MEET: BRIE WHO LOVES THE UNCOMMONS
Our first MEET post featuring a local shopper! Brie Biblow is a loyal fan of The UnCommons in Inglewood, one of our amazing GIVR retailers. We are so excited to her insight on why it is such a great place to shop (as if we didn't already know!). Anyways, MEET Brie...
Brie Biblow: I tend to drink a lot of coffee, I've recently realized I'm becoming a bit of a spin junkie, and I listen to a lot of BBC Radio1 Live Lounge covers, those things are really good…that's not likely what you meant with that question though… So the more conventional answers: I work in Communications at the Alberta College of Art + Design. I also freelance as a publicist for a few local bands and artists and I do a arts grant writing on the side.
GIVR: What is your favourite thing about The UnCommons?
BB: I have to limit it to one? Yikes. Forget about it. First off, it has to be the staff (aka. owners) Lisa and Ian are truly some of the best people I've met. Every single time I walk into the store Lisa is asking me how my day has been and is excitedly explaining to me all the amazing new stuff they have in stock. Secondly, their stock! The products they bring in are masterfully curated. Without exaggerating, I walk into the store and quickly realize I want everything in it. That can be anything from a stunning wooden iPhone alarm clock, to an insanely soft CAMP tank or an edison light bulb for my bedroom lamp. Thirdly, their location. Inglewood has long been one of my top 3 favourite neighbourhoods in Calgary (I'm working on eventually living in a 1900's character home in Ramsay). The sense of community is so strong in Inglewood that supporting local isn't merely an option it's a must.
GIVR: How would you describe The Uncommons to someone new?
BB: The name sort of says it all. Be uncommon. Buy brands that you haven't heard of! Fill your material life with some of the most unique products that have been curated just for you. To me, The Uncommons is a locally owned boutique that puts their heart & soul into finding the best, coolest and most unique products of every kind to Calgary.
GIVR: What is on your current wishlist from the shop?
BB: If you know me, you'll know I have a fascination and obsession with ampersands (these guys - &) so, this one's impossibly easy. I'm coveting the "Ampersand Brand Bundle Table - Black Corian and Black Walnut Dowel Legs" It's currently a little out of my price range though, so I'd happily settle for a terrarium.
GIVR: Why do you think it is important to shop local?
BB: For me, as a Calgarian, shopping local is important because you're building connections and relationships with the people who are working to create the 'culture' that so many of us crave in a city.
GIVR: How do you like to Givr?
BB: If I'm in Calgary, I'm a big fan of great friends, food and cocktails. I'd probably start the night off with Dinner at Model Milk with a few share plates (all the cheese toasties. literally. all of them.) & a couple of glasses of Prosecco. Then head out for a nightcap at Ox & Angela for some bourbon. I did however just buy a plane ticket to Europe for 5 weeks though, I suppose that would qualify as "Givnr"!
