👋 Notler, Time to Rise and Shine!

This Week in NOTL…

• 👗 Lady Lou Collective: A heartfelt boutique with big style.

• 🍨 Il Gelato di Carlotta: More room to chill (and eat gelato).

• 🎸 Buzz Hummer: Rock, rhythm, and local charm.

• 🧳 Tourist Tales: One visitor’s very NOTL experience.

Onward, Notlers.

💐 A Great Addition to NOTL: Lady Lou Collective

It’s been a few months since Lady Lou Collective quietly opened its doors on Queen Street — and if you haven’t stopped in yet, consider this your sign.

Founded by retail veteran Katherine McMichael, the shop is more than just a business — it’s a heartfelt tribute to her grandmother, Lou. A true lover of meaningful gifts, handwritten notes, and stylish details, Lou knew how to make people feel seen. That same spirit lives on in every handpicked item on the shelves — from cozy candles and curated cards to timeless little treasures that just feel right. Before we go much further, go check out their Instagram @LadyLouCollective and show your support!

After over a decade in the corporate retail world, Katherine took the leap to build something personal, purposeful, and rooted in connection. Lady Lou Collective is the result — a warm, inviting space that feels like it was made for browsing with a coffee in hand and a friend in tow.

It’s a shop with heart, and one that’s already earned a place in the rhythm of Old Town — quietly making people’s days a little brighter, one thoughtful find at a time.

🍨 Il Gelato di Carlotta is Bigger & Better

If you’ve strolled down Queen Street lately, you might’ve noticed that Il Gelato di Carlotta isn’t quite the tucked-away treat it used to be. After a recent expansion, this beloved gelato spot has levelled up—big time.

Now with tons more space to sit, sip, and savour, Carlotta’s is more than just a quick stop for a cone—it’s a place to stay. Whether you’re catching up with friends over espresso, cooling down with a scoop of stracciatella, or treating your out-of-town guests to a taste of Italy in NOTL, there’s room for everyone.

Still serving up that same handcrafted, small-batch gelato they’re famous for—but now with a little more elbow room.

Wanna see what your afternoon stroll down Queen Street could look like? Check out their Instagram below!

Oh, and did we forget to mention that there is coffee? If you are also a coffee addict and self-proclaimed connoisseur of bean juice, make sure to stop by and get your fix!

Trust us, it’s worth it!

🎶 Buzz Hummer Live at the NOTL Golf Club

📅 Sunday, August 3 | 🕛 12:00–3:00 PM | 📍 NOTL Golf Club Patio

This Civic Holiday weekend, lunch comes with a soundtrack. Buzz Hummer is bringing his smooth acoustic set to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club patio this Sunday from noon to 3 PM.

Whether you’re just grabbing a drink or sitting down for lunch with a view, it’s the perfect Sunday pairing — live music, lake breeze, and the hum of summer in full swing. Walk-ins are welcome, but if you want a guaranteed table, booking ahead is a good call.

🚶‍♂️ A Spontaneous Tour

Sometimes the best tours aren’t booked — they’re gifted.

While walking through Old Town this past weekend, I caught a moment that felt like pure NOTL.

A local couple was chatting with a family visiting from Chicago. When the tourists mentioned where they were from, the local man repeated it with a grin:

“Ohhh, Chicago!!” — that playful mix of surprise and charm that made everyone laugh.

And then, just as naturally, came the question:

“Would you show us around?”

Without missing a beat, the couple said yes.

From there, the group strolled off together — past historic homes, into quiet gardens, and toward lake views that don’t show up on the usual tourist maps. There was no script, no plan — just a spontaneous, genuine welcome to town.

It was a simple exchange, the kind that’s easy to overlook. But it stuck with me — a reminder that what makes this place special isn’t just the scenery, it’s the spirit. Friendly, unassuming, and always ready to turn strangers into neighbours… even if just for an afternoon.

Remember to send us you’re local stories! We know that you have some good ones!

📬 Got something coming up?

Whether it’s an event, a new venture, or just a feel-good story, we’d love to help share it.

Send us a note at [email protected] — or tag us over on Instagram @notlnews so we don’t miss a thing.

Until next time, Notlers… stay warm, stay thoughtful, and keep your eyes peeled — your moment might be next.