There’s something nostalgic about a summer picnic – the way the sunlight filters through tree branches, the slow pace of the afternoon, and the joy of sharing good food in the open air. Whether you’re planning a cozy date or a cheerful afternoon with friends, creating the perfect picnic is all about style, sustainability, and delicious simplicity. 

Bring the Basket, But Make It Cute

First things first: the picnic basket. This isn’t your average woven tote—it’s a statement piece. Look for baskets with a vintage vibe, leather straps, and a lined interior that doubles as a cooler. Bonus points for one that includes compartments for your dishes and cutlery. Lightweight and easy to carry, a picnic blanket is a must-have, and extra bonus points for finding one with sweet summery stripes! Bringing bevies? Keep ‘em chilled with this season’s latest colour drop from Yeti – we are loving the Big Sky Blue! Say goodbye to flimsy paper plates. Reusable dishware is not only eco-friendly—it elevates the entire picnic experience. Think pastel-hued enamel plates, bamboo cutlery, and insulated tumblers in soft matte colours. Stack everything neatly in your basket and skip the single-use plastics altogether. It’s the little details that make your setup Instagram-worthy. 

• XL Picnic Blanket: Mountain Warehouse
• Picnic Basket: Winners
• Yeti Roadie 24 2.0 Hard Cooler: Sport Chek

What’s in the Basket? Picnic-Perfect Bites

If you are looking to spend more time at the parks, trails and beaches, and less time in the kitchen, here are our top reccos to grab-and-go for your fresh air day. From signature sandwiches and super fresh poke bowls (and don’t forget an instagramble dessert!) these picnic-ready favourites are sure to delight.  

• Signature Sandwiches: Chachi’s
• California Dreamin’ Shoyu Salmon Bowl: Steve’s Poke Bar
• Hug Rolls: T&T Bakery

The Sundress Moment 

Last but definitely not least: your outfit. A flowy, floral sundress is practically the picnic dress code. Choose something breathable, feminine, and easy to move in (sitting cross-legged on the grass is part of the charm). Add a straw hat, slides, and a swipe of tinted lip balm, and you’re picnic-ready. 

• Casey Striped Dress: Plenty
• Pink Birkenstock Sandals: SoftMoc
• Straw Bucket Hat: H&M

Final Touches

A portable speaker playing a soft acoustic playlist, a lightweight book, and maybe a few wildflowers picked nearby. That’s the recipe for an effortlessly dreamy picnic. 

The perfect picnic isn’t just about what you bring—it’s how you feel. Unhurried, sun-kissed, and surrounded by beauty.

Graduation season is here—and there’s no better way to honour your favourite grad than with a thoughtful gift they’ll always remember. Whether they’re tossing their cap at high school or walking the stage at university, we have everything you need to help them shine on their big day. 

Jewellery That Says “You Did It!” 

Give a gift that sparkles! From classic watches to charming charm bracelets and elegant necklaces, jewellery is a timeless way to say congratulations. With 7 incredible jewellery stores on-site, Willowbrook is the Fraser Valley’s milestone gift destination.  

• Personalized Necklace: Golden Tree Jewellers 
• Grad 2025 Charm: Pandora 
• Engravable, stackable ring: People’s Jewellers 

Custom Elements for a Personal Touch

Looking for something unique? Check out the engraving services available at Foto Stop. Whether it’s a monogrammed pen, custom cufflinks, or engraved bracelet, these meaningful gifts will stay with them long after the tassel has turned. Embroidery options at Lids are limitless and sure to delight the athletes in this year’s grad class. And don’t forget to treasure your grad’s achievements with custom framing options from Willowbrook Art Gallery.  

• Cufflinks: Foto Stop
• Customizable Hats: Lids 
• Framing: Willowbrook Art Gallery 

Grad Glam

Looking for the finishing touches for their big day? We are here for all the details, down to the button. From makeup styling tips at Sephora, eyebrows at Merle Norman and hair blow outs at our salons, our glam-ready beauty services are top-notch. And be sure to browse the latest in grad accessories at Aldo, Spring and Winners. 

• Waxing Brows: Merle Norman 
• Heels: Aldo 
• Tone Refresh and Styling: Zennkai Salon

Grad is a big deal!

Celebrate the journey by taking time to honour how far your grad has come! Pro-tip, here’s an inspirational quote to tuck into your grad’s gift: 

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” — Eleanor Roosevelt 

Elevate Your Date Night with Fresh Fashion Finds

As the flowers bloom and the weather warms up, spring brings a sense of renewal and excitement. It’s the perfect season to embrace fresh fashion trends, especially when planning a romantic night out. Whether you’re heading to a charming outdoor cafe, a cozy restaurant, or a scenic stroll in the park, let your style blossom alongside the season. In this spring fashion blog, we’ll explore the latest trends that will make your date night outfit as memorable as the evening itself.

Floral Elegance
Spring and florals go hand in hand. Incorporate the season’s signature bloom into your date night look with a floral dress or a blouse paired with tailored pants or a skirt. Soft pastel hues or bold botanical prints will add a touch of romance and playfulness to your ensemble.

Effortless Chic with Jumpsuits
Jumpsuits are versatile and effortlessly chic, making them an ideal choice for a spring date night. Choose a lightweight, flowy jumpsuit in a pastel shade or a floral pattern. This one-piece wonder strikes the perfect balance between comfort and style, allowing you to move with ease while looking effortlessly put together.

Sunny Days Call for Sundresses
Embrace the warmth of spring with a sundress that exudes femininity and charm. Opt for a midi or maxi length for an elegant touch. Flowy fabrics, such as chiffon or cotton, will keep you comfortable while radiating an easygoing vibe. Add a wide-brimmed hat and a pair of stylish sunglasses for a touch of glamour.

Casual Cool with Denim
For a laid-back yet stylish date night, consider incorporating denim into your outfit. A well-fitted denim jacket paired with a feminine dress, or a trendy denim jumpsuit can strike the perfect balance between casual and chic. This versatile fabric adapts seamlessly to various date night settings.

Footwear Finesse
Spring calls for the introduction of open-toe shoes and strappy sandals. Elevate your date night look with stylish footwear that complements your outfit. Whether you opt for block heels, espadrilles, or embellished sandals, choose a pair that enhances your style while ensuring comfort for the duration of the evening.

Accessorize Thoughtfully
Enhance your spring date night ensemble with carefully chosen accessories. Consider delicate jewelry, a statement handbag, or a wide belt to accentuate your waist. A lightweight scarf or a floral hair accessory can add a whimsical touch to your overall look.

As you step into the blooming world of spring, let your date night outfit reflect the vibrant energy of the season. From floral dresses to chic jumpsuits and denim-inspired casual elegance, there’s a spring fashion trend to suit every style preference. Embrace the romance of the season, and let your outfit be a celebration of both fashion and the blossoming connection with your special someone. Happy styling!

Your closet called—it’s Fall. And while we might want to hold onto flowy blouses, sunglasses, sandals, and our favourite denim shorts, the reality is that it’s time for hoodies, sweaters, boots, cozy knits, and the occasional pumpkin spice. If you’re not sure what’s in style this season, or how to style it, don’t fret. Just keep reading.

There’s nothing like the warmth and softness of a new hoodie, especially with one from H&M or Boathouse. As the thermostat dips the need for layers increases. Try a colourful zip-up for a cheerful splash of colour or a classic neutral that’s sure to match anything you pair with it. If over-the-head comfort is more your vibe we’ve got you covered, too, with cute sayings and patterns so you can stay warm and get your message across—literally. And if you’re committed to cozy comfort, consider sizing up in your hoodie for a trendy oversized look you can pair easily with leggings or jeans.

[bjzm_gallery id=”1″]

Still want to stay warm but step out of the casual zone? Sweaters. Cable knits and cardigans alike scream Fall fashion and look great whether you’re hitting the office or the pumpkin patch.

[bjzm_gallery id=”2″]

We love leggings as much as the next person, but sometimes you just need jeans. A tailored, dark wash jean from American Eagle Outfitters is a wardrobe staple, especially as the weather changes. All about that distressed denim? Look for patched pants to achieve the same vibe without freezing in a pair of holey jeans.

[bjzm_gallery id=”3″]

Don’t forget the footwear. Warm feet are happy feet, and in the Lower Mainland, dry feet are key. No matter what style boot you prefer—ankle, over the knee, or thigh-high—you’ll want them to be waterproof. Find them at Aldo or SoftMoc.

[bjzm_gallery id=”4″]

Stay stylish, safe, and warm this Fall and visit us at Willowbrook Shopping Centre to get everything you need this season.