Ottawa’s Newest & Not-So Common Concept Shop

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Last Thursday, I was invited to the media preview of The Common, Ottawa’s newest urban fashion stop at 380 Elgin Street. This modern take on city strip mall, finds a new way to gather multiple local shops into one common space: The Common, Le Petit SalonMorning Owl Coffeehouse and soon-to-be  eclectic eatery.

Ottawa The Common Concept shop 380 Elgin
Nader Salib, owner of The Common Concept Shop, finally materialized his dream of owning a retail space in Ottawa.

I had the opportunity to speak with Nader and congratulate him on taking the risk and opening a clothing boutique, a dream we share in common (no pun intended there!). The Ottawa market is tricky, when it comes to high-end boutiques and private labels. Everyone wants them, but are they ready to support them? It’s lovely to browse, but at the end of the day, these shops need sales to survive!

I think Nader is on to something with this collaboration. I admire his out-of-box approach to turn a dream into his new reality. Partnering with other solid businesses, like my favourite coffee shop Morning Owl, should help to minimize the risk and amplify the impact! It offers a unique twist on convenience and cross-promotion of services. Come for a new outfit, and grab a coffee while you do it. It’s a new type of space that welcomes loitering and ultimately your business!

The collection at The Common is a mix of upscale street and urban fashion; a smart selection of threads and kicks for men and women. The space is simplistic and oh-so perfect!

This lovely gentleman prepared me the best cup of coffee I have ever had! It was prepared in an AeroPress, similar to a french press, but it uses pressure and a filter. This offers a full flavoured cup of joe with a smooth and rich texture. So. good. Here is a glimpse inside Le Petit Salon.

And now… pour la piece de resistance!

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We had a sneak peak at the graffiti space, which is a work-in-progress and soon-to-be eatery. Rumour has it that this restaurant will be offering a combination of Caribbean and Mediterranean fare. That sounds perfect to me, and I can’t wait to try it!

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PR Event: Blackbook Lifestyle and Arc Hotel celebrate #5ive5ifteen

On Thursday, October 15, 2015, I attended #5ive5ifteen, an event hosted by Blackbook Lifestyle, an Ottawa based PR and Events company, who was celebrating five successful years in the business! This was a tag team event executed at the Arc Hotel, a boutique hotel in the heart of the downtown core, who coincidentally was also celebrating an anniversary, 15 years in the biz. Hence, #5ive5ifteen.

I headed to the event straight after work, and posted a typical outfit selfie on Instagram after a lady cat-called out of her window at me “I love your shoes!”. At the event, we were presented with the Arc Hotel’s latest menu items, developed by their new Executive Chef, Jason Peters. I have never been inside this hotel, much less eaten at their restaurant. That’s why I love attending these events, you really get to experience new places to eat and open your repertoire of evening outs. Between the chicken on a bed of couscous, to the skirt steak on polenta and magical scallops on a bed of pureed cauliflowers, I had the opportunity to sample what this hotel can offer. Delicious and healthy food. I was pleasantly surprised and my belly was full!

The entire event was executed flawlessly and once again we were left amazed with how Blackbook Lifestyle brings their events to life. Step and Repeat photographer at the entrance, famous models and handsome bouncers at the door, added to the red-carpet experience.

The drinks were flowing, the food was devoured and the dance floor was packed. I connected with new faces and chatted with familiar ones. I had a blast!  I truly hope there were no pictures of me dancing when the reggae came on though!

All in all, this was a great event and really allows Ottawa to showcase its local talent and thirst for social culture.

PR Event: Blackbook Lifestyle and Arc Hotel celebrate #FiveFifteenPR Event: Blackbook Lifestyle and Arc Hotel celebrate #FiveFifteenPR Event: Blackbook Lifestyle and Arc Hotel celebrate #FiveFifteen PR Event: Blackbook Lifestyle and Arc Hotel celebrate #FiveFifteen PR Event: Blackbook Lifestyle and Arc Hotel celebrate #FiveFifteenPR Event: Blackbook Lifestyle and Arc Hotel celebrate #FiveFifteen
PR Event: Blackbook Lifestyle and Arc Hotel celebrate #FiveFifteen PR Event: Blackbook Lifestyle and Arc Hotel celebrate #FiveFifteen PR Event: Blackbook Lifestyle and Arc Hotel celebrate #FiveFifteen PR Event: Blackbook Lifestyle and Arc Hotel celebrate #FiveFifteen PR Event: Blackbook Lifestyle and Arc Hotel celebrate #FiveFifteen PR Event: Blackbook Lifestyle and Arc Hotel celebrate #FiveFifteenParty photos by Eric Vance PHOTOGRAPHER + STYLIST
Media Wall photos by Quame Scott- Q3 Studio

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