Image by FutUndBeidl on Flickr
 
Christmas is such a busy time of year and it’s easy to shift into auto pilot – in order to get all the “to do” list items done. Being truly present can make it much more joyful, though. We’ve got some great shopping tips to help you tick those boxes on your list, all while exploring amazing vendors on Vancouver’s North Shore, without that feeling of overwhelm.
 

Skoah

Whether you’re looking for gifts for him or for her, Skoah’s extensive line of healthy skin, spa-quality products are winners. You’ll feel good about these unpretentious products, built largely around facials, but including general skin care, that are PETA certified. And how do they smell? While there are product without fragrance, other products contain either essential oils or high quality fragrance oils – and we think they smell fabulous!
 

Blume

If Gingerbread Chaga Cocoa, Coconut Morninga Matcha, OR Cacao Turmeric Latte Mix sound delicious (and yes, we know they do), then you’ll want to pick up products from Blume. While Blume doesn’t have a retail outlet, it is merchandised in a number of stores including Alchemy Coffee at 4^th and Lonsdale, and Budda Full at Northwoods Village (Dollarton Highway). Or, visit their booth at the Fall for Local Holiday Market, December 8 & 9^th at the Shipyards in Lower Lonsdale. This weekend market event includes a total of 95 vendors, DIY workshops, food trucks and more!
 

Giftworks

If you’re not quite sure about a gift that might be “just right” then visit Giftworks in Edgemont Village. They have an array of options from jewelry to pottery, candles to linens. The Vancouver Candle Company's North Shorecandle fragrance is a favourite well worth checking out.
 
 
After a few hours of productive shopping, before you wrap up your Christmas treasures, wrap yourself in a towel after enjoying the refreshing indoor pool and hot tub at the Holiday Inn North Vancouver. Even better, visit Blu Harbour Wellness + Spa for a relaxing massage or treatment – we think you’ve earned it.