on someone who was born and raised in Hamilton. This month, we look to an inspiring woman who wasn’t born here, but is now at home and happy in Hamilton. Ciara McCann is such a treasure and not only loves Hamilton, but loves her job at Joseph Brant Hospital as Web and New Media Coordinator, her creative husband and local wine. We first met at the Vintage Marketplace in 2013 and instantly hit it off. When I opened the store, Ciara and her husband Andrew were living in International Village and excited to have a new shop in their hood. Now living on Locke Street and in the midst of a Hamilton house search, this couple is all about their city. You may remember them from our Valentine’s photoshoot last year that we did in collaboration with O’s Clothes. Ciara attended Mac and has called Hamilton home for the past ten years.
Ciara instantly came to mind when I was thinking of who to feature next in our girl about town series. Not only has she accomplished so much professionally, she is also one of the sweetest, and most genuine people I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. She’s truly one in a million! Here we talk about her job at Joseph Brant, her love for social media storytelling, her current “Collective Hearts Burlington” campaign and of course, her favourite places to go during her off-time in Hamilton.
What’s the best part about your job?
At Joseph Brant Hospital there are great things that happen every day and I have the honour of sharing some inspiring stories about our patients and staff with our online community. Recently, I shared a story about a patient in our Complex Care unit who was dying of lung cancer and one of his last wishes was to see his daughter get married. Family, friends and hospital staff came together to make his dream come true and his daughter and her fiancée were married in our chapel. It’s wonderful to see people coming together to make amazing things like this happen.
Tell us about the campaign you’re currently working on:
Collective Hearts Burlington brings 10 local charitable organizations together to celebrate giving in Burlington and to encourage Burlingtonians to give their time, treasure and talent at home. The campaign started at the beginning of November and it runs until December 2 which is Giving Tuesday – a day dedicated to inspiring people around the world to give. This is an annual campaign and we invite more organizations to join us next year. People can learn more about the campaign and share why they give at home by visiting www.collectivehearts.ca.
Where are your favourite places to go around Hamilton?
There are so many gems but these are my top three right now: Two Black Sheep for vintage cocktails and charcuterie, Democracy for relaxed weekend vibes, lattes and the best brownies in the Hammer and of course The Casbah – my favourite place to see local bands.
What inspires you- in your professional life and normal life?
My husband inspires me. He is the most driven, passionate and thoughtful person I know. Professionally, I’m inspired by new and creative ideas.
How would you describe your style?
Girly tomboy – kind of an oxymoron but that’s the only way I can describe it.
What is on your Christmas list this year?
The book, Yes Please by Amy Poehler, the latest Alvvays record and Porridge soap by Lush.
What's your favourite piece you've found at Girl on the Wing?
This coat of course! You know those special moments when you find a vintage piece that’s not only beautiful but it’s also a perfect fit and it’s pretty much meant for you? That’s what happened with this coat.
What She’s Wearing:
Vintage winter coat
Stella Bella knit hat
Vintage plaid scarf
High-waisted Levi’s
all available at Girl on the Wing.
We’re so inspired by all the good that this girl does on a daily basis- and may we add how cute she looks while doing it! Check out Collective Hearts and give where you live!
]]>I was originally drawn to their table as the two lovely ladies who started the company were old friends from Ryerson. Sharon Langlotz, one half of the team, was on my floor in first-year residence and we had some pretty hilarious coming-of-age moments together. Brittani Wilcox, the other half of Early Scout, is from my hometown and had always been on my radar. I was so excited to see them that day and even more excited when I saw their products.
These girls make the most lovely little terrariums! Filled with succulents, rocks and magic crystals, they're different than other terrariums I've seen. Each piece they design has a girly flair and combine all the elements so well. Plus, the maintenance is so easy- just pour about a shot glass of water into your terrarium every 3 weeks and you're good! Now that is the type of gardening I can handle!
These gals are great and I love their product! We're starting out with the small pieces and they retail at $28. I'm thinking these would make an awesome Christmas gift. Because they are such low maintenance they can stay in their box until you're ready to give them as gifts.
See you soon! Xo
But then things started changing. I started meeting with Rob Belchior at the Small Business Enterprise Centre located at City Hall and he really inspired me to just go for it. I stopped pitying myself and set out to make as many connections as possible and get my dream started. And this is when I learned my favourite thing about Hamilton: everyone I met was so friendly, welcoming, supportive and wanted the best for the city. I remember having a moment of revelation about four months after I moved where I was just driving through the City and looking around I realized just how much I loved it, my insides were all warm and gooey and everything just felt right, for the first time in a while.
Shortly after, my relationship ended and I was positive that this was the end of my life as I knew it. I had been putting more energy in envisioning my life with this person than focusing on what I wanted to accomplish for myself. It all happened with the craziest timing; the day I found my store location is the day I also suffered my first broken heart. The next two weeks I cried the most I think I ever have, while managing to direct my hired contractor on all the renovations that needed to be done. It was such a crazy up-and-down part of my life, but in a weird way, I can’t imagine it any other way. I always say that the pain I went through was so necessary because it allowed me to put all that negative energy into something positive and build something beautiful out of it. And in a hilarious way, it was like I had moved from one serious relationship to the next; my store was now my best friend, my boyfriend, and my baby. It’s cheesy to say, but it’s so true. I’ve always been a believer in everything happening for a reason, and the six months before I opened the store was proof of some higher power telling me everything was going to be ok.
Fast-forward to now, I’ve been living in this beautiful city for two years, the store has been opened for a year and a half, and I couldn’t be happier. It’s, in fact, hard to believe it’s only been a couple of years based on how completely content and comfortable I feel here, all the wonderful friends and customers I’ve met and how passionate I am about Hamilton. It’s very fulfilling to be doing something that I love all parts of-and to be building something that is such a reflection of myself. I really feel like I’ve put my heart and soul into Girl on the Wing and I can’t tell you how rewarding it feels to have such an amazing customer base and support system around me. I’ve learned from everything I’ve done and have been so lucky to meet countless amazing and inspirational people while doing it.
I got the idea for this little blog post/diary entry last Monday, the night of the Municipal election. This was the first election I’d taken part in since moving here and it was one that I was very excited about. There were two candidates I felt really personally invested in and excited about that had amazing ideas for the future of Hamilton. I tried to get involved and help spread the word on these candidates and open up the discussion of voting to my friends, customers and acquaintances. Come election night, I was feeling so emotional. I think because it helped me realize just how much I do love this City. Though some results were favourable, and some weren’t, I was very humbled by the amazing people surrounding me who feel the same way about Hamilton.
I’m floored by the generosity and civic engagement of so many people I’ve met here and it just goes to show there is so much in store for Hamilton’s future. At the end of the night, two of my closest friends and I went for a long drive around all parts of the City- the beautiful historic streets of Dundas, the vast fields of rural Flamborough, and the vibrant city streets of downtown. We all felt warm and giddy about our love for the city- and it’s a love that keeps growing every day.
After two years, I’m happy to say Hamilton is and will forever be my home. Thank you to everyone I’ve met who has been a part of my store life, personal life or community life. I love you all!