“Would you like some champagne or a bottle or Perrier?” This was the greeting I received when I stepped into BALISI Thursday evening. Happily, I decided to sip on a bottle of Perrier and then proceeded to begin my Halloween shopping experience.

Rehlee Balisi and Cory Kierstead (the owners of BALISI), Toronto’s hottest shoe store to appear on the scene within the last few years, held a private VIP event at their Queen Street West location to celebrate Halloween and say thank you to their loyal customers – yours truly was invited to attend.

BALISI has three locations strategically placed throughout Toronto’s trendiest neighbourhoods; Queen Street West, College Street and Danforth Ave. Having shopped at all three stores I can tell you there are two things setting them apart from other retailers.

The first is product. I’ve discovered many new brands while perusing the shelves of BALISI, such as United Nude or Eject. I’m always impressed at the variety of footwear, clothing and accessories they carry for both men and women. Balisi and Kierstead address important questions when choosing products for their store. Do other retailers in the Toronto area carry these brands and will they stand out on the shelves and get our customers’ attention?

It’s always a treat to enter the store and discover something new and exciting upon each visit. From experience, seeing footwear that makes my eyes light up and heart rate increase is always a good sign, and BALISI has a knack for making me feel this way every time indicating that pieces are chosen with great care and consideration.

Secondly, BALISI has great customer service. Having worked in retail and being a shopaholic (shopping is a competitive sport by the way), I know what consists of good and bad customer service. The staff at BALISI is very personable, knowledgeable and passionate about their love of fashion and sharing it with their customers.

The Halloween party on Thursday proved to me that it’s a family affair at BALISI. Everyone is treated warmly bringing the theme song from the television show Cheers to mind, it’s a place where everyone knows your name and they’re always glad you came.

P.S.: check The Souls of My Shoes this Friday to see my newest find for this week’s Shoe of the Moment from BALISI.

Pictures taken by Kimberly Lyn