The most wonderful time of the year is upon us! The holidays are definitely the busiest time of year for parties and get-togethers. When you’ve got a jam-packed schedule, it can be extra stressful getting beautified for all of your festive events. We've compiled a list of some of our favourite Vancouver spots to get your hair, nails and makeup done so you can get to that party on time and looking fly. You can thank us later!
True beauty starts with the skin, which is why we’ve always been proactive when it comes to our skin care routines. Simply covering your face with foundation isn't the answer; healthy skin takes effort and commitment. A facial at Project Skin MD is a step towards achieving that desirable flawless complexion. These skincare professionals customize every treatment according to your specific skin type and concerns. We were amazed after our first dermaplaning treatment – this mechanical exfoliation process gives you immediate results and is the perfect pre-party treatment. You get intense soft, supple, hydrated skin with a fabulous glow.
A well-groomed set of brows have the power to transform your whole look instantly. At Blink Brow Bar, owner Kiran and her team are total brow experts. Using a technique called threading, they painlessly shape your eyebrows to suit your face and create a natural looking arch. Call or book an appointment online and you'll be in and out with beautiful brows in just 20 minutes. Our favourite part about getting our brows did at Blink Brow Bar: a delicious homemade cup of chai tea and relaxing massage are provided at every appointment.
Make your eyes the centre of attention this holiday season with long, full eyelashes. Located in Yaletown neighbourhood, Noir Lash Lounge specializes in semi-permanent eyelash extensions. There are more than 100 different lash varieties available to suit every occasion and need. Show-stopping lashes are applied individually with a special adhesive bond that last between two to eight weeks. Whether you are looking for long dramatic lashes for an event, or a more natural look, Noir has you covered. Lashes range in price from $20 (for a quick false lash application) to $250 (for a full set).
Red-carpet-ready hair is fast and affordable thanks to Blo, North America’s largest blow dry bar chain. Specializing solely in blowouts – no cuts or highlights here – Blo invites guest to select their desired ’do from a menu of pre-set signature styles (special requests are available for an additional fee). Whether you want that pin-straight conservative look, luscious voluminous waves, a chic ballerina bun, or an on-trend fishtail braid, these stylists can master a wide variety of hairstyles and up-dos that’ll have you looking pretty and polished for your next holiday party.
We are huge nail polish junkies, own more bottles than we care to admit and usually paint our own nails. However, we do like to indulge ourselves and pay a visit to an actual salon every once in a while. Pure Nail Bar is a favourite among Vancouverites and offers affordable mani-pedi packages. Cleanliness and safety are a top priority here and estheticians provide guests with a new file, buffer and toe separator at each visit. You’ll find the hottest OPI polishes of the season and magazines just waiting for you to enjoy. Schedule an appointment or simply walk-in.
BeautyMark is a trendy spot for beauty addicts who are hunting for the latest must-try make-up and skincare products. We visit this Yaletown beauty boutique to shop for niche brands that can be hard to find at other cosmetics counters. The store carries dozens of luxe brands, including Butter London, Tata Harper, Kevyn Aucoin, Bumble & Bumble, and Cargo. Eco-conscious shoppers will also find a wide range of natural and organic products. With so many unique treasures in store, you’re bound to find a new favourite red lipstick or dazzling nail polish that’s just perfect for the festive season!
One of Canada’s leading luxury department stores, Holt Renfrew has it all when it comes to getting glam for the holidays. Head to the Vancouver flagship shop if you’re looking to re-stock your make-up bag with high-end cosmetics, skincare products, perfumes and other beauty must-haves. Holts carries a wide selection of beauty products from coveted designer brands, including Bobbi Brown, NARS, Burberry, Laura Mercier, Tom Ford, Charlotte Tilbury and more. Visit during in December to shop for exclusive gift sets filled with festive faves like shimmering eye shadows, dark moody lipsticks and aromatic fragrances.