Grooster Blog: October 2011

Musings from Grooster on Vancouver, Shopping, Local Businesses, Events, Restaurants, Cafe deals and other things. Shop Online. Shop Local. Shop Grooster.com

Why yoga? YYoga.

posted by Lesel, CEO at 1:27 PM , Oct 28, 2011
Photos from YYoga
This fantastic yoga studio seemed to be the answer to all our problems of late. When we heard about YYoga's awesome introductory offer - $35 for 2 weeks of unlimited yoga - we couldn't resist. This offer provided a great way to experience various classes and we loved it. We sweat it out at the Yaletown studio in a few hot classes, tried power yoga for the first time and strengthened our cores during pilates, all fun experiences guided by exceptional instructors.



What really stood out about YYoga though was the positive, humble attitude toward the practice. Staff and instructors were both welcoming and encouraging and intent on helping better your practice, while the general atmosphere among students was relaxed. It was one of the most welcoming yoga experiences we've ever encountered.


Photos from YYoga








Thank you YYoga! We're excited to continue our practice with you! -- LM

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Coffeebar

posted by Lesel, CEO at 3:48 PM , Oct 24, 2011

In a town dominated by big chains, the discovery of a fantastic local coffee hub is always exciting. On a recent stroll through Gastown we encountered our new favourite place, Coffeebar. The smooth sounds of jazz and a well-caffeinated bunch welcomed us into this sleek architectural vision. 

After chatting with the friendly baristas, we nuzzled ourselves into a well-lit nook at the rear of the café to enjoy our selection of goodies. Our platter included a matcha green tea vegan rice crispies bar, a lemon coconut bar and peanut butter and pumpkin mini tarts, all incredibly tasty. The most pleasant surprise was the green tea vegan rice crispie – not too sweet with a hint of chocolate drizzled atop. Delicious. The lemon bar was no let down either – refreshing with a delightful coconut crunch – while the mini tarts were perfectly complimented by our Spanish latte.


Part of what makes this café so great is the bar itself. While Gastown can take a hefty amount of credit for the café’s cool vibe, what's most impressive is the design of the café. An exposed ceiling and natural wood throughout make the space feel industrial while the massive windows along the side and back walls are welcoming and allow warmth. 
We certainly could’ve spent another three hours at Coffeebar, enjoying the treats, sounds and sights of the cafe. As coffee and dessert obsessionists, we’ll definitely be back to enjoy this local gem.  --LM

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Change Is Good

posted by Lesel, CEO at 2:10 PM , Oct 21, 2011

Happy Friday! 
Depending on how long you've been following us, you've probably noticed some changes in Grooster over the past year and a bit.  Since our start, as the first Vancouver based company in the 'deal' space, we have grown and changed ALOT.  Our goal remains the same - connecting local consumers and local businesses - but our focus has shifted to bring something different to our customers and the businesses that we work with.


Below are 5 highlights that shape what we do:
  1. What: Grooster is an online store. We sell things. Some services, but mostly things - unique and interesting things.
  2. Where:  We work with and support unique LOCAL retailers and designers. That means that the owners of the businesses we feature - they live here. In and around Vancouver.  With us and with you.
  3. Why:  We love to help you find cool things around town and to support our community. Keeping our purchases local helps our communities immensely.
  4. When:  Each of our sales usually last a couple of weeks.  This provides more exposure for the businesses that partner with us. It also ensures that even if you visit Grooster just a few times a month - you'll get a glimpse of all the amazing things we've got 'in stock'.
  5. Who - You. We love you, our customers, because you support local businesses too. And you like finding unique things at great prices - not free, no one can make a living if everything is free or next to free.

As always, we'd love to hear any feedback on the changes we've made or the businesses we feature.  What do you love about what we do?  What don't you love? And of course, if you like what we're doing, please be sure to spread the word.  - Lesel, CEO at Grooster.

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So Long Summer

posted by Lesel, CEO at 2:14 PM , Oct 17, 2011

With summer days seemingly lost and the cool weather setting in, our desire for Fall comfort food was undeniable. Luckily Gastown’s Brioche Urban Baking  was nearby when the craving set in.

Tucked away on West Cordova, this cozy café is the ideal place to spend an afternoon. Its giant chalkboard menu invites guests to choose from an offering of delicious eats and enjoy a few hours in its warm atmosphere amongst tightly packed art clad walls.



Unfortunately, our sweet tooth kept us from the array of sandwiches, soups and salads and lured us toward the sweet selection of baked goods. We indulged in a mocha latte and a delectable little pumpkin pie as time escaped us in the company of good friends.

Brioche was the perfect reminder of what fall days are meant for.  -- LM   

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Nicole Bridger Brings "Grace" to Eco Fashion Week

posted by Alicia Olive at 12:48 PM , Oct 7, 2011

Fashion is inherently theatrical. Local designer Nicole Bridger knows this and chose to showcase her Spring/Summer 2012 collection, "Allowing Grace," through yoga, dance, and evocative music at this years Eco Fashion Week. Her ultra-feminine and diaphanous designs looked beautiful on the models and proved to be just as wearable as we hoped they'd be.


If a model can dance and strut down a runway in it, we know it can take us from our morning meeting to dinner out. This is the strength of Bridger's designs: her clothes are both chic and comfortable, something not many designers accomplish. From the muted pinks, greens, and greys, to the exquisite draping — an art Bridger learned as an intern with legendary designer Vivienne Westwood — this is a collection that real women will feel good in. Lucky for us, we'll also look runway-ready when we wear it!

The stars of the show were the dresses, where Bridger's intricate draping was best highlighted. From fluttering hems to lingerie-inspired slips, each complemented the female form with delicate fabrics and soft lines. We'll be first in line for a few of them when they arrive at Bridger's flagship store in Kits.  See some amazing photos of the show.

We capped off the night by perusing the many vendors in the lobby. We noticed one of our favourite designers, Daub+Design, showing off her fabulous bikinis and also found a new favourite, Robin Hood Couture. From Victorian pocketwatch pendants to punk-style bullet earrings, their eclectic aesthetic is unique, but wearable and will add a little drama to your outfit.

Eco Fashion Week wraps up tonight, but will be back again next year. Check out their website for more info. --AO

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