Wow you can spend hours in Michael's just looking at all the arts and crafts that they have…read more Depending on what you are looking for you should be able to find it here. Searching for a gift for my BF daughter I knew what I wanted to get her. Where she likes crafts I went and searches for an outdoor patio stone so that she could make. Many to chose from I like the flower on which came into a pre packages kit ready to go for $29.99. There are isles and isle of stuff half of which I have no idea what to do with it. Picture frames, beads for making jewelry and very nicely laid out. The staff are very helpful and will take the time to explain to you what the product requires. Oh and they as well have Birthday Parties at Michael's which is a fantastic idea.

Michael's is pretty close to my personal hell on earth…read more First off, I don't like crafting. I find it an exercise in frustration and failure. Second, I don't have the patience for confusing big box stores where everything is tremendously difficult to find. Third, I don't like being surrounded by other shoppers who so clearly do not have the same issues as I do as mentioned in points one and two. Simply put, Michael's is not for me and I have no business reviewing its products, service or experience. Still, I will for the sake of prepping non-crafters like myself for what they should expect when dragged here by handy friends, or accidentally coming to in aisle four after some strange Hangover-style bender. What you need to know is that for crafters, everything about Michael's makes sense which is probably why you're so confused and disoriented. It's not SUPPOSED to make sense to mere mortals like you and I. Just go with it, ask for help, and get out rather than try to figure it out on your own and lose three hours of your life. Don't be a hero. You should probably also know that there's always some cray-cray sale going on that again will not make any sense to you. But don't worry, just buy what you went in for and the helpful staff at the cash will find ways to save you money so you don't have to. This should also be a note to not even bother trying to figure out how much money you're about to spend before you go up to the cash. Lastly, they have more things than you will ever need or even begin to understand. Remember above all else, keep your eye on the prize, know what you're looking for, and commit to your plan of craftification before you enter. Otherwise you're going to end up thinking that your bristol board and cut-outs project should actually be a paint, canvas and pottery ordeal from which you will never recover.

Love both locations of this store. I love supporting local businesses, and Made in the Maritimes…read moreallows you to support a local business ... by supporting local businesses. Yes, their wares can be pretty expensive, especially some of the beautiful wall art on display, but it reflects the effort, talent, time and money that goes in to producing handmade items on a small scale. And there are some lovely things here: jewellery, yarn, wood crafts, candles, treats, and of course the artwork. They have something for just about everyone on your gift list. Staff are friendly and helpful at both locations, and I don't think I've ever left empty-handed.

I can't resist walking by stores like this…read more I admit, I'm a sucker for local made knick-knacks, smelling handmade soaps and admiring all the talented artists work. Made in the Maritimes has a lovely collection of local goods all in one adorable little shop. Today we were greeted by a sweet smiling young woman who chatted with us while we browsed. Even though I didn't have the money to buy anything I still enjoyed browsing all the wonders Maritimers have to offer. We need more stores like this.

If I had endless amounts of money, I'd buy all of my home decor here. It's pricey, but everything…read moreis well-designed and perfectly curated for modern tastes. If my home could look like the interior of the Independent Mercantile, I'd be happy. I love the furniture, but I almost love the knick knacks even more. Door knobs, door knockers, candles, some makeup, cards, beard care kits...if you're a young professional I bet you'll find something you'll like in this store. I've got my eye on the cotton curtains they sell (at least I hope they still sell them! They did one of the last times I was in) in particular. They're beautiful designed and because they're cotton they'll last forever. *thumbs up* If you like the vibes of Biscuit General Store, you'll like the Independent Mercantile. They're very similar aesthetics, though this shop focuses on the home rather than fashion. (I think they have the same owner? Not 100% sure on that one though) Oh, they have a sale section in the back - make sure you check it out for good deals!

I love this store, in fact it is probably one of my favourites in the HRM…read more It is a combination of cute trinkets, practical housewares and personal hygiene products. Everywhere you turn there's some unique item that catches your eye. I particularly love their selection of cruelty-free beauty products by companies like Pacifica and the eco conscious products in store. The downside is the cost for me. Eco products tend to costs a ridiculous fortune. Regardless, I love this store and think it's simply adorable.

What a lovely little shop celebrating all things pregnancy and baby related…read more I happened upon this boutique today, I suppose quite intentionally as I've wanted to head in and check it out for quite some time now. The first thing that struck me was the lovely smell when I stepped into the warm store - it smelled like lavender and that delightful fresh baby scent that all newborns seem to have. I was greeted promptly and took my time perusing the selections. They have a huge array of soft reusable diapers as well as lots of books, both educational for parents-to-be and playful stories for young kiddies. They have lots of wares to make new parents comfortable, like baby slings and cozy blankets. This is a great place to go if you're expecting or you know someone with a bun in the oven. You'll find an educated staff able to support you and offer you assistance with great products designed to help out with the rough and tumble, exciting journey of parenthood.

Absolutely the most warm and welcoming baby store in town…read more It's a must for the cloth-diapering and baby-wearing set, but even parents who don't opt for this lifestyle will find something to love. There's a great, curated selection of toys, books, and gear that is sure to make any parent or child on your list giggle with delight. The staff could not possibly be any more helpful, but to go even further, they host regular workshops on cloth diapering, baby wearing, pregnancy and delivery, breastfeeding, potty training and more. The store is gorgeous within, from the barn-board floor to the blackboard wall, to the rainbow of cloth diapers on display. The front windows are always a wonderland. The store is even accessible if you can't get into Halifax. They have a vibrant web presence at their website, Facebook page and Twitter stream.

During our first visit to Halifax, we passed by this shop while exploring and decided to have a…read morelook inside. It's a charming little shop with hints of Japanese culture out for display. Perfect place for gifts ranging from plushies, figures, notebooks, calligraphy sets, and a number of accessories and clothes. Very polite staff who are from Japan I believe. Will definitely come back on our next trip and bring a bigger luggage!

This is a great edition to Quinpool Rd. It seems Quinpool Rd, is becoming the food mecca of…read moreHalifax. Ikebana is full of wonderful gifts that will be a great surprise for anyone. If you are a tea drinker you will find some fantastic Green Tea here. The owner is a wonderful man who takes the time to talk with you and give a little education on the unique gifts here. The arrangements might be a little high for the budget with some people. Stop by and have a look.

Super friendly! Awesome collection of local art and crafts . Wide price range. You will meet one of…read morethe artists as they take turns working in the gallery! Loved it!

I'm always intimidated to go into art galleries. I don't know much about art, except things that I…read morelike and don't like. I don't normally have a vast interest, but sometimes it's nice to look. I walk by this store quite frequently and one day bravely decided to go in. I was right. It was uncomfortable and I felt out of place... at first. After a while I forgot where I was and just really started enjoying all the paintings. Everything was very beautiful and unique. I was amazed at how long I spent in there. It was like I was in a mini museum. Since I'm not a connoisseur, I don't have a wild understanding of art prices. I couldn't tell you if they are high or low. What I can tell you is that the work was beautiful and being in here was an experience all in itself!

I'm here visiting from Ottawa, ON. Found this cute shop and went to drop in, super cute stuff!…read moreBought a cute fairy ring :)