Send your love and a little gift this holiday season.
We’ve all been there: you find the perfect gift but there’s just no way it will arrive without breaking. Or worse, the cost to ship your gift to loved ones is more than the gift costs in the first place. With holiday parties and social get-togethers on the naughty list, this year more than ever before we’re relying on the mail to arrive in time, and in one piece. So how do you get a great gift that can survive the postal system? We’ve put together five great gifts that are easy to ship and we’re sure your recipient will love.
Make a statement with a new mask We don’t always appreciate the practical gifts until we truly need them but there’s no denying a new mask is a gift you know will be put to good use. With so many options available at Hudson’s Bay, Below The Belt, Blackwell Supply Co. and so many stores, there is truly a design or pattern for everyone on your holiday shopping list. Plus, masks are small and lightweight making them an easy choice to ship to your loved ones—no matter how near or far they may be.
Warm those toes and fingers Unless you’re really, really hot-blooded, or your gift recipient is south of the border, you’re probably starting to bundle up for the winter. And face it, who likes cold toes or numb fingers? The answer is no one. Cozy holiday socks or a chic pair of gloves are a great gift that your loved ones can put to good use instantly. Score some festive patterns or stick with neutrals that go with everything. These comfy classics from Nordstrom Rack won’t break in the mailroom and they won’t cost an arm (or a foot) to send.
Organize Have a person on your list that’s always losing something? Gift them a cute makeup bag from Sephora, jewellery organizer, or pencil case from Coles to keep their essentials together in one place. If you’re feeling extra generous send along with a cute lip balm, stylish bracelet, or fancy pen and pencil set to go with.
Don’t forget the card When in doubt, get the gift you know will be the right size, right colour, and will arrive in one piece—a gift card. In addition to taking the guesswork, and stress, out of gift-giving, a gift card lets your recipient get just what they want. Our Willowbrook gift cards are available in denominations from $10-$500 and they’re accepted by 130 great stores at Willowbrook.
However you’re celebrating, and whoever you’re celebrating with, be kind, be calm, be safe. And don’t forget to check the mail.
2020: it’s a year that’s been full of challenges, surprises, and new opportunities. From changes to how we work and celebrate, the global COVID-19 pandemic has impacted us all in ways we could have never predicted. But despite the stresses and challenges, COVID has also created new opportunities.
“This situation has pushed us to reinvent the ordinary,” says Chan Hon Goh, Director of the Goh Ballet Academy and Youth Company Canada, Artistic Director of the Global Dance Challenge, and former Principal Dancer of The National Ballet of Canada.
Like many other industries and businesses, ballet and the performing arts have been forced to adapt to a world of social distancing and virtual events as a result of the current COVID-19 pandemic.
“We had to do something virtually because of the circumstances. Any other year there would be no way we could film this given our time restraints and resources. It just wouldn’t have worked.”
In non-COVID years, Goh Ballet would hold auditions for The Nutcracker—an annual holiday classic—in May. This year, May saw much of the world in a lockdown facing unknown circumstances and new challenges, along with new opportunities.
“We were waiting and hoping for good news in the spring and were optimistic but cautious. Ultimately, we made the decisions not to hold live shows this year.”
But despite the decision to suspend live performances, the determination to create a show persisted.
“The desire to perform doesn’t go away” notes Goh, “The situation right now is only temporary.”
In September, Goh and her artistic team and cast began rehearsing, adhering to a tight schedule and COVID-19 restrictions, including social distancing, and reducing a usual cast of over 250 to just 60 individuals.
“The Nutcracker is an annual favourite but there are countless versions of it out there and they’re well done. We wanted to do something more compelling and closer to home” says Goh.
The original, “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” is a story written in 1816 by Prussian author E. T. A. Hoffmann, and in 1892, the Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and choreographers Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov turned Alexandre Dumas’s adaptation of the story into the ballet The Nutcracker.
This Ballet has become a winter holiday classic performed by dancers around the world for decades, and adapted as a live-action film on numerous occasions, most recently in 2018.
“Our version takes place in the present, but also jumps to the nostalgia of the past, and provide hopes to the future” Goh says. “When you’re filming something, you’re under a magnifying glass.. Our cast has been so dedicated, and they’ve worked really hard to prepare.”
Goh herself has been working tirelessly alongside her cast, not only as the film’s Executive Producer but she will be making a small cameo performance as the Sugar Plum Fairy.
“Ballet is a meticulous and difficult art form. Going back to performing now I have become more compassionate. I can see when it’s time to pause and take a moment. I have a better appreciation for what these dancers are going through.”
The daughter of two dancers herself, Goh’s career is one decorated with countless awards and accolades including an honorary degree from UBC, the Order of Canada, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and an assortment of ballet and dance competition wins and awards.
“I think my parents first put me in dance as a way to keep an eye on me” jokes Goh. “But I remember being about 11 and having been dancing for a few years and noticing that I wasn’t getting as much attention as some other kids in the class. So, I found the courage to say, ‘Correct me. Show me what I’m doing wrong.’ And that’s when I knew I wanted to do this.”
By the age of 15, Goh was competing internationally.
“I went to a competition and I was the only Canadian there—some people didn’t even know where Vancouver was. People didn’t expect me to win or place in the competition, so it was very validating and that became the reaffirmation I needed to make ballet and performing my career. I think all dancers can look back and see those moments in their careers. Those experiences translate into who you are.”
Filming this year’s performance, Goh says she’s eager to not only give audiences an insight into the world of ballet and the performing arts, but to show audiences passion, desire, and joy.
“We’re appealing to emotions in this story that are so genuine. It’s a journey anyone can go on with us and relate to in some way. I want people to walk away from this film ready to find their own opportunities, to chase their dreams and explore more things. This really is an awakening of how things can change and what we can do with that.”
Visit: www.gohnutcracker.com/beyondthestage to receive exclusive access to the limited time film release of Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker: Beyond The Stage, available from December 18, 2020 until January 2, 2021.
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.
Back to school and back to the mall—is there any better time to spruce up your wardrobe, dust off your dresser, and score some sweet new gadgets?
No matter what your current situation is—work or school, online or in-person—a few simple closet staples can have you looking and feeling your best this fall, even if it’s only for a Zoom meeting or FaceTime call.
It might be hard to imagine putting on real pants lately, but a flattering, comfortable, well-fitting pair of jeans is a wardrobe essential and worthwhile investment. Dress your jeans up with a blazer, down with a hoodie, and match them with anything in between. And if donning denim sounds depressing, try a coloured pair to keep things soft and cozy, distressing to look chic and edgy, and of course, spandex for stretch and comfort, all available at American Eagle Outfitters.
Say it with us: sweater weather! Soft, warm, and stylish, what’s not to love? Sweaters are a great, easy and fast way to stay warm and look more polished than a hoodie or sweatshirt, especially when they’re from H&M. Throw it on before you answer your next virtual meeting, and you’ll be sure to impress.
Kids growing like (very cute) weeds? Save time, and money, with multi-pack buys on wardrobe staples like leggings and tees from The Children’s Place or H&M. When you find what you like, why not buy it in every colour? Or, invest in outfit sets that take the guesswork out of mixing and matching and make getting up and ready for school a breeze.
We’re all spending a little more time online lately, so now is a great time to look at upgrading your internet service, smartphone plan, and getting a device you love that will meet your needs. Talk to an expert in-store at The Source or Freedom Mobile and compare models and plans to find just what you need—and a cute case to protect your investment.
Happy shopping, happy learning, and happy September!
Since their opening in 1998, the team at Merle Norman Cosmetics has always made sure they make their guests feel like family. The family-owned and operated business specializes in not only makeup and skincare services but offers best-in-class spa treatments such as eyebrow waxing, Inverness ear piercing and more!
NOT JUST SKINCARE
Eyebrow waxing and shaping is now their signature service. They welcome walk-ins as well as appointments. Their chairs are rarely empty! With master certified aestheticians on-board, they are happy to be of service to you!
BROW POWER
Not only do their certified aestheticians do a fantastic job at making you look beautiful, but they also offer makeup lessons for you to learn more! Merle Norman is also offering Henna Brow services at $59 for a limited time only!
Be sure to visit them in-store to take advantage of their fantastic promotions and get pampered the way you deserve.
There’s a reason they call it beautiful British Columbia—because it is. With an abundance of natural beauty including lakes, rivers, coastline, islands, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean, it’s a great time to take a hike, literally!
No matter where you decide to venture, you’re going to need a good, comfortable pair of shoes. The right shoes and socks can make all the difference between an enjoyable walk basking in nature, and desperately wanting to go back to the car, or asking “how much further?”
Treat your feet well. Get shoes that fit your feet properly and offer the right type of support for the level of outdoor activity you plan to do and opt for a pair that can handle getting wet (this is the Pacific Northwest, after all). The team at Blackwell Supply Co. will be happy to help you find the right hiking shoes (pssst…the Blundstones are great!). And while you’re at it, look into getting a nice backpack to carry your hiking gear, like the one below!
Layer up! While it can be tempting to throw on shorts and a tank and hit the trails, especially when it’s bright and sunny out, make sure you’re prepared for the weather to change. Depending on the length of your hike and your final destination you may want to bring a light sweater or long-sleeved shirt with you to stay warm—plus this can protect you from sunburns and bug bites. And don’t forget a hat and sunglasses, while you’re at it.
Bring the right equipment. Pack light snacks, a cute water bottle, charge your cell phone completely, and always let someone know where you’re headed and when you’ll be back. Ready to up your hiking game? Consider a walking pole. Believe it or not, walking with poles offers numerous benefits like better balance and stability on trails, and can also improve posture and even strengthen your muscles when used correctly. Plus, collapsible poles make it easy to pack and store them when not in use. Walking poles and other hiking gear is available at your one-stop-hiking-shop, Mountain Warehouse!
Get a pass. Some provincial parks require you to have a pass for use. Save yourself the time and potential disappointment and check out the BC Parks website before you head out.
Don’t forget your camera! No matter where you’re headed, there’s so much gorgeous scenery and breathtaking landscapes that you’re sure to want to snap a few pics. If you’re already a shutterbug consider getting a new lens or equipment that will help you up your outdoor photo game and a case that can stand up to it all. Or go for binoculars and get a good look, from a safe distance, at the local critters that call BC home. The great thing is…you can get all your tech gadgets at Kerrisdale Cameras!
Wherever you go, and whenever you do, dress right, plan ahead and remember the cardinal rule of spending time outdoors: take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, and kill nothing but time. Happy hiking!
Exciting news is always on the horizon at Willowbrook, but when we first opened our doors in 1979, we didn’t know how far we would come in a matter of 40 years! A community shopping centre that is loved by the people of Langley, Willowbrook has been home to over 130 amazing retailers in the past, with more being added to the mix in the present and future (we can’t wait for BC’s first Nordstrom Rack to open at Willowbrook!).
Accented by an abundance of natural beauty, modern west coast architecture, wood details, outdoor gathering spaces and contemporary landscaping, Willowbrook’s expansion and redevelopment fits seamlessly within the lifestyle-oriented community of Langley.
To celebrate Willowbrook’s vision and commitment to beautifying the growing community of Langley, we have put together a before and after selection of photos that truly encompass how far we have come!
TIM HORTONS ENTRANCE
SWIMCO ENTRANCE
FOOD COURT
INTERIOR CORRIDOR
CONCIERGE
BEAUTIFUL FOLIAGE
WASHROOMS
SPORT CHEK AND TOYS R US RELOCATION
INTERIOR CORRIDOR
Tell us which one of these transformations surprised you the most! We would love to hear about your time growing up at your community shopping centre. Be sure to connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.
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