Monocle

On my way to Bar Isabel on College West, I came across an adorable retail concept called Monocle Shop - magazine by Tyler Brule now global brand - a 300 square foot store with an office space or "bureau" in the back for their global writers/journalists to complete work or hold meetings. The store attendant Michael is a young man from Vancouver, incredibly gracious with his welcome and engaging in conversation. One-by-one customers walk into the store where Michael holds conversation long enough so they feel comfortable enough to browse. Every piece you touch comes with a story, not rehearsed but genuinely interested, and a suggestion of another item worth exploring.

My pop-in turned into an half-an-hour stay, chatting and shopping - I bought items for myself and friend who I was meeting for dinner. Talk about making the best of a captive audience. It turns out, Michael is in Toronto exploring his many creative talents in fashion, photography and industrial design by way of Vancouver and Montreal. His excitement about the city, the shop, his life and goals is incredibly contagious, which explains why so many people - probably customers turned clients - pop in to say hello as they are walking by.

Another favourite store of mine called Nomad on Queen West employs the same passionate and caring individuals. They extend their knowledge of the garments into a delightful story making the shopping less about the items but more about the experience.

The similarity between Monocle and Nomad is that the store owners are generous with their passion and purpose to attract the right people to carry out their vision.

Michael recognizes that we as people are truly one-of-a-kind, and honours that mindset by celebrating with everyone who enters into his world of Monocle. Thank you Michael and we'll pop in soon to say hello.