Downtown Spotlight: Venus Envy Halifax

Meet Marshall Haywood, owner of Venus Envy - Halifax

Marshall was born and raised in Halifax and has been with Venus Envy since 1999. After years of experience, he began managing the store and ended up buying it in 2009, when the founder, Shelley Taylor, sold the Halifax location and moved to Ottawa to expand her business.

Having a supportive workplace was instrumental in Marshall’s gender transition, and some of his greatest joys are found in the day-to-day business of operating a store. Helping people find and access queer literature, quality sex toys, and health and wellness resources is something that Marshall and their entire team are passionate about.

Celebrating 25 YEARS in business this April, Venus Envy is an award-winning bookstore and sex shop, now located at 1727 Barrington Street. Their stunning new location (as of 2021) is filled with an abundance of natural light, exposed brick, and friendly staff, all of which contribute to the welcoming environment. Get the in-store experience from 11am – 7pm Monday – Saturday, 11am – 6pm on Sundays, or browse online at venusenvy.ca.

Venus Envy's extensive book collection is growing with new releases this spring. This includes but is not limited to a variety of fiction, poetry, erotica, theory, and guides on everything from gender and identity to black studies, indigeneity, and more. Additionally, you can find a range of pelvic health products, tarot cards, sex toys, novelty items, gender affirming products, and beyond. Follow them on socials for new products, promotions, and workshops and join us in congratulating them on 25 years of business in Downtown Halifax!