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OURTOWN DOWNTOWN OAKVILLE MAGAZINE SUMMER 2012
Enjoy
the many flavours of beautiful Downtown Oakville! INSIDE Parks & More | Gift Guide | New In Town
Our Town
Table of Contents Downtown Oakville Magazine
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Sensational Summer Shopping
Discover designer fashions and unique gifts
OTDT_Summer_2012_Cover2_Layout 1 12-05-30 2:25 PM Page 1
OURTOWN DOWNTOWN OAKVILLE MAGAZINE SUMMER 2012
Enjoy
the many flavours of beautiful Downtown Oakville! INSIDE Parks & More | Gift Guide | New In Town
Cover concept and design by Green Light Graphics.
18
Jazz Festival
Biggest event of the year celebrates 20 years
26
Couples Profile
Working together while bettering the community
28
Downtown Green
Parks and open spaces create a place to relax
8
Fashion
Fashionable and Fun Star of ABC’s The Bachelor enjoys downtown shopping
14
Decor
Home Decor Celebrity designer finds what she’s looking for
23
Investment
Believing in Downtown Owners of Seasons and Corks open new restaurant Downtown Oak ville
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THEEMFI ELDER
BAYVI EW VI LLAGE-YONGE&CASTLEFI ELD-DOWNTOWNOAKVI LLE-PORTCARLI NG, MUSKOKA OAKRI DGESHOPPI NGCENTRE-VI LLAGEATPARKROYAL
If you love crêpes... this is the place for you!
Our Town Downtown Oakville Magazine
s u m m e r 2 01 2
Our Town Downtown Production Team Suzy Godefroy and Jasper Moester
Downtown Oakville BIA Board of Management
Chair: Joseph Diodati, Jonathan Quinn Vice Chair: Marcia Small, Victoria’s Linen and Lace Past Chair: Joe Giraldi, Many Faces Treasurer: Stephané Sauve, Paradiso Restaurant Beautification Chair: Tom Ormerod, Studio PH Development Chair: Leslie Invidiata, Invidiata Remax About Towne
Fashion Chair: Anna Rea, By Tocca & Tocca Finita Jazz Festival/Social Chair: Joseph Diodati, Jonathan Quinn
Marketing Chair: Kathy Thomas, Bronze Frog Gallery
88 Dunn Street, Downtown Oakville (905) 849-4999 www.TheCrepeKitchen.ca
Board Members: Bill Rechter, Just an Olde Fashioned Butchery Zee Martinez, Olsen Europe Andrea Lenfesty, Garvey’s Town Council : Councillor Dave Gittings, Ward 3, Oakville
BIA Staff
Manager: Suzy Godefroy
Recycled Fabulous Downtown Oakville is your Consignment Destination.
Designer apparel, Shoes and Accessories at a fraction of the designer price. CLOSET 112
112 Dunn St. 289.291.5371 www.closet112.ca
BY CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE 115 Trafalgar Rd. 905.338.3474 www.byconsignment.ca
SECOND CHANCE
105 Dunn St. 905.844.9397 www.secondchanceoakville.ca
Administrative & Membership Service Coordinator: Jasper Moester
Production and Sales McNeill Communications, Stephen McNeill T: (905) 975-6172, E: smcneill@sympatico.ca
Art Director Amber Routten-Mitchell
Contributing Designers Green Light Graphics, Ryan McNeill
Photography Peter West, Alexandra Simpson, Anita Woo
Contributing Writers Robin Edwards, Alexandra McCann, Larry Simpson
Downtown Oakville Business Improvement Area 146 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville, ON L6J 1H4 T: (905) 844-4520 F: (905) 844-1154 www.oakvilledowntown.com Our Town Downtown is published four times a year (Fall, Holiday, Spring and Summer) for the Downtown Oakville Business Improvement Area. Our Town Downtown name, title and logos are owned by the Oakville Downtown BIA.
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Our Town Downtown Oak ville
chairman’s Message
O
n behalf of Downtown Oakville merchants and businesses I am honoured once again to bring to you the Summer 2012 Issue of Downtown Oakville’s magazine – Our Town Downtown. As Chair of the Downtown Oakville BIA, I would like to thank everyone who has been part of this fantastic marketing medium, which is full of savvy articles about Oakville’s incredible, vibrant and beautiful downtown core. With summer here, we are gearing up for Downtown Oakville’s annual sidewalk sale, be sure to mark July 20 on your calendar for Midnight Madness and from August 10 to 12 enjoy the 20th Downtown Oakville Jazz Festival featuring Allen Toussaint, John Hammond, Peter Appleyard, Joey DeFrancesco, Tierney Sutton, Magic Slim & The Teardrops as our headliners for the 2012 Jazz Festival!
Joseph Diodati Joseph Diodati, Chair Downtown Oakville BIA
NEW! Use your QR Code Reader on your smartphone to read more online.
www.ourtowndowntownoakville.com
www.oakvilledowntown.com
DwntownOakville
Oakville Bia
Downtown Oakville BIA
Downtown Oak ville
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Necklace & Earrings Neckless is large fresh water pearls with sapphire bead in centre. $375. Earrings are sterling silver with fresh water pearl. $95 Available at Laurie McLachlan Jewellery.
Hats Summer hats in assorted colours. Available at Avante. $35
summer treasures
Gifts and party wear it can all be found conveniently downtown
necklace LaLoop eyewear necklace is carved faux horn with sterling silver loop. Available at Squint Eyewear. $255
watch Gulliver Sports watch with compass style face and leather strap by Tateossian. Available at M for Men. $325
cuff links Braided leather wraparound cufflinks by Tateossian. Available at M for Men. $175
DRESS Elegant dress from the Versace Collection. Available at TOCCA FINITA. $1,185
bracelet Semi-precious stone and rhodium plated sterling silver bracelet by Tateossian. Available at M for Men. $255
shorts Printed shorts by Joe’s Jeans. Available at Mendocino. $175
Dress Summer dress by Cartise. Available at Zuri Fashions. $195 4
Our Town Downtown Oak ville
sweater Colourful sweater by Nic + Zoe. Available at Chatsworth and Hall. $175
shirts Light denim shirt and designer T-shirt by Hamaki-Ho. Available at Johnathan Quinn. Denim shirt $$$$, T-shirt $$$$
sunglasses Ready for sunshine. All available at Squint Eyewear. • Oliver Goldsmith mini icon sunglass inspired by retro look from 1971 blackjade plastic aviator. $125 • Oliver Goldsmith mini icon sunglass is inspired by retro look from 1959 freshmint kids plastic white and blue inside oval shape. $125 • Squint custom striped sunglass in Havana tortoise, forest green and caramel. $425 • Theo by Jaime Steenbergen is a fire red and navy plastic sunglass. $410
shorts Crystal studded shorts by Joe’s Jeans. Available at Mendocino. $215
dress Fringed dress by Simon Chang. Purse makes the perfect complement, also by Simon Chang. Available at Avante. Dress $295. Purse $99
Jeans Pastel green jeans by Free People. Available at Mendocino. $105
Outfit Outfit from the Modea Collection. Available at Chatsworth and Hall. Top $130, capris $95
Bracelets Animal print bangles. Available at Lux Silver. $8.99
necklace LaLoop eyewear necklace is gun metal, slver plated with Swarovski stones. Available at Squint Eyewear. $430 Downtown Oak ville
Our Town
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tea maker Stylish Krups one-litre tea maker can be used to make loose tea or traditional. Available at To Set A Table. $99
dressing The Crepe Kitchen’s very own signature sweet onion dressing. $7.99
Hair kit Eufora repair kit to replenish colour-treated hair with protein and plant extracts. Available at Studio PH. $33.60
spoon SPOONS Tasting spoons in colour glass. Available at To Set A Table. Set of 7 $12
home decor Downtown Oakville is the place for cool gifts for around the house
chip maker Make your own chips from potatos, apples or other fruit in a few minutes with TopChips by Mastrad. Available at To Set A Table. $25
gloves Ready for the barbecue with these leather grilling gloves. Available at Tommy Bahama. $26 6
Our Town Downtown Oak ville
Tray Cigar ashtray is great gift for Father’s Day. Available at Tommy Bahama. $30
mug Carry A Big Stick mug. Available at Tommy Bahama. $14
GRASseS Decorative grasses in sand in heavy glass container by Maclaw. Available at Swiss Interiors. $49, $79 and $189
Gerry Weber • Barbara Lebek Linea Domani • Nuovi Sarti Luna Luz • Nueva Monari • Conquista Gelco • Foxcroft Faber • Vanilia J. Jansen Design • Cartise 2 Beading Hearts We carry sizes 4 to 18 103 Reynolds St. Oakville 905•849•1316 | www.zurifashions.ca @zurifashions
Four Floors features furnishings and accessories for your entire home with top brand names in both traditional and transitional styles. DURHAM CANADEL VOGEL HOOKER FURNITURE BG FURNITURE BUHLER LEATHER CRAFT ...and many more!
217 Lakeshore Rd. East, Downtown Oakville | www.swissinteriors.com | 905.844.3530
Downtown Oak ville
Our Town
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Fashion
and Fun
Fashionable Star of ABC’s The Bachelor finds what she’s looking for downtown By Robin Edwards Photography by Anita Woo
Beautiful Downtown Oakville is known for its scenic location, remarkable restaurants and bistros, as well as an incredible selection of fabulous boutiques filled with all the latest fashions, footwear and accessories. And that’s exactly what Jessie Sulidis and best friend Leah Feeley found here. Jessie, Oakville native and star of ABC’s hit shows The Bachelor and the Bachelor Pad, and Leah, Jessie’s partner in their new lifestyle website Chandeliers and Champagne, recently took a shopping trip to some of Downtown Oakville’s most fashionable retailers. u
Jewellery at bluboho, resort wear at Beachy Keen and shoes at Ron White Shoes. Opposite: Colourful style at Want Boutique.
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Our Town Downtown Oak ville
Downtown Oak ville
Our Town
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Small app. Smallcontrol. app. Might
Might control.
Get more control at home with Get more control at home with 905.844.7600 905.844.7600 Navy Steet, 2nd Floor 85 Navy85 Steet, 2nd Floor Downtown Oakville Downtown Oakville www.canadiansound.com www.canadiansound.com Appointments recommended Appointments recommended
Celebrating Celebrating Years 2525 Years of Excellence of Excellence
Jessie and Leah at Ron White Shoes
T
hey started their day at Beachy Keen Swimwear, where Jessie and Leah browsed the gorgeous bikinis, one-pieces, coverups, beach bags and accessories. Jessie loved that there were “so many bright and colourful pieces with great options to suit different shapes and sizes, and the quality of the swimwear is fantastic.” Leah discovered some striking chunky necklaces that can be worn anywhere and anytime. Across the street at Want Boutique, Jessie and Leah had a hard time deciding which outfits they liked the most. With everything from the most popular denim labels, to designers like Michael Kors and Hale Bob, Want definitely lives up to its name. Jessie loved all of this season’s hottest colours, “fuchsia, coral, peach and turquoise are all so on-trend this year,” she said. The girls headed over to Ron White Shoes to check out his sublime new collection. Jessie and Leah were amazed at how comfortable the Ron White Signature shoes with All Day Heels® tech-
at Ron White Shoes nology were. The ‘Bindya’ Peep Toe pump on a black embossed stingray from Ron’s 2012 Spring Collection was a hit with Jessie, and she couldn’t believe that such a high heel could feel so good, “it’s like walking on air.” Mendocino has always been one of Jessie’s favourite stores, and she knows that she can find something for every occasion there. “There are so many different looks and I always find something special here,” she said. With all of the latest trends from all the hottest designers, Mendocino is a fashionista’s dream. Jessie fell in love with an amazing red mini skirt from Cecelia de Bucourt that was made of tiny circular leather cut outs stitched together. Leah went for a more casual look in pale pink skinny cargo pants from J Brand and a muted Maison Scotch olive jacket, perfect for weekends or a lunch date. Down the street at bluboho, Jessie and Leah explored the intricate and unique jewellery and discovered the art of layering multiple bracelets for an individual look. Jessie was surprised “at how
312 Lakeshore Rd. East Downtown Oakville 905.815.9130
Downtown Oak ville
Our Town
11
sion, Jessie and Leah know that when it comes to shopping for clothing, accessories and footwear, Downtown Oakville has everything you need and want to look fabulous. OT OTHER STORES TO VISIT Avante Avante specializes in Canada designers as well as many fantastic European lines. They cater to sizes 4 – 16 and carry everything you would need for a complete outfit – fashions, shoes, jewellery, purses, scarves, Spanx and more.
Chatsworth and Hall Chatsworth and Hall is a charming ladies clothing and accessories store in a century old building and offers an extensive collection of weekend, business and evening wear by some of the best designers from across Canada and around the world.
Zuri
at By Tocc a
Zuri Fashions specializes in creating a unique customer service experience and owner Diane Allison-Frost has taken great care in selecting the finest in fashion lines available today, including Cartise, Gerry Weber, Faber, J. Jensen Designs and many more.
FOR THE MEN Tommy Bahama What began with print shirts and tailored pants quickly evolved into complete lines of apparel and products centred on the good life for both men and women. Today, you can fill your home from floor to ceiling with Tommy Bahama products – from furniture to rugs, candles to clothes.
M for Men The clean, tailored craftsmanship synonymous with European clothiers dominates M for Men’s inventory – Pal Zileri and Without Prejudice collections, Xacus shirts, Alberto and Cortigiani, Donald J. Plier footwear are just some of the many collections available.
Johnathan Quinn
Top: Leah is ready for the red carpet with a white gown at BY TOCCA. BOTTOM: (left and right) Jessie shows off lots of summer fashion at Mendocino; (centre) Jessie in beautiful gown from BY TOCCA.
much dressing up your wrist can change your whole look,” and adored the beautiful handmade look of some of the pieces. Boa is full of fun and flirty fashion that can take you from the office to a party. Leah describes Boa as “very California cool and chic,” with beachy dresses and a great selection of denim and accessories. Jessie was amazed at the incredible prices in the store. Our last stop of the day took us to By Tocca, a specialty evening wear boutique. Owner Anna Rea loves dressing women to look their best for 12
Our Town Downtown Oak ville
any occasion, and she selected two spectacular red-carpet worthy looks for the girls. Leah looked like an absolute princess in a gorgeous white tulle gown with an intricate beaded bodice, and Jessie’s ravishing red organza gown with a low-cut back detailed with a tiered flounce skirt that would wow them at any premiere. By Tocca is one destination not to be missed when you are searching for that perfect dress for any wedding, gala, prom or black tie affair. From casual looks you’ll love to wear every day, to the most extravagant outfit for a special occa-
Customers of Johnathan Quinn come from all over the GTA, Niagara and even New York State. What they like are the new designs that are coming in all the time, the friendly service and the attention to detail.
EYEWEAR Squint Squint Eyewear is a total concept optical boutique that incorporates the latest in eyewear with the ultimate in eye care. With more than 30 years combined industry experience, the store’s registered opticians provide customers with one-on-one consultations, examinations and fittings.
CONSIGNMENT Also, Downtown Oakville is a consignment destination with three fabulous shops with designer clothes at a fraction of the cost – By Consignment, Second Chance and Closet 112. The stores are all within a block of each other.
Sarah Gunn at House Warmings.
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Our Town Downtown Oak ville
Decor
Outdoor living choices abound at The Bronze Frog Gallery.
Home Decor
Celebrity designer loves shopping downtown By Robin Edwards PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANITA WOO
Whatever you are looking for in home decor, Sarah Gunn knows you can find it here. “Downtown Oakville is my favourite destination when looking for beautiful, stylish and high quality home decor. You can decorate your home literally from top to bottom in boutique style shops that are all within walking distance. And the pleasure of the personal experience that is included in the experience is priceless.� u
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S
arah, an Oakville resident and design blogger for the Yummy Mummy Club, as well as a guest expert on City TV’s popular lifestyle show, CityLine, is passionate about design. She recently took a tour of some of her favourite Downtown Oakville merchants. Her first stop was the fabulous Bronze Frog Gallery. The Bronze Frog Gallery is a testament to owner Kathy Thomas’s eye for detail. With the upcoming patio and deck season in sight, elegant and design award-winning Gloster outdoor furniture is a perfect choice. From contemporary to traditional and made from the finest materials, it will offer years of enjoyment and stand up to all weather conditions. With magnificent lanterns to brighten up the evening, your outdoor space will be comfortable and welcoming. “Whether you are looking for outdoor furnishing, art or decorative accessories, The Bronze Frog is the perfect shop for outdoor living,” says Sarah. “I am in love with their luxurious outdoor cushions by Elaine Smith Inconceivably Outdoor. They are incredible.” Just down the street, Write Impressions Home offers a wonderful selection of decorative accessories, with striking mirrors, clocks, pillows and so much more. Sarah loves the store for its beautiful seasonal pieces. “The thing I love most about
Fabulous selection of seasonal decor at Write Impressions.
Write Impressions Home is the fabulous selection of seasonal decor. For those who enjoy entertaining, you can set the most gorgeous table for any holiday gathering from the assortment of accessories here, and the made-in-Canada custom chairs by Future Fine Furniture are to die for.”
Sarah raved about the sturdy and stylish Reclaimed Barn Furniture we found at Murron’s Cabinetree. With pieces that will suit every room in the house, from the perfect hall bench to a statement-making dining room table, Sarah says, “If you like a more rustic or masculine feel in
WHERE DINNER IS THE SHOW • Enjoy our Extended Patio during Midnight Madness and the Jazz Festival. • Visit our website for the latest Cooking Studio Parasido schedule. • Our Winemaker’s Dinners are an opportunity to enjoy a multi-course gourmet meal designed to compliment several different wines. www.prarsidorestaurant.com | 125 Lakeshore Rd. East (right across from Centennial Stage) 16
Our Town Downtown Oak ville
your home then Murron’s is perfect. I love their reclaimed wood harvest tables.” They also carry a great assortment of decor pieces and an eclectic array of fabulous gift-giving ideas, and don’t miss their famous mascot bear outside. At House Warmings, Sarah explored the three floors of home decor, furnishings, custom drapery, beautiful lighting and everything you need to make your home warm and welcoming. Sarah found the perfect coloured lamps that she would love for her own bedroom, as well as some wonderful glassaccented side tables that add glamour to any room. She always includes includes House Warmings in her visits to Downtown Oakville. “House Warmings is three levels of pretty. It is the first place I look for serving pieces and custom furniture.” At Imperial Rug Gallery, Sarah was given insight into the intricacies of traditional rug making from the president, Bob Tootikian. The gallery has been a fixture in Downtown Oakville for 36 years and Bob’s knowledge and expertise in the making of carpets and rugs is a veritable lesson in history and art. With a massive collection which includes antique pieces that are over a hundred years old, you are sure to find the perfect piece. Sarah knows how important choosing just the right rug can be, and it’s an investment that will last a lifetime. Whatever you are looking for in home decor, Sarah knows you can find it here. “Downtown Oakville is my favourite destination when looking for beautiful, stylish and high quality home decor. You can decorate your home literally from top to bottom in boutique style shops that are all within walking distance, and the pleasure of the personal experience that is included in the experience is priceless.” OT
Salt Rox Blox Barbecuing or stove cooking food on the Pink Himalayan Salt Rox Blox produces flavours you have to taste to believe. Easy to clean and lasts a lifetime.
to set a table 182 Lakeshore Rd. East Oakville • 905.338.0275 • www.tosetatable.com
OTHER STORES TO VISIT To Set A Table It is the selection and quality of items for entertaining, dining and the kitchen that defines To Set A Table. Owner Marianne Svarke proudly calls her store a one-stop shop for easy entertaining. Here you will find everything from cookbooks to cutting boards to bake ware and glassware.
Canadian Sound Located downtown for more than 25 years, this family-owned business is a premier custom electronic design and installation company. No matter what your needs, Canadian Sound provides professional expertise to deliver to specification and a system that suits your lifestyle.
Swiss Interiors Swiss Interiors is an Oakville landmark that has been owned and operated by the same family since first opening its doors in 1953. The store is spread over four floors showcasing furnishings and accessories for your entire home.
WHAT WAS ONCE A
IS NOW HIDDEN IN THE BACK OF YOUR DRESSER! As one of Canada’s most trusted gold and silver buyers, Global Gold Trader Inc. is now purchasing out of our head office in downtown Oakville. We will buy your old, new, broken and scrap jewellery. We deal direct with the refinery, allowing us to cut out the middle man and pay you more. Whether it’s Gold, Silver or Platinum, we will pay top dollar! For more info, call us at 905-844-4800 or email us at info@globalgoldtrader.com 277 Lakeshore Road, Suite 404, Oakville (Trafalgar & Lakeshore in the RBC Building) www.globalgoldtrader.com
Downtown Oak ville
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JAZZ
Festival
Celebrating 20 years of beautiful music in Downtown Oakville
Oakville‌get ready for one of our most anticipated and entertaining events. The Downtown Oakville Jazz Festival returns this year from August 10 through to August 12, and celebrates its 20th anniversary with an amazing variety of musical performances and some spectacular headline acts. Widely known as one of the leading music festivals in Ontario, this year’s line-up will feature Canadian and international artists and will be a hit with jazz aficionados and music lovers alike. 18
Our Town Downtown Oak ville
T
he Jazz Festival is a dynamic cultural experience, which offers residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy first class jazz in one of the best downtowns in Ontario, over a three-day period. This year we are very proud to present Allen Toussaint, John Hammond, Peter Appleyard, Joey DeFrancesco, Tierney Sutton, and Magic Slim & The Teardrops as some of our headliners for the 2012 Jazz Festival,” says Joseph Diodati, Chair of the Downtown Oakville Jazz Festival Committee and Chair of the Downtown Oakville BIA. In all, the festival will host more than 40 free concerts, over a three-day weekend, with three main venues and two smaller stages. In order to help promote this exciting event, the Downtown Oakville BIA was extremely excited to receive $75,000 in funding from the Province of Ontario through their Celebrate Ontario 2012 Blockbuster Program. “Each summer, the Jazz Festival draws thousands of residents and tourists to Downtown Oakville providing a substantial boost to our local economy,” says Oakville MPP Kevin Flynn. “With this funding, the BIA can continue to strategically enhance the event programming and ensure another successful event this year. I encourage all to mark the dates on their calendar and make their way to the Downtown Oakville Jazz
Festival this August. I’m looking forward to it.” Joseph Diodati and Suzy Godefroy, Manager of the Downtown Oakville BIA, know that the funding will help make the Jazz Festival even better. “We were both thrilled to hear that the Province of Ontario is once again supporting the Downtown Oakville Jazz Festival – THANK YOU!” says Joseph. In addition, the Downtown Oakville BIA also signed on TD Bank as the Gold Sponsor for the Festival. “TD is proud to help connect people and music in communities across Canada and that’s why we are delighted to sponsor this year’s festival in Downtown Oakville,” says Brian Wood, Manager, TD Canada Trust. The Downtown Oakville Jazz Festival is a great event for music lovers and families alike. Many of the fantastic restaurants and bistros will have patios set up along the downtown areas, offering special festival menus that are always a hit. Be sure to make a day out of it and sample some of the best Downtown Oakville has to offer, and visit the unique boutiques and gorgeous galleries for a little shopping too. The 20th annual Downtown Oakville Jazz Festival is going to be one to remember and everyone is welcome to come and help us celebrate. OT
Coming Events JUN 14-16
Sidewalk Sale
Join the retailers of Downtown Oakville for this three-day shopping extravaganza. In its 39th year, this Oakville tradition brings the downtown to life as retailers head to the street offering you the best buys of the season. After shopping, be sure to extend your visit by sampling some of the finest dining in the Greater Toronto Area.
JUL 20
Midnight Madness
Celebrating 35 years of madness. This is Downtown Oakville’s largest retail event of the year. Midnight Madness draws a crowd of over 50 000 to enjoy a variety of community performers, bands, and of course – great food. Experience live music on every block, strolling entertainers and the best buys in town. The Kings are a returning favourite and most cherished with Oakville residents and local talent includes the Brittles’. Parking is FREE after 6 p.m. and if you plan to commute, there is FREE Shuttle Bus Service every 15 minutes from the Oakville Go Station to Downtown Oakville from 5:30 p.m. to 12:15 a.m.
SEP 15-30
A Taste of Downtown
Experience the finer things in food at the twice annual “A Taste of Downtown Oakville”, as restaurants offer limited time prix-fixe signature lunch and dinner menus. Come Downtown and experience the world through food; authentic Italian, Thai, South African, French cuisine and much more.
SEP 29
Thank you to our sponsors! Making Downtown a better place
Downtown Oakville and Mercedes-Benz Runway Show
Fashion takes centre stage in beautiful Downtown Oakville this September at The Oakville Centre For The Performing Arts. This highly anticipated SOLD OUT event will feature 40+ Downtown Oakville boutiques coming together to present the latest trends for 2012 fall/winter fashion in a unique, theatrical style runway show. Anticipate an exceptional evening filled with high fashion, dueling DJs and exciting entertainment.
The Downtown Oakville BIA Jazz Festival is a key event-marketing product that meets the mandate of the Downtown Oakville BIA which is to promote and enhance the downtown area and make improvements to municipally owned properties by driving more traffic to Downtown Oakville, build community among members of the Downtown Oakville BIA and enhance organizational efficiency and effectiveness. The Downtown Oakville Jazz Festival is produced by the businesses and merchants of the Downtown Oakville Business Improvement Area and is sponsored in part by the Province of Ontario, TD Bank , Pratt & Whitney Canada, Budds’ Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC, Bell, Mark Anthony Brands, The Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts, Oakville Power Boat Club, Paradiso Restaurant, Oakville Windows & Doors, Starline Productions. Media Partners include Balance My Life, Epoch Times, Green Light Graphics, Our Town Downtown and Oakville Today. The Downtown Oakville Business Improvement Area (BIA) was established in 1978 through an initiative of the local business community and with the approval of the local municipal council. Today, it represents over 450 shops and services. Downtown Oak ville
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Anthropologie
most exciting destination, which will
159 Lakeshore Road East
Downtown
www.anthropologie.com Anthropologie offers a one-of-a-kind and compelling shopping experience that makes women feel beautiful, hopeful and connected. Although you may enjoy the clever details and fine craftsmanship of their products, they say you come to escape and to connect, to spend time and to make time.
Diva Couture 220 Lakeshore Road East (2nd floor) www.divacouturesalonspa.com Diva Couture is an upscale salon and spa with a relaxing environment where you can feel at ease as you explore the very latest hair techniques and medical aesthetics while sipping a herbal tea, espresso/cappuccino or maybe even a glass of wine.
Hampton Kitchens 146 Lakeshore Road East www.hamptonkitchens.ca Hampton Kitchens is committed
New in Town Oakville is blessed with a vibrant and colourful heritage downtown. In this issue of Our Town Downtown we welcome 12 newcomers who have chosen to make downtown their home and who add to our independent soul.
tantalize your every curiosity. Along with their finest, most satisfying dishes, the staff literally sings for your dinner. They offer world-class entertainment from jazz to Broadway to opera, where every night is a special occasion. Executive Chef Lan Hoang has created an exciting, eclectic menu which will satisfy every taste bud.
Salt Cave Solana Spa 302 (B) Lakeshore Rd. East www.saltcaveoakville.com Himalayan salt provides beneficial allnatural, free-harsh chemical remedies for different body conditions. The brine solution of this Himalayan salt is the fluid state of the sun or light energy. An increased amount of negative ions in the atmosphere may provide relief from sinus pain and congestion, seasonal allergies and decrease susceptibility to colds and flu by boosting the immune and respiratory system. NEW LOCATION
TRI-DELTA Financial
to producing high quality custom kitchens and cabinetry at a great
SEVEN Restaurant
Maluca Restaurant
value. They offer a full line of cabinetry
216 Lakeshore Rd. East (Towne Square)
142 Lakeshore Road East
www.tridelta.ca
for your home or office. Kitchens,
www.the7.ca
The owner’s of Seasons and Corks
Tri-Delta is now beside the Downtown
bathrooms and built-in cabinetry is
Something unique and fresh for
restaurants are proud to announce
Oakville BIA office.
their specialty.
Oakville’s culinary scene, 7 boasts
their third restaurant in beautiful
146 Lakeshore Rd. E.– East Office (Ste. #200)
NEW OWNER
traditional Neapolitan wood burning
Downtown Oakville. George and
ivivva athletica
pizza, outstanding selection of wines
Tammy Couto, along with their Execu-
JAM Restaurant
287 Lakeshore Road East
and weekly menus to die for.
tive Head Chef Peter Gotterson, are
221 Lakeshore Road East
introducing a wonderful wine and
www.jammartinibar.com
www.ivivva.com Created based on feedback from young
The PATH Oakville
dining experience that will focus on a
JAM Restaurant has a new chef and
guests at lululemon, ivivva athletica is
300 Lakeshore Road East (lower level)
wide selection of wines with an em-
owner – Ritesh Bhargava. Ritesh has
technical clothing for active girls. As
www.pathoakville.com
phasize on French inspired cuisine.
been a chef for almost 25 years and was
members of the lululemon family, they
Inspired by the teachings of Happy
share the same DNA. From fabrics and
Science. Celebrating arts and culture
L.J. Shoes & Leather
of the finest hotels in New Delhi, includ-
designers to training and store layouts
while engaging the community in
259 Lakeshore Road East
ing those in the Taj Mahal Hotel. He has
they have taken the lululemon concept
discovering happiness through spiritual
www.ljleathers.com
received numerous awards and accolades
and made it just for young females.
growth. PATH’s mission is bringing
The leather products and accessories
from food critics and connoisseurs.
people together to share the journey of
at L.J. Shoes and Leather are made
K. Barketti Fashion Design
happiness through spiritual awareness
from the highest quality leather.
Opening Soon
236 Lakeshore Road East
and growth.
Their coats are custom made by their
Auction House
kbarketti@hotmail.com
trained by some of the top chefs in some
leather expert and they will handcraft
Towne Square • www.ahwilkens.com
For all your special occasions: mother
Suvai Classic Indian Cuisine
a one-of-a kind coat for you. They
A. H. Wilkens Auctions & Appraisals is a
of the bride and groom, ballroom and
300 Lakeshore East
offer their clients the best possible
full-service auction house specializing in
gala event gowns, guests at a wedding,
www.suvai.ca
prices allowing them to get the best
fine, decorative and Asian arts. They host
cocktail and after five, Bar Mitzvah and
Backed by three decades of inter-
of both worlds: high quality and
a variety of live auctions: fine arts and
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22
Our Town Downtown Oak ville
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Downtown Oak ville
Our Town
23
305 Lakeshore Rd. East Oakville | 905.337.3777 www.corksrestaurant.ca
142 Lakeshore Rd. East Oakville | 905.842.6111 www.malucarestaurant.ca
134 Lakeshore Rd. East Oakville | 905.844.0676 www.seasonsrestaurant.com
$
Investment
Believing in Downtown
Owners of Seasons and Corks open their third restaurant George and Tammy Couto believe in Downtown Oakville, so much so that the successful owners of Seasons and Corks have opened their third downtown restaurant – maluca.
I
t is a huge investment and major stake in the downtown core. So, what makes them such strong believers in this popular heritage shopping and dining district? “Tammy and I were in the restaurant business in Oakville since we were 17 years old,” George
By Larry Simpson
explains. “We came to the conclusion that it made more sense to work for ourselves and enjoy the fruits of our labour than to work for someone else. So, we opened our fine dining restaurant Seasons and later Corks, which reflects the ‘bite-to-eat’ and ‘good glass of wine’ concept that we person-
ally fell in love with during our travels. We liked to eat ‘small plates’ at places where you could sit and enjoy a good glass of wine or two. We both agreed that this concept would be different for Downtown Oakville.” Corks has done very well since opening four years ago, George says, adding Downtown Oak ville
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Maluca offers something different for Downtown Oakville.
that the small plate concept has caught on and is actually helping to draw people into the downtown community. And so, with any evolution, you either change your business or launch a new one that will complement the successes you already have. In this case, a wine bar bistro that caters to the new patron who appreciates a quick bite and lingering over a good glass of wine was the answer. “We noticed that the demographics of Oakville were changing,” says George. “Maluca (which means ‘crazy’ in Portuguese, explains George, adding that he and Tammy were crazy enough to open a third restaurant in a small town) is a wine/ bar bistro. We realized that Oakville was changing, as the ‘new Oakville’ made up of a bit younger crowd, and they also want to go out for a glass of wine, but they don’t want to dine for a couple of hours and have a big steak dinner. They prefer to stand and have a glass of wine or two, maybe a ‘quick bite to eat’ with a group of people. Actually, this is what Tammy and I like to do when we go out. So to keep up, we thought that we needed to appeal to the new Oakville preference and opened Maluca.” George says that he and Tammy have always been very aware of where the new consumer is coming from, and what is happening downtown. “And we also talk to other retailers in the community, especially those in the clothing industry,” he says. “If they see that the demographic has changed, then we need to change as well. If
is actually changing in a nice way. “Obviously it is different now then when we opened Seasons. That clientele group is now between 55 and 60 and don’t always want a ‘big bite’ when then go out. Instead of a big steak, they order a smaller one and a bowl of soup, or a small salad, so our Corks restaurant and a small plate/tapas menu with smaller price point are more attractive to them. We are actually very fortunate that we have been able to keep the original Seasons clientele all this time. They still come once a week or once every couple of weeks, but will choose Corks as their other alternative night out. We attract the same demographic of people through the two restaurants, and hopefully with the third as well.” Maluca offers something very different for the people working downtown who want to unwind before heading home, or the thousands of visitors who enjoy browsing through the downtown or concert goers who want a bite and a glass of wine before the show at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts. “We feel that Maluca is going to be quite busy. The ‘vibe’ that we have received so far from the downtown retailers is ‘nice job’, ‘different’ and a little more ‘retro’, a little more ‘downtownish’ with a ‘New York feel’ to it, which is exactly what we are trying to create. A nice wine bar, not a pub, and we are going to try to capture that over 25-year-old crowd who enjoys a late afternoon or evening with friends and a couple of glasses of good wine.” OT
“The ‘vibe’ that we have received so far from the downtown retailers is ‘nice job’, ‘different’ and a little more ‘retro’, a little more ‘downtownish’ with a ‘New York feel’ to it, which is exactly what we are trying to create.”
24
Our Town Downtown Oak ville
Goerge Cuoto
Anna of Tocca Finita starts buying clothes for a little younger crowd, then you know that there is a younger demographic out shopping, and we have to capture it also to be successful. ” As long-time residents of Oakville, George says that he and Tammy have followed the changes to the community over the years and that Oakville
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Couples Anna Rea and Patrizio Del Bianco
Downtown Profile
I
Working together while bettering the community
n the case of Anna Rea and Patrizio DelBianco, that passion is for fashion – and life in fashion. Between them, the couple owns and operates fashion stores in Downtown Oakville. TOCCA FINITA, the contemporary women’s clothing store, and BY TOCCA, the special occasion eveningwear store, are owned by Anna and the upscale menswear store M For Men is owned by Patrizio. “What started as a small accessory store 25 years ago evolved into TOCCA FINITA, a go-to destination in Downtown Oakville for women’s fashions,”says Anna. “The women who come in for our mix of trendy and classic clothing feel more like family to me. I have always carried exclusive European, Canadian and American designers, giving my clientele fashions that are relevant, effortless and versatile.” With a resume of 39 years in men’s fashion, 10 26
Our Town Downtown Oak ville
Working together with your significant other is an easy task when you share a passion. of those years in Downtown Oakville with M for Men, Patrizio shows his passion is stronger than ever. The European collections that are showcased at M for Men achieve a fine balance between modern and classic. From watching your kids play sports to a night at the opera, a man’s closet should easily provide a mix-and-match variety of looks. “At M for Men we are always ready to assist any man find comfort and confidence in his wardrobe,” says Patrizio. “At home, every morning starts with a cup of coffee and a breakfast meeting. We share ideas
because we have similar clientele, the same demographic, the same passion for the fashion business and the Downtown Oakville core,” Anna says. When the location beside M for Men became available, the vision of an eveningwear boutique was realized. Six years ago Anna opened the doors to BY TOCCA. The store specializes in fashions for weddings, proms, and galas. The exclusive designer collections to Oakville make the shopping experience like no other, creating another exciting shopping destination. It’s obvious through their combined efforts to support numerous local charities that Anna and Patrizio believe in giving back to the community at large. In particular, M for Men has an annual Toy Drive and Anna is devoted to raising funds for the hospital. “We take great pride in supporting the community that we live and work in,”state Anna and Patrizio. OT
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Downtown Oak ville
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Greenspace TOP: Lakeside Park on the waterfront at the end of Navy Street. BOTTOM: Waterfront trail and shoreline.
Downtown Green Parks and open spaces create a place to relax With summer just around the corner, Downtown Oakville’s green spaces are beginning to spring to life. From George’s Square and Lakeside Park to the Towne Square, these public spaces add to the old town’s charm, and are enjoyed by people of all ages.
H
aving lived in Oakville my entire life, I’ve seen how much the area has grown over the years, with new shops, houses, and even schools. But with all of this development and expansion, it is nice to still be able to have green spaces for the public to enjoy. The Towne Square is a great place for families to stop for ice cream while the kids play on the grass. I can remember playing there with my friends when I was a kid while our parents would chat—watching over us. 28
Our Town Downtown Oak ville
By Alexandra McCann
It’s also an ideal location to grab a coffee or iced latte with friends while enjoying the outdoors— whether it be on a lunch break or on the weekend. Much like the Towne Square, my parents would frequently take me to Lakeside Park by the harbour. Even now, it is a place my friends and I like to go; where we have so many fond memories. I have a friend who recently moved to Calgary, but when she comes to visit Oakville, you can bet she’ll want to grab a frappuccino and head down to the
lakeshore to relive old times. The Downtown Oakville business district is just footsteps from the Oakville Harbour, as well as a number of other green spaces – wonderful places to simply get away from the hectic pace of the rest of the world. OT Alexandra McCann is an undergraduate student in the Faculty of Information and Media Studies at the University of Western Ontario.
o a k v i l l e
15km of shorline, parking your boat at home is no longer a dream.
for
2011
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