Courage My Love is a beloved member of the Kensington Market community. The store first opened in 1975 on Cecil Street. In 1979 the shop moved to its current Kensington Market location after owner Cece Scriver’s parents transported merchandise from their original location on Cecil Street. Kensington's tight-knit community vibe is evident in the typical customer-employee interactions at the store. “It’s a family run business,” explains Cece, “and we treat everyone who comes in here like family, too.”
Employees are trained to be approachable but not pushy when it comes to customer service. “People get to know (our customers) and know their quirks,” Cece states proudly. “I think customers expect to be treated a certain way when they come here. One motto when people start working here is don’t bug people, tell them that you’re there to serve them, but leave them alone.”
Because it’s a family-run operation, Courage My Love has an extremely low employee turnover. Many of the shop's employees have worked here for over a decade, which provides customers with the opportunity to really get to know the staff.
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Courage my Love is the longstanding Queen of accessories in the Kensington Market. Find unique and imported jewellery from around the world (everything from glass bead necklaces to aged brass bangles). It is also one of TO’s few spots with a wide array of antique 1930s glass buttons for customizing your clothing. If 1950s and 60s style is your look, try some authentic cat eye sunglasses, long lady gloves or silk scarves. For men, check out the selection of colourful, patterned ties and fedoras.
View this Smart ListA visit to Kensington Market isn’t complete without a careful browse of the ever-changing stock in this vintage shop. Inventory usually includes a good selection of nylons and other stockings in sheer and solid styles and all lengths and sizes. The search requires patience. It’s the perfect place to hunt down the pieces you need to complete a steampunk costume or tweak your wardrobe with a splash of nostalgia.
View this Smart ListThis place is literally a gem. In the 6 since 1975, Courage My Love carries vintage clothes and accessories from far-off places like India, Mexico, Thailand, Turkey and Namibia. The second you walk in, you’ll see a galore of jewellery around you that can make even the simplest outfit a festival-worthy one. Their bohemian-style earrings, coin belts (perfect match to a maxi skirt), statement necklaces and antique rings will add just the right amount of pop to your outfit. You can also design your own beaded necklaces and bracelets at their bead station – perfect for layering or wearing solo.
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