There is just something so special about this time of year; Christmas trees, twinkle lights, woollen mittens and promises of hot chocolate. Even if there is hardly any snow on the ground, spending an evening doing your holiday shopping under the stars sounds pretty idyllic. Shopping local affords you the opportunity to explore a neighbourhood, meet the actual shop owners and treat yourself to a delicious glass of wine or dessert after you’ve finished up your shopping list. This kind of experience just cannot be replicated in a shopping mall setting.
This Friday, December 4th, my lovely neighbourhood is hosting a special Late Night Holiday Shopping event with members of the 4th Street BRZ. 4th Street is nestled in the middle of the Mission, Cliff Bungalow and Beltline Communities between historic sites and new urban development. Typically, these local shops are only open during the day but for this one night they are opening their doors until 8pm.
The full list of participating businesses is below - many of the businesses are offering a special discount or serving up some treats for the evening - bonus, right?! Some of the shops are offering some great discounts: Inspirati has 15% off all purchases while Neal’s Yard Remedies is offering 10% off. Coco + Violet and Modern Menswear are also giving anyone who spends $300, a $50 gift certificate (no expiry). Sounds like some real deals to be had! Also, scroll down to the bottom for my favourite places to grab a bite to eat on 4th Street after you are done your holiday shopping.
If you are sharing your purchases on social media be sure to use the hashtags #Shoplocal #Shoplateon4th! See you down there!
♥Altruistic - 2312 4 St SW: Gorgeous natural skin and beauty products that are perfect for stuffing into stockings.
♥Amaranth Market - 1407 4th St SW: I go here every couple of days for the best gluten-free, vegan and all-natural foods. Seriously, this place is my mecca. They also have some great gift ideas like organic chocolate coins and a variety of aromatherapy and wellness products.
♥Babor Beauty Spa - #25 2500 4 St SW: Luxe is one word to describe Babor. This stunning spa will rejuvenate and rehydrate your skin to the point of perfection. Great place to pick up a gift card for someone who needs some R&R.
♥Bin 905 - 2311 4 St SW: Um, hello. If you love fine wine, craft beer and small batch spirits, you are going to want to pick up some holiday cheer at Bin 905.
♥Bronze Baxx Tanning - #4, 2015 4 St SW: These folks know tanning and how to do it properly. Get the full scoop in-store and check out some of their great skincare products.
♥Coco + Violet - #17 2500 4 St SW: Gorgeous women’s clothing and accessories make me happy - do they make you happy too?
♥Good Earth Coffee House - 1213 4 St SW: Good Earth is a great place to refuel with a hot coffee in between shops - it is conveniently kiddy-corner to Shelf Life Books.
♥Home of OM - #3 2312 4 St SW: Find your inner zen or add some to a personalized gift from Home of OM. Looking for a unique gift idea? A gift certificate for a spin in their Float Tank couldn’t be more unique - or relaxing.
♥Inspirati - 2207 4 St SW: Pop in here for their amazing selection of textiles, tea towels and sea salt caramels. This is a great place to find a hostess gift or to outfit your holiday dinner table.
♥Krickets - 2306 4 St SW: Krickets has always been known for their fantastic gift ideas - pop in here for cool stocking stuffers.
♥Lululemon - 1708 4 St SW: Lululemon is a great place to pick gifts whether it is for a new yoga mat or a great gym bag to stash with goodies.
♥Marlow Floralworks - 2101 4 St SW: You can pick up all of your greenery and holiday decor here - such a gorgeous spot filled with beautiful things.
♥Massage Heights - 1813 4 St SW: Three words: Massage Gift Subscription.
♥Modern Menswear - #16 2500 4th St SW: This menswear shop carries seriously top drawer finds for the stylish gent in your life.
♥Neal’s Yard Remedies - 2207 4 St SW: Another one of my favourite spots, pick up one of their amazing essential oil diffusers and create a unique scent of your own to waft through your home this holiday season. This is a great spot to find small gifts for stockings.
♥Nikola - #103 2115 4 St SW: Find unique gifts at Nikola including plenty of natural fibre items.
♥Phil & Sebastian - 2207 4 St SW: Coffee beans and Keep Cups make a great gift for any coffee lover.
♥Saje - 2308 4 St SW: The residents of Mission sure love their aromatherapy; Saje is another great shop to pick up some sweet-smelling holiday gifts including some awesome pre-made gift packs.
♥Shelf Life Books - 1302 4 St SW: It is very hard for me to walk past Shelf Life and not go inside. And once I am inside, it is very hard for me to not spend some money. Books make great gifts no matter who you are purchasing for.
♥Tea Factory - 1820 4 St SW: The Tea Factory is a great local company that specializes in organic teas. Seriously, their selection will blow your mind. They also have kombucha on tap and available to take with you in a growler. They are the best.
♥The Tech Shop - 2424 4 St SW: If you know a runner who needs some new gear this is the place to shop for them. They have everything.
➔ Where to Eat:
♥Suzette Bistro - 2210 4 St SW: Gluten-free buckwheat galettes and European ciders - need I say more?
♥Bocce - #101, 2207 4 St SW: I cannot get enough of their delicious pizza and pasta (gluten-free options available)! Plus, the interior is gorgeous and the staff are all super lovely.
♥Anejo - 2116 4 St SW: Order the guacamole and a margarita - you will not be disappointed.
♥Hana Sushi -1807 4 St SW: My favourite sushi joint on 4th Street - it is always fresh and delicious. The Double Happiness Roll is everything and more.
♥Burger Inn - 1711 4 St SW: If you are feeling like having a burger and fries, pop into the longtime favourite Burger Inn. While it may not look like much, this old school burger joint is the real deal.
—
This post is sponsored by 4th Street BRZ. Thank you for supporting this amazing community builder that is so integral to the amazing shop owners of 4th Street SW.