Splurge People to know | Places to go | Things to try, taste or buy
Brands/products you carry: Dita, Volte Face, Boz, JF Rey, Claire Goldsmith, Orgreen, Andy Wolf, Thierry Lasry and Theo along with the classic designers such as Prada, Tiffany and Chanel to name a few.
descriBe your shops viBe: Fun and friendly! It’s not everyday one goes shopping for eyeglasses or sunglasses. For many it can be an overwhelming process, at BVC we try our best to take that stress away and bring the fun into eyewear.
Where do you source your products?:
Beaulieu Vision Care Full-s ervice opt ica l cen t r e 2938 Bloor Street W, Etobicoke, M8X 1B6 (416) 233-3937 • www.beaulieuvisioncare.com
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amily owned and operated for over 35 years, we are a full-service optical store providing our clients with exceptional care and products.
We travel to places such as New York and Paris to discover new designs and eyewear lines. We bring in only the best quality products from Italy, Germany, Belgium, France and Japan.
What’s your Business philosophy?: Changing the way you view the world, and how the world views you.
Who is your target clientele?: Everyone! The health of your eyes is important and at every age! Whether you’re looking for a fun, colourful or classic frame, or a stylish pair of sunglasses to look good and protect your eyes, the team at BVC are trained to provide you with a look that fits your personality.
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2017 editio n
Splurge P ubl i s her Dana Robbins
for the little luxuries in life, the extras you need to treat yourself to, the quality experts throughout our region, unique, wonderful finds, hidden treasures, and best kept secrets... this is
Splurge toronto REGION
Genera l Ma na g er John Willems DIRE C T OR OF A DVER T ISING Cheryl Phillips Adv ert i s i ng Ma na g er Anne Beswick P UBLIC AT I ON C OOR DINAT OR Brian Watts C o nt ent Ed i to r Tasha Zanin Di recto r of C reat i v e S erv i c es Katherine Porcheron Gra p hi c Des i g n Melissa DiFelice P hotog ra p her Stephen Uhraney Splurge Toronto is produced in partnership with:
T o be i nc l ud ed i n o ur next ed i t i o n please call: 416-493-4400
AT HOME T A Appliances & Barbecues ........................... 08 Alf’s Antiques & Handcrafted Furniture ........... 10
THINGS TO BUY La Difference........................................................ 02 Fusion Supermarket ........................................... 50
Living Lighting ....................................................... 12
Simply Chic .......................................................... 52
Hazelway................................................................ 14
T&T Supermarket ............................................... 54
Small Space Plus ................................................. 16
Hainan Airline ....................................................... 56
FengFA Custom Cabinetry & Design Studio... 18
Baby Bryan........................................................... 58 Altima Telecom ................................................... 60
PEOPLE TO KNOW Gluckstein Personal Injury Lawyers................. 22 Roy Meleca .......................................................... 23 Candy Li ................................................................ 24 Ruffles Hair Design ............................................. 26
Kiss My Baby........................................................ 62 Oceans & Nations Food Mart .......................... 64 Lai Wah Heen ...................................................... 66 Pandora .................................................................67
Mark’s Hungry Deli & Kitchen ........................... 28 Bistro On Avenue ................................................ 30
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Travelpoint Enterprises ...................................... 32
Beaulieu Vision Care........................................... 03
Tian Bao Travel .................................................... 84
Valentina's Body Bakery .....................................70 Beautoday Spa ....................................................72
FINANCIAL SERVICES Tribecca Financial Corporation......................... 38 Respon Wealth Management Corp................ 40 Birks & UnionPay................................................. 42
Water Exquisite Spa ............................................73 V Line Cosmetic Clinic ........................................74 Tap 2 Tag................................................................76
Padgett Business Services ............................... 44
Healthy Planet ......................................................78
OTT Financial ........................................................47
Midtown Dental ................................................... 80
MCF Financial ...................................................... 83
Yves Rocher......................................................... 82
co n t e n t s
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At Home
H ey, H ey, H ey, i g o t i t at ta ! 1655 Dundas Street East, Mississauga, L4X 1L5 (289) 814-4415 • www.taappliance.com
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A Appliances and Barbecues provides the very best products to suit every taste and budget. Our knowledgeable team works with customers, designers and builders to achieve beautiful dream kitchens, and outdoor living spaces. With five locations across Mississauga, Toronto, Kitchener, Barrie and Brantford, and a new online store, shopping for new appliances is easy and convenient.
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Brands/products you carry: We have over 100 major brands of appliances and barbecues.
How/wHen did you start your Business? TA Appliances has been family-owned and operated since 1906.
people are surprised to know: That we carry our full line of barbecues and accessories all year long! We also have live kitchens and interactive displays that let you feel, hear and see how the appliances will look in your home.
descriBe your sHop’s viBe: You can browse in our huge showrooms and when you are ready, one of our product experts can help you pick out the right product to fit your budget.
wHat’s tHe most unique product in your sHop? There are many but one of our favourites is The Urban Cultivator, which lets you grow fresh herbs in your kitchen all year long.
wHere do you source your products? We work with the leading suppliers of appliances and barbecues to fill our showrooms with new and innovative products that look amazing too. We have premium brands from France, Italy, Germany, Britain and the most trusted North American names.
wHat’s your Business pHilosopHy? Our team approach is to be dedicated to providing the very best shopping experience for our customers!
wHat’s tHe secret to your success? The secret to our success starts with the extensive training and product knowledge our staff has and dedication to making sure each and every customer is handled with the utmost care so that they will be lifelong TA customers!
wHo is your target clientele? We are a store for everyone. We have replacement appliances, high-end built-in designer appliances as well as outdoor grills for every taste and budget.
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Alf’s Antiques A n EclE c t i c A p p roAc h t o ho m E DE c o r
29 Bermondsey Road, East York, M4B 1Z7 (416) 690-5505 • www.alfsantiques.com
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ince 1989, Alf’s Antiques and Handcrafted Furniture has been known in Toronto for its beautiful furniture. Husband and wife Alfred and Michelle have had nine stores in the city since opening Alf’s Antiques. The store’s selection of antiques, i.e. French armoires, Chinese Chippendale chairs, and oak Charles V dining chairs from England, and Ontario handcrafted furniture, provides an eclectic approach to any home decor. Beyond antiques, Michelle designs furniture, and will customize her designs to accommodate your home, space and decor. Alf’s specialty is handmade harvest tables made from reclaimed wood, which he has been making for nearly three decades.
Brands/products you carry: Our 5000 sq. ft. showroom has antiques and handcrafted furniture made from all wood types. We have dining tables, chairs, cabinets, upright secretaries, coffee tables, oil paintings and anything to complete the decor of your home.
How/wHen did you start your Business? We opened in 1989.
people are surprised to know: I’ve sold tables to buyers in Italy, Manhattan and Muskoka. I’ve designed tables for Rachel McAdams, the Flatiron Building and even the Gardiner’s Cottage in Kew Gardens.
wHat’s tHe most unique product in your sHop? We pioneered the harvest table trend, which are durable enough for daily use and make stunning centrepieces in modern kitchens and open concept layouts. Alf handcrafts harvest tables from reclaimed pine for a casual look, or deeper-toned woods like hemlock for a more refined look.
wHere do you source your products? Our antiques come from around the world and reclaimed wood comes from vintage buildings.
wHat’s your Business pHilosopHy? Our philosophy has been to introduce the beauty and craftsmanship of antiques to a much younger audience, and teach a new generation that original pieces are an investment that will last a lifetime.
wHat’s tHe secret to your success? I am a good listener and am very much in tune with what people want and work with them to find it. I use my keen eye to bring in unique pieces that have a double purpose, to accent to your home and also have great storage, the homeowners are looking for.
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Living Lighting Beaches
B IG VA LU E W I T H A S M A L L T OW N AT M O S P HE R E 1841 Queen Street E, Toronto, M4L 3Z6 (416) 690-2544 • www.livinglightingbeaches.com @living_lighting
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Living Lighting - Toronto - Beaches
elcome to the new look of Living Lighting in the Beach. Living Lighting has everything you need to light your home from the ceiling to the floor. We specialize in mid- to high-end residential lighting, including chandeliers, ceiling fans, vanity and bathroom lights, task lighting and outdoor lighting. What makes us different is our small town feel in the big city. We cater to shoppers with a discriminating taste, and treat customers as if they are old friends.
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living-lighting
PeoPle are surPrised to knoW: We do repairs, have free local delivery and do in-home consultations.
describe your shoP’s vibe:
I want customers to feel like they have just walked into their neighbours’ home when they are in my store. We treat our customers as if they were friends, find out what they need/want and direct them to the lighting that will serve them best.
What insPired you to oPen?
A friend of mine opened a Living Lighting franchise and I was impressed by the fashion impact of lighting. Moving to Toronto, and owning this business, was a way of fulfilling my dream to move to Toronto since hearing my first hockey broadcast when I was sixyears-old.
What’s your business PhilosoPhy?
Good old-fashioned customer service - we treat everyone the way we wish to be treated. An example of this is in our company policy. I added a line that reads “If any of the above policies are unreasonably restrictive for your situation, let us know and we will do our best to accommodate you.”
What’s your favourite neighbourhood to shoP in? The Toronto Beaches
What Products do you carry? We cater to universally known brands such as Hubbardton Forge, Kichler, Hinkley, Feiss, Eligant and Crystorama.
hoW/When did you start your business? When I became a part of the Living Lighting franchise system, the location was predetermined, it would go in the Beaches, a neighbourhood I lived in and love for its close-knit small town feel despite its proximity to downtown.
What’s the secret to your success?
Over the years, I’ve developed a sense of what will sell and what won’t, so our store is always well stocked with a wide selection of the latest fashions and technology from leading brands in Canada and the United States. Plus, we focus on understanding the needs of the customer; lighting is as much about design and decor as it is about the technical aspects.
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Small Space Plus st ylish, s m artly des i gned pi eces that cater to s m all s pace li vi ng 380 Alliance Avenue, York, M6N 2H8 (647) 995-0166 • www.smallspaceplus.com /Smallspaceplus
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Smallspaceplus
e are a Torontobased retailer that specializes in space-conscious furniture. We specialize in multi-functional pieces such as sofa beds, wall beds and convertible tables that work in tight spaces.
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+Smallspaceplus
smallspaceplus
What Products do you carry? We carry condo-sized furniture, including sofa beds, sofas, custom wall beds and convertible tables.
PeoPle are surPrised to knoW: That a store like this exists and solves so many problems with living in smaller spaces. If you live in a condo, town home, or are downsizing, you should definitely check us out.
describe your shoP’s vibe: Fun, vibrant, friendly and relaxed all at the same time.
What’s the most unique Product in your shoP? Most pieces are noteworthy and very unique. That’s why customers are very happy when they discover our store. The Waterloo is the perfect sofa because it is modular (comes in pieces). It becomes a bed, has over 20 configurations and is slipcovered for easy cleaning.
What insPired you to oPen? Condos were and are still being built all over the city and it was impossible to find sofas that fit. With that in mind, we were able to transition that into a retail store where customers can browse a selection of condosized furniture.
Where do you source your Products? We source locally made and Canadian-made furniture and some from Asia.
What’s your favourite neighbourhood to shoP in? We love the eclectic variety of the different neighbourhoods in Toronto and how shopping varies from place to place. Some of our faves are Queen West, Yorkville, and Kensington.
What’s the secret to your success? Having a great team that is working towards the same goal of finding small space solutions for customers. Our location also allows us to price products very reasonably, with quality still being of the utmost importance.
Who is your target clientele? Condo dwellers, people living in townhomes or have small entryways and downsizers.
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People to Know
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Roy Meleca
Roya l l e pag e yo U R Co M M UNIT y R e a lT y, BRoke Rag e
2000 Islington avenue, Toronto, M9p 3S7
Sales Representative (416) 997-9141 www.roymelecarealestate.com
Why did you choose real estate as a career and hoW many years have you been in business?
I chose Real Estate as a career nearly 10 years ago, when I realized my ability to understand people’s needs and my drive to find solutions were the exact qualities needed to make a successful real estate agent.
tell us about yourself.
I tried out several careers before deciding real estate is the perfect world for me. I worked very hard and with my sheer determination and intelligence, feel that I succeeded in becoming the best at each of them.
What community/area do you Work in?
I live and work in the area I grew up in, which is
I
have been in business my entire life, and in real estate for 10 years, and in everything I do, my motto is “It’s my pleasure to serve you.” I believe that to work in any business, real estate especially, you need be reliable, trustworthy, and work with integrity, and that is what I bring to all my clients. As a real estate sales representative with Royal LePage, I have a pool of resources to help make my clients dreams come true.
Etobicoke centre. I have been here since 1966.
What community involvement do you have?
I live in a community with many seniors and volunteer regularly in an entertainment capacity, which was one of my former careers. I regularly organize large group trips to The Shaw Festival, Stratford, live musical events and many other special events.
What do you enjoy most about being a real estate agent?
The most satisfaction I get being in real estate comes from the pleasure and excitement my clients feel when they get exactly what they want. It makes me proud of my systematic and calculated procedure of achieving the ultimate goal for my client.
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Ruffles Hair Design A u n iq u e s h o p n e s t l e d in n o rt h Y o r k
5997 Bathurst Street, North York, M2R 1Z3 (416) 226-3205 • www.ruffleshairdesign.ca • info@RufflesHairDesign.ca
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uffles Hair Design offers collaborative working environment and a team of stylists who have advanced education in order to better serve our clients. We are dedicated to service and value. All of our licensed specialists sincerely enjoy what they do and it is reflected in the smiles and repeat business of our clients. We promise individual attention and a great experience.
Brands/products you carry:
descriBe your sHop’s viBe:
Schwarzkopf Professional
Modern and classy. Clients feel comfortable here.
How/wHen did you start your Business? I use to work here and bought the business in 1976. Our team have been serving the community for 40 years.
people are surprised to know: New families that move to the area are surprised to know that I have been in the same place for 40 years.
wHat’s tHe most unique product in your sHop? Our colour specialists know the latest colouring techniques and we carry the latest colours.
wHat inspired you to open? I followed my passion to style hair — I love making my clients look good and feel confident.
wHat’s your Business pHilosopHy? At Ruffles Hair Design, our focus is to help you to look and feel amazing, helping to bring out the best in you. Whether you would like to refresh your existing style, or create a brand new look, our talented stylists are here to listen to your needs and concerns.
wHat’s tHe secret to your success? Working hard.
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Mark’s Hungry Deli & Kitchen S e rv i n g o n ly t h e h i g h e St qua l i t y m e at S ava i l a b l e
24 Chauncey Avenue, Etobicoke, M8Z 2Z4 (416) 234-9911 • www.marksmennonitemeats.ca
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ark’s Hungry Deli & Kitchen is a Hungarian-inspired deli that carries the highest quality fresh and smoked meats and handmade pastries. Our popular lunch counter offers daily lunch specials, and our renowned “Big Pork Schnitzel Sandwich.”
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What products do you carry?
We carry turkey and beef as well as Mennonite pork and chicken. All of our fresh meats are sourced within a 100 km radius and are all antibiotic-free. Our recipes are lower in sodium and allergen-free. Our store carries a variety of Mennonite and European groceries.
hoW/When did you start your business?
Mark’s Mennonite Meats is a continuation of my great-grandfather’s butcher shop that was established in 1861 in the original City of Waterloo market. I opened Mark’s Hungry Deli as an extension of our butcher shop.
people are surprised to knoW:
We sell more than 1,000 pogacsa a week. Our
kitchen staff bakes several batches daily.
describe your shop’s vibe:
We have a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, that’s a perfect place to stop and for lunch. Our friendly, uniformed staff members are happy to serve you in English, Hungarian, Croatian or Russian.
What is the most unique product in your shop?
Our unique Hungarian pastries include two varieties of pogacsa (a biscuit made with real bacon or cheese). Our poppy seed and walnut beigli, is a pastry roll that’s especially popular during the holiday season.
Where do you source your
products?
Our pork is sourced from a Mennonite farmer who raises the animals in a humane manner that reflects old-fashioned farming practices.
What’s your business philosophy?
We strive to provide the best quality products in a friendly, full-service experience, ensuring our customers are satisfied and want to come back.
What’s the secret to your success?
We place product quality, attention-to-detail and customer satisfaction above all else. Our clientele choose us because they know they will have a great experience every time they shop.
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Bistro on Avenue Wings & ribs s i m p y t he b e s t ! 1988 Avenue Road Toronto (416) 783-1928 • www.thebistros.ca
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Since 1977, Louis Nemes has sold millions of his famous chicken wings at Bistro on Avenue. When Louis’ Avenue Road location had to close to make way for condos, his frequent patrons begged him to stay in the area. Well he did, and the new Bistro on Avenue is bigger and better than before. Bistro on Avenue has private party rooms and does take-out.
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Why food? In a city where chicken wings dominate the menus of most restaurants, Louis created a niche with his specialty chicken wings.
Brands you carry: What is your signature dish? Chicken Wings
What is your favourite ingredient? “The secret is in the spice.”
hoW long have you Been open? Over 30 years
What’s the one thing people need to try Before leaving your estaBlishment? The chicken wings and dipping sauce 6A. (If you are the chef) What styles of cooking are you trained in? 6B.(If you are the owner) How did you start your business? Louis specializes in classic comfort and specialty foods, such as signature sandwiches, meaty ribs, burgers and salads. 40 years ago, Louis, a former chemist with Canada Packers became the founder of Toronto’s renowned chicken wing eateries, The Chick N’ Deli, The Bistro on Avenue, and the 1st St. Louis Bar & Grill.
people are surprised to knoW: Success for Louis is also success for the community. He hosts the Annual Bistro Golf Tournament, as well as numerous other fundraisers for local charities.
descriBe your restaurant’s viBe: Casual, family-friendly dine-in restaurant.
sWeet or savoury? Both!
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Travelpoint Enterprises Inc. Stouffville profes s io na l f u l l - s e rv i c e , T r av e l ag e n c y 6333 Main Street, Whitchurch-Stouffville, L4A 1G5 (905) 591-7881 • www.travelpoint.ca
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ravelpoint Stouffville,a travel agency that offers exciting, unforgettable holidays for everyone and everywhere! Our certified/specialized agents dedicate their time, knowledge and personal experiences with each and every client. Agents carefully plan every aspect of the trip, and follow-up during the vacation, to ensure expectations are exceeded. We work very closely with Sandals and Beaches Resorts, and work with suppliers, hotels, and tours all over the world for unique travel experiences. We devote our business to providing unforgettable holidays and memories to last a lifetime.
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dreams come true for a wide variety of clients. Across both offices, we work together as a family unit, and take care of our clients like family. Our agents are passionate, enthusiastic and always going the extra mile to provide the best service.
wHat inspired you to open? We wanted to give our clients the ability to see that dealing with a travel agent is ALWAYS more beneficial than booking online. We take pride in our services before, during and afterwards to give each client’s experience the best it can be. “Travel agent = peace of mind”
wHere do you source your products?
Brands/products you carry:
We offer vacation packages with Sandals and Beaches Resorts, Disney, Royal Caribbean cruise lines, AM Resorts, Hyatt Zilara and Hyatt Ziva, Trafalgar Tours and many more.
How/wHen did you start your Business?
Travelpoint Enterprises Inc. first opened its doors in 1987. With two locations, Richmond Hill and Stouffville, we have successfully expanded from a mostly corporate agency to an agency that offers travel holidays for everyone around the world.
descriBe your sHop’s viBe:
With over 30 years of experience, our team of Travel Specialists create and make travel
Travelpoint Enterprises Inc. is a proud member of the Ensemble Group Network, an organization of over 300 independently owned travel agencies across Canada. Benefits include complimentary amenities, upgrades, excursions and better pricing that are only available when you book with us!
wHat’s your Business pHilosopHy?
The six P’s: Prior Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance
wHat’s tHe secret to your success?
Offering services above and beyond, before, during and after our clients’ holidays. Being honest and treating our clients as if we were booking our own holidays for our families! Always providing the best service, and most importantly follow-up several times.
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Financial Services
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Tribecca Finance Corporation L e n d i n g C o m pa n y 261 Sheppard Avenue W, Toronto, M2N 1N4 (416) 225-6900 • www.tribecca.ca
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ribecca Finance is a non-bank lending company, offering loans to individuals who do not meet the stricter guidelines of the banks and other traditional financial institutions. They take a common sense approach to lending to make the process of obtaining a loan “easier, smoother and faster.”
and we work with our clients to provide a monthly payment that they can comfortably afford.
Brands/products you carry: Tribecca Finance offers personal loans, home equity loans, construction loans and second mortgages.
How/wHen did you start your Business? 17 years ago in North York where I was born and raised. North York has always been a thriving community that I feel a strong attachment towards
people are surprised to know: We accept all income types, including salaried, self-employed, and commission
wHat inspired you to open? I saw a niche for a private lending company. There were banks, trust companies and other financial institutions, but some people do not fit into the banks’ strict red tape restrictions, so were denied much-needed loans. I saw the need for alternative funding options for the people of Ontario, and Canada overall.
wHat’s tHe secret to your success? Our expertise, combined with the smooth process of lending and exceptional service. Our expertise allows us to think outside the box because we can understand the situation and therefore can provide solid financial solutions to our borrowers and improve their financial situation. And there isn’t nearly so much red tape for the clients of Tribecca to qualify for a loan, we take a common sense approach to lending.
wHat’s your Business pHilosopHy? Our clients are not just another number. We build relationships and treat everyone with respect, regardless of whether or not we can offer them a loan.
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Congratulations
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The Birks snowfl akeÂŽ ColleCTion
s Ta r T i n g aT $ 9 9 5
As a UnionPay Global Key Merchant , Birks is of fering UnionPay cardholders t he following exclusive of fer: Receive a $30 0 gif t cer tificate,
for any purchase (one trans ac tion) of $ 3,0 0 0 or more at B irk s using a Union Pay c ard (c ard numbe r st ar t s with 62).
Receive a $50 0 gif t cer tificate,
for any purchase (one trans ac tion) of $ 1 0,0 0 0 or more at B irk s using a Union Pay c ard (c ard numbe r st ar t s with 62)
*This gift certificate is valid upon redemption for purchases at any Birks location (excluding service or repairs) through March 31, 2018. No internet or telephone orders. This gift certificate cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. This gift certificate is not redeemable for cash, is non-transferable, cannot be applied as a payment on account and cannot be applied towards payment of a prior purchase. Unused balances will not be credited or refunded. This gift certificate is a gift with purchase. If the original purchase is returned, the gift certificate must also be returned to Birks. Certain restrictions apply, see store for details.
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chartered professional accountant ET H IC A L , r E L IA bL E , In n o vAT Iv E 1315 Lawrence Avenue East, Unit # 401, North York, M3A 3R3 (416) 425-0088 • www.rajasri.ca
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n accountant is a business partner. At Rajasri CPA, we create long-lasting relationships with all of our business partners. We strive to understand your business issues and whereby offer you practical solutions. We work to keep our clients out of trouble. If an unfortunate issue arises with CRA, we will represent you and negotiate the best solution.
over 2 decades. After a decade of being a managing partner in an accounting firm, ideas of independence to help growing businesses gave inception to Rajasri CPA in 2014.
descriBe your sHop’s viBe: We are proactive, affordable, responsive and personal.
Brands/products you carry: We can takeover your entire numerical headache allowing you to focus on your business by performing regularly. • Bookkeeping • Accounts Payable • Payroll & WSIB • Notice to reader Financial Statements • Corporate and Personal Tax • Represent you on CRA Audits • Business Plans & loans
How/wHen did you start your Business? Rajasri MBA, CPA, CGA has experience in the accounting and management field for
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wHat’s tHe most unique product in your sHop? Our never late and never pay penalties policy is unique. Also we provide personalized services that are tailored to your business needs with our small and growing business expert knowledge and preventative accounting.
wHat inspired you to open? To use my qualifications and experiences in operations, accounting, tax and management to coach and help small to mid-sized enterprises and their owners to be strategic and grow. This type of coaching and management services is available only to larger organisations.
wHat’s your Business pHilosopHy? Preventative Accounting - We believe that it is easier to keep you out of trouble than to get you out of trouble.
wHat’s tHe secret to your success? Up-to-date and out-of-the-box thinking, as well as professional, knowledgeable, dependable and personal relationships with our clients.
wHo is your target clientele? Professionals: Engineers, Architects, IT companies & contractors, Real estate sales agents Trade People: Plumbers, Electricians, HVAC and carpenters Professional Corporations: Medical doctors, Dentists, Pharmacists, Chiropractic health Other: Small Manufacturers, Agents and distributors
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Things to Buy
Fusion Supermarket 1150 Morningside Ave, Suite# 113, Scarborough,M1B 3A4 (416) 281-1222 • www.fusionsupermarket.ca
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ith its clean and beautiful store, diverse food and products and excellent customer service, it’s no wonder Fusion Supermarket has been embraced by so many shoppers in Toronto. The 28,000 sq. ft. multicultural grocery store offers shoppers a growing variety of food, grocery items and prepared food from around the world.
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what’s the most unique product in your shop? We offer food with a distinct menu that includes hard-to-find ingredients and spices from around the country and the world.
what inspired you to open? We wanted to provide a one-stop-shop where customers could find the same variety of ingredients that they were used to back home.
where do you source your products? We offer fresh and imported foods from all over the world.
what’s your Business philosophy? Brands/products you carry: Our store includes a produce section, meat section, fish & seafood section, deli, dairy section, Asian kitchen, bubble tea and bakery section, sushi, dim sum, dessert, and a steam table food.
people are surprised to know:
Customer satisfaction is our main focus. Our vision and mission is to become a global retailer focused on wholly satisfying the lifestyle demands of our metropolitan customers by providing them with highquality, internationally sourced merchandise that is ethically and environmentally responsible.
Customer experience is phenomenal. Staff are well-trained and friendly. We pick the best quality vegetables, meats, poultry, cheeses, seafood, frozen food, groceries, snacks and spices that each country has to offer.
what’s the secret to your success?
descriBe your shop’s viBe:
Everyone looking for fresh products and good shopping experience.
Bright, clean, friendly, one-stop shopping
Fresh food, high-quality products, large variety of choices, good customer service and a comfortable shopping environment.
who is your target clientele?
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Simply Chic Fin e l inger ie
2912 Bloor Street W, Etobicoke, M8X 1B6 (416) 233-2900 • www.simplychicfinelingerie.com
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or all things delicate and lacy, visit Simply Chic Fine Lingerie. The elegant shop has been providing alluring lingerie, charming, comfortable nightwear and fashionable cruise and swimwear in the Kingsway for more than two decades!
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Brands/products you carry: We carry brands such as Aubade, Antinea, Empreinte, Antigel, Prima Donna, Marie Jo, Felina, Chantelle, Hanky Panky, Sunflair, Ringella, Nanso and many more!
people are surprised to know: That we have been a licensed Mastectomy fitter for over 25 years. Also, that you can wear any colour under white except white!
where do you source your products?:
what’s your Business philosophy?:
Our products are mostly European, from places like Belgium, Germany, Finland and Paris, France. We also stock items from New York and Miami.
We aspire to make our customers feel comfortable with high-quality service from well-trained and friendly staff. who is your target clientele?: Grandmothers, mothers, daughters and now granddaughters!
what is your secret to success?: “Simply the best at Simply Chic!” We make all of our customers feel important and comfortable. Every day is a bra fitting day! There is no perfect bra but there is a perfect fit. We make people feel empowered in a perfect fitting bra.
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Th e b i g g e s T a s i a n s u p e r m a r k e T c ha i n i n c a na da 23 locations across Ontario, British Columbia, & Alberta (416) 297-8113 • www.TnTsupermarket.com /TTSupermarket
T
o many Canadians, T&T Supermarket is the embodiment of the taste of Asia. It differs from other supermarkets by featuring many uniquely Asian food products not available in other retail outlets. Shopping at T&T is like taking a journey through parts of Asia where one finds fresh mangoes from the Philippines, crispy snacks from Japan, sauces from Hong Kong, noodles from Taiwan, spices from Thailand and a variety of flavours from China and other Asian countries. A favourite stop among shoppers at T&T is
the seafood department where fresh fish, shrimps and crabs swim in large holding tanks waiting to be chosen by discerning customers. Other exciting finds include the giant elephant clam (Geoduck) with its long trunk, lobster and Alaskan king crab, all gleaming and delectable. In addition to the many departments found in a regular supermarket, T&T distinguishes itself by having an in-house bakery, an Asian deli, a Sushi and a Chinese BBQ department. The approach has proven successful and T&T has continued to grow.
tntsupermarket
In 2009, T&T reached another important milestone. Through the merger with Loblaw Companies Limited, T&T is set to continue to expand, bringing Asian products to even more Canadian families. T&T’s spectacular expansion has meant that it is now Canada’s largest Asian supermarket chain. It has ten stores in Greater Vancouver, two stores in Calgary, three stores in Edmonton and eight stores in Ontario, making a total of twenty-three stores in the chain.
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T H E PA N D O R A S T O R E AT
SCARBOROUGH TOWN CENTRE
300 Borough Drive Scarborough, ON M1P 4P5 416.296.9932 jinnys.ca/pandorascarborough
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Health & Beauty
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e make, sell, and import luxury bath and body products. We believe in supporting family and home businesses that provide unique handmade products to bring a bit of opulence and whimsy to your routine.
Valentina’s Body Bakery W E C AT E R T O YO U R S PA N E E D S 3215B Yonge Street, Toronto, M4N 2L3 (416) 850-0730 • www.valsbodybakery.com /ValentinasBodyBakery
What Products do you carry?
popsicles, donuts, cakes, cupcakes.
We carry bath bombs, bubble bars, specialty soaps, artisan soaps, shampoo conditioner, perfume, body butter, lotion, soufflé, polish, exfoiliants, and well as all-natural face and hair products.
Where do you source your Products?
hoW/When did you start your business? I started Valentina’s Body Bakery online three years ago, and opened the physical storefront in August 2016.
What is the most unique Product in your shoP? Bath bombs that have several different shapes like cupcakes that display amazing visual effects. Bubblebars shaped like doughnuts, cake slices, bottles, and push-pops. Soaps shaped like s’mores,
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valentinas_body_bakery
I make quite a few of the products myself. But most of my products come from small family-based home businesses from around the world, including the U.S., Poland, North Africa and India. I love to support businesses that make handmade products to help support their families.
What’s the secret to your success? My secret is being good to people and sharing what I have with others. So many of these women are so talented and don’t have a store to sell in, so I provide that and help support them. I believe that if you do well for others success will follow.
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Tap 2 Tag medical alert devices Leaside Commercial Centre 42 Industrial St. Unit #115 Toronto, M4G 1Y9 (647)478-5758 • www.tap2tag.ca /Tap2TagCanada
@Tap2TagCanada
@Tap2TagCanada
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un The Data is an IT company founded by Keith Beckles and Raquel Shulman. Tap2Tag Canada is a subsidiary company specializing in wearable technology. The Tap2Tag products are today’s most advanced identification and medical alert wearable tech designed to provide first responders instant access to critical medical and location information in an emergency.
Brands/products you carry:
Tap2Tag Medical Alert & ID Wristbands, Tap2Tag K1 Medical Alert & ID, Tap2Tag+ Mobile Medical Alert & GPS Tracker, iRisk Institutional Database system
How/wHen did you start your Business? Run the Data brought Tap2Tag to North America about one year ago.
people are surprised to know:
People are surprised to know how affordable it is to have peace of mind that if you or a loved one are in an emergency situation first responders can access life saving information such as allergies or medical conditions.
wHat’s tHe most unique product in your sHop?
Tap2Tag K1 Medical Alert & ID is our most unique product as it combines style and function in fashion-forward wearable technology.
wHat inspired you to open?
Run The Data was working with an academic medical institution looking to provide healthcare professionals instant identification of patients in a mobile setting. We searched worldwide and found Tap2Tag Medical Alert and ID.
wHere do you source your products?
Run the Data is an Information Technology
company so we source our products globally. (If you need to, I would cut this one)
wHat’s tHe secret to your success?
We are constantly searching for ways to improve our products by listening to the feedback from our customers. We strive to create a balance between innovation and function.
wHo is your target clientele?
Governments worldwide have concluded that individuals require access to their own healthcare information. Our wearable technology allows you to access your vital health information stored in your secure cloud based profile. Where ever you are you.
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Healthy Planet L I V E L I F E H E A LT H Y 15 locations and counting. Find one near you! www.healthyplanetcanada.com /healthyplanetstore
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e believe in bringing a positive change to the World. In making it greener and healthier one day at a time. We envision a Healthy Planet. Touching the lives of individuals, families and communities around the globe. Our promise is unwavering and our commitment strong to making it all happen with great selection of healthy products at affordable prices.
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@healthyplanetca
What products do you carry? Healthy Planet is one of the leading suppliers of herbal and sports supplements, healthy groceries, natural cosmetics, vitamins and more.
hoW/When did you start your business? From a small kiosk in a strip mall on Danforth Ave. in Toronto in 1995, Healthy Planet has grown to 15 stores across southern Ontario.
people are surprised to knoW: We do not just sell products. We pride ourselves on the fact that we offer clients access to real holistic nutritionists and
naturopathic doctors. We invite customers to attend free classes and seminars to help them better understand their nutritional needs.
describe your shop’s vibe: Healthy Planet’s personal goal is to make high quality products readily available and affordable for consumers far and wide. We carefully stock highest quality vitamins, supplements and remedies for all your lifestyle needs in our bright and friendly stores.
Where do you source your products? From the vitamins, supplements, produce, groceries & health foods we sell, to the
socially responsible manufacturers & distributors we work with, we put everything we do through the Healthy Planet filter. We believe that even the smallest, simplest of positive actions every day can result in big changes toward a better, healthier life for yourself & for the planet.
What’s the secret to your success? We know that a healthy and active lifestyle is more than just protein powders and vitamins. We succeeded by making Healthy Planet one of the best-known brands in health foods, supplements, sports nutrition and beauty care categories.
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Midtown Dental Dr. V. Ramlaggan & Associates
De DicateD to excel l ence in Den t is t ry ! ™
Bloor/Yonge Subway • 20 Bloor Street E, Unit R4, Toronto, M4W 3T3 (416) 966-3368 (DENT) • www.midtowndental.ca
M
idtown Dental is a multi-specialty Toronto dental practice where you will experience all that modern dentistry has to offer, including a comprehensive list of general, restorative and aesthetic dental care services to meet the needs of you and your whole family. Our goal is to assist each patient in achieving and maintaining longterm dental health and a beautiful smile!
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What Products do you carry?
describe your office’s vibe:
OraVital bad breath treatment, Same-day Aesthetic Crowns, Laser Treatments, Orthodontics including Invisalign clear straightening, Periodontics, Endodontics, General and Aesthetic Dentistry, Full Mouth Reconstructions, Oral Surgery, Dental Implants, Sleep and Jaw (TMD) Treatment, Dental Hygiene Therapies.
At Midtown Dental, our friendly and knowledgeable team has created a calm and professional environment with a “downtown Toronto” vibe and spacious, modern treatment rooms.
hoW/When did you start your business? I started Midtown Dental over 16 years ago in the heart of Toronto.
PeoPle are surPrised to knoW: I have been practicing for more than 21 years and I was one of the first dentists in Canada to provide Invisalign, a clear, alternative way to straighten teeth. We have appointment parking.
What is the most unique Product in your office? Our Team! Our staff loves working with and giving their best to our patients. We offer very effective Nitrous Oxide and Conscious Sedation (Twilight Dentistry) for nervous patients.
What insPired you to oPen? I was excited to establish a comprehensive dental office to give my patients the best dental care I could provide. I wanted a central, accessible location to provide treatment to the whole GTA with convenient driving, pedestrian and subway access.
Where do you source your Products? We attempt to use the latest, most reliable materials and ensure our environmental impact is minimized.
What’s your business PhilosoPhy? Our entire team is dedicated to providing you with the personalized, quality dental care that you deserve. We commit to giving the best treatment options available to help you make the best, informed decisions.
What’s the secret to your success? A consistent drive to give the best customer service and to give the best oral health care! Communicating with and educating our patients about their care greatly helps establish a long relationship.
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Yves Rocher
Y
ves Rocher is the leader in Botanical Beauty care. We bring all the goodness of nature to your skin; the latest in cosmetology and the finest quality products. We guarantee the traceability of all our ingredients, from skin care, to hair care, to makeup.
Dufferin Mall 900 Dufferin Street Toronto, M6H 4A9 (416) 531-8020 www.yvesrocher.ca
How/wHen did you start your business? In 1959, in the attic of his family’s home, in the heart of Brittany, Yves Rocher created Botanical Beauty, with the highest respect for women and nature. From the very beginning, he insisted on controlling every step of the production cycle in order to guarantee quality and safety of all products for a respectful and accessible brand.
PeoPle are surPrised to know: The brand supports the Yves Rocher Foundation in its commitment to plant 100 million trees until 2020 around the world. We plant trees where they are needed most. By purchasing one of our listed products, we will plant a tree on your behalf and you too can join the tribe of tree planters.
wHere do you source your Products? We have 55 acres of organically farmed fields in La Glacilly, France. We also source our botanicals from all five continents and from
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more than 18 countries from Madagascar to Brazil, always employing fair trade practice. 100 per cent of our packaging is eco-design and all our rinse-off personal care products (bath and shampoo) are easily biodegradable.
wHat’s your business PHilosoPHy? The Yves Rocher brand has always been guided by one conviction: all women around the world should have access to beauty. Our formulas are effective and highly concentrated in natural actives. Our ambition is to act in harmony with our environment as does each plant and tree naturally.
wHat’s tHe secret to your success? As a botanist, harvester, manufacturer and retailer, we are the only global cosmetics brand to control the entire life cycle of its products: from the plant to the skin. This specificity allows Yves Rocher to lower its environmental impact and offer every woman quality products at an accessible price.
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