What was once an online-only romance has become physical as Perfect Match Bookshop prepares for a grand opening.
It's Vancouver's first romance-focused bookstore. Currently, there are about half a dozen such specialty bookshops across Canada, and owner-operator Amy Pelletier is excited to add to that list.
"The feedback I'm getting is that the readers are happy to have a space where they can interact with other romance readers," Pelletier told V.I.A.
She's just days away from opening Perfect Match's storefront at 545 East Broadway, a 1,000-square-foot space filled with diverse and inclusive romance narratives.
"I want it to be a space to come and exist in the community," Pelletier said. "My big goal is whimsy and joy."
To match its theme, the shop has a new paint job.
"It's a moody pink tone—really colourful," she added. The decor includes a "really big mural" by local artist Renske Werner.
"The whole vision of the space is that it esthetically feels joyful," said Pelletier.
The bookstore's grand opening is on Saturday, Aug. 16, and it will include giveaways, vouchers from local businesses, and a prize raffle.
Three hundred romance book enthusiasts have already RSVP'd for the grand opening.
Pelletier has been active in the romance book community for a while, running Perfect Match as an online shop since the spring and hosting book clubs.
Looking ahead, an author event is already planned at the new bookstore, with local writer Sophie Sullivan set to appear Sept. 25.
"It's been awesome, feedback has been really good," said Pelletier. "The romance community has been so nice."
Along with books, the store will have gifts and merchandise from certain book series. Perfect Match will also have its own items such as tote bags.
Starting Aug. 16, Perfect Match will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily except Wednesdays (when it'll be closed) and Sundays (when it's open noon to 4 p.m.).
Perfect Match's Grand Opening
When: Saturday, Aug. 16, from noon to 6 p.m.
Where: 545 East Broadway
Cost: Free
