It’s hard to tell given the almost freezing temperatures but it’s actually spring in Toronto!

If you’re finding it as hard as we are to relinquish the grey winter weather, why not add some colour and texture to your surroundings with flowers from one of our Toronto Top 5 flower shops? We’ve picked these shops based on personal experience. If you’ve got some great florists to share, we’d love to hear about them! Put a comment below or send us an email…

CROWN FLORA

Photo courtesy of style democracy @styledemocracy

Crown Flora in Parkdale is hard to miss. I’d say it’s one of the most Instagramed flower shops in the city if for no other reason than it’s pretty pink exterior. But that’s just a great reason to check out Adam and Davis’ amazing collection of seasonal shrubbery. Always in style, Crown Flora expertly chooses plants and flowers that are both on, or ahead of the trends and still stylish and functional.

SWEETPEA’S

PHOTO COURTESY OF @BLOGTO

We could come up with some great praise for this West-end staple florist or take a note from their own website. After all, when you’re regarded by almost every Toronto publication as being the best flower shop in the city, how much more can we say? Do note their commitment to eco-friendly and socially responsible flowers; that seems a business decision ahead of it’s time…

Sweetpea's is dedicated to quality, design and service. We offer some of the most unique, custom floral creations in the city.  

Focusing on eco and socially responsible floral design isn't always easy, but something we feel is the responsibility of an industry based in nature and used to express emotion and caring of others.   

Sweetpea's offers same-day fresh flower delivery throughout Toronto & the GTA.   Our retail boutique is filled with beautiful gifts and cards, perfect for that special someone in your life.  

CORIANDER GIRL

PHOTO COURTESY OF @make_Something

We first became aware of Coriander Girl after a friend recommended them for Mother’s Day (how fortuitous!). What struck me about their arrangements was the inclusion of more a subdued, dustier palette of colours and floral styles. If you’re looking for something a little different, we highly recommend this one-of-a-kind shop in Toronto’s West-end.

YANG’S FLOWER MARKET

PHOTO COURTESY OF @BLOGTO

What this store doesn’t have in modern branding, it more than makes up for in selection and service. I’ve never had a better experience buying flowers than at Yang’s. Located at Avenue and Davenport, Yang’s offers up a huge selection of beautiful blooms.

SUMMERHILL FLORAL BOUTIQUE

PHOTO COURTESY OF @summerhill_FLORAL

Located directly across from famed Summerhill Market, Summerhill Floral Boutique offers arrangements and accoutrements for the whole home!

Whether you’re looking to do some last minute staging, get greater curb appeal or just adding some more colour to your home’s palette, we’ve got you covered!

Let’s face it. It can be hard to find the perfect gift for mom each year and sometimes brunches don’t quite fit the bill.

To help those who prefer to be a bit different, we’ve compiled 5 unique boutiques in the city to help with Mother’s Day or any other special occasion…

1. Eleven Thirty

Does mom need a new bag? How about a local, handmade bag made with not only great design aesthetics but ethical and environmental considerations put into it’s manufacture? Eleven Thirty ticks all the boxes!

2. Province Apothecary

What mom doesn’t like to be treated to some natural and organic beauty and skin care products? All that benefit with none of the by-product! Province Apothecary has you covered (literally!)

3. Frock

Okay, so not every mom is an older mom and some mom’s who’ve got more experience don’t want to dress like they’re still living in the 60’s… or some do! Luckily Frock on Roncesvalles caters to a wide variety of styles, shapes and eras; from the classic to the contemporary and everything in between.

4. Michelle Ross Jewellery

Is there a Mom out there who wouldn’t like a nice new piece of jewellery? I’m sure there’s one or two but for the third time charmed Moms, look no further than Michelle Ross’ gallery in the Distillery District. Amazingly unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that dazzle and shine the way all great jewellery should. Take mom for a stroll around a part of historic Toronto and cap the journey off with a stunning piece of ear candy.

Make sure to call ahead as showroom times vary or are by appointment only!

5. FAWN

As their website states… “FAWN specializes in women's clothing and accessories providing something for everyone, of all ages. Each season FAWN offers a curated collection that focuses on clean lines, classic shapes with a modern and sophisticated edge.” Not sure we need to say more. Just do yourself a favour and check them out with mom. You’ll both be happy you did!

Happy Mother’s Day to all of the wonderful moms making our world a better place!

As reported by Houzz.com, Netflix is set to release a new documentary all about design. From architecture to industrial design and almost everything in between, the first 8 episodes will focus on professionals in the industry who've made a mark on modern design. Architect Bjarke Ingels, interior designer Ilse Crawford and graphic designer Paula Scher are just some of the fabulous designers to be featured in the series. We'll be binge watching this one for sure.