It’s official: time to start thinking about back to school.
Most families will need to do at least a bit of shopping to help get their kids ready for September. To make this a bit easier, we’ve rounded up some great local recommendations where everyone in the family can get school ready.
To help you get organized, we’ve grouped the following suggestions by category.
Clothing – for the little ones
At the rate kids grow, it makes sense to try to save some money where you can. Once Upon A Child is a fantastic source of gently used kids’ stuff. The clothing here looks great and is in good condition; you can really save a lot on the items that tend to be more expensive, such as winter coats and boots. They carry accessories too, including shoes, and often stock a wide selection of books.
Parents of younger children will definitely want to check out Cheeky Bambino. This neighbourhood baby boutique, located in the Old Quebec Street Shoppes, offers unique organic, quality local brands. The clothes are super cute and fashionable yet also comfortable to wear.
Buying and selling on consignment just makes so much sense financially and environmentally, especially when it comes to clothing for kids. At Royal City Littles you can do just that; the shop is an online consignment boutique that sells both preloved and brand-new clothing, books, toys and accessories.
Clothing – for teens and teachers
Plan to stop in at Grit and Grace. The clothing here is not your standard fare; it is unique and high quality, with great everyday basics, dresses, and jumpsuits, even footwear and accessories.
The Patch sells new and vintage clothing for women. You’ll also find handbags, jewellery, shoes and upcycled clothing. This is a buy/sell/trade store as well, so you can bring in any clothing you are no longer wearing in exchange for cash or store credit.
If you are looking for some jewellery to mark the beginning of the new school year or some other important milestone, head to Harmony, a shop that sells stunning pieces. The ability to add personalized engraving makes these offerings even more special.
If your footwear wardrobe is in need of a refresh, head to IF Footwear Boutique. You can shop for high-style shoes and boots at this family-owned business in downtown Guelph.
School supplies
Be sure to stop by the big box stores to stock up on all of those classroom essentials that the kids will need to have in their backpacks.
Write out your list and plan in advance—remembering to research the best sales—before you visit the old stand-bys such as Staples, Walmart, Dollarama and Best Buy for any tech needs.
Books, etc.
Pay a visit to the much-beloved local institution The Bookshelf, where you can pick up fiction and non-fiction titles, tons of books, school aids and reference materials for kids, and maybe even a few that are on your course reading lists.
We also can’t forget our older kids—the ones attending post-secondary institutions and chasing their dreams. The University Bookstore at the University of Guelph offers much more than textbooks: you can buy clothing, gifts, school supplies and trade books here too.
School bags
Modern Tourist in downtown Guelph is the place to go when you’re looking for a sturdy, top quality backpack. They carry handbags, briefcases and accessories too, as well as messenger bags, laptop and tablet bags, lunch bags and even professional backpacks.
Grooming
You’ve got to look your best for the return to school, so get great haircuts for everyone in the family at Acqua Salon or First Choice Hair Salon. Don’t forget to see the dentist too; Bisson Dentistry provides complete dental care for the whole family in a comfortable, welcoming and relaxed environment.
All-in-one
Of course, no list of back-to-school resources would be complete without mentioning Guelph’s own Stone Road Mall, where you can find shoes, backpacks, supplies and clothes for all ages.
