I want to try an experiment, if you’ll indulge me. Let’s metaphorically close our eyes and imagine for a moment: the summer is upon us, bringing with it all the warmth and sunshine that we dreamt of in our deepest, most desperate moments of winter. Inspired by this magnificent weather, you have flocked to your porch or sunroom, finding yourself lounging on your favourite chair, drinking your favourite drink and soaking up those delicious rays of sun.
Now, let me ask you a question: how did this place of relaxation you imagined look? What were the little pieces, the touches of decor, that made the place uniquely yours? You probably already have some ideas, either pieces that you already own or something you’ve been eyeing for a while. However, with the help of Wendy Gottmers, owner of Wendy’s Favourite Things at 12 North Broadway in Belwood, we are going to break down some trends and must haves that will make your retreat the perfect summer oasis.
THROWS & PILLOWS
It may seem an obvious answer, but it’s obvious for a reason; throws and pillows are a quick and easy way to transform a space. The feel of a room can be completely changed just by swapping out one pillow for another, while all your larger investment pieces (furniture, and etc) stay just as they are.
Looking for something unique in this vein? Try the painted pillows at Wendy’s Favourite Things. Available in a variety of colours and patterns, each pillow is hand painted by Belwood local, Kim McKeown, meaning that no two pillows are exactly alike, even when they’re the same pattern. Take it a step further and get the pillow customized. Family names or sayings that are now inside jokes, are a great way to make a piece feel like yours, bringing your personality into the space.
LANTERNS
It’s the perfect sign of the season; there’s just something about lanterns that speaks to the feeling of late summer nights, chasing fireflies and gazing at the stars. Whether it’s to light your patio, or highlight flowers and décor, lanterns of all shapes and sizes bring warmth and personality to any space, inside or out.
From her more natural and modern bamboo lanterns that can give the room an earthy feel, to classic glass pane box lanterns that call back to a time past, Wendy has the lantern that will suit your tastes and needs. For the “box” lanterns, Wendy’s Favourite Things currently carries two different designs, each in three sizes. You can pick and choose individual sizes or buy all three at a discounted bundle price.
WALL ART
Everyone needs a piece or two to give the room texture and personality, as such this is the area that offers the most variety and selection. Wendy carries many paintings and artwork from local artists, herself included, that bring stunning pieces of nature indoors. However, two particular points of interest are the Belwood Lake Sign by Louise Jessup and the wooden Canadian flags made by David Richards. Both Jessup and Richards are local creators. A map of Belwood Lake, Jessup’s pieces come with a gold sticker to personalize, allowing you to identify where your property is and Richards’ pieces are each unique, made from different types of woods, allowing you to bring some rustic patriotism to any space.
GLASSWARE & PLACE SETTINGS
It might not be the first thing you think of, but your place settings can really set the tone of your space, particularly if you’re gathering with friends or family around the table to enjoy a meal and the bright summer sun. Choosing which plates, bowls, and glassware that you are going to use is a simple and practical way to brighten up any area.
Maxwell & Williams is a company that Wendy’s Favourite Things favours, supplying a variety of plates and bowls from their Caviar and Granite line, as well as a few others. Each item is priced individually, though you can also pay a discounted price for a single place setting and mix and match the styles that go in.
Don’t forget the classic and vintage pieces that Wendy sells. They are perfect for a touch of unique, particularly the Shirley Jemmett dessert or candle stands. Made from vintage plates and glasses, each one is truly one of a kind.
Truthfully, I wish I had more than a loose 800 words to describe to you all that Wendy’s Favourite Things has to offer. I could fill this entire magazine with those details. From Frida Kahlo planters to “royal” Queen & Corgi salt shakers, there truly is something for everyone in Wendy’s store – the only thing left for me to do is to encourage you to go and see it for yourself.
I think some of Wendy’s favourite things might just become your favourites, too.
WRITTEN BY: JILLIAN KENT | PHOTOGRAPHY: CORY BRUYEA | RESOURCES: WENDY’S FAVOURITE THINGS, BELWOOD
