*At the time of publishing, the dress has sold out, but here are similar Aerie dresses that are super cute!*

If you grew up in the ’90s and the ’00s, you’re probably familiar with The Sisterhood Of The Travelling Pants, a coming-of-age story about four incredibly different best friends. All with different body shapes, backgrounds, interests, and family lives. One single pair of jeans fits them all perfectly, and kept them connected over a summer spent apart. This summer, I had my own sisterhood experience, only for me it involved an Aerie clearance rack dress.

This Aerie clearance dress has become super popular and it helped create a huge girl gang on Twitter!

I met one of my closest friends, Bri through Twitter, so it’s probably no surprise that we spend a lot of time chatting with others on Twitter too. 

When Jennifer from Vibrant Beauty posted about how much she loved the dress, and how much it empowered her to love her body, many women (Bri included!) said they were heading straight to the mall to pick one up for themselves.

This wasn’t an orchestrated campaign that Jennifer was apart of, it was a genuine tweet about how this dress helped her break the fashion “rules” and love herself, and her body. It resonated with many women, myself included. 

So, when Bri’s Aerie package arrived at her door, she sent me a photo of how amazing she looked in it. Once I saw how she looked, I knew I needed it too.

And I wasn’t the only one who had immediately gone out to buy the dress in one of four beautiful colours. Many other ladies started to share their photos on Twitter too.

When Jennifer tweeted about all the women who had purchased the dress, more joined the conversation. These ladies shared photos and gave amazing comments to those part of the thread.

Jennifer created the ultimate girl gang with a simple, but adorable, clearance rack dress. 

The dress, while it was available, went up to size XXL, but the sizing is a little roomy. I personally wear a size medium, but often go up to large in tighter fitting dresses to accommodate for my bottom half.

Aerie has been involved in the conversation too, chatting with us all on Twitter about how much it loves how we’re sharing the love, and promoting its #GetReal hashtag.

With Aerie’s campaign focused around real bodies and real women, the brand hit the social jackpot with Jennifer influencing so many women to purchase this dress.

It’s not just fellow bloggers who purchased the dress as another friend of mine bought the dress because she saw Bri wearing it, too. The influencer affect goes far beyond just one person when 10+ other bloggers are sharing about it too. And, the best part is the whole thing is authentic, and genuine. 

So, what about me? How did the dress work for me?

Well, I wore it for my engagement photos and I couldn’t be happier. Despite taking photos often, I am not always 100% confident in front of a camera. This dress made me feel like a rockstar, which meant I could focus on my fiance, and having a good time. And, I think that came out in the photos too.

This girl gang is open to anyone who’s looking for an amazing dress that makes them feel amazing, too. 

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I’d been to Japanese dollar store Oomomo a few times, but I hadn’t bought much, other than a few craft supplies and treats. I was excited to see how far my $50 would go here to update my kitchen, and to my surprise, and excitement, most of the products in the store are only $2. There are some products priced upwards of $20 as well, so just make sure you’re looking for the price tag before you cash out. 

After taking a walk through Oomomo, I knew that I would get the most bang for my buck by updating my kitchen.

There was what seemed like an endless supply of kitchen gadgets, plates, and bowls, and other random kitchen accessories. I love cooking and baking, so I was stoked to get started!

One of the first things I gravitated towards was a canvas pop-up basket that I immediately wanted to put a plant in. However, my mom recently told me how she keeps all her baking supplies in a basket so that she can easily put things away.

That little tidbit had me heading over to the baking aisle to see what I could find!

updated kitchen dollar store

I love making cookies, so I picked up a couple of different rolling pins and a stamping device so I can put little words into the dough. I also grabbed a scraper, which is great for cutting cookie bars and a candy thermometer because I’ve burnt caramel one too many times.

Caramel isn’t the only thing that I’ve overcooked on occasion — my partner and I have been talking about the need for a meat thermometer for a while now. We’ve recently done a lot of BBq-ing, and there’s nothing worse than tearing your chicken apart to see if it’s cooked. We also love to host friends and make charcuterie and cheese boards, so I picked up this cute wooden board as well.

So far, everything I had picked up was $2, so I was barely halfway to the end goal! This was a major score after shopping at more expensive dollar stores for so long.

updated kitchen dollar store

My partner and I were huge fans of bento boxes in Japan and I’d always wanted to own one, so I did not hesitate to grab two adorable bento boxes from Oomomo’s large selection. I also grabbed some silicone muffin holders for putting snacks inside the box, or separating other types of food.

I’ve seen a trend online in using different types of boxes for snacks and also as bento boxes and there were a ton of them around the store that could also work for this sort of thing! Pro tip: I’ve also heard they’re great for keeping kids entertained on long flights.

updated kitchen dollar store

Finally, I had just a few more things on my list.

We’ve had this really cute tea pot for a long time, but no teacups to match. I wanted to find something that complemented the stone look, but wasn’t too matchy. I grabbed two really beautiful stone cups so we can have tea all the time! I also grabbed two bowls that I may end up DIYing later. 

Also, what’s a trip to a Japanese dollar store without grabbing a treat? I put some chocolates in one of the bowls for our guests to enjoy next time they are over. But, if I’m going to be completely honest with you, those chocolates are loooong gone.

Can you believe I got all this for less than $50?

updated kitchen dollar store

That’s right. I came UNDER budget. Not too shabby considering I got some pretty sweet stuff. With so many more international dollar stores opening, I can’t wait to see what the other dollar stores have to offer!

All Images: StyleDemocracy

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A couple of years ago, I attended an event that my friend was hosting and she let me take home the centrepieces. One was an Ivy, and another was a Wandering Wanda, and that started my passion for having plants in my home. Not too long after that, I began to add more and more plants to my collection and while I love plants, I need them to be fairly low maintenance. Between work, life, a dog, a fiance, friends, and more, my plants don’t get the same love that they did when I first started my collection. I’ve spent a lot of time going to different plant stores around Toronto to scope out the best deals, the best selection, and the best in low maintenance plants.

Here are 6 stores in Toronto that sell great low maintenance plants!

Home Depot Stockyards

One year for my birthday, my partner took me to Home Depot to buy me a gift and at first I was very confused as I had no idea what he was planning as we walked into the store. “Pick any plant,” he said. He may as well have gotten down on one knee and proposed right there. Home Depot Stockyards has one of the best selections of plants in Toronto. At any time of the year, you can find a variety of tropical plants for indoors, or an ever expanding garden centre for your outdoor needs. One of my favourite plants to get at Home Depot is a Monstera. This plant is relatively low maintenance, as they’ll survive many environments, but they truly thrive with lots of sun and water.

Sheridan Nurseries

I paid a visit to Sheridan Nurseries a while back to find the perfect large plant for my home. As it turned out, the plant I chose was toxic to animals and I had to return it for something non-toxic as I was getting a new pet. Sheridan’s return policy is amazing, and their staff is super kind. There are a few locations throughout the GTA, including Etobicoke, North York, and Scarborough. I got myself a Dracaena which I love because it can tolerate a lot as I’ve moved a lot over the last three years, and this baby has adjusted well to every climate. Now that’s a plant I can handle!

Shaw Flowers & Gifts

low maintenance plants

Instagram/@mirib1808

Anytime I’m in the area I make a point of stopping by Shaw Flowers And Gifts along Dundas West by Trinity Bellwoods. Being close to a popular tourist destination, this shop could charge an arm and a leg for its wide selection of plants, but overall it’s actually quite reasonable. Here you can find a selection of unique and rare plants, but also beautiful handmade pots and fun accessories. You never know what will spark your interest here! This is a great place to grab yourself a unique succulent, but don’t be fooled! While succulents can be great low maintenance plants, make sure don’t over water your new plant baby.

Mika

I say this almost jokingly, but it’s true, you can score big on all sorts of plants if you just take a walk down Dundas West. Further along past Shaw Flowers & Gifts just past Dufferin, you’ll find a variety of corner stores, coffee shops, and plant stores selling beautiful options for your home. In particular, Mika has a great selection and I love this String of Hearts. A type of succulent with a good draining soil and bright light, you won’t have to worry too much about this pretty little thing. Plus, you can propagate new strings with ease! 

Craft Markets

If you’re looking for something low maintenance, but also super cute, then stop by your local craft market. Makers have been exploring ways to incorporate low maintenance plants into their work for a while now, and you never know what beautiful pairing you might score. You’ll find everything from traditional pottery to concrete planters here! A popular low maintenance plant found at craft markets is the Air Plant. While it only needs to be sprayed with water every couple of days, or soaked for 20 minutes in a glass of water, be careful not to forget about this guy!

Michaels

low maintenance plants

Instagram/@michaelsstores

If worst comes to worst and you just cannot keep a real life plant baby alive, Michaels is always a great option for faux plants. The store’s selection of fake flowers and plants look so real, no one will ever know the difference. 

Featured Image: Instagram/@homebyemely

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I love a good dollar store haul, so I’m super excited to share with you how I updated my bedroom with $50 at Dollarama.

In the last couple of years, Dollarama has raised their prices, which has been a tad frustrating. But, with the increase in price, we’ve seen an increase in quality, more trend-forward options, and a wider variety of products.

So while it seems to be impossible to get anything for $1, a lot of the things Dollarama sells are in the $3-4 range and they’re actually pretty great.

Most of the items I got fell into that range, but with $50 I was still able to get a lot of storage, decor, and functional items. 

Storage

updated bedroom dollarama

I have an IKEA bookshelf that I use as a TV stand for clothes, knick-knacks, and other things I don’t know what to do with. On the right side, we have some storage bins for our clothes, but the left side was in desperate need of some love.

Everything was living in storage tote bags and being shoved into the cub so I needed something cute, but functional in this space.

I got two of these striped storage bins for $4 each. I like the colours, the stripes, and how they were relatively neutral in my space. Dollarama has a wide variety of storage bins, baskets, and cubes, all at different price points!

Lighting

updated bedroom dollarama

I have been obsessed with these lamps since I first saw them on the shelves at Dollarama. I knew they’d make an adorable addition to my TV stand, so I got two of them at $4 each to place on either side of my TV.

I love that they’re battery operated, so I can move them around my house as needed with ease. Although they don’t give off a ton of light, they do add some nice ambiance to any space.

Decor

updated bedroom dollarama

Where I had the most fun was with decor, and I was really blown away by the decor options for homes at Dollarama.

Dollarama even sells those funky vintage letter boards for just $4. I already own two, so I didn’t get one but it’ such a steal.

I am obsessed with wooden crates, and have always wanted to own one, so when I saw that Dollarama sold small sized ones for $4, I knew I needed to have it. Even though I wasn’t exactly sure how I’d fit it into my space, I still got it. What’s great about the crate is that it’s unfinished, but looks great as is or painted. Who knows, I might get crafty with it later!

One of my biggest scores, was a book of prints that only cost $4.

prints

There’s about 30 prints of various sizes in the book, and they’re all really cute. I got the “love” collection, but Dollarama had a few other options as well. I used two large 11×14 inch prints, cut them out of the book, and framed them with two white picture frames that were $4 each.

The frames themselves also surprised me. I’ve bought frames from Dollarama before that were made out of plastic and not the best quality. However, these frames are made out of metal, and really looked premium compared to others.

Since there were so many prints in the book, I cut out a few smaller ones and placed them around my room in different areas. I still have a bunch left, and I think they’ll make excellent gifts for other people as well. I can’t wait to share them!

Plants

bedroom

If you know me, you know I have a healthy obsession with plants! While Dollarama may not sell any real plants, the store has a great gardening section with beautiful pots, soil, and everything you need to get started.

However, if gardening isn’t your strong suit and your plants don’t live long lives, you can get a ton of artificial plants and flowers at the dollar store. That’s why I used some ivy to hang off the tapestry behind my bed.

Other Items

I have a huge collection of earrings that hang in my bedroom, but I didn’t have a small mirror handy to try them on. I picked one up for only $2!

I also wanted a way to hold back my curtains. I found a nice rope in the craft section that matched the handles on the storage bins. Now I have a cute way to tie them back!

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As a maker, I’m always looking for ways to support the handmade community in Canada, especially right here in Toronto. There are a ton of amazing makers and craftspeople making things locally, and we’re seeing a trend towards people purchasing from small business owners. We all know and love the variety of community markets for local makers to sell their products, but those are often one-off markets. What about the rest of the year? Luckily for us makers, there are a variety of stores around Toronto that sell locally and handmade products. These stores span across the city, so there’s something for everyone regardless of where you live. Get ready to start your Christmas shopping early, you’re not going to want to miss these hidden gems.

Keep reading for 7 hidden gem spots to shop local and handmade goods!

The Nooks

toronto local handmade products

Instagram/@thenookscanada

The Nooks is located on the Danforth and sells a variety of handmade goods with a second location in Port Hope. What’s great about The Nooks is that the store doesn’t only sell items from local makers, but there’s also a program to help them succeed in entrepreneurship. The shop hosts workshops and is having it’s very own community festival this fall called Nookfest. Check it out September 7th from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

Beadle

toronto local handmade products

Instagram/@alulashome

I randomly stumbled into Beadle one afternoon a few weeks ago. It’s not hard to be attracted to the variety of plants in the windows, and the fun bright colours inside the store. The store is located on Dundas West, just west of Dufferin. Beadle sells all sorts of Canadian handmade goods, and the stores owner, Cherie, helps organize the Etsy Made In Canada show, too.

The Arts Market

toronto local handmade products

Instagram/@artsmarket

The Arts Market has something for everyone, and a location for everyone too! With four locations across the city (The Junction, College & Ossington, Leslieville, and Riverside), you’ll have your fill of handmade and vintage items no matter which side of the city you reside in. The stores roster includes Toronto fave Homebody Collective with unique plants, as well as candle and soap maker Sara’s Soaps and Candles. 

Toronto Designers Market

An all year indoor market located in Parkdale, Toronto Designers Market has a variety of handmade artists selling their work. From clothing to home goods, you’ll find your next unique piece of clothing, or a statement piece for your home with ease. Toronto Designers Market offers long term booth spaces, as well as host weekend pop-ups throughout the summer.

The Likely General

toronto local handmade products

Instagram/@likelygeneral

One of my favourite items to buy handmade is greeting cards, and The Likely General has a great selection amongst other items such as ceramics, jewellery, pins, and patches. The Roncesvalles shop also sells online, so you’ll have a selection at your fingertips if you can’t get out to the west end any time soon.

Made You Look 

You may remember that I had my engagement ring custom designed by a local Canadian designer here in Toronto through Made You Look. But don’t think you can only get engagement rings here, and don’t think they store only does custom work. You can browse Made You Look for a variety of beautiful and unique pieces, all at great prices!

Rose City Goods

toronto local handmade products

Instagram/@rosecity.goods

The adorable store, Rose City Goods is located on Dundas West near Dufferin and has been on my radar for the last few weeks. It’s new to the area, but it’s already gaining a lot of buzz online. The shop itself reminds me of my days in Palm Springs, and a lot of the curated designs and products are reminiscent of the desert. I’m excited to stop by and see all this new shop has to offer!

Featured Image: Instagram/@rosecity.goods by @ardenwray

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With all my budget-consciousness this year, I’m unfortunately not going to be heading too far for vacations this year. Luckily, I call a beautiful country, and province, home. There are tons of amazing places to visit, not too far outside of Toronto to check out. If you’re looking for some under-the-radar places to visit, then this list is for you.

These are 9 super cool under-the-radar spots to check out that are less than 4 hours from Toronto!

St. Jacobs, ON

I lived in Waterloo for five years, so the St. Jacobs Market became a weekend staple for me, very quickly. This HUGE farmer’s market is a paradise for anyone who loves local foods, produce, and other goods. But, that’s not all the small town has to offer. There is an outlet mall where you can score deals on top brands, tons of galleries, and studios to walkthrough, plus a brewery to quench your thirst. 

Port Stanley, ON

toronto places to visit

Instagram/@gnarly__carlee

I’ve become obsessed with adorable beach towns ever since watching the second season of The Marvelous Ms. Maisel. So, when I saw that the adorable beach town of Port Stanley was less than three hours outside of the city, I needed to know more. I can’t wait to head out on the road for a picturesque beach day!

Hamilton, ON

toronto places to visit

Instagram/@shop_mboutique

Known for being a steel town, many people don’t head out of the city to spend a day in Hamilton, and I think that’s a shame! I recently headed west of the city to explore Hamilton’s many breweries, cute coffee shops, and delicious bakeries.

Elora, ON

One of my favourite places to explore is Elora. Situated just outside of Guelph, it is the perfect day, or weekend trip out of the city. You can camp at the Elora Gorge Conservation area, enjoy an ice cream in town, or explore the gorge itself by foot, or by raft. Definitely check out the watering hole, Elora Quarry, too.

Creemore, ON

toronto places to visit

Instagram/@sgeorgianbay

Many years ago I took a day trip to Creemore to explore the adorable old town streets, and of course the hometown brewery. If beer isn’t your thing, make sure to check out Purple Hill Lavender Farms as well, it’s stunning! The best part of spending a day in Creemore is the beautiful drive down Hightway 9. 

Black Creek Pioneer Village, North York, ON

You probably went to Black Creek Pioneer Village as a kid, but have you been as an adult? Not only is it a great event venue, but it’s also tons of fun for all ages. Axe throwing? Yup. Escape room? You betcha. There’s even a brewery, and ghost tours to take in. Talk about a ton of fun right in your backyard.

Midland, ON

toronto places to visit

Instagram/@townofmidland

Earlier this summer, I ventured out to Midland for the towns massive butter tart festival, and it did not disappoint. Even though the festival is over, there is lots to see and do in the Midland area. There’s Discovery Harbour and Sainte Marie Among The Hurons for those history buffs. Plus, plenty of beaches, hiking spots, and restaurants to explore. 

Brockville, ON

toronto places to visit

Instagram/@mei_torontokyo

Located on the St. Lawrence River just past Kingston, you’ll find Brockville. There’s tons of great restaurants, and lots of history in this small town. If you go, make sure to check out the Brockville Tunnel which is Canada’s first railway tunnel which opened in 1860!

Brantford, ON

If you love breweries like I do, then a little trip to Brantford is necessary! With a surprising amount of breweries for such a small town, you’ll be happy to hop (get it?!) around. My favourite is Steel Wheel, where you can explore where hops are grown on the farm! 

Featured Image: Instagram/@mylittlesecrets_ca

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With summer in full swing, I’ve done my fair share of shopping, patio hopping, and adventuring, and my friends, those things don’t come cheap! Lucky for you, I’ve recapped some free things you can do this summer in Toronto and even luckier for you, this summer you can watch free movies in Toronto. With a ticket to the theatre costing upwards of $15, plus the cost of snacks, why not venture out of the cinema and into one of Toronto’s parks for a free film?!

Want to score free movies? Keep reading for 12 places to watch free movies right here in Toronto!

The Beaches

Rotating between Kew Gardens and Ivan Forrest Gardens Park, The Beach Village’s Movies In The Park are not only free to view, but also offer free popcorn (score!). This summer’s solid lineup includes some classics like Beetlejuice and newer releases like Spiderman: Into The Spider-Verse

Downsview Park

 

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If you’re finding yourself in the northern part of the city, a free movie night at Friday Night Lights Movies at Downsview Park might be the perfect night out. You can catch a flick twice a month at 79 Carl Hall Road. It even includes free parking!

Regent Park

free movies toronto

Instagram/@toronto_flash

A popular east-end place to watch movies is Regent Park’s Under The Stars that shows weekly films that prominently feature Indigenous and People of Colour. Even more exciting, this year it’s sharing the park alongside Taste of Regent Park which is a weekly community market! 

Corktown Common

free movies toronto

Instagram/@topictureshow

Until July 25th, you can catch a film at Corktown Common that’s part of a project by the Toronto Outdoor Picture Show. Bring your own blanket and join for some of the most iconic films of cult queer, family, and Indigenous cinema.

Christie Pits Film Festival

free movies toronto

Instagram/@topictureshow

The Christie Pits Film Festival is another project by The Toronto Outdoor Picture Show running from June 30th – August 25th. The festival includes a combination of classic feature-length films, as well as shorts. 

Bell Manor Park

 

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Then, out in the west-end of the city, Toronto Outdoor Picture Show is presenting a series of films from August 8th – 22th at Bell Manor Park in Etobicoke. First up is the adorable animated film, Ratatouille! The event is free, but donations are welcomed.

Yonge-Dundas Square

free movies toronto

Instagram/@_kreativemedia

If you’re finding yourself right downtown, you can catch a flick at Yonge-Dundas Square this summer. The weekly lineup includes classics like Mean Girls, Cool Runnings, Up, and Austin Powers. Plus, The Second City will be putting on improv acts to warm up the crowd before each screening. Check out the full event listing.

Sorauren Park

free movies toronto

Instagram/@rigzyn

Outdoor movies in Sorauren Park mean local pizza and pierogies are on the menu! Head on over to the park to see titles like Casablanca and The Iron Giant.

Liberty Village

Make your way over to Liberty Village and score a great seat to see Ferris Buller’s Day Off on July 19th, or Mary Poppins Returns at Liberty Village Park on August 23rd. 

Trinity Bellwoods 

You wouldn’t expect Trinity Bellwoods BIA to miss out on all the outdoor movie fun, would you? Movie Night In The Park is happening July 16th and August 13th. If you head over early, you can score some goodies from the Farmers’ Market, plus on-leash dogs are welcome!

Union Station

free movies toronto

Instagram/@torontounion

There’s a ton of fun things going down at Union Summer, and movie nights are just a small part of the fun! On top of great eats, games nights, and sample station, you can catch films like Dumbo and A Star Is Born.

Mel Lastman Square

free movies toronto

Instagram/@culturatoronto

Up in North York, you will find the Cultura Festival with free family outdoor programming with music, movies, and art every Friday in July. The movie lineup includes Ralph Breaks The Internet and The Incredibles 2. 

Featured Image: Instagram/@topictureshow

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Step into a mall in 2019, and you may not think much has changed over the last five years. Malls are still relatively busy, with kids still hanging out in the food court, and people spending weekends and evenings milling about. But, with the rise of online shopping, and the fact that everything is at the click of your finger, in-person retail has taken a dive. While I love to score all my fave items online at great prices, sometimes there’s nothing like wandering a mall with no purpose in mind, and a little bit of extra money to spend. Even better, if the mall has something worth seeing in person. With the current retail trends, malls have really had to up their game to entice people to leave their houses, and spend, which means appealing to what people love about online experiences, and catering to types of events you can only experience in-person.

Here are 6 ways malls and retail stores are adapting to current retail trends.

Influencer Meet & Greets

malls stores retail trends

Instagram/@tecpandora

It’s one thing to have a top influencer chat about how great a certain mall is, but it’s another to invite people to come and meet them at the store. One store in particular is doing a lot of this — Pandora is working with top Toronto influencers to host sales events that bring people in-store to meet their fave IG personalities. The store hosted Summer Style Sessions with local influencers at a variety of malls across Canada, and they’re happening on a regular basis. 

Instagrammable Activations

malls stores retail trends

Instagram/@blondehanes

Malls are appealing to everyones love of Instagram by curating fun activations that’ll get folks into its doors for photo ops. We’re already loving pop-ups like HideSeek, so it only makes sense that malls are taking cues from this trend. Plus, some are even inviting influencers to hang out and share the experiences. Sounds like a great reason to head to the mall!

Personalized In-Store Demonstrations

malls stores retail trends

Instagram/@wseatoncentre

It’s becoming more and more common for stores and malls to invite artists into their spaces to provide live, in-store demonstrations of their work. Stores at your local mall are often always hosting masterclasses or workshops where you can pick up new skills. William Sonoma at Toronto Eaton Centre hosts baking workshops with industry pros. This is a great, intimate way for people to meet local artists, and even take something special home with their purchase.

Hosting Local Markets

 

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One of the reasons so many people aren’t spending as much money at malls is because they’re making more of an effort to shop local. Malls have so much space, so it actually makes a lot of sense to utilize the unused space to support local businesses and artists. Shopping centres like Scarborough Town Centre are building these markets around specific holidays, such as Eid. This is a great way to shop for special gifts, and support local designers and makers in the community at the same time.

Offering Unique Workshops

malls stores retail trends

Instagram/@embiria

Offering unique experiences such as workshops, allows shopping malls to bring in new guests that may not have been previously reached. Last Christmas, Square One partnered with Embiria to put on a series of unique wellness workshops, enticing shoppers to hangout in the Holiday Market space, and bringing new shoppers into the mall. 

Providing Space For Community Events

As I mentioned before, malls have a lot of unused space that can be used for a variety of activities. Dixie Outlet Mall is utilizing a big piece of unused space for its Dixie Living Room. The mall hosts a variety of events there and you can also rent out the Living Room space, for FREE!

Featured Image: Instagram/@filipajackson

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Ahh summertime, you’re finally here! But with the fun in the sun also comes the “tap, tap, tap” of my credit card as I schedule in as many fun activities as possible. What’s a girl to do now that summer is here in full force and we’re ready to have some fun on the cheapLuckily, if you live in Toronto, there are a ton of free summer activities around every corner.

Here is a list of 12 fun places you can check out without spending a dime this summer!

AGO Wednesdays

The AGO has made big waves with it’s new pricing for 2019-2020. If you’re under 25, then the AGO is free for you anytime you’d like! But if you’re a bit older than that, don’t fret because you can still experience all the wonders of the AGO, for free, on Wednesdays from 6 to 9 p.m. If you’re gallery obsessed, you can get yourself a yearly pass for $35 and go as many times as you’d like!

Scarborough Bluffs

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@scarborotingz

If you’re looking for a little paradise within the city, Scarborough Bluffs is a great place to visit. The views certainly look like you’re much farther away than similar Scarborough.

Riverdale Park Farm

Riverdale Farm is a great place to visit for kids and adults alike. It’s a beautiful walk with tons of animals, and great photo opportunities. Visit for free from 9 to 5 p.m. every day of the year!

Check Out Graffiti Alley

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@_kayflo

If you’re looking for a free way to pass the time after spending all your money shopping on Queen West, Graffiti Alley is the perfect place to browse and take photos. 

Walk Evergreen Brick Works

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@cmonee504

I love that Evergreen Brick Works is a green oasis right in the city, and it’s free! With so much to see and do, it’s hard to believe they don’t make us pay to explore. Consider biking, walking, or taking a shuttle next time you visit and save on parking! If you don’t have a car you can take the free shuttle to Evergreen Brick Works from Broadview Station.

Take A Shuttle To Rouge National Urban Park

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@jane_philpott

How beautiful is Rouge National Urban Park? It’s hard to believe it’s just outside of the city and entry is free! You can even take a free shuttle bus from downtown Toronto to get there. How amazing is that? I can’t wait to visit this summer.

Go On A Free Walking Tour

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@tourguys

I’m a firm believer that walking is the best way to get to know any city. There is just so much you can miss by taking a car, bike, or transit. Plus, exploring Toronto like you are a tourist is actually surprisingly fun. You can avoid the traps, and learn more about your city! The Tour Guys do free walking tours on a bunch of different routes. 

Aga Khan Free Wednesdays

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@chewables

The AGO isn’t the only museum free on Wednesdays! If you’re looking for something new to do, head on over to the Aga Kahn Museum between 4 to 8 p.m. for free entry. Plus, take some stunning photos outside of the museum and admire it’s beautiful architecture. 

Waterfront Night Market

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@lyanree

The Waterfront Night Market is full of amazing eats, and fun activities. There is free admission to the Pan Asian food festival, so you can spend even more on the tasty treats from over 150 vendors. The Waterfront Night Market is at Ontario Place from August 9-11. 

Hit Up A Free Event At Yonge-Dundas Square 

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@antonrah43

Yonge-Dundas Square has a ton of great events lined up for the summer, and most of them are free. Whether it’s a concert, festival, or community yoga, there’s lots to see and do. Check out the events calendar to see what fun and exciting shows or events are coming up next. 

Maple Leafs Baseball Game At Christie Pits

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@erixhartman

Not down to spend money on the Jays this year? Well you’re in luck. Toronto’s other baseball team is offering free admission to home games for the year. See the team’s schedule and learn more on their website. 

Visit A Farmer’s Market

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@junctionmarket

You know you’re an adult when Saturday mornings start to look less like a Gatorade in one hand, and a coffee in another, and more like two bags full of farmer’s fresh groceries. Here’s our guide to Farmer’s Markets in Toronto.

Featured Image: StyleDemocracy

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For my birthday this year, I knew I wanted to treat myself. I had recently hit the three month mark at my new job, which meant benefits had kicked in, and of course the first thing that came to mind was a massage! When I was looking for spas to go to, I stumbled upon a list of places to check out for free goodies on your birthday. Did you know Elmwood Spa offers a free three-course lunch in its Terrace restaurant when you spend over $119 during your birthday month? When I found out, I was sold!

Here’s what it was like spending the whole day at Toronto’s Elmwood Spa!

First Impressions:

I walked into Elmwood Spa with little expectations. I have only ever been to Hungarian baths and massage therapists who practice out of my local gym, so I wasn’t sure what to expect at an upscale spa. I booked everything over the phone, which made checking in a breeze. Once I signed a waiver for my massage and my facial, I was then free to go upstairs to get changed!

I brought a towel, shampoo/conditioner, and body wash with me, but I didn’t need any of it.

I was offered a robe as soon as I arrived, and there were plenty of towels to go around. When I showered there was a variety of shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and more all at my disposal.

day at elmwood spa

Instagram/@s_saamm

After changing, I was able to lock everything in my locker, free of charge and there was even an adorable box for jewellery. I noticed some people who took their phones with them, but I left mine in the locker for a fully relaxing experience.

Before heading onto the water therapies, I was able to soak in a hot tub inside the changerooms. Since the pools are co-ed, the changeroom is a good place to soak if you’d like a bit more privacy.

The Water Therapies:

day at elmwood spa

Instagram/@elmwoodspa

The water therapies are free with services over $100, but you can also buy a day pass to hang out in the pools for $25 if you’re spending less than $100, or $50 if you’re not receiving a service.

The water therapies area has a fairly large pool, a hot tub, a steam room, and a licensed lounge to hang out in. It’s best to do this BEFORE your services, so I got there about an hour early to check it all out. It’s a great space to bring a book, listen to a podcast, or some music if you want to relax by the pool.

The Massage:

day at elmwood spa

Instagram/@elmwoodspa

Since I often get massages at the gym that target specific parts of my body, I figured I’d go with something a bit more “relaxing” so decided on a full body 55-minute massage. Elmwood Spa offers an Aromatherapy option, and I decided to give it a try!

I had the opportunity to choose from a variety of scents, but I went with my fave, eucalyptus.

While I waited for my massage, I was offered herbal tea, hot or cold, or water. I enjoyed sipping on my drink and flipped through a magazine until it was my turn.

The massage itself was extremely relaxing, but I do wish I had asked for a bit more pressure in certain spots.

I definitely plan on coming back with my partner, as they also offer side-by-side massages for couples.

The Facial:

day at elmwood spa

Instagram/@elmwoodspa

This was my very first facial, so I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect. I dipped my toes in with the least expensive facial on the menu, but I definitely still felt pampered.

The service not only included education around what was going on, but also on some of the products that would work for my skin that I could purchase in the gift shop.

I was also surprised by a foot massage and hot towels on my feet as well that were changed throughout the 40-minute service. I will definitely be back for a facial in the future!

My skin was glowing immediately after the facial, and for days after as well.

day at elmwood spa

The Lunch:

As much as I loved my time in the water, the massage, and the facial, I would be lying if I said the lunch wasn’t a highlight of the day.

You get to choose an appetizer, a main, and a dessert from the prix-fixe menu, and I was honestly stuffed!

day at elmwood spa

I tried the vegan butternut squash soup, the braised short rib, and the cheesecake and I was completely satisfied!

Final Thoughts:

day at elmwood spa

Instagram/@elmwoodspa

As someone who hasn’t spend a lot of time in spas, this was an amazing first experience.

I felt extremely pampered, and the customer service was top notch. Everyone wished me a happy birthday, and were always there to lend a hand with anything I needed. I’m SO excited to head back to Elmwood Spa down the road!

Featured Image: Instagram/@spaincmag

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