Gift Big, Shop Small On West 4th Avenue

In a year unlike any other we’ve known, the message to shop local is particularly poignant—especially as we approach the holidays. That’s why, when a group of Vancouver’s top lifestyle influencers joined VITA, individually, on West 4th Avenue for a series of socially distanced solo shopping tours, the goal to spread the “gift big, shop small” message far and wide was top of agenda. Below, a recap of the event, plus the latest on the area’s thoughtful and safe seasonal offerings. —Vita Daily

the tour. Unable to host a group event, we met each of our guests individually, masks on and sanitizer on hand, to showcase several stellar West 4th businesses. First up, The Latest Scoop, which is full to bursting with festive offerings, from party dresses (even if you’re just dressing up at home) to gorgeous gift ideas to ornaments (check out the stylish tree toward the back of the store).

Next, Lush, where bath bombs, skin-care products and themed beauty sets are gorgeously wrapped and ready to go.

Local florist Leis de Buds has shifted in large part to holiday offerings, with wreaths, holly branches and mistletoe in store (plus, darling ornaments crafted top-to-bottom by hand), while Hills Dry Goods has a stellar selection of cosy winter wear (socks, slippers, loungewear and PJs) and a focus on local jewelry designers like Melanie Auld and Wolf Circus.

Finally, at Silk Road Tea, the perfect presents can be steeped and poured in a cup, with festive flavours like Candy Cane and Snow Apple Spice available now.

the bag. Special thanks, too, to our fabulous swag contributors: @thelatestscoop_ @silkroadtea @aghair @antiagingvan @biminisbeerhall @fig_face @jacksons4thave @joyridevancouver @judithandcharles @knixwear @lushcosmetics @thepiehole @sajewellness @shoppersbeauty @tractorfoods @yyoga @kuverupmasc @tuesdaysfinedrycleaners @ridecycleclub @donnellygroup. Talk about a bountiful bag!

festive happenings. With B.C.’s mask and social-distancing policies in mind, West 4th is hosting a number of fab festive events this holiday season. From 24 days of giveaways (via its Kitsmas Advent campaign) to live music by Karla Sax to larger-than-life nutcrackers (they make for stellar photos opps) and a jolly red mailbox where letters are sure to reach Santa, there’s much to celebrate locally. So put on a mask, grab your list and head to West 4th Avenue, making sure to keep the mantra of the year alive: GIFT BIG, SHOP SMALL!

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