Jennifer’s of Nova Scotia

Jennifer’s is great if you want something Nova Scotia-​themed but aren’t interested in the regular touristy stuff that’s mass produced and only Nova Scotian because it says so in a big, bright font. This shop features lots of beautiful handmade things, gorgeous prints of photography and watercolour scenes, the typical postcards, jewelry, decorative things, etc, etc.
One of my favourite things about Halifax is how excited people are to support local businesses and artists, and I feel like Jennifer’s is one of those glorious Haligonian places that puts those things out there and makes them readily accessible for the people who don’t have time to search every nook and cranny of the city.
I love the space. It’s open and everything is neatly and prettily displayed in their own organic looking sections. The staff is always in a great mood and are helpful but don’t hover.
I would definitely recommend checking it out, even if you just want some great gift-​giving ideas.

Jennifer’s has a great selection of all things local, which I really appreciate. Sometimes I wonder, however, if they have too much space, as the upper «level» is nothing but kitschy tourist stuff with overpriced oven mitts and more pottery than you can shake a stick at.
The main level has better selection. This summer I’ve found more businesses I recognize from the Seaport Market, which is great. Of course, because it’s mostly hand-​made local wares, the prices can be quite steep. Still, it’s always nice to see local talent showcased in a popular spot.
I’m only giving three stars partly because of the overabundance of tourist-​centric stuff in the other room, and partly because of the staff. There were at least three women on the floor; one was busy with a customer, and the other two ignored us the entire time we perused the store. The older clerk actually walked away from us when we came too close (I guess?); she moved to stand idly in another part of the store. Needless to say, we looked but did not buy.

I had a great experience here the other day. I visited this touristy shop looking for some items to add to a wedding gift basket I’m making for a friend in Toronto who lived here as a child and has a special place for NS in her heart. I made it clear I wasn’t looking for any souvenier junk (read: tacky lobster magnet or lighthouse key chain), but for items that were Nova Scotia made and that she couldn’t get in T.O. The worker was really helpful and showed me some yummy NS blueberry jam, which I got and explained about some of the nice pewter ornaments they had and where they were made. I left with a few items to add to my basket and was very pleased.

When I worked at the front desk of a hotel I would ALWAYS send guests here when they asked for something «Nova Scotia» ey.
My best friend came up for the weekend to see what Nova Scotia is all about and this is the place I took her when we were tasked with bringing back souvenirs for her boyfriend and friend. I was blown away by the great service and totally fair prices.
YAY Jennifers.

A beautiful shop. This is not a tourist trap, it is filled with lots of maritime artists’ goods.
My favorite is the pottery. They always carry beautiful lines of pottery with different patterns to suit everyone. They also have a cute selection of jewellery and soaps that I enjoy perusing.
I think this shop works hard at providing variety. They do beautiful window displays that always draw me in, and the staffa re very friendly and wanting to help you.
This is a shop that you should not miss!

My friend and I visited Halifax over the Labour Day weekend and Jennifer’s of Nova Scotia was one of the few places open. Thank goodness it was! There are so many beautiful things in this store; I wanted to buy them all. For the sake of my (smoking) credit card, I only bought a small percentage.
For those who have metal allergy issues, I can’t recommend their earrings enough. I bought a pair (if only I could remember the brand) with the thought that, with my fairly sensitive ear lobes, I would wear the earrings until I couldn’t stand it anymore. I haven’t had a reaction to those earrings at all. I also haven’t worn all the earrings I’ve purchased (yet) but I also didn’t have a reaction with the other line (which, once again, it would be lovely if I could remember its name). True, allergy-​free, sterling silver. Amazing.
The next time I visit, I’m definitely making this a MUST stop.