Two Macaws brings the world to the Exchange District

Fort Garry

In the heart of Winnipeg’s Exchange District, at 68 Albert St., you’ll find a small shop that feels like stepping into another world. Two Macaws, a concept store owned by Anmol Noor, opened its doors in April and has already made its mark as a vibrant, welcoming space filled with treasures from around the globe along with a sense of home and community.

“I moved back to Winnipeg after a few years of traveling and seeing the world,” Noor explains. “I wanted to bring that back here, the world the way I see it. The store tells my story through my travels, so it’s very much me.”

The shelves of Two Macaws showcase clothing, art, jewelry, incense, and objects Noor has sourced directly from artists and artisans in India, Peru, France, and beyond.

“India and Peru were the two biggest inspirations for the store,” she says. “For example, the block-printed fabrics and textiles come from India. I work directly with artists in Peru for other pieces. Even the perfume I carry is from a small, natural perfumer in France that I connected with during my travels.”

Noor also sources her products through Canadian businesses and creatives.

Two Macaws is not just about selling beautiful things. Noor emphasizes creating connection.

“I really wanted this to be a space that fosters a sense of community,” she says. “First Fridays of the month feature different events; one time we had a mirror where people could leave notes. People loved it so much. Some of the notes are still there.”

Outside the shop, she recently added a little free library to encourage sharing and connection beyond the store walls.

Noor’s journey into entrepreneurship came from a desire to blend her background in social work with her passion for travel and culture. “I wanted to help people in a way that also felt fulfilling for me.”

Highlights for her include showcasing Winnipeg talent alongside international artists, like linocut prints by a local artist, as well as her popular “Blind Date with a Book” that invites readers to buy a book in their genre without knowing the exact title or author.

Of course, running a small business isn’t without its challenges.

“Marketing has been tricky since I don’t have a business background,” she admits. “And while the Exchange is picking up, some people still feel hesitant about visiting. But I feel safe here and want more people to see how amazing this neighborhood is.”

For Noor, Two Macaws is more than a shop; it’s an invitation to experience the world and connect with each other, right in the heart of Winnipeg.