Sponsor Spotlight: Baba Souk

Very few people have such a keen eye for style and beautiful finds. Thankfully, Stephanie, who calls herself “a passionate kind of person,” has been able to let her love for both shine. She’d always dreamed of creating an inspiration oasis and a place for creative collaboration, and last November, her dream became a reality when she launched Baba Souk, “a hub to present my own designs, some great handmade finds and to showcase and promote rad indie designers.” The online boutique is full of everything from jewelry to stationery to home decor. Read on to find out what inspires Stephanie and her top 3 tips for online shopping! xoxo

Keep in touch…
Official Web site: Baba Souk
Become a fan on Facebook
Follow on Twitter
Get inspired on Pinterest

Tell me about Baba Souk. What’s the inspiration behind its launch?
A few years ago, I stepped into Marrakesh’s souk market for the very first time. The color overload, the smell, the beauty. It changed my destiny. At that time, I had the job that every girl would envy — I was a clothing designer for a Canadian retailer, and I traveled the world in search of the latest trends. But the thing is, I just had to follow my dreams. I had the sudden urge to create my own souk, my online version of a modern market, a fun “Baba” souk. I needed to celebrate indie design and handmade treasures. Baba Souk was born last November out of a desire to live a creative and meaningful life.

Your shop features so many inspiring finds. What inspires you the most?
As I like to say, I get inspired about 20 times a day! Mostly through the Internet these days! I’m a huge Pinterest addict. I’ve also been having fun with Instagram lately; there are so many great feeds to follow. I’m inspired by art, by beauty, by colors. I also love when something has a quirky touch. My friends also inspire me a lot; I like to surround myself with creative people. I feel they nourish me so much.

What are your top 3 tips for shopping online and finding great deals?
I have to admit, when I’m shopping online, I’m not really looking for deals. Instead, I’m looking for beauty. When I buy something, it has to speak to me in a way that I just can’t resist buying it. Great design, great colors, great style, and when it’s handmade, it gets bonus points! Here are my tips for finding treasures on the Internet…
1). Make a Pinterest board to bookmark your finds. 
2). Consult design blogs and see what bloggers are hunting down. Bloggers usually have great taste. (of course, haha!) 
3). Bookmark your 5 favorite stores and visit them once a month. When you like a store, you’re most likely to like their new finds.

How can people still look chic for less?
These days I feel there are no excuses for not looking chic! So many retail stores are selling fashion for less. My recommendation is to wear a dress! You don’t even have to be good at mixing and matching your outfit. It’s effortlessly chic, so try it. My wardrobe is filled with dresses!

What is your favorite piece in your shop and why?
I’m absolutely in love with all the handmade dotted vases we carry. Emily Reinhardt, the artist behind them, has a wonderful soul, and she is very talented. Each piece is made by hand with passion. They look so cute in any room. I feel they are little pieces of art!