Beauty
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In Conversation with Michelle & Metka // Public Mercantile
Name: Michelle Ardiel & Metka Lazar Shop: Public Mercantile Address: 1804 Government St, Victoria BC Instagram: @publicmercantile Can you describe Public Mercantile? Our shop is lovingly curated by Michelle and Metka — every piece that is in the shop went through a lot of thought. Our shop is full of delights, from fashion to books to skincare to homewares to gifts. Lots of people tell us we are the best gift shop in Victoria, the best place to find special things to give to others (and yourself!). We wanted to offer a different kind of retail experience in Victoria, one in which the brand and the items within our…
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In Conversation with Melodie // Elate Cosmetics
"My strategy from day one has been to build a safe space. A community where people feel like they belong, with the mandate that beauty is for everyone. We have always used what we call 'role models' in our campaigns, humans that you would maybe have never seen in a makeup photo shoot before because of the preconceived notion of who beauty is for. The other thing that makes us stand out online is our honesty. We are always very forthcoming with info about our successes and failures, and we ask our community to shape the future of our company."
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In Conversation with Jordan // Lucky Cat Barber Collective
"All I wanted to do was be wild and free with the clipper. I wanted to do weird asymmetrical styles that involved breaking the rules, and so after working in a salon for a while, I took the leap and applied at Victory Barber, where I grew into the barber I am today. It was the push I needed to be able to explore every new angle with my scissors and clippers. "
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In Conversation with Natalie // The Natural Hair Salon
"I am always learning and working on the next project. It’s who I am, same with Philip. We are people that take on everything all at once, we just can’t help ourselves. Both Philip and I were raised by immigrants, and the work ethic and values we bring to the table are deeply rooted in our culture and upbringing."
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In Conversation with Ila // Barber and Fritz
"I've always been rebellious and creative — I was a wild teenager! I moved out of my home at a very young age and I knew I needed to find a career that allowed me to be creative, social, was something in the fashion industry and that provided me autonomy. I've always loved cutting hair. I cut my first bob with kitchen scissors when I was nine years old on my little girlfriend and her mom said it was the best haircut she's ever had."
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In Conversation with Stef // Lore General Store
"Not very often do we get the time where there is no one around and for us to figure out what works and what doesn't. Reach out to people in your community and ask for advice. Now more than ever, people are in the spirit of helping and it's a great time to make new connections. Remember there is light at the end of the tunnel."
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In Conversation with Stephanie // Open House
"I don’t worry too much about trends. Although I am aware of what is going on, it’s never been that important to me. I prefer to stick with a set theme or palette for the season. I try to choose timeless, well-made pieces in classic silhouettes, so they can be worn for multiple seasons and years. It’s about creating a wardrobe of pieces you love and bring you joy, buying less and investing in well-made products."
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In Conversation with Dylan, Jen & Laurie // Shampoo Hair Bar
"The decision to take on debt in order to stay in business has been a tough one, especially since we have never had to carry any debt with the business before this. We have also decided to sell our products online, which is brand new to us. Not too sure how it will all work out! Looking forward to the time on the other side of this."
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In Conversation with Lara // Frances Grey
"Frances Grey blurs the lines. She challenges and redefines the feminine style of dressing. We aren't defined by one way or one gender. We have so many layers and desires and needs. Frances Grey provides women with multi-layers to explore their style, moods and vibes. She loves old world, classic structured pieces, art deco, utterly feminine and modern masculine styles. It’s beauty and elegance combined with the refined, edgy and playful sides we all possess!"
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In Conversation with Claudia // Bernstein & Gold
"I have quickly learned to stay fluid during this time and deal with what is right in front of me. Although the shop is physically closed right now, our online sales are increasing daily. We also offer free delivery and that has been received very well. Our organic skincare line is one of the few things people don't hesitate to replenish. It has become essential for people to keep their wellness routine going."
