Hive of Bayfield
Nestled along Bayfield’s historic Main Street, the Hive of Bayfield is literally a hive of activity, not to mention picturesque on autumn days when the first leaves start to fall on the exterior patio.
Starting at the sales rack at the building’s exterior, where the prices of the season’s odds and ends are slashed, you then enter a world where fashion, art and interiors collide with a dash of caffeine.
Inspired by her family cottages on Lake Huron, Hive shop owner Jennifer Wallace calls the collection here “whimsical, eclectic and filled with vintage furniture and decor; collected treasures from travels around the world, and handmade creations by artistic family members.”
Inside, the vinyl spins to set the shopping mood and Canadian brand Smash + Tess comfortable rompers, perfect for cozying up on cool autumn days, line the walls. Nearby a range of Tofino Towels are available. British Columbia-based candle maker Sealuxe makes a Cedar+Birch+Pine hand-poured soy candle that brings the scent of Canadian outdoors inside when the temperatures drop.
New this autumn, Wallace is introducing Parisian line Grace & Mila with a few select pieces. Portuguese-made PAN, Pink Martini, and Pepa Loves are returning with some fun fall clothing. Canadian designer Blondie will be restocked throughout the season.
Step on through to the other side
On the café side, baristas serve locally-roasted Coastal Coffee or prepare lattes to go. You can never go wrong adding a sweet treat from Huron County chocolate producer Sugar and Spice and grabbing a spot on the exterior patio and watching the world go by to complete the Hive shopping experience.
It’s also on this side that Here on Lake Huron hoodies and t-shirts are available, a brand started when founder Krista Swetman would head off on a day trip with her mother while her father underwent chemotherapy. They found respite on Lake Huron and have created a cozy, comfortable clothing line inspired by the lake.
Original artworks by Donna Colbourn depicting local scenes from both Bayfield and further afield are displayed in a gallery wall over Lake Huron memorabilia by Jaxx and Marble. If you’re holiday shopping, you may want to check out the selection of serving trays, napkins and fleece blankets decorated with a Huron County map for the county fan on your shopping list.
“The arts and small business are also very important to me, so I try to bring in Canadian-made and/or designed, artisan-made and female-owned companies whenever possible,” says Wallace of her priorities when building a collection.
Upon leaving, don’t miss a visit to the little lending library where the selection of books for trade is always impressive. 13 Main St. N, Bayfield. www.hiveofbayfield.com