Lisa Anderson’s vision for Mint Boutique started, in part, as a response to the onslaught of big box department stores and chains that began creeping into neighbourhoods typically known for their thriving independent local businesses. “I don’t think bigger box stores have pushed little boutiques out, but that boutique experience seems to be diminishing. I wanted to make sure I could capture the boutique experience so that people didn’t forget,” says Lisa.
Her full-service Distillery District shop is a well-curated collection of home décor, jewellery, handbags and women’s clothing described as on trend, but not so trendy that it’s out of style by the end of the year. “We carry a lot of handmade pieces and eco-friendly pieces, or pieces by an actual craftsperson who has taken the time to think of the details, where in bigger brands and box stores, they don’t have the time, they don’t have the money, or they don’t want to do that,” she says.
The devil’s in the details for Lisa, whether she’s meticulously arranging Mint Boutique’s showroom or detecting subtle nuances within the latest fashions. Lisa is typically on the hunt for designs that are playful or strategically patterned, such as carefully crafted pleats, unique buttons, a certain type of wash, or even the layout of a pocket.
