Dan Gordon from Whisky and Spice ( http://www.whiskyandspice.ca ) set up camp this weekend at the exciting pop-up local artisans market located at Yonge & Gould streets (just 1blk north of Dundas Square) so I dropped in to say hi and see how Christmas sales were going. If you’re still looking for unique and delicious gifts, I suggest visiting Dan tomorrow (Sunday) to say hello and taste the wicked condiments – W&S will be back at the market next week, too.
The big heated tent was bustling with shoppers and I watched as several customers tasted the flavoured mustard samples. Several jars disappeared in front of my eyes…bravo, Dan. People love the Whisky/honey, Porter beer and Riesling/apple infused handcrafted premium mustards.
I wandered around the tent, visiting other vendors and found an old friend, jewellery designer Stephanie MacKay (http://www.mform.weebly.com ). I’m lucky to have one of her stunning druzy rings (see below) and was pleased to see others admiring her gorgeous designs….
As I made my way around the tent, here are some other wonderful vendors offering unique gifts that I’m sure you’ll love…starting with Rose and Iris Designs (below)…unfortunately their Fcbk page isn’t working as I write (am sure it’s just a temporary glitch) but their home accessories & wearable designs are terrific so do connect with them, if you can. http://www.Facebook.com/roseandirisdesign
Then I met the Just Feelings people (http://www.justfeelings.ca ) who create/customize the most adorable wacky pens for the littlest people on your gift shopping list. No two are the same…just like the kids who love them.
One of my favourite displays was the HYM purses, totes and clutches, designed by the lovely and charming Christina Di Pede (http://www.hymonline.com ). She designs the bags using supple Italian leathers (feels like buttah!) and velvety soft calf hair. The oversized clutches are perfect for your iPad or Note – my favourite is the turquoise coloured one Christina’s holding below. Dear Santa, I’ve been a good girl and I wanna a HYM purse.
Next to Christina was Toronto City Key, a “keys to the city” company that offers all sorts of discounts & perks – you show your “key” that has a special promo code imprinted on it to receive spa, restaurant, entertainment perks. Better than those darn discount coupon books and …I like this…it’s multiple use at each participating venue, not a one-time-only use. Check them out here: http://www.torontocitykey.com
Sex on a Stitch anyone? LOL Every girl should have a pair of pasties in her lingerie draw, even for her own entertainment. I happen to know several of the top burlesque performers in Toronto and I know they wear these sparkly crocheted tassels and twirly things. So if you’ve been naughty or nice, visit them here at the TO Local Market or at http://www.sexonastitch.etsy.com
Clothing and accessories designer Sarah Cresswell of Sci Feye Candy (below) http://www.SciFeyeCandy.com showed off her saucy lingerie for grown-up girls as well as tweens and teens. Wish I’d had such a selection waaaaay back when I was a little nipper!
Sarah was next to her friend, Sonia Kang of Coven jewellery designs which were displayed on cuddly sheepskin throws. Great edgy pieces affordably priced. http://www.covensk.com
I totally recommend visiting the pop-up artisans’ tent between now and Christmas – your purchase will be a gift to these local artisans who really need our support. Wouldn’t you rather give money to an artist/designer than a big impersonal box store?? I know I would…and did. The artisans change on a weekly basis and many I’ve mentioned here are only there tomorrow (Sunday Dec.7) so visit http://www.adhocpopup.com/holidaymarket/ to see who’s peddling their wares and when.
Fordham PR 