My Favourite Things: Amélie Thellen

Amélie Thellen is founder and owner of Boutique Unicorn, one of Montreal’s most inspiring and lust-worthy clothing and accessories boutiques.  She and her husband Jonas Edvinsson also run Billie & Axel, an online destination for the most beautiful children’s clothing, decor and accessories stocking brands like Popupshop, Penfield and Fine Little Day.

I often pass women on the street or see them on Instagram and wonder what their tricks and tips are.  Where do they shop?  What pair of jeans do they wear over and over?  Do they have any beauty tips?  Finally, I decided to just ask.  Here is Amélie’s favourite jewelry designer, the best pair of black jeans (that won’t break the bank) and tips for her younger self.

When do you feel your best?

When I have multiple nights of good sleep in a row!

How do you like to start your day?

Cuddling with my kids and drinking coffee.

How do you get a good night’s sleep?

There’s no way this is going to happen at our house. Both my kids are up all night! So, the only way for me to get a good night sleep is by going away on a trip for work! (Bad mom!)

Do you have any favourite items of clothing that you return to time and time again?

My black jeans from Cheap Monday! I can’t live without them. Black jeans and a white button shirt – classic and easy.

Do you have any favourite jewelry? 

My delicate silver rings from Tiffany Kunz. I wear 3 of them on my right hand on 3 different fingers. They are very delicate and not too bold. I don’t wear much jewelry.

Have you read anything good lately?

I’m trying to read these days but I’m falling asleep at every page… Maybe the book I’m reading isn’t that good! Any suggestions for me?

Is there any music you’re really into lately?

Johnny Flynn. His voice relaxes me.

Where do you like to shop for fashion?

At my own store! Otherwise, I love going shopping for clothes when I’m in Stockholm. Jonas is from Sweden so we go there as much as we can.

Do you have any favourite designers? 

Valérie Dumaine is my favorite Quebec designer. Tiffany Kunz is my favorite jewelry designer.

What Montreal stores are a must-visit? 

Well, of course Boutique Unicorn. I love going to Les Etoffes. I would buy everything there! Jamais Assez for home decoration. I would like to buy everything there to fill our home!

What are your favourite restaurants for breakfast and/or brunch and/or lunch and/or dinner?

It’s nothing fancy but I love having brunch work meetings at Fabergé. It’s in the Mile End next to Unicorn and the food is fresh and good. I love their fresh green juice!

Do you have a favourite bakery?

Boulangerie Guillaume in the Mile End. It’s directly in front of Unicorn. We live up north, 50 minutes from the city, so every time I go to the store I stop by this bakery to get fresh croissants or bread. It’s fresh and tastes home made!

What do you like to make at home to eat?

Roast chicken, cod and muffins!

Is there anything you make to eat or drink that makes you feel amazing?

No, not really… I’m not that good of a cook! But Jonas is!! I’m so lucky because he makes the best food for our guests! My favorite is his rosemary chicken.

What kind of exercise makes you feel best?

Running and yoga… But I’m lazy… I should go more often.

Do you have any guilty pleasures?

Chocolate. I’m totally addicted!

What advice would you give your younger self?

Put sunscreen in your face everyday and save money as much as you can. Oh and my favorite, travel the world!

What’s the favourite thing about what you do?

The freedom, I can use my imagination and creativity

Where are you happiest?

Walking in Stockholm, or when I travel in general.

I see you recently moved from Montreal to Ste-Adele.  Why did you decide to move north?

We wanted our kids to be surrounded by the beauty of nature and enjoy the outdoors. When we step out of our house and we can go for a hike in the woods or drive for five minutes and go skiing.

You’re a mother and entrepreneur.  Do you have any tips for other mother’s who wish to start their own business?

Be organized and everything will work out!  Surround yourself with the best because you’ll need help sometimes! 🙂

Thank you so much Amélie!  I now have a new pair of jeans on my wishlist.  I hope you guys like this new series and I can’t wait to show you more!  xoxoxo

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