BMO Vancouver Marathon Comes Through Kits Sunday, May 5 With Road Closures

Posted on May 2, 2013 by Rob — No Comments ↓

Last year, to celebrate its 40th anniversary, the BMO Vancouver Marathon changed its course to take better advantage of what our city has to offer. But don’t worry it still works its way through Kitsilano.

This year, the marathon is on Sunday, May 5th and once again organizers are doing a great job connecting with the communities that the race passes through.

If you’re planning on watching the race on Sunday morning be sure to swing by your neighbourood Starbucks to pick up a customizable cheer poster.

If you’re not a fan and just want to avoid a bad case of road rage, be sure to remind yourself of the road closures which are included after the jump. Read more ›

Beaucoup Bakery Launches Decadent Spring 2013 Dessert Collection

Posted on May 1, 2013 by Youna Choi — No Comments ↓

If only pastries had feet, I am certain that they would be striking their delicate pieds* down a haute couture catwalk, perhaps at some of the top French fashion houses, say Coconut Chanel or maybe Croissant Dior.

On the other hand, since pastries are inanimate and subject to a third party (like me) controlling their mobility, which is 90% of the time en route from plate to mouth, I get to enjoy the beautiful journey of consumption.

This is exactly what I had the pleasure of doing on Monday, sampling the many delectable treats of Beaucoup Bakery and Cafe’s Spring 2013 Dessert Collection Launch. The creator and lady behind it all, Jackie Ellis, showcased her brilliant concept of combining two of her most favourite things: pastries and fashion.

Each featured pastry was paired with one of this season’s most coveted fashion trends. Whether it was the Chocolate Passion Fruit Bar clad like a tuxedo, or the Raspberry Pistachio Macaron Frais exhibiting some fun and modern floral prints – each bite into confectionery heaven had me wanting to hit the boutiques and beautify my wardrobe for Spring. I may or may not have stopped by at a couple shops on the way back home from the event. And I may or may not have walked out with a couple pairs of shoes and dresses. Let’s just say Monday redefined for me what sweet indulgence really means.

Pastry runway shots after the jump. Read more ›

Want to Make Friends in Kitsilano? Join a Group of Neighbours Using Meetup

Posted on April 30, 2013 by Orla — 2 Comments ↓
Enjoy some board games the the Board Games meetup group

Try the Kits Board Games meetup group

Meeting people and making friends can be challenging. But it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’ve just arrived in Kitsilano, are looking to hook-up with like-minded people or interested in trying something new, it’s worth visiting Meetup.com to see what’s going on in the neighbourhood.

Meetup is a social networking site that makes it easier for people to connect with strangers in their community and get together offline.

The lovely thing about Meetup is it makes joining new groups easier.  Simply visit the site, sign-up for groups you like and RSVP for events you want to attend.  You can check out group member’s profiles online.  There’s no need to wait to be invited and you’ll already know something about the other people attending an event before you arrive!

Here are some Kitsilano groups that look like fun:

Kitsilano Board Games:  These boardgaming peeps meet twice a week at Cuppa Joy on Alma and 4th.  And, novices are welcome—the group organizer, who has taught board games professionally, is happy to explain any game. Meetup.com/Kitsilano-Board-Games

Kitsilano Parent: These mums and dads can be found talking all things babies while strolling at the beach, sipping coffee on 4th Avenue and sharing picnics in the park. Meetup.com/Kitsilano-Parents

Never Be Bored in Vancouver:  Fun loving 30 somethings get together to enjoy after work drinks, attend shows and sporting events and try out activities in and around the city. Meetup.com/meetup-group-URMbcnvH Read more ›

The Key To Bike Safety? Ride Like You’re Invisible

Posted on April 28, 2013 by Anthony — No Comments ↓

Watch for bikesOne of the things people often ask me when they hear that I’m a daily bike commuter is: Isn’t it dangerous? The short answer is, no, it’s really not.

There is a longer answer, of course. The longer answer starts with something like: if you stick to the bike routes, are generally aware of your surroundings, and obey the rules of the road, you’ll be fine. Read more ›

Shopping in Kits: Two of Hearts Boutique Grand Opening and Spring/Summer Fashion Show

Posted on April 26, 2013 by Chelsea — No Comments ↓
Two of Hearts is open on West 4th

Two of Hearts is open on West 4th

Kitsilano’s newest boutique, Two of Hearts, holds Kits shoppers in high esteem. “They’re people who are socially conscious. Not just into the brands but it’s more of a lifestyle thing here, supporting local businesses and the local economy,” says  co-owner and co-designer Jenny Yen.

The other heart in Two of Hearts is Tabitha Savoie, who explains that the duo chose Kitsilano for their second location (1986 W. 4th Avenue) because they noticed Kitsilano shoppers making the trek over to their original store (3728 Main Street) in droves.

(Don’t miss images from the VIP Night and Fashion Show after the jump.)

Read more ›

Don’t Miss Lawrence of Arabia on 35 mm at the Hollywood Theatre April 26-27

Posted on April 24, 2013 by Julie — No Comments ↓

Lawrence of Arabia

It’s supposed to rain this Saturday. What better way to spend a rainy day then to sit back with some warm, buttery popcorn in the historic Hollywood Theatre to watch the classic Lawrence of Arabia on 35 mm. It also happens to be a fundraiser for the community programs at the Kitsilano Neigbourhood House and the Hollywood Theatre, which is being cared for by the Church at the Hollywood.

For those of you who are not familiar with the film in question, Lawrence of Arabia tells the story of T.E Lawrence, an inordinately complex man who blazed his way to glory in the Arabian Desert. The 1962 Lawrence of Arabia is truly an epic movie that will look dazzling in its 35mm cinemascope format on the Hollywood Theatre screen, run on the Hollywood’s original 1940s projection equipment in the capable hands of volunteer projectionist, Chris Unwin. Read more ›

8 Great Kitsilano Buys For Your Baby

Posted on April 24, 2013 by Lisa — 1 Comment ↓
Hippest-Baby

Planning on a lot of outdoor activities with the whole family this summer and in need of durable kid gear? Maybe you want to get your hands on the latest eco-friendly, non-toxic toy? Or perhaps it’s just a little splurge: you want that hip little outfit for your baby boy or girl that will match your stylish ensemble.

Here are a few great gear, toy and fashion picks for your little sprout to get you started. Of course, they’re all available at local shops around the Kitsilano neighbourhood.

8 Great Kitsilano Buys For Your Baby

Fashion

1. MEC Bandera Hat, Avocado, $17
Keep your baby shady with this Canadian made, organic cotton, cool style cap.
Mountain Equipment Co-op, 130 West Broadway,  (604) 872-7858, Mec.ca

2. Kate Quinn Organics Kimono Onesie, Airplane, $20
This summer-ready, adorable organic cotton onesie with a kimono wrap style (great for fussy babies) is designed by an eco-friendly Seattle company.
Hip Baby, 2110 West 4th Avenue, (604) 736-8020, Hipbaby.com Read more ›

Why You Should Attend & Network at Kitsilano Chamber of Commerce Meet-ups

Posted on April 23, 2013 by Mary — No Comments ↓

coffeeI’m not a morning person. Add that to the fact that I’m recently free of my day-job, and I was somewhat ambivalent when signing up for a 7am meetup with the Kitsilano Chamber of Commerce. It was a very wet morning but I woke up early tempted by the 10% discount and the familiar turf of Calhoun‘s,

As it turns out, I actually arrived early. When presenter Robin Elliott ticked off his top tips on networking and got to the one about how the best people arrive early, I was glad I hadn’t stuck with Plan B, which was to get there in time for the 7:40am presentation and skip networking and introductions. He reprimanded us (including numerous latecomers): “This is Vancouver! It rains! There’s traffic!”

Calhoun’s set aside a place for 55 guests. There’s no charge–even if you’re not a member (or a future member as they optimistically advertise). There are door prizes. Read more ›

Earth Day Tip: How to Recycle Your Cell Phone in Kitsilano

Posted on April 22, 2013 by Taraneh — No Comments ↓

Kijiji-Mobile-Phone-InfographicObvious fact: it takes a lot out of the environment to manufacture products that we enjoy every day. Recycling—substituting scrap for virgin materials—conserves natural resources and reduces the amount of waste that goes into landfills. It also reduces pollution and the demand for energy.

Overlooked fact: you should be recycling your cell phones too. If you haven’t already thought of it, this is your chance. The lifecycle of your cell has shortened over the years thanks to the increased demand for cutting edge technology.

Fun fact: 96% of materials in an average mobile device can be recycled. Cell phones contain precious metals (extracted from the earth) that can be recycled to make new products rather than mining for more.

How to reuse/recycle your cell phone in Kitsilano:
So next time, before you think of throwing your mobile device in the garbage, recycle it. There are over 3,000 drop off locations across Canada. Here’s a list of places where you can drop off your cell phone for recycling in Kitsilano. Or, if you’re in need of funds, sell your mobile device on a local Vancouver classifieds site.

Follow the carbon footprints of your phone by viewing the full-sized infographic after the jump:  Read more ›

Meet The New Bootlegger Denim Den At 2127 West 4th Ave.

Posted on April 21, 2013 by janelle — 4 Comments ↓

Bootlegger is a national retailer that has endured the test of time. They opened doors on West 4th in March. Not everybody knows that Bootlegger is a 40-year-old company that began in Vancouver.

The retailer is known for offering moderately priced clothing for men and women. Their focus is on casual, current fashion, with a big emphasis on jeans, not unlike Mavi located across the street at 2112 West 4th. In fact they have “jeaneologists” on staff who will help you find the perfect fit. In addition to their in house line, you’ll find brands including Silver Jeans Co., Guess, Mavi, Big Star, and Buffalo; and up and coming brands like Miss Me, LA Idol and Affliction.

I have a soft spot for Bootlegger – working at one of their Saskatchewan locations was my first job! Well, I did have a very short stint as an engraver at a trophy shop, but it didn’t last long enough to count. Anyway, my style and fashion preferences have evolved from my days of working at Bootlegger, but the place still brings a smile to my face. Read more ›

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