By Grace Gormley
The Guardian
Opening the door of Vintage Cosmetic Boutique accessories and fashion on Queen Street feels like stepping onto the red carpet. You're surrounded by glamour, fashion, chandeliers and up to your elbows in makeup products.
The vintage-esque store is exactly the vision owner Sally Murray had in mind, but she said it took a lot of rejection to get here.
"I knew I was going to have my own store someday. I'm a big believer in the saying “Everything happens for a reason."
Before the store opening in August 2017, Murray was making a name for herself in the world of makeup. She was living in Vancouver and was working for every big makeup brand imaginable.
"Eventually, I got tired of making big companies money. I wanted some for myself."
But Murray didn't open the doors to make a million. For her, it's all about teaching Islanders everything she's learned about the art of beauty.
"I'm never going to sell something just for the sake of selling it."
Between lessons, workshops and keeping up with her 14k Instagram followers, Murray finds the time to treat every customer the same- like a friend. She won't let you walk out the store with the wrong shade of anything.
While winter has been slower for Vanity compared to the hustle and bustle of summer, weather isn't slowing down Murray.
"Now is the time for small businesses and entrepreneurs. If you have a niche and something else nobody else offers, you can do really well."
Murray has been collaborating with other businesses nearby, and also is renting out space in her store for 'Vanity Fashion' where you can find brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton, something the Island doesn't see much of.
The future holds exciting things for Vanity. Murray plans on booking lots of appointments for semi and prom makeup, and also hopes to keep building and growing the products. She even plans to get bigger brands on her shelves.
"The sky's the limit."
