Vintage shopping gives us life so we always check who’s coming to the Leslieville Flea. This weekend, Liz Lau brings her signature Granny Puckett Vintage to the Night Market. With bold, tailored classics and boho flair, Lau’s lewks will remind you of day-tripping in Paris and hot summer nights in TO. Lau came to entrepreneurship via motherhood; she wanted to find a gig that would allow her more time with her baby daughter. She made the switch and never looked back.

We chatted with her this week. 

SDTC: Who are you and what’s your biz?

Hello my name is Liz Lau and I run Granny Puckett Vintage. My online shop carries pieces from the Edwardian era to the 90s, as well as selected contemporary items. I tend to be drawn to bright hues and prints, which is often reflected in my curation. In addition to running the shop, I am mom to six-year-old Trish and two 15-year-old grumpy cats.

Liz Lau

When did you decide you want to work independently?

Funny question! Growing up I dreamed of being a manga artist and thought I would do a side gig producing comics while working at some desk job. (I come from a traditional Chinese household and was told manga artist was not considered a ‘real’ job). Granny Puckett actualized a year after my daughter Trish was born. I was worn out from a demanding position at an art gallery and frustrated with the little time I had left for my family. My husband runs an eco-jewelry brand and works from home. Seeing the bond he developed with my daughter was a big motivation for starting my biz. I freelanced a lot in my early career days, so it was not a huge mental adjustment to make the leap and work for myself. Selling vintage came naturally – it was our lifestyle!

Where did you work previously or now?

I started working in commercial photography as a prop stylist and photo assistant after graduating from photography school. I gradually moved away from it after meeting my husband and moved overseas. I found myself in the fine arts industry and over the years developed a keen interest in art conservation and restoration. Towards the end of my time abroad I worked with a conservator who specialized in paintings and paper-based materials. I was at a crossroads right before moving back to Toronto at the end of 2017 as to whether to go back to school for art conservation or continue growing my shop. It was a long journey but I never regretted my decision! I genuinely enjoy the sourcing, styling and photography aspect of running the online shop.

What fab finds are you bringing with you to the Leslieville night market?

Some billowy summer dresses! Honestly, summer is so short in Toronto, I go all out with the pretty summer dresses anywhere between the 50s – 90s. I am also a big fan of summer knits and silk pieces. I usually have lots of accessories with me too, timeless pieces that will easily work with a modern wardrobe.

Where can people find you?

I am mostly online, check my Instagram for latest news @grannypuckettvintage. Otherwise I’m popping up at most Leslieville fleas including the Leslieville Night Market on July 27th, and currently have some selected jewelry pieces at Toronto Designer Market in the West end where the collection will likely expand to include clothing in the coming months. Exciting times ahead!

If you find yourself east-ending this weekend, make sure and hit up the Leslieville Night Market at Jonathan Ashbridge Park. From 4-10 p.m. on July 27th, you’ll find a stellar selection of vintage and handcrafted fashion & decor, music, delish food and drink, kids’ activities and more! Liz Lau will be showcasing her eclectic wares at this event (via Granny Puckett Vintage)–so if you’re a fan of bold, bright statement pieces and prints, get your butt there!