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Girl About Town: Rachael Henderson

It’s been a while since our last Girl About Town blog post, and I must admit, I took a bit of a break from updating the blog over the winter. But now that the weather is turning and the sun is out, I’ve been getting reinspired all over the place! This weekend marks the third annual Vintage Marketplace, which always signifies the start of spring and all the good that is to come of the season! The show features various designers, shops and makers that are all dedicated to the love of vintage and retro finds. From awesome vintage clothing picks to inspirations for your home or wedding, the show has something for everyone.

One of my favourite parts of the show are all the people I get to spend the weekend with, and this month’s girl about town, Rachael Henderson, is such an integral part of making the show what it is. Also known as DJ Donna Lovejoy to anyone who appreciates music, dancing, or style in Hamilton, this lady makes any event sparkle with her amazing tune selection and lovely demeanour. I first met Rachael two years ago at the first VMP and was immediately in awe of her. She’s one of those people that stands out instantly and has such a sense of grace and coolness to her. Each year at the VMP she spins some awesome music, a mix of classic retro hits, some groovy disco and funk and a few newer songs sprinkled in. Her music selections make the entire event flow in such a calm and fluid motion and is the cherry on top of the entire show. As a vendor, I spend hours at the show, and the things that keep me going are all the wonderful customers I get to chat with and Rachael grooving up on stage to music that is truly, good for the soul. I’ve been lucky enough to be stationed right across from her stage every year and have had some pretty amazing dance breaks, thanks to this girl.

 
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). 

 

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