“In order to see birds it is necessary to become part of the silence.” –Robert Lynd

THE STYLE: Cottage life and outdoor living

IN A NUTSHELL: The Hummingbird House begins its ninth year in business with a new expansion. With double the original floor space, the store has increased its collection of décor and gift items. Owners Anna Barker and Kellie McDade have created a destination with a reputation as a great place to spend a lazy afternoon between May and October. The mother and daughter-in-law team greets their regulars and many visitors with genuine smiles and a willingness to help.

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THE ANGLE: Late jazz creates a soothing and quietly upbeat atmosphere. “We want you to come in and have a relaxing shopping experience,” says Barker. The Hummingbird House is a place where an hour can pass without notice and customers find something new every time they enter. A team of six changes the store around on a regular basis, uncovering hidden gems each time. The Hummingbird House was nominated for a Canadian Gift and Tableware Association

UNIQUE: The staff at The Hummingbird House can find exactly what you’re looking for. “We feel we appeal to a wide age range because of our generation gap,” says Barker, adding each staff member brings their own flair and style to an assortment of amazing finds. “We pride ourselves on our customer service,” she says. People will come in on their lunch hour just to browse — and that’s the kind of store Barker and McDade want. In addition, every item that leaves the store does so gift packaged. Each purchase is ready to give as a gift or to keep as a gift to yourself. These are just some of the reasons customers make the annual pilgrimage to the store from surrounding counties.

THE MISSION: “We really try to keep the cottager, boater and vacationer in mind,” says Barker. The team chooses items they would like to have in their own homes, and hope the diversity pleases the clientele. Everything has been hand-picked and nothing is ordered unless it is seen, touched and discussed by the entire team. This team considers where each member likes to shop and why, and they use the information as a model for their collection.

THE PRODUCTS: Home décor and gardening items are what you’ll find here. “We’re always looking for items that are ahead of other stores in the area,” says McDade. “We have a different style, a different elegance.” Decorative mirrors, lamps and unique dishware are hot items at The Hummingbird House, as well as anything to do with gardening. “Everything in the store is themed,” says Barker. “It’s a cottage theme. It’s a nature theme.” The store also features the work of a dozen local artisans.

FAVOURITES: During the summer months, sculptures, bird houses, pebble mats and anything with a hummingbird on it are favourite items in this shop. The team tries to find unique hummingbird pieces to pay tribute to their store name. With flocks of tourists visiting Tobermory every year, the summer stock of favourites disappears quickly.

GET THERE: 4 Bay St., Little Tub Harbour, Tobermory, 519.596.8383