Spoil him on Father's Day at Warren Chase

For once, I know what to get my husband for Father's Day this year! No clothes, no booze… but relaxation! Men won't admit it, but they love getting pampered just as much as women do.

What if I told you, there is finally a place, where men can relax and feel comfortable doing it. From facials, to waxing, hair cuts to beard trimming, fashion consulting and more, Warren Chase is the "Urban retreat" for any man this Father's Day.

I had the pleasure of meeting the hospitable and handsome owners of Warren Chase, who were more than happy to give us a tour of their facility and talk to us about their services. Every single detail of the space was methodically planned. I must say, as a woman, I was a bit jealous that this place was strictly for men!


A beautiful and ruggedly decorated venue with a twist of industrial is the perfect gift for the special man in your life. Loads of free parking and conveniently located at the Train Yards to boot!

I have 2 $10 vouchers that I will be raffling off for Warren Chase on June 5th. Please leave your comment below and tell us why you will be spoiling your man (father or husband) on Father's Day this year!

Happy Shopping and remember to support local when you can!

xox Chantsy

New fashion boutique on Preston

I was walking along Preston the other day during Tulip Fest and really noticed that there was a lack of boutiques. Whether it's clothes, kitsch, home decore or give shop... All that surrounds us on Preston our pubs, restaurants and bars! Great at night quiet during the day.

Except… I discovered a little shop called Vincent. I did my thing being curious and all and walked in to see what it was all about. I can usually tell right away what it stores all about but observing a few items, checking the prices and observing the Decor. Me Gusta!

Vincent is just the type of boutique shopping Ottawa needs. On trend fashion, new designers and refreshing looks. I'm just getting pretty tired of the same old brands.

The lesson here is if you see something that intrigues you explore it. Talk to the owners, ask them questions, get out of your comfort zone and just be yourself. Small-business owners are always friendly and are more than happy to talk about their new business. They want to succeed and need loyal customers.

Check them out on Facebook, visit their website and blog.

Map for Antique Shopping in Ottawa

I am so happy to announce that I finally put together a map for antique shopping in Ottawa! Have fun and let me know if I am missing any shops :)

Sarah Richardson in Ottawa

"Are you a Designer or a Fan?" asks a young woman sitting next to me. Later, I learn it is Paula McCooey, Home section journalist of the Ottawa Citizen. We quickly chat about home decor, our kids, and our love for Sarah Richardson, as we patiently wait for her arrival.

All of Ottawa's beautiful people were dressed to the nines, some in sky-high stilettos and most with a designer bag clutch to their sides.

Sparkling Perrier and a healthy assortment of delicious sushi were on the menu. Macaroons and mini desserts with coffee followed.

I had the privilege of attending a launch party hosted by Elite Draperies and Home Decorating (Ottawa) on Wednesday, April 9. "Kravet Collections" is a print and weave fabric line by Sarah Richardson, HGTV star from Sarah's House, Design Inc. and Sarah's Cottage. Her classic, timeless, abundant, clean, colourful and bright styles are what she is best known for.

Sarah's reputation includes repurposing, refinishing and recycling old furniture, which requires talent, a good eye and confidence! Not everybody is willing to be seen picking up an old chair off the side of the road. I've done it, but it takes courage.

The designer world has a reputation for its exclusivity, riches and vanity. This competitive industry is filled with amazingly creative talent and considered a luxury for most common folk. But after carefully taking in all of Richardson's advice and talking to a few guests, interior design seems more attainable and built for real living. I like that.

Richardson, powerful female entrepreneur with international panache, shared great advice with her guests.

When you create a room, Richardson suggests using the following formula: 1 part to 1 part ratio.

- feminine vs masculine

- new vs vintage

- calm vs fun

- beautiful vs practical

Richardson says she designs rooms for living. "There shouldn't be any 'off-limits' rooms for your kids. Your space should be youthful and make a statement." she says. “Use a monochromatic colour scheme for each room, but invest in big-ticket items that are neutral tones. This way you can change up the decor by one replacing the smaller coloured items” she advises.

Richardson suggests starting by drawing inspiration from creativity like art or fabric. “Use texture and layer different patterns” she says. Reinterpreting and repurposing are a huge part of Richardson's design.   

"It's not about where you get, it's about how you use it" she says.

A powerful female entrepreneur, Richardson suggests to use fashion as an indication to help describe and understand the client’s design taste.

Richardson highlighted the importance of building relationships with suppliers.

She admits to being a perfectionist, and expects everyone that she works with to give it their best. She also stressed the importance of being vested in your own work and to be responsible for all the details.

To close, Richardson shared one of her favourite quotes by Charles Eames "The details are not the details, they are the design."

We think that’s great advice for any “fan or designer” to follow.

Ottawa 2014 Garage Sales

Think of this as a gift from me to you!

I've decided to compile this years Ottawa Neighbourhood Garage Sales. Here we go:

- May 31 Riverside South Garage Sale

- May 24 Glebe Garage Sale

- June 7 Awesome Alta Vista Garage Sale

- September 6 Old Ottawa South Porch Sale

I found this website http://gsalr.ca/garage-sales-ottawa-on.html that compiles estate sales and garage sales. Don't forget to check Kijiji for a local listing too ;)

These Neighbourhood garage sales are not to be missed!

Please let me know in the comments below if you have any to add.

Antique show Spring 2014

It's that time of year again!

Print this coupon and receive $2 off admission to the bi-annual Ottawa Antique Show on April 5-6 2014!

The Fieldhouse at Carleton University, Bronson & Sunnyside  K1S 5B6    

Regular admission $10 

Saturday April 5 10 AM to 6 PM

Sunday April 6 11 AM to 5 PM

Visit www.ottawaantiqueshow.ca for all the details 

Don't miss out on these shoes, contact the show manager at antiques.show@sympatico.ca to get on their mailing list!

Chef Chuck Hughes from Chuck's Day Off in Ottawa

Last weekend, my foodie dream came true. I met Chuck Hughes, Montreal chef from The Food Networks's Chuck's Day Off.

I bough his book a week in advance, because I am a planner, and planners know how to get ready!
I went to Costco (Merivale) really early, about 1.5 hrs before he was going to start, to get a good place in line. And I did :) I think I was about 10th in line.

Tim's breakfast panini and coffee in hand, I made friends with a girl in line in front of me, and quickly realized that maybe my crush on Chuck wasn't so unique after all  :( hahaha

He arrives! My heart is racing, and beating out of my chest, I am so nervous to meet him! I hear his deep raspy cigarette voice and can't help but to release the 12 year old giddy girl with a crush in me. It's finally my turn!

What a gentlemen- he gets up and shakes my hand, "thank you for coming" he says. I answer nervously "my pleasure"... that sounds dorky, right away I regret saying it. Calm down girl! You've been happily married for 4 years and you have a 5 month old at home, get a grip!

"Nice necklace"... um, did he just complement me?.... delayed reaction..."Oh, thanks. Ya, it's a rope in the shape of a tied knot".
"Ya, I know. It reminds me of one of my tattoos" Then proceeds to show me the back of his right elbow (I melt). The tattoo has something written in rope. I was so nervous, I don't remember what it even said. Because, OMG, we are having a conversation!

Embarrassing but worth it-  "Can you sign it, from your boyfriend Chuck?"... he stares at me. I'm thinking, man I sound like a loser, but it's worth a shot! Whatever, he doesn't have to do it, I'm just putting it out there in the universe.

He signs my book, and one for my sister, it's for her b-day gift.

After all is said and done, Chuck gets up for the million dollar shot! What a nice guy. Thanks Chuck!

As much as I felt like a creepy stalker, I feel like we could be friends. He is really cool, chill and just a genuinely nice person, not yet ruined by his famous status.



Questions I would ask him if I had the time:
1- What is your camping cooking style: Ghetto hot dogs or gourmet eating?
2- Did you cancel the last book signing to make it to the Wu-Tang concert after this?
3- Would you like to hang out? I feel like we could be good friends. (After this question, he would quickly get up and walk away as he would soon realize that I am a crazy stalker who is trying to kidnap him, hahaha)

Chuck and I (sharing the same side puff in our hair) 

The squeaky wheel gets the grease! Thanks Chuck and Universe xox
You can't see it, but I am super shaky and nervous. I immediately headed over to the vegetable freezer to cool off! (True story) 

Antiquing Weekend at Fieldhouse- Oct 19-21

Hello my O'Valleyers!

Just a quick heads up that the bi-annual Antique show is on next weekend! Here is the message from Catherine Knoll, show manager. Please contact her to be added to the email list.

Hope to see you there. Let me know what you end up getting in the comments section below.

Antiquing at The Fieldhouse is coming on October 19-21, 2013

Print this page only (or simply show the ticket taker on your smartphone).

Hello Everyone:

It's a lot! Country pine, Deco, Manhattan glass, reclaimed antique lumber furniture, gorgeous art, designer handbags (typically including Gucci, Fendi & Ferragamo), fun fleas, vintage watches, Persian carpets, haute couture, Maritime carvings, cottage quilts, fine furniture, book & paper conservation, silver accents, vintage clothing, fashion jewellery and fabulous fine jewellery (typically including Tiffany, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels), plus more (much more)! Retro. Vintage. Antique.

The Fall Ottawa Antiques Show has everything from decorator finds to one-of-a-kinds, from designer stock to just plain fun. For you, your home, condo, or cottage- 40,000 square feet of fabulous awaits you!

Hope to see you there.

Catherine Knoll
Show Manager

Antiquing at The Fieldhouse

Carleton University, Bronson Ave. & Sunnyside Ave., Ottawa K1S 5B6

Friday October 19, 5pm-9pm Saturday October 20, 10am-5pm, Sunday October 21, 10am-4pm

Regular admission $10 Free re-admission Under 18 free (613) 521-1970

Lots of parking available, but no longer free. Please check directly with the venue for rates.

Old Ottawa South Porch Sale- Sept 8 2012

If you are like me and love digging in people's junk, the Old Ottawa South Porch Sale is where it's at!

Similar to it's sister "Glebe Garage Sale", I personally enjoy this event a whole lot more. In the spirit of making lists - here's why:

1. September 8th is cooler weather than May 28th, so you can go farther and longer!
2. Less people around, less crowded so you can take your time a look
3. Less people means you can bargain more ;)
4. Less people means you have access to parking
5. Access to parking means you can bring your car around with you and buy huge things like furniture
6. Less garage sales per capita means you increase the number of garage sales attended (sorry this is my science brain talking! hahaha)
7. The demographic is...older. Which means you have better items for sale (if you like antiques and more interesting things)

So, as much as I want to support this event and invite people to come, I may be shooting myself in the foot by increasing attendance! Just kidding, it's for a great cause! Sellers are asked to donate a portion of their proceeds to OSCA (the guideline is 10%) to help cover costs of various community initiatives.

Don't forget to take advantage of the street sale on Bank street too! Last year Taylor's was serving delicious take-out pulled pork sandwiches for $5! Wonder what they will be serving this year!

Hope you can make it!
Here are some treasures I found last year.

Jumbo mason jar! Great for punches or lemonade.

Copper pots worth big buck$!! Paid $5 for both! Great for even cooking (like making sauce and melting chocolate)

Cute antique storage box for beauty products.

Glebe Shopping Spree Contest

Hello O'valley'ers,
I am happy to annouce that the Glebe construction has ended today!

They have also launched a Shopping Spree Contest until Dec 31 2011.

Here how it works:

1. Get a passport from participating stores
2. Get a stamp/sticker for every $20 spent at participating stores
3. Collect 10 stamps and submit your entry!
4. Win $10,000 dollars to spend in the Glebe!
5. Visit their website incase I am giving you wrong information!

What would I buy with $10,000 in the Glebe? Glad you asked!

• Bose speaker system at the Audioshop
• New pots and pans at the Glebe Emporium
• New jewellery at Magpie (pandora available)
• New bike at Kunstadt sports
• Groceries at Metro Glebe
• Spa treatment at Thann

What would you buy?

It's Antique Show time again!

People always ask me where I get my antiques and why I didn't tell them about it! I want to ask them why they don't read my blog!!

There will be lots to see and buy at the Ottawa's Antiquing Event. Bring your cash and your imagination! This three day event come twice a year and will definately keep you coming back for more. Make sure you book October 21, 22, 23 2011!

Loads of parking (No Longer Free, sorry!!) available at the Carleton University Fieldhouse.
Print this coupon to save on your admission fee.

Contact Catherine Knoll (show manager) to be added to their email list.

There's a new salon in town...

And it's here to stay!

I'm talking about Hair Republic, on Bank Street at Sunnyside Ave. It has an edgy and clean look to it. It reminds me of Mad Factory in Toronto (p.s. they give free hand massages there!!). Everything white, with modern art hanging on the walls... my favourite part is the chandelier that greets you at reception! That's like saying "Hello, how can I make your day shine today?" I. love. shiny. things.

I had the pleasure of meeting Michelle, owner and senior stylist at her new salon.

She is such a kind, warm hearted and friendly person. I walked in, the first day the salon was open to get more information about the place, the type of product lines they sell and to find out what their hair philosophy is. Plus, let's face it, I am the most curious person on arth! Also, I've been finding it difficult to stay faithful to a stylist :S I just haven't found the one!

Michelle explained her salon's unique business model; green, healthy and beautiful! They recycle everything, all the way down to composting the hair! They sell shampoo that doesn't contain harsh chemicals, it's based from natural oils and ingredients. They also offer a rewards program where you collect HR dollars when returning empty shampoo containers to redeem against other products.

I am always looking for good shampoo, because my hair can get really dry. I got my hair washed to test the products before I commit to buying it and got my bangs trimmed too. I can't wait to get my hair done soon!

They haven't even been open for a week yet and they are almost fully booked! I'd say, if you are going to cheat on your stylist, do it with class and go treat yourself at Hair Republic!

Chef Michael Smith in Ottawa

Good morning my O'Valleyers,

Last night was among my "top coolest things I have ever done in my life"! To some people, it may sound lame, to my fellow foodies... they would be more than jealous.

I attended the Ottawa Writers Festival- Chef Michael Smith's Kitchen with Michael Smith. What an experience if you are a huge fan.

I couldn't find anyone to go with me, so I went early to find out more about the event and purchased my ticket on site. $25 to get in, $10 for 2 wine tickets, $33 for his new cookbook.

I paired up with a nice lady that I met, who was also alone. It turns out that she is practically my neighbour! Ottawa is a small world!

So, because we are both early, we get amazing front row seats (by the mic and by the signing table). We each bought the new Michael Smith cookbook, so we can get it signed at the end of the night. And we did!

The host was trying to ask typical "Food Star" questions, but it was quite obvious that Chef Michael Smith had his own (anti-Food Network) Agenda. His "Jamie Oliver" like passion about locally grown food and nutrition literacy (he called it) was the topic for the night. He avoided answering gimmicky questions about his favorite meal or what he would whip up with lacking ingredients from the host's fridge. He focused on the irony of his cookbook, because he teaches us the importance of how to cook without a recipe. He talked about the importance and innate human behaviour of "gathering, preparing and sharing" food. His focus was about "who is at the table, not what is on the table". Lastly, he delivered his "Soap box" speech about the importance of knowing where your food comes from, knowing who has provided you with the food and supporting local farmers so you can tell the story behind the food you prepared. He had strong views, passionate arguments and touching stories. All in all a fabulous conversation!

The night ended with me asking a question about " We see chefs frying with olive oil, what is your stance?" The answer was clear, don't use your good olive oil to fry with, get a cheap one that is not cold press because you lose the quality when it burns.

I got my cookbook signed and tasted the local wine (Yummy shiraz from Navan!) and indulged in the appetizers prepared from his cookbook.

For more information about the Ottawa Writers Festival, click here.

Caribbean in Otttawa!

Time to Celebrate, Caribbean Style!
Carivibe- Celebrating Caribbean Culture in the Nation's Capital!

Saturday, June 18th 2011 at 12:00pm.
255 Centrum, Orleans, ON
Click on the image for more details!

I'll be there for the food, the music, the entertainment and the people!!
Sometimes I feel like I was Jamaican in my past life :)
Hope to see you there Ottawa!

what's your target date?

It's official! Target is moving to Canada and opening 105 stores in Canada in early 2013. Check out this article from the Financial Post for more details...

First O'Valley Zellers stores to get a make-over are:

• Bayshore (Making this an even better mall!)


• Billings Bridge (The parking is already crazy there... can't imagine what will happen next!)


• St-Laurent and Donald (Thank you! This area needs a good scrubbing)


• Place d'Orleans (This may give me an excuse to step foot in... what a sad excuse for a mall)

I'm so excited to remove WALMART from my shoping repertoire!

Goodbye to the grace and cheese

Sad. Day.
Grace and the Kitchen and Serious Cheese are moving to Kanata.
442 Hazeldean Rd
OPEN SEPTEMBER 2011

They call it 5400 sqft of foodie pleasure. I call it a disaster for old Ottawa South.
Rumour has it that they will be expanding their cooking school, which sounds great, but not worth the drive out there, in my opinion.

Take advantage of their moving sale. They've got 10-30% off most things in the store.

On the other hand, I can't wait to see what replaces them!

The Annual Great Glebe Garage Sale

Ladies and gentlemen, SAVE THE DATE!!

The Annual Great Glebe Garage Sale is on MAY 28th 2011 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm!
Every year, I always look forward to this crazy neighbourhood event. I think all of Ottawa comes to shop for people's trash in this upscale area. The nice part is that the stores on Bank street also have a street sale!
I am announcing it early this year, because it seems that people I know always miss it!

Here are a few pointers:

• Parking is crazy and hard to find- Either, come early, park far or get here by foot (although this will limit your ability to buy large items)



• Bring shopping bags or a backpack- it's good for the environment and you will have lots to carry!



• Get there early- To get your hands on the good stuff!



• Bring lots of cash- ATMs are busy and run out of money!



• Pack a light purse- you don't want to fuss while you shop, you need both hands!



• Wear good shoes and sporty clothes- You don't want your feet to deprive you of miles of garage sales!



• Bring water- It's always a nice hot day, and you will get quite a work out!



• Dress for the weather- There is no plan B for rain!



• It's for charity- Sellers donate 10% of their proceeds to the Ottawa Food Bank!



• Come hungry- Lots of street food being sold!



• Bargain, bargain, bargain- Sometimes the prices can seem a bit ridiculous!



• Do I need a map? Not really, just make your way through the houses between the 417 and Sunnyside at Bank street.

For more Info-contact them by Email or visit the official website!

Spring into The Ottawa Antiques Show

This has to be one of my favorite events in Ottawa! I've posted lots of posts in the past about this event. I have even shared pics of some of the furniture I bought in the past.

Finally it's here, the Spring Ottawa Antiques Show! Print this coupon and save $2 off your entry fee. Admission is $8 for adults over 18.

Friday March 25: 5 pm-9 pm
Saturday March 26: 10 am-5 pm
Sunday March 27: 10 am- 4 pm

Location: The Fieldhouse at Carleton University, at Bronson and Sunnyside Ave. Free parking!!

For more information or to get on the mailing list, email the event here. The event manager is Catherine Knoll. Check out their website.

21 in Ottawa... FOREVER!

Here ye, here ye!

It is with great excitement that I announce to you all that a "Forever 21" is coming to a Rideau Centre near you!

Basically they are closing down the small food court (Timy's, Burger King and some Shawarma place). The F21 will replace the BK and have its own entrance on Rideau Street! How exciting!

Here is a more detailed blog post about the entire story!

This amazing store has clothing for men, women, young girls, maternity and even a plus size women! This is great for just about anyone! I really hope the Ottawa store carries all of these selections.

They not only sell affordable and trendy clothing, but shoes, purses and loads of costume jewellery and accessories!

There truly is something for everyone.

I will do my best to keep you all in the loop!

Winterlude- give it a taste!

What I love most about Ottawa in the new year is looking forward to all the winter activities that I am supposed to be partaking in... if I can leave my warm cozy house.

My favourite thing in particular is the "Taste of Winterlude"

The Taste of Winterlude festivities begin Jan 27 to Feb 21 2011. Choose from a selection of top restos in Ottawa, and sample a featured menu for a great price! Looks like there are booking up fast, so step on it!

Taste of Winterlude features exclusive culinary events that highlight local chefs, sommeliers, winemakers and Canadian products.

I just came across their site today through a facebook ad... possibly the most effective ad for me yet!

I usually grab the TOW booklet from a participating restaurant and use it as "Checklist" of places I need to try. I also love using my Urbanspoon account that automatically keeps track of this for me :)

I haven't booked a restaurant yet, but I am looking at Murray Street as a possible option.

Let me know where you would like to go or if you have any recommendations!

Bon Appétit!