Not one, not two, but 24 full days of contests, giveaways, gifts with purchase and tons more! Countdown to Christmas with us and get a chance to win a beautiful sapphire diamond ring from Golden Tree Jewellers, a $500 shopping spree at Hudson’s Bay, or a comfy weighted blanket from Showcase! And that’s only three of the 24 days… there’s so much to choose from and so much to win!
Santa Claus is coming to town, but of course, virtually! To keep our community and the big man in red safe, Santa will be hosting video calls with families this Holiday season. So come join Santa on a call from the comfort of your own home.
Willowbrook’s highly coveted Holiday fashion, right at your fingertips! Explore must-have gift items of the season in our latest edition of the Holiday Hit List.
If there’s ever been a year that justified the idea of “treat yo’ self” it’s 2020. Make time and take time to not only buy yourself a gift but relax and enjoy it. Spoil yourself, someone has to.
DO invest in products that work for your skin
It’s no secret that winter weather can be hard on your skin and it’s common to see chapped lips, dry skin, and cracked heels this time of year. But the skin you’re in is unique, and it’s important to pick products that work for you. Chat with a skincare expert at The Body Shop and look for natural, nourishing ingredients. Want to sample a few different things at once? Look for travel-size products and stocking stuffer sets that include a variety of items before you purchase a full-sized version.
DON’T overwhelm the senses
We know there are so many great smelling products—from lotions and soaps to scented candles and diffusers—but picking too main fragrances can not only make it hard to tell what it is you’re smelling it can also lead to headaches and trigger allergies. Instead, pick a single scent you love and enjoy! Psst, needing some extra relaxation? Lavender, chamomile, and bergamot are known for their soothing and relaxing properties. But we wouldn’t blame you if you prefer something that smells like apple cinnamon or sugar cookies, too. Head to Bath & Body Works for all your fragrance needs.
DO leave some things to the pros
Have you ever heard the expression, “if it was that easy everyone would do it?” it applies to pampering and beauty services, too. While a home pedicure can be a quick pick me up and press on nails from the drug store can be cost-effective, treating yourself to professional services like a manicure, pedicure, facial, or massage means you get the benefit of professional expertise. A professional at ToeToSoul Relax Lounge will use the right products for you and can make personalized recommendations, too.
DON’T worry if you don’t know what you want We all know someone difficult to buy for and sometimes that someone is yourself. If you can’t decide exactly what you want, get yourself a Willowbrook gift card. Purchasing a gift card reserves a set amount towards your pampering that you can use later and prevents you from coming up with excuses or worrying about the cost. It’s already covered!
Whether you find something small to brighten your day or splurge on a head to toe spa day, don’t leave yourself off your holiday shopping list this season.
Okay, we know, the wet and grey drizzly Vancouver weather paired with the fact that it’s dark at lunchtime can make the winter months tough. But with the right pair of shoes (and boots and a sweater and a jacket) you’ll be far more comfortable and still stylish as ever.
Start from the ground up. Cold feet are the worst. Not only is it time to bust out thick, plush, fuzzy socks, it’s also time to look for boots and make sure your footwear can withstand rain and the occasional puddle. Stick with black or dark brown to ensure maximum options. Available at Blackwell Supply Co. and SoftMoc.
Those cute ripped jeans you were wearing a month ago? Time to put them back in the drawer and get pants that won’t leave you vulnerable to frostbite. Look for bootcut or skinny jeans at Below The Belt or Jack & Jones to easily tuck into your favourite boots and pair with a soft and warm sweater.
We don’t blame you if you’d rather not put your jeans on right now, either. And that’s why leggings and sweatpants exist! At Warehouse One, you can look for lined leggings that will not only keep you extra warm but are thicker to prevent any dreaded see-through spots. Or try joggers—a more tailored sweatpants alternative—to look athletic and comfortable, rather than traditional oversized sweats.
There’s no alternative to a proper rain jacket if you live in the Lower Mainland and now is the time to dust it off or invest in an upgrade. A warm, sleek, comfortable rain jacket from Little Mountain Vancouver and the winter coat from Nordstrom Rack is a must-have for anyone and makes popping out to run errands or take a quick walk that much more enjoyable. Besides, who really likes carrying a dripping umbrella with them all the time anyway?
Be sure to layer up under your jacket. Nothing screams winter wear like layers—the softer and snugglier the better. Look for zip-ups and buttons instead of over-the-head hoodies so that you can easily undo your layers if necessary before you overheat. Available at Little Mountain Vancouver and Nordstrom Rack.
As much as we’re all for staying home right now when the time comes to go out, be sure to stay warm, stay dry, stay stylish, and stay six feet away from other people.
Even in the midst of a global pandemic, flu season still exists, and it’s here. And while we’re rocking our masks, busting out our hand sanitizer, and staying away from as many people as possible those pesky germs can still get in and wage war with our immune systems. So, it’s time to stock up, stay in, and stay well.
Are you taking your vitamins? As the seasons change, we’re getting less fresh air and less sunlight so it’s increasingly important to ensure you’re getting all the vitamins and minerals you need. Your specific needs can depend on your age, diet, lifestyle and any medical conditions you may have. Make time to talk to a knowledgeable in-store expert at Nutrition House to learn more about the right supplements and dosage for you, and your family, and stock up.
Feeling a tickle in your throat? Stay calm, boil the kettle, and break out the tea. Not only is it soothing, but a hot cup of tea is sure to warm you up and keep you cozy. Plus, it’s delicious. Tea can also cure a range of ailments—from settling an upset stomach to reducing stress and aiding in sleep—and can be a good source of antioxidants. But, we wouldn’t blame you if you’d rather treat yourself to a creamy and decadent hot chocolate. While you’re at it, try swapping the hot water for steamed milk as a splurge. Available at Murchie’s.
Ready for a nap? Who isn’t? Take your comfort and cozy game up a level with a new fleece blanket that’s warm and snuggly no matter where you choose to hit the hay. Plus, when you’re not curled up and hibernating, it makes a great couch throw. The quality of your sleep is also crucial and it’s just as important as the quantity. If you’re finding yourself staring at the ceiling in the middle of the night you might want to invest in new pillows. At QE Home, you can look for pillows that match your predominant sleeping style (back, side, or front) and while you’re at it, why not get a set of cute seasonal sheets, too?
If you do find yourself under the weather for a day or two, try delving into a good read or flagging new recipes for future meal prepping thanks to Coles. Or, use your quiet time to pick up a new pen and paper hobby like sketching, colouring, or hand lettering.
No one likes or plans to get sick but with the right supplies on-hand your winter flu could fly by and you’ll be prepared and ready to take on the day ahead—tomorrow.
Boo! What could be scarier than 2020, right? But just because it’s been a year of frights and scares, (Remember those killer hornets? No thanks!) doesn’t mean we need to sacrifice the spooky fun spirit of Halloween.
Okay, so trick-or-treating door to door may not be in your future this year but there’s still plenty of sugar on the menu. Not only does buying your own candy mean you can skip trick-or-treating, but it also means you can get exactly what you want, you don’t have to worry about allergies or safety, and you don’t have to settle for “fun size” mini bars. Isn’t a full-size chocolate more fun, anyway? There are tons of cute seasonal sweets at Purdys or Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory right now whether you want tiny pumpkins, carved up jack-o-lanterns, or your favourite assortment in some Instagram-worthy packaging—why pick just one?
Still getting dressed up? A black eyeliner from Sephora is all you need to create countless costume looks. Draw on cat whiskers, and leopard spots, a lightning bolt (you’re a wizard, Harry!) or turn your face into a skeleton with just one tool from your makeup bag. Choose a twistable eyeliner pencil for a smooth application, or a liquid liner pen to create fine lines and details. Plus we promise you’ll find a use for your black eyeliner the other 364 days of the year, too.
Can’t commit to some seasonal spooky makeup? Why not try a headband as a cute, simple, low-commitment way to celebrate? Or, swap out your regular mask for a themed one—bonus points for one that glows in the dark. And let’s not forget Fido. Keep your pooch warm and in the spooky mood with a Halloween themed puppy sweater. Available at Nordstrom Rack.
Not in the mood for a costume? How about decorating the house instead, and keeping everyone outside your bubble away with a sassy doormat? Some fun (and easy) decorating can have you in the spirit of Halloween in no time. Check out this doormat at Nordstrom Rack!
Even if Halloween looks a little different this year (like everything else has) we promise there’s tons of fun (and candy and chocolate) to be had.
Lipstick, liners, glosses—oh my! Nothing screams fall fashion and makeup like a dark, rich, vampy lip colour or a warm and sophisticated brown. To make your pout look (and feel!) it’s best we’ve put together a few quick tips and tricks that’ll have you styling and smiling in no time.
Don’t skip the prep work
Before you jump into beautiful bold colours, prep your lips for products. Use a lip scrub from Hudson’s Bay before you apply colour to buff away any dry flaky skin and ensure your lips are soft and supple. Did we mention lip scrubs are sugar-based and taste as good as they smell? Don’t have a lip scrub? Running your toothbrush over your lips can also work in a pinch.
Line up
There are multiple benefits to using a lip liner like this one at Hudson’s Bay in combination with your other products. Liners help you define (or redefine) the shape of your pout and create a guideline for filling in your lips with lipstick and reducing the risk of your lip colour bleeding beyond the edge of your defined lip line. Choose a liner as close to your lipstick as possible for a seamless blend, or, choose a shade or two darker to create a shadow and make your lips look fuller. You can also choose a liner pencil like those available at Sephora that you sharpen for a precise fine point, or a twistable crayon that’s quick and convenient on the go.
Variety is the spice of life, and makeup
Lip products come in a wide range of colours and formulas and the best way to decide what you like is to try them out. Have a tried and true colour you love? Switch it up with a different finish. Many lipsticks are available in matte, satin, and frosted options at Sephora and Hudson’s Bay. Torn between two different colours? Travel-sized minis are a great way to try more than one colour without having to pay for a full-sized product. Or treat yourself to a gift set! Did we mention holiday sets are hitting the shelves right now?
Balms away
Who likes chapped lips? Not us. And prevention is key! Whether you’re rocking reds or perfecting pinks take care of your pout with a hydrating lip balm or overnight lip mask, like the one below from Hudson’s Bay. And while it can be tempting to pick a lip balm based on cute packaging or how great it smells, try reaching for one that’s unscented and consider one with oil or butter in it—not just wax—to penetrate the surface of your lips.
No matter what your go-to look, brand, or product is, we know one thing for sure—a smile goes with everything, and it never goes out of style.
We know, it’s hard to believe it’s almost Thanksgiving. But, here we are. So, why not take this opportunity to pause, reflect, and prepare for what’s ahead. And maybe to buy a new pair of stretchy pants this weekend.
Whether you’re hosting a meal with family, or laying low and staying in solo, you can liven up your space and get it ready for company with a few quick additions from Nordstrom Rack like fun Fall art, throw pillows, and let’s not forget fall scents like apples, cranberry, and cinnamon.
Creating the perfect Thanksgiving table? Stick with The Bay’s warm tones, deep reds, soft neutrals, and a hint of gold for a sweet space fit for the season and a colour palette you can’t go wrong with. Draw some inspiration from Mother Nature, the great outdoors, colourful leaves, and of course, turkeys.
Any Starbucks pumpkin spice lovers here? Us, too. The perfect sweet and spicy blend that beckons this time of year is the pinnacle of fall. But what if we told you it was only 4 ingredients and you can easily make it yourself to bake with, add to coffee and tea, and whatever else you cook up.
Simply mix 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon with ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/8 teaspoon of ground cloves. Store your pumpkin spice blend in a container with a lid and keep it handy—you’re going to want to use it. To really make your house smell warm and sweet, just add a spoonful of the pumpkin pie spice blend to a pot of water. Bring it to a boil and then reduce to a simmer and enjoy the smell of fresh pumpkin pie, without the work or calories.
Need a hostess gift? Want to show some thanks and appreciation to a frontline worker? Just looking for something sweet? There’s no bad time for chocolate, especially chocolates that come in cute Thanksgiving packaging. In fact, we wouldn’t blame you if you picked up an extra box to treat yourself. Available at Purdys Chocolatier.
No matter how different 2020 may look, there are still so many things to be thankful for. So sit, sip, snack, enjoy, and of course, give thanks.
Feel that? It’s the seasons changing. With fall just around the corner, we’ve rounded up our top trades that are cozy, comfy and anything but basic.
Trade your flip flops for boots
They say with the right pair of shoes you can change the world. We bet they were boots, especially Aldo boots! Whether they’re ankle boots or knee-high, boots are a fall classic that keeps your feet dry and covered and works with almost any outfit. Plus, no one knows if you’re overdue for a pedicure. Not a boot fan? Go for a new pair of flats from Call It Spring. Stick with classic black or step into a sleek animal print pair instead (faux and friendly, of course).
Trade your shorts for new denim
While you’re packing away your flip flops, you might want to trade your shorts for a new pair of jeans, too. Mix it up with a new wash or different cut to easily change your look and revamp your style. Look for a pair that’s snug in the hip and thigh—they’ll stretch—and follow the washing directions to keep your new jeans looking their best as long as possible. Available at Bootlegger.
Trade your tank tops for sweaters
Okay so tank tops always have a place in your wardrobe, but, as the temperature starts to dip, consider layering them under a flannel shirt or knit sweater from H&M. Button up to stay super cozy or wear your sweaters open for a look that’s effortlessly casual.
Trade your hoodies for a structured jacket or blazer
The fall is a great time to invest in a new sport coat or blazer and is an easy way to turn your jeans and tee combo into a modern business-casual outfit so you’re ready for your next Zoom call in a snap. Blazers and jackets from Ricki’s can also add a splash of colour to brighten up your look and stay fresh even when the weather takes a toll for the worse.
Trade your lipstick for a new mask
Keep yourself safe and cut down on your makeup routine with a new mask from Call It Spring. Skip the lipstick and reach for sequins or a patterned reusable fabric mask instead and keep it handy for easy wear while you’re out and about.
No matter how you choose to refresh your wardrobe, we know you’ll snag pieces to fall for.
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