The holiday season is going to be a little different this year and we want to help you make the most of it, despite COVID-19 – the virus that keeps on giving in the worst possible way! The holidays are stressful at the best of times, so here are a few tips to maintain your sanity, stay safe and support the local businesses #onRobson.
Shop local
We all know how easy and convenient – dare we say it – Amazon can be, but this year more than ever we urge you to think local first. There are many compelling arguments to shopping locally, however, none more important than the threat of losing our much-loved businesses forever, so let’s support our favourite mom and pop businesses, our neighbourhood retail high streets or the multitude of Vancouver-born businesses (psst…there are a lot #onRobson, such as Plenty, Saje, Daniel Le Chocolate Belge, Couturist, Arc’teryx) this year. They would love to see you this holiday season!
Shop outside the mall
Fresh air shopping has never been more in style than in 2020! We all know COVID transmission is less likely outdoors, so shopping #onRobson with everything in one convenient location is a no-brainer. Bundle up, grab a warm holiday beverage and enjoy the festive atmosphere #onRobson.
This is not the year to be a last-minute shopper
Christmas is in six weeks and although that may feel like a long time, trust us, the days will fly by! December is one of the busiest months #onRobson, so we strongly suggest checking off your Christmas to-do list in November. Beyond saving yourself a lot of stress and anxiety, you’ll also benefit from the many Black Friday promotions happening as well.
Maneuver the line-ups like a boss
Despite the pandemic, retail therapy has still remained a much-loved recreational activity for people. Businesses #onRobson have implemented enhanced health and safety protocols, including maximum in-store occupancy, mandatory masks and increased sanitization routines to ensure their customers and staff are kept safe. One drawback of limited occupancy is, of course, the dreaded line-up. But we’re going to let you in on a little secret…Robson Street is much quieter in the morning and early afternoon, so head down bright and early and get a jump on your shopping. Most stores are open at 10 a.m., so it’s not crack-of-dawn early and you’ll have the best chance of finding a parking spot too! After 4 p.m. is when things start to really pick up #onRobson, so best to avoid this time or head to a restaurant or café for a little post-shopping treat instead. Might we suggest Ladurée, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory or D’oro Gelato.
Make your list and check it twice
In the wise words of Benjamin Franklin, “by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” This is definitely the year to be uber organized. Gather, synthesize and categorize your loved ones’ wish lists and then map out your plan of attack. We suggest limiting the number of stores you have to visit by finding retailers that have multiple items on your list. Insider tip: Indigo #onRobson is one of our favourite stores to find gifts for the whole family.
Buy online or gift card it
If shopping in-store isn’t quite in your comfort zone yet, fear not! Many businesses #onRobson have convenient e-commerce and quick shipping options that will arrive right on your doorstep. Easy Peasy! Curbside pick-up is also a popular option, which also allows you to get a little fresh air break during your day. And if all else fails, there is always the trusted gift card. London Drugs sells a variety of gift cards to various retailers, so you’re sure to find something that suits. Several retailers #onRobson also have a handy digital card option as well, allowing you to send someone a gift without even stepping foot outside your home. CB2, Saje, Cactus Club and Earls to name a few offer this feature.
We hope you’ll find these tips helpful in saving you precious time this holiday season, so you can enjoy spending it with loved ones instead. Wishing you a very merry holiday, filled with lots of love, laughter and spiked egg nog, of course!
Follow along at @robsonstreet for updated information and on-street promotions.