page 38. SouthFields Village Voice | Summer 2011
The Ascot Room: 15 years of philanthropy and style “This year we have our best selection of dresses in 15 years,” says The Ascot Room owner Genie Hayward. She should know. Genie’s been a buyer for as long as she can remember. Genie started as a store greeter with Dylex, one of Canada’s largest retailers. She soon became the youngest person at head office, picked from 300 other applicants to run two Fairweather departments and manage purchasing for 130 stores. Genie then spent five years with Brettons where her buying budget for eleven stores exceed that of the entire Fairweather chain. In 1996, Genie leased the 400 ft2 space, now occupied by the Belfountain General Store, to open up The Ascot Room. Four years later, she moved her boutique, which patrons call ‘the candy store,’ to its current location.
To celebrate her 15th year in business, in mid-June Hayward is hosting an exclusive, invitation only, champagne lunch showcasing clothes and accessories, at a private club, for her most loyal clientele. These ladies are well-travelled, understand quality, and appreciating details that allow for a youthful look that fits real bodies. They continue to come for that classic look with that little bit of an edge. Over the years the boutique has won many awards and held numerous charity fashion shows and events. This year’s 4th Touring for Treasures is on Wednesday, July 20th. Start at the store for a bag and fill it by visiting local shops to collect gifts. Bag proceeds go to the Orangeville SPCA. Genie also works with Family Transition Place, and has chaired the Children’s Wish Gala for the past three years.
In July, The Ascot Room will hold its annual sale. “New customers are usually surprised at the quantity and difference of selection, often expressing comment on the level of customer service. It is a level of satisfaction typically only found in exclusive stores in Toronto or New York,” says Hayward. “They like that we don’t bring things in the masses and will not find somebody else wearing the same thing at a local function,” she adds. The boutique is just one of many reasons to visit Belfountain. After shopping, stop at the General Store’s lunch counter or sit down for a meal at the Belfountain Inn, explore Credit Creek and Moorcroft’s Antiques, and enjoy the delights of The Shed. You can even stay at the B&B for the weekend, hiking or cycling the Forks of the Credit, or just plain hanging out.
Moorcroft’s Antiques Where treasures abound 673 Bush Street. Belfountain
(519) 927-9519
bmoorcroft@rogers.com Repairing: • clocks • furniture • fine china and pottery • re-upholstering
Now open Thursday to Sunday 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. or by appointment
Featuring: • primitives • furniture • glass, china, pottery • silver • collectibles
We buy full and partial estates