Farewell to Target

When the news broke out a few a weeks ago that Target would be leaving Canada, I was not surprised but I was deeply saddened. I had already heard rumors of the company's major debt and demise and so I was spared the shock factor. However, like many of you, I feel like the loss of Target stores will leave a significant void in my shopper's heart.

It's hard to explain but I believe I held a special relationship with Target that ran deeper than simple retail. It was a shopping experience like no other and it quickly became a weekly ritual. My Target visits almost religiously started off the same ol' way, at the Starbucks counter, "I'll have the cranberry-lemon scone and a small Blonde roast please." I'd clip that red cup holder to my shopping cart, and so the adventure began. It wasn't just about consuming, it was also about having some quality me time. My trips to Target were like a mini-vacation, if you will, maybe because I associated  the feeling of a Target store with trips to Florida, it always felt like an escape. I loved taking my time browsing the aisles, checking out the clothing, the shoes, the home decor, the makeup, and even the greeting cards section was a favorite. The store was usually peaceful on those early Saturday mornings, never too crowded. If I happened to walk out of there with a new lipstick and a pair of jeans well so be it, I was happy. 

As it stands, the shelves are getting emptier and emptier as we patiently await the start of the reported liquidation sales. And although I adore sales of any kind, this one will be tinged with the sadness of losing a good friend I was just getting to know. It was great while it lasted, Target!  

An Ode to the Hudson's Bay

How do I love thee? 

Let me count the ways...

This is just a quick shout-out to one of my very favorite stores, The Bay. As everyone has heard by now, the Hudson's Bay Co. will be acquiring major US fashion retailer Saks Inc. in a huge 2.9-billion dollar deal. I, for one, am very excited about this! Over the past few years, I've witnessed The Bay's evolution into an ultra-modern, trendy department store but at the same time, still remaining true to their classic style. Anyone who knows me, knows that I am The Bay's number one biggest fan always keeping a close eye on their sales and new arrivals. Since my office is conveniently located right across the street, I've been known to spend many-a-lunch break browsing their ever-improving shoe department. Anytime I find myself in need of a last-minute purchase or a gift idea, I always know The Bay will have what I need.

Congratulations Hudson’s Bay!