We’re all in on fresh starts and taking stock of what’s working, what’s not, and how to make space for personal improvements. With 2023 underway it’s a great time to focus on YOU. Whether you tend to map out new year resolutions, chose a meaningful “word of the year” or prefer to leave it to fate, being intentional can go a long way to create lasting, positive habits.
One area of routine that we are focusing on this year is sleep health. It’s hard to imagine tackling any of our to-do’s (let alone our resolutions) without the proper energy that a good night’s sleep provides, yet 1 in 2 Canadians report having trouble going to or staying asleep.
Routine plays a big role. Try keeping to the same schedule each night to help re-set your natural sleeping rhythm. Comforts like lavender spray and fresh sheets can transform your room to a calm space. Why not invest in quality bedding to help you into a relaxed state a bedtime?
We love these cozy and therapeutic weighted blankets from QE Home, and the Sleep Calming Pillow Mist from The Body Shop, the ultimate sleep hack.
Blue light can strain the system, especially at bedtime – could 2023 mark the return of the alarm clock? Check out the Sunrise Alarm Clock, available at Hudson’s Bay, that can be programmed to wake you with gradually increasing brightness and colour levels like a sunrise. Commit to charging your phone in another room each night and try trading your phone for a novel. We can’t wait to work through the 2023 must reads from Coles.
If sleep is presenting a more serious problem, taking a holistic approach is possible. We chatted with Rave at Nutrition House to get the lay of the land for catching all the right zzz’s. She suggests stopping by to go over your sleep goals… but if that’s not in the cards, a few products you may want to consider…
Sleep N Beauty is an all-natural supplement that caught our eye. Formulated with magnesium, GABA, and melatonin it promotes a restful sleep, relaxation and can reduce the signs of stress. These sleep support nutrients are combined with antioxidants and collagen boosting nutrients. (BONUS! A formula that helps us sleep AND look our best, yes please!)
Sleep Solution is a safe, liquid sleep aid designed to quickly ease the transition to sleep, helping you to sleep soundly and wake up feeling refreshed. We love the fresh, natural lemon flavour too.
Still waking up unrested? Cold-water treatments are all the rage, and we must admit the trend has us intrigued. Ending your regular shower with even 15 seconds of ice-cold water can wake your body up, inducing a higher state of alertness, helping you to concentrate and stay focused throughout the day.
Here’s to 2023, more sleep, less stress, and cultivating happiness. Dream on, you’ve got this!
The temperature dips, kids head back to school, pumpkin spice returns—it must be fall. And with the return of the fall season comes the fall wardrobe and our Fall Lookbook. Whatever your style, budget, and wardrobe needs, we’ve got it and we know you’ll love it.
Style meets lifestyle
What’s better than comfortable, stylish wardrobe staples you can wear anywhere? Nothing. Not only are lifestyle pieces cool and casual but they’re a practical, multi-purpose piece you can wear to your little one’s soccer game, brunch with friends, or while you run errands and pop in to visit us at Willowbrook. Pair your favourite hoodie with sleek and stretchy high-waisted leggings, look for colourful socks to stand out in crisp white sneakers, and top off your look with an elegant and hands-free crossbody bag that keeps your essentials close no matter where you’re headed. Visit Lululemon, American Eagle, H&M, Mountain Warehouse and Boathouse for a selection of lifestyle must-haves you must get.
Natural attractions
Let’s face it: Fall’s colour palette is naturally stunning. With crisp oranges, soft greens, and shades of beige, taupe, and brown, it’s hard not to create looks inspired by the great outdoors this time of year. Treat yourself to cute and comfy boots from Call it Spring or loafers from Winners that look great with denim or dresses, find a fun and feminine floral print to dress up or dress down, and let’s not forget a cool weather essential from Bootlegger—the flannel shacket.
Entrenched in style
Despite our best intentions, Fall also means rain. Lucky for us, rain also means cute trench coats and cozy layering pieces to stay warm and dry. Warm up and cut out extra bulk with a sweater vest, trade trousers for a long skirt for a flirty fun look you can rock even in the rain, and don’t forget to accessories with classy hoop earrings from Michael Hill, bangle bracelets, or a bold statement ring from Ann-Louis Jewellers that demands attention for all the right reasons.
pssstt… if you’re looking to purchase new Fall items but want to avoid a trip to the mall, order directly through Willowbrook’s website with a single-cart checkout process and free same-day delivery.
Purses, totes, wallets—oh my! Picking the perfect bag that meets your needs can be tricky, especially when you’re trying to balance style and practicality. And while our mantra is always, “What’s one more bag?” we’ve put together a few top recommendations for you to check out the next time you visit us at Willowbrook.
Crossbody Bags
Hands free? Heck yes. Crossbody bags are a must for anyone who ever gets sick of carrying a bag. Not only does they typically have tons of pockets to keep you organized, but the shoulder straps are adjustable for the perfect fit.
A few options to consider include Bentley’s Mini Essentials or the H&M Crossbody Bag.
Tote Bags
A bag that’s equal parts business in the office and brunch with the girls? Yes, please. Structured totes are a great alternative to briefcases and make the perfect work accessory. They hold plenty—from personal items and necessities to pencil cases and laptops, depending on the size. Not only do they come in a variety of colours to go with anything in your wardrobe, but they include a shoulder strap giving you more options to wear and style.
A couple of our favourites include the Aldo Nilo Tote or the Monk & Lou from Plenty
Wristlets
Need a wallet that’s just a little more? This is it. Lululemon’s Curved Wristlet is cute, curved wristlet lets you keep the essentials with you and even has a hidden phone slot. The strap makes it easy to carry while you’re hitting a music festival, walking the dog, or out shopping, plus you can attach your keys or funky keychains to personalize it. Did we mention it’s also water resistant? What more can you ask for in this climate?
Happy Shopping!
pssstt… if you’re looking to purchase a new bag this season but avoid a trip to the mall, order directly through Willowbrook’s website with a single-cart checkout process and free same-day delivery.
Pass me a glass, we’re talking about cocktails and mocktails you’ll want (and may need) to make to beat the heat. But before we start trading recipes and popping corks, there’s a few bartending essentials you’ll need to make a truly great drink and become the happy hour hostess with the mostess.
Shakers, muddlers, strainers—there’s no shortage to bartending tools on the market and many of them are highly specialized. Avoid the temptation to buy everything and instead invest in a few high-quality pieces you’re sure to use no matter what you’re making. Start with a classy stirring spoon and stainless-steel jigger to ensure your drinks are properly measured and mixed. Find all you need and more at Hudson’s Bay and don’t forget the ice! Try a large sized ice cube tray for a trendy look or a set of whiskey stones from House of Knives so you don’t dilute your drink.
We’re not saying you should judge a drink by its glass, but we’re pretty sure cocktails taste better in cute stemware. Choose beautiful tinted coloured glass in different styles or classic and timeless crystal clear for glasses that show off your bright and bubbly beverage. Visit Hudson’s Bay, Winners or Nordstrom Rack to browse some stunning options.
Need some delish bites to go with your bevys?
Pop by one of Willowbrook’s restaurants for delicious take-home treats that the whole family can enjoy—regardless of their drink of choice. Bon appetit.
Who doesn’t want a good night’s sleep? Quality sleep is vital for our overall health and can have a big impact on our mood, productivity, and overall wellness. And while some of us are lucky enough to fall asleep seemingly anytime, anywhere, others need a little boost to help catch our zzzs.
Here are a few simple tricks to help you fall asleep, stay asleep, and make your bedtime routine as relaxing and restful as possible.
Set the stage
You’d buy a new blazer to ace an interview so when it comes to quality sleep, invest in quality bedding like sheets, blankets, duvets, and pillows from QE Home. Not only can high-end bedding feel luxurious when you crawl in to sleep, but you can find bedding to meet your personal preferences like:
cooling sheets to prevent overheating in in the warmer summer months;
weighted blankets to help you fall into a deeper sleep, quickly;
silk sheets which are breathable and regulate body temperature while being gentler on hair and skin.
Make it cool, calm, and quiet Ever notice how it can be so much harder to sleep in the summer? Keep your bedroom cool and quiet for the best sleep possible. Turn down your thermostat and invest in a fan to create a gentle breeze and keep the air moving. Visit Hudson’s Bay for an assortment of fans to choose from.
Love to watch TV from bed? Sadly, this might be making it harder to sleep. Keep electronics out of the bedroom to create a space free from distractions, blue lights, and the temptation to keep scrolling. Instead, try:
lighting a relaxing scented candle from Bath & Body Works (we suggest something with lavender but they have a ton of great options);
finishing the day with a great read. Coles has their Summer Vacation Reading List out if you need any recommendations;
a soothing cup of tea (without caffeine) from Murchie’s to help you unwind.
Keep it natural
Nutrition House has several vitamins and supplements that can induce relaxation and help you sleep, including magnesium, valerian root, ginkgo biloba and more. Make sure to only try these supplements one at a time. While they’re not a magic wand for sleep issues, they can be useful when combined with other natural sleeping strategies like keeping a consistent, regular schedule. Try getting up and going to bed at the same time every day and limit napping during the day.
Don’t fight it. Sometimes you just can’t sleep—and that’s okay! Get up if you must and try some deep breathing or stretching before going back to bed. Just make sure you reserve your bedroom for a quiet space for sleep.
A good night’s sleep is just as important as regular exercise and a healthy diet. Sweet dreams!
Summer’s in full swing and if you’re not spending your days lounging in the backyard, making the most of your patio, or enjoying your balcony or deck, you’re missing out. Transform your space, whatever it may be, into the ultimate outdoor oasis and get ready to enjoy.
Cool down
Some of us love to see the mercury rise. Others, not so much. Create a cool waterfront escape with a new inflatable pool or funky sprinkler. Visit Hudson’s Bay and choose from cool patterns and fun prints and then turn any backyard corner into your new poolside paradise. And don’t forget the hose. Fill your new pool with a new hose, water the garden, and give yourself a refreshing spritz, too, just make sure to turn the hose off when you’re done to save water and avoid flooding the yard.
Warm up Summer isn’t always about figuring out how to beat the heat. Sometimes, it’s about how to heat up a cool night. May we suggest a firepit? Not only is it a chic way to warm up, but it’s a quick and easy way to roast a weenie or toast some marshmallows! A beautiful addition to any backyard, Hudson’s Bay has a ton of great options!
And if a firepit isn’t in the budget, try a few cozy throw blankets and outdoor cushions from QE Home for a pop of colour and warmth as you wind down in the evening.
Play on Did we mention your backyard is the best place to play? Make your space a fun source of endless entertainment with outdoor games like life-sized Jenga or Connect 4 from Toys R Us and get ready for friendly competition. Or let your little ones show off their sports skills with a new basketball hoop or baseball glove.
And when you need a break from the games, turn your outdoor space into a private movie theatre. Showcase has portable projectors where you can watch your favourites just about anywhere and create movie magic all season long.
Cool down, warm up, and have a blast in your very own backyard, all summer long.
It’s that time of year again—Father’s Day is right around the corner and we’ve got gifts for that great guy. Whoever you’re celebrating—dads, stepdads, grandads, uncles, big brothers, or just a cool male role model—treat them to all the best this season, whatever they’re into.
For the one who needs a new look
Could Dad’s look use a little love? It might be time for a new ensemble. Whether he’s a casual jeans and tee guy, prefers a polo and golf shorts, or likes to dress it up with slacks and a sport coat, we can help with stores like American Eagle, H&M, or Jack and Jones. Try a comfy and classic dark wash pair of jeans, or a practical button-down that’s sure to have him looking and feeling his best every time.
For the outdoors lover
Camping, hiking, or just playing in the dirt—if Dad’s and outdoorsy type, we can help. Make sure Dad’s got the right shoes on (no more beat up New Balance) and let the Footlocker team help find a cool pair of Jordans or some casual slides for the beach. Then, treat him to some outdoor R&R with a cozy hammock from Mountain Warehouse—the big kid version of a classic tree swing.
For the technology buff
Gadgets, gizmos, tablets, smart watches—there’s no end to the new technology available and the cool cases and accessories you can get, too. Treat Dad to a smartwatch that does it all or a portable speaker for those jam sessions on the go. Not a fan of Dad’s playlist? Noise cancelling headphones make a great gift, too and The Source has it all and more.
For the one who has everything
Let’s face it, Dad isn’t always the easiest to shop for, even when you have a gift guide helping you out. If the dad in your life already has everything, get him a gift card and plan a fun shopping trip to Willowbrook. Hit up Dad’s favourite stores and stop for a snack to refuel or grab something to go and enjoy a sweet treat or cold drink on the run.
However you’re celebrating and whoever you’re celebrating with, we wish you a great Father’s Day and fun time with family.
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