Odd Finds General Store
Odd Finds General Store is exactly what it sounds like: a homey space teeming with a hodgepodge of vintage treasures, knick-knacks, handmade apothecary, and - odd ly enough - loose-leaf teas. Owned by sister duo Danielle and Stacey Collrin, the quiet shop recently planted itself in the heart of Bloordale Village, right above longstanding tattoo parlour LTP .
Upon entrance, I was immediately bombarded with things to gander at. The hardwood floors are lined with dozens of rugged leather boots, charming kitten heels, and pixie-like lace ups.
Handpicked men's and women's clothing - most of which is true vintage, save for a few noteworthy second-hand pieces - is loaded onto several run-of-the-mill clothing racks found throughout the (fortunately) spacious room.
And, to top it all off, curiosities - including, but not limited to seashells ($1), unmounted deer antlers ($75 - $90), and various animal figurines - fill all of the spaces in between. Consignors 96 Tears , Suburb, and Stacey herself handpick the vintage stock - each item visibly pre-loved yet packed with more years of life to come.
As I was admiring a rust-coloured suede cape with bold fur trim ($150), Danielle popped up from the counter to greet me. "Would you like some tea?" she asked as I suddenly found myself at Dee's Teas halfway down the length of the room. The cold winter was particularly unforgiving that day, and a hot cup sounded like just the thing to fight it. I looked up at the wall of tins, overwhelmed to say the least.
There are the usual suspects like Earl Grey and Chamomile scattered between more exciting flavours like Island Coconut Sri Lankan black tea and Goji Berry Chinese oolong - not to mention Yerba MatĂŠ, a way healthier alternative to coffee. Danielle ended up surprising me with Honey Moon - a smooth black and white tea blend with rose petals, vanilla, and bergamot - which I enjoyed thoroughly as I perused the tea-infused handmade soaps ($4 each or 3 for $10) and soy candles ($8 each or 2 for $15) on a table nearby.
Perhaps Odd Finds' most unique quality lies in the variety of its offerings. Because it's a general store, Danielle and Stacey are open to pretty much any consignor that "just feels right." Today, photography by Meredith Moon and Totem jewellery adds to their stock, tomorrow might be a whole different story.
Photos by James C Lee