I've gotta say, this place is pretty rad! Totally not what I'd normally go for as it's mostly a…read morecollection of kitsch-infused home decor bordering on country kitchen, but I appreciate how they're setting themselves apart. In a place where selling cheap crap with lobsters on 'em to tourists is a valid way of life, Down Home Living manages to hit a much more appetizing middle ground between products you'd actually like, with enough Atlantic Canadian style tucked in for good measure. Instead of t-shirts with screen-printed moose in Mountie costumes, you'll find modern art hangings of stylized whales, picture frames painted to look like fishing markers, and just a great selection of home decor that still manages to hold its own in the style department. Don't skip this one!

Lunenburg is none of the things that the Vancouver reviewer describes. There are loads of wonderful…read moreshops in Lunenburg that befit the historic and incredibly beautiful and sophisticated UNESCO DESIGNATED town that it is. Down Home Living has a lot of wonderful items for the home. It's an altogether pleasing shopping experience in every way. I recently bought a wonderful lamp at Down Home Living that I will take home to Florida with me. There are pillows, blankets, some kitchenware, art, mirrors and many lovely small items in this store. Don't miss it! It's always crowded with patrons and has been a successful business at this location for many years. It never fails to please.

This is a cool little interior design shop that has hit a beautiful middle ground between east…read morecoast inspiration and beautiful modern day design. More for that signature piece that will make a room pop than a full-package, you can browse through these few rooms full of treasures with no idea what's around each corner. From a carousel horse from the 1930s, to incredible local art, there are goodies a plenty for just about any taste. Prices can vary from obscenely high to university dorm affordable so long as you know where to look! I was surprised a handful of times and proven I'm a terrible guesser when it comes to the cost of local wares. Sometimes a gorgeous art print would be under $20 and then a pillow would be $70+. The lesson here is: don't write anything off until you check the price tag. You never know when you might be treated to a really pleasant surprise!

My sister and I visited this shop in July 2018, lunch napkins and candles were purchased which…read morelater were not needed. Unopened and still in original bag. I drove there from Dartmouth an hour and half drive. The intention was to refund the products with original sales receipt within the 30 day timeframe offered on the sales slip. Upon arrival I was informed I was not in the timeframe to bring a refund. After settling the 30 day timeframe I was then told "well the owner is not here I am not authorized" then after about half hour of waiting I was told they dont ever do refunds I could get a gift card or exchange. I was not interested in that, cash refund would be fine as it was paid by cash. Bottom line I did not get a refund and was forced to exchange the 50.00 sales slip for other product. Not very good as a business practice, at the very least if no refunds are ever offered it should be stated on the sales slip. Buyers beware !!

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.

Dots & Loops combine everything that I love about Inkwell, the Independent Mercantile and Duly…read moreNoted into one beautiful shop. I've only actually been once, but it was enough to make me swoon. I mean...I've been following them on social media for ages and have drooled over their photos, but now that I've been inside, yep, it's love. I love that just about everything in the shop is made in Canada, and there is so much love for local Nova Scotian artists too! I could have bought a car full of goodies - Rifle Paper Co journals? Adorable prints? Jewellery dishes shaped like woodland animals? And then the jewellery itself that is just so gorgeous, it's hard not to want a little bit of everything. The store is packed full of goodies in every space available, but it doesn't feel cramped or crowded. The set up is perfect for browsing in a crowd (even though I was there in the off-season). I can't say enough about this charming shop! I can't wait to go back.

Just. YES. After a…read moreday of shopping the south shore, inundated by stereotypical 'maritime' crap that I just can't get down with, I almost let out an audible cry of happiness when I walked into this brand new addition to the Lunenburg scene. The modern, open and bright space really let the products on the shelves shine rather than forcing customers into an awkward stumble through overpacked aisles of random nick-knacks. Within seconds of seeing all the inspiring and adorable prints, handmade pillows and stuffed toys, quirky greeting cards and stationery, and tons more, I knew I was in trouble. Much like a similar store in Halifax (Love, Me Boutique), I just wanted it all. And that's okay...because every purchase helps support a legitimate local artist or crafter which makes me feel MUCH better about gift-giving than just picking up your average mass-produced 'Authentic Nova Scotian' anything. Besides, there were so many great products available for less than $20 which makes it easy to do some damage without having to hate yourself for it later. I will absolutely be back. Hopefully soon and often.

The Teazer is, and has been for many years, my hands-down favourite shop in Mahone Bay. Tucked away…read moreby the gas station on the main drag out of town, this charming blue homestead is hard to miss and not to be overlooked. Packed with hundreds of items for the home, the kitchen, the pets, the kids, the babies, the fridge, or even the wardrobe, there really is something for everyone in there. While not everything is locally made, a good chunk of the stock has been and the store staff are happy to point you in the right direction if you need help finding it. Don't miss the 'bargain basement' in the adjacent garage where you can find great steals. Just hit up the ATM at the gas station for cash before you go - this section can't accept plastic.

Super cute store! They have every nic-nac imaginable for gifts, home, friends, a hostess, kids,…read moreetc. Could be a bit overwhelming so take your time to walk throughout the store. I highly recommend you stop in if in the area. You're bound to find something for someone if not for yourself.

This decorative little shop has some neat ideas, i'll give them that…read more Interesting items to be found: *'We're at the lake' wooden garden signs *Repurposed old door knobs turned into towel holders *Wooden garden signs in general with sage, tulips, etc written on them. Generally a wide range of gift ideas. Most products in the shop have been created by the owners themselves so that's pretty neat. I would have preferred to browse on my own however, as opposed to being given the run down of each item I picked up. Eager sales people, that's for sure!

Rusty Hinges is my kind of store. Like others have said walking in here is like walking into a…read morechild hood memory of a weekend at the cottage. The smell of the soaps and candles places you in a relaxed mood to browse the shabby sheik store. I love this style of furniture old style with a modern twist to it. Bird houses seem to be a big thing in this store but these bird house are more of a decor thing. Various colours that you would use and an accent piece apposed to hanging in a tree. Bath salts and lotions fill the shelves with straw baskets in a way that you need to touch. I would love to design my house with everything in this place. Now prices are a bit higher then an average wear house stocked with but the character of each piece is filled with conversation and years of falling in love with your piece over and over. Beautiful hardwood floors with great wear can tell you that this store has had many visitors walking through and this is a place that I will visit again.

Knackered Vintage to Modern Decor is a gem of a store, well worth a stop for any antique enthusiast…read moreor anyone with an eye for home decor. It hosts a well-curated assortment of antiques, refurbished projects, local artisan goods, as well as supplies for your own furniture revamps. The prices are super reasonable, and the stock is always updating. Can't wait to stop back in!