“I’m so busy I’ve sold my Spring Garden location to my staff!” writes Joanne David in an email. Barb Israel, a longtime Joanne David Accessories employee has turned David’s 5640 Spring Garden location into Pink Mascara (407-PINK), opening June 1. It will continue offering women’s clothing and accessories, carrying some of the same clothing lines as David but adding a passel of new designers, including some from Prince Edward Island. Israel has signed a five-year lease in the space and credits David for the opportunity. “She was my mentor,” says Israel of David. “I love her style when it comes to business.” And, yes, Joanne David’s 1276 Barrington Street location continues to thrive, and she’s equally happy to see Israel blossom. “This city can accommodate 10 more boutiquey-style shops,” she writes. “I’d love to see more shops lining our downtown streets and encourage new entrepreneurs to get to work.”
This article appears in May 28 – Jun 3, 2009.