Let's Go on a Date: A Little Local Love at Silla

by Tawny Dere

Let's Go on a Date: A Little Local Love at Silla Designs in Lethbridge

FAVOURITE FRIDAYS | THE HOMEBODY CLUB

Some of my favourite places in Lethbridge aren't houses. They're the little shops that make this city feel like home.

You know those afternoons when you just want to grab a coffee, wander through a few local shops, and see what catches your eye?

That's exactly the kind of afternoon we're having today.

Welcome back to Favourite Fridays, where I take you along to discover the local businesses, hidden gems, and everyday places that make living in Lethbridge, Alberta, a little more special.

And this week? We're going on a date.

Our destination is Silla Designs, a locally founded boutique in the heart of downtown Lethbridge.

A Little Shop With a Lot of Personality

Tucked along 5th Street South, Silla is one of those places where you walk in looking for one thing and somehow leave with a few things you didn't know you needed.

We've all been there, right?

From thoughtful gifts and beautiful home décor to jewelry, hair accessories, and unexpected little treasures, there's something about browsing a shop like this that makes an ordinary afternoon feel like an outing.

During my recent visit, I found the cutest hair clip and spotted a vintage-looking Guess Who? game that immediately brought back childhood memories.

And honestly, that's part of the fun.

It's not always about what you're shopping for. Sometimes it's about what you discover along the way.

From a Lethbridge Farmers' Market to a Local Favourite

Here's something I love about Silla's story.

The business began in 2008 when founder Ashley Young Sil Kong set out to create a welcoming, inspiring shopping experience.

It started at a local farmers' market before moving into a small storefront in Lethbridge.

What began as a local business has since grown beyond our city, with locations in Calgary and a sister store called Allis, focused on clothing and apparel.

But its beginnings are rooted right here in Lethbridge.

And I think that's pretty special.

There's something worth celebrating about businesses that start small, grow through community support, and become part of the places we call home.

Why Shopping Local Matters When You're Making a City Home

One of the things I talk about often as a Lethbridge REALTOR® is that finding home is about so much more than the house itself.

It's the neighbourhood you live in.

The coffee shop you visit on Saturday mornings.

The small businesses you discover while exploring downtown.

And those familiar places that slowly become part of your routine.

When you're moving to Lethbridge, Alberta, it's easy to focus on the big questions.

Which neighbourhood should we live in? What are the schools like? How far is the commute? What can we afford?

And of course, those things matter.

But I also think it's important to discover the everyday side of a city.

Because belonging doesn't happen all at once.

Sometimes it starts with finding your favourite coffee shop, discovering a little boutique, or recognizing a familiar face when you're out running errands.

Those small moments are what turn a new city into your city.

A Little Downtown Lethbridge Date Idea

If you're new to Lethbridge, visiting for the weekend, or simply looking for something different to do, here's your invitation to spend a little time downtown.

Grab your favourite coffee, take a stroll along 5th Street South, and pop into Silla.

Browse the gifts, explore the home décor, and maybe pick up something special for yourself.

No big plans required.

Just an afternoon spent discovering a little more of what our city has to offer.

And if you're anything like me, you'll probably find something you weren't planning on buying.

Consider yourself warned.

Planning a Move to Lethbridge? Let's Explore More Than Houses.

As someone who was born and raised in Lethbridge, one of my favourite parts of helping people relocate here is introducing them to the community beyond the real estate listings.

Yes, we'll talk about homes for sale in Lethbridge, neighbourhoods, budgets, and finding the right fit.

But I also want you to know where to grab a good coffee, where to spend a slow Saturday afternoon, and which local businesses are worth getting to know.

Because buying a home is one thing.

Building a life that feels like home? That's what it's really about.

Whether you're relocating from another Alberta city, moving from British Columbia or Ontario, or simply looking for your next chapter here in Lethbridge, I'd love to help you get to know the city.

One home, one neighbourhood, and one local favourite at a time.

Visit Silla Designs in Downtown Lethbridge

Silla Designs

222 5th Street South
Lethbridge, Alberta

Website: https://silladesigns.com/

Store hours listed on Silla's website:

Monday–Saturday: 10 AM–6 PM
Sunday: 12 PM–5 PM

Hours may change. Check directly with the store before visiting.

Your Lethbridge Story Starts Here

I'm Tawny Dere, a local Lethbridge REALTOR® with REAL Brokerage and founder of The Homebody Club.

Here, we talk about more than homes for sale.

We're discovering the neighbourhoods, local businesses, community favourites, and everyday moments that make living in Lethbridge feel like home.

Thinking about moving to Lethbridge, Alberta?

Explore my Lethbridge relocation resources, browse available homes, or reach out. I'd love to show you around.

And until our next Favourite Friday…

Shop small. Love local. Find your place to belong.

With local love,

Tawny 🤎

Founder, The Homebody Club | Real Estate, guided with care.
REALTOR® | REAL Brokerage
Lethbridge, Alberta

Real estate rooted in local love, community connection, and the cozy art of staying in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Silla Designs located in Lethbridge?

Silla Designs is located at 222 5th Street South in downtown Lethbridge, Alberta. It's a great stop when exploring local shopping and independent businesses in the downtown area.

What can you buy at Silla Designs?

Silla carries a curated selection of gifts, jewelry, home décor, hair accessories, games, and lifestyle products. Its collections include items from Canadian and international designers.

What is there to do in downtown Lethbridge?

Downtown Lethbridge is a place to explore independent boutiques, cafés, restaurants, and local businesses. If you're new to Lethbridge or considering relocating here, spending an afternoon downtown is one way to get a feel for the community.