Newborn babies just may be the most-photographed people in the entire world. It’s no surprise, really. New babies are magical. While all of the snapshots you take yourself are priceless, there’s something to be said for getting some professional shots taken by someone who really knows what they’re doing with a camera. So this month VancouverMom.ca is teaming up with Images by Bethany as we search for the best of Vancouver newborn photographers.

Best of Vancouver: Nominate a Photographer

Are you the best newborn photographer in Vancouver – or do you know the best newborn photographer? We want to hear from you! Nominate your pick for our “Best of Vancouver” series between now and February 15, 2012. Our panel of judges will review the nominees, and pick the top 10. We’ll share their choices with you beginning in early March, and you’ll have the chance to vote for your favourite.

To nominate the person who you believe is truly the best of Vancouver newborn photographers, fill out this form:

Our Judges

It makes sense that we’d have some pretty amazing photographers to judge the nominees. Here they are:

• Bethany Schiedel – Bethany has been photographing weddings and portraits since 2004. In September of 2011, Images by Bethany moved into a studio space nestled conveniently between Yaletown and Gastown. Boasting original 1912 windows, wood floors, and a golden radiator, the space is a perfect setting for Newborns by Bethany, a boutique newborn portrait studio, Bethany’s newest venture. You can also find Bethany on Facebook and Twitter.
• Jillian Kirby – Jillian has been photographing children and families for over five years and has spent the last three years focusing all her energies on her passion – newborns and babies! After quickly becoming one of BC’s top newborn photographers, Jillian is now Nationally Accredited in Child and Infant photography, as well as Maternity photography, by the PPOC. She works out of her beautiful natural light studio in Langley, BC, and she’s on Facebook and Twitter.
• Miranda Lievers – Miranda is one half of the duo behind Vancouver based Blue Olive Photography. Now in their ninth year, they’ve photographed hundreds of weddings and even more portraits as the families of their clients grow! Her studio has earned accolades including the title Best Wedding Photographers in Vancouver three years running from the Georgia Straight and has been named among the most inspiring photographers in Canada by Weddingbells Magazine. Find Miranda on Facebook and Twitter.

Whether you’re a photographer, or an expectant mom, be sure to check back in March to see our top picks and to cast your vote!

Physical Wellness

When January rolls around, a lot of us are focused on our fitness – or lack thereof. The holiday season is really busy, and fitting in time to exercise is hard. On top of that, there are lots of treats coming our way all December long. If you woke up on New Year’s Day and decided it was time to start taking better care of yourself, you’re not alone. Here is what some of you had to say:

Brandee, who tweets as @Archaeolemur, says, “I would highly recommend trying a dance fit class, like Groove or Zumba. Or go for a different type of strength and try polefit.”

Erin McGann, whose handle is @erinehm, shares, “I’ve been doing Barre Fitness off and on for a few months and really like it.”

Chantal Vignola, or @ChantalVignola on Twitter, suggests a simple exercise routine, “20 minutes of cardio, three sets and 15 reps of push up, lunges, squats and sit ups, three sets and 15 reps of arms 5lbs and 15 minutes of cardio.”

The folks at @UrbanDigsFarm offer a novel suggestion, “Nothing like shoveling manure to kick start your new exercise routine! Volunteer at your local urban farm boot camp!”

Over on Facebook, many of you had suggestions to share as well. Britt Baxter-Bellas is doing, “Bootcamp, and we bought a jogging stroller so the whole family can run together!”

Stephanie Laesecke Kennedy is honing her fitness level indoors with, “Wii Just Dance 3!”

For Tamryn Goodes, physical wellness isn’t so much about the fitness routine as, “Support from a fellow mom. It always helps if you have someone to hold you accountable.”

Finally, Angie Heintz is following, “tlachallenge.com!!!”

Looking Good Feels Good

When you look good, you feel good. A great pair of pants really can enhance your mental wellness, so we decided to ask about your personal style picks. Here are your must-have fashion items for 2012:

@studiojeanie is all about, “Scarves and jackets and skirts!”

Style blogger Tracey Rossignol, who tweets as @tjrossignol, suggests, “Start with great fitting dark wash jeans.”

@catriona says, “ModCloth has been a revelation for me. Some gorgeous items. I’m all about dresses with leggings at the moment.”

Jen Arbo, a.k.a. @jenarbo, says that when it comes to refreshing her wardrobe, “Lately it’s been scarves and cardigans.”

@jenniferjulien says that she opts for, “An amazing pair of boots!”

Nadia Kelsch, whose handle is @n_cries, is all about the accessories, “Scarves, purses and shoes!”

You’re revamping your style over on Facebook, as well. East Side Contributor Lisa Corriveau says, “I’m working on replacing my cheapo transitional post-baby wardrobe with decent stuff now that I’m more or less back to pre-baby size. Current must-have: long black sweater jacket with asymmetrical button closure.”

Maggie Chilton has style in the bag. She shares, “Must haves? A stylish, sophisticated purse.”

A Quick Pick-me-Up

Nothing enhances wellness like a pick-me-up when you’re feeling down. We asked what you do for a quick fix, and here’s what you said:

@CanadianNanny likes to, “Go running outside when it is not raining.”

Rebecca Coleman, who tweets as @RebeccaColeman opts for, “Chocolate! And yoga.”

Heather van Mil, a.k.a. @heather_vmil, and Jill Amery, a.k.a. @urbanmommies, are talking about it. Heather says, “Going the extra mile with your outfit and make up when you normally wear sweats! Jill knows what I’m talking about.” Jill responds, “But today I look hot. OK, maybe not, but my hair’s clean.” And Heather wraps it up with, “That’s a big deal, let me tell you!” Any mom can relate.

You’re sharing your wellness-enhancing pick-me-ups on Facebook, too. When she’s feeling down, Francesca Marchetto chooses, “Chocolate.”

Julie Nowell says, “Hmmm…. action. I am usually ‘low’ because I am lazy, or not feeling productive! And the hubby… he is a good pick me up as well! Love him!”

Bethany Schiedel goes for, “Yoga.”

Harriet Fancott shares her pick-me-up, “Making hay while the sun shines, which it did today.”

Finally, Catriona Campbell shares one that many of us can relate to, “Coffee!”

What about you – what are your tips for enhancing your wellness? Leave us a reply and let us know!

*Photo credit: Edson Hong on Flickr

At VancouverMom.ca we pride ourselves on having the inside scoop on the city – but we know we’ve got nothing on the moms who live here. We decided to turn to our readers and find out where to go in Vancouver to see the best light displays. We know that you can tell us, so we reached on Twitter and Facebook to ask you, and you came through. To help you in your planning, we’ve grouped the recommendations by location.

Holiday Lights in Vancouver: Your Picks

Van Dusen

• Coco & Tini, who tweet as @cocoandtini, gave a simple, “Van Dusen!” when sharing their holiday light pick.
• Over on Facebook, Cherish Bryck agreed, saying, “Van Dusen, hands down.”
• Lori Lucas of Yoga with Lori Lucas said, “Agreed. It’s looking better than ever this year too, I’ve gotta say!”

Burrard Street / St. Pauls

• Jill Amery, a.k.a. @urbanmommies, said, “Not sure about the best lights, but St. Paul’s Hospital is… bright!”
• Our Publisher Christine Pilkington, who tweets as @chrispilkington, said, “Love along Burrard St. near St Paul’s. Not ‘the best’ but memorable.”
• Giving themselves a plug the St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation, whose handle is @helpstpauls, said, “Well, we’d have to say the #lightsofhope at St. Paul’s Hospital!”

Trinity Street

• Harriet Fancott, who you may also know as @harrietglynn, shared her holiday light pick, saying, “Trinity St. in East Vancouver is pretty renowned for its light displays (in homes).”
• Once again, @chrispilkington weighed in, calling Trinity Street a “good runner-up display”.

Main Street Near 38th

• When @raincoaster pipes in with a recommendation, you have to pay attention. She said, “Easy. It’s always ALWAYS the house at Main and about 38th. Guy puts out a new, gaudy display daily. 30ft pink tinsel tree.” Then she added, “A passenger flagged me down to tell me the story. Daily he adds one thing to the display.” You had us at pink tinsel tree.

North Shore

• The fabulous @chrispilkington‘s final pick, which she also called a good runner-up, is Park and Tilford in North Vancouver.
• Sue Dickie of @wearthosedeals also shared a North Shore location, saying, “At the end of 200 East 10th St N.Van.!!! Stunning!”

Kensington and Curtis in Burnaby

• If you went to SFU, or ever spent time in the area over the holiday season, you’ll likely know @bcfamilymedia‘s pick. She said, “Just shared a link to a video http://bit.ly/w47Ue9 950 Kensington near Curtis Proceeds go to BC Children’s Hospital.”

Rae Street in Port Coquitlam

• If you want to be completely dazzled out in the suburbs, Michelle Brander, who tweets as @michbrander, says, “Check out Rae St in PoCo – they are collecting non-perishable items for the Food Bank.” She shared a photo, too.

Hockley Christmas Lights in Surrey

• Last, but most certainly not least, we head South of the Fraser where Marie-Andrée Journeault told us about a great display, saying, “I am biased, since this is mine, but I think it is good. Hockley Christmas Lights“

Tell us – did we miss anything? Where do you go for the best holiday light display in Vancouver? Leave us a reply and let us know.

*Image credit – Junichi Ishito on Flickr.

Santa's Workshop at Grouse Mountain

A week and a half ago we asked you to tell us your favourite Santa photo spot in Vancouver. You came through on Facebook and Twitter. We compiled the results, did a little digging of our own, and today we’re happy to share our picks with you. So round up the kids, and get ready for the perfect holiday snapshot.

Best of Vancouver: Where to get your Santa Photo

1. Oakridge Centre – Based on what people on our Facebook page had to say, Santa at Oakridge is the clear winner. Reports are that he’s very realistic-looking, and good with kids. He’s there daily until December 24 to pose with your little one. With almost any Santa photo, though, the rule is that the earlier you go in the season, the shorter the lineup, so it may be a good idea to get cracking.
2. Lougheed Town Centre – Heading out to Burnaby, people also have great things to say about Santa at Lougheed Mall. The best part for little kids is the train that runs around Santa. We heard many, many stories about how much kids love that train! Santa will be at the mall daily until December 24, but once again, earlier is probably better if you don’t like lineups.
3. Burnaby Village Museum – If you’d like an alternative to the mall Santa photo, check out Burnaby Village Museum’s Heritage Christmas. Admission is free for this, their anniversary year, and photos with their Father Christmas are free, too – but you need to bring your own camera. For a little bit extra, you can also take a whirl on their carousel. Check out their entertainment schedule to see when Father Christmas will be in attendance.
4. Denman Place Mall – In downtown Vancouver, the West End Business Improvement Association is bringing Santa to Denman Place Mall on December 10 and 17 from 11:00am – 6:00pm. He’ll arrive in a sleigh, and there will also be toys, crafters, and antiques there. Plus, as an added bonus, you can bring your furry friend – kids and pets are welcome to visit with Santa.
5. Royal City Farmers Market – If you’re in or around New Westminster on December 3, and you’d like to pick up some local food and handcrafts while you’re having your Santa photo taken, stop by Royal City Farmers Market from 10:00am – 2:00pm. Father Christmas will be on hand all day (outside of a quick break for lunch). A watermarked digital download of your shot is free, or you can buy a clean print that will be mailed to you in lots of time for the holidays.
6. Van Dusen Gardens – If you want a uniquely Vancouver holiday experience with your Santa photo, check out the Festival of Lights at Van Dusen Gardens, which opens at 4:30pm daily. Santa makes appearances in his living room daily until December 24. There’s a massive light display throughout the gardens, a dancing light show every evening, as well as a whole lot more entertainment, food and more. It’s worth a visit whether you see Santa or not.
7. Lansdowne Centre – If you’re in Richmond, you should check out Santa at Lansdowne Centre. There are things for kids to do while waiting in line, to make the time pass faster. They also have a holiday train and winter carousel. The big guy in red will be around daily until December 24, but get your Santa photo early and avoid the rush.
8. Brentwood Town Centre – We’re heading back to Burnaby for the last time to give a shout-out to the Santa at Brentwood Mall. The line-up is usually manageable, and the Santa setup is great. Santa arrives on November 26 and will be on hand daily for your photos until December 24.
9. Grouse Mountain – As you know, we don’t often get snow at Christmas in Vancouver. If you want the full holiday experience, though, you may want to get your photo at Grouse Mountain’s Peak of Christmas event. You can meet Santa in his workshop, learn about reindeer, take a sleigh ride and even go ice-skating outdoors. It’s pricy but festive, and it’s a totally unique event in Metro Vancouver.
10. Valley Fair Mall – If you find yourself out in the Eastern ‘burbs (because, you know, you live there), we’ve heard fabulous things about Santa at Valley Fair Mall in Maple Ridge. Apparently, he knows the names of every child and what they’ve been doing to prepare for Christmas. He also knows their best friends and any pets they may have. He’s one smart Santa, and he’ll be holding court from November 26 – December 24.

No matter where you go for your Santa photo, we wish you short line-ups, cooperative kids and no red eye. Happy holidays!

We’re sure we’ve missed some fabulous Santa photo ops in Metro Vancouver. Where do you take your kids for the perfect holiday picture? We’d love to hear.

*Image credit – Squirmelia on Flickr

The photo at the top of this post was taken in December, 2009. It features me with my two children, who were 16 months and four and a half years old at the time. In this photo, I am learning a very important lesson: never take your kids for their annual Santa photo without putting on makeup first. If you have a toddler, as I did at the time, you never know when your little one is going to balk and cling to you for dear life. I had to choose between a photo of a screaming child, or a photo of a weary mom. The result speaks for itself.

I am not the only Vancouver mom with a Santa photo gone awry. I’m sure many of you have Santa photo disaster stories of your own to share. While there’s no predicting just how your child will react when the big moment comes, finding the right setting for your holiday snapshot can go a long way. You want a jolly old elf who looks good and is good with kids, a line-up that’s short enough that everyone still looks fresh at photo time, and a price tag that will leave room in your budget for stocking stuffers. With Santa arriving at shopping centres across Metro Vancouver this weekend, we’re setting out to find the best place in Vancouver to record your holiday memory.

Nominate the Best Santa Photo in Vancouver

We want to hear from you! You shared your top Santa photo picks last year, but a lot can change in twelve months, and that list is just so 2010. What’s happening this holiday season? Tell us where you go to get the perfect snapshot. Is it a mall, a festival, or someplace else entirely? We’d also love to hear what you think makes for a good Santa photo experience, and what makes for a bad experience. If you have any tips for keeping your toddlers smiling, share those, too.

Best of Vancouver: The Nitty-Gritty

You can nominate your favourite Santa photo spot in one of three ways:

1. Leave a comment on this post on VancouverMom.ca.
2. Give us a shout-out on Twitter, and use the hashtag #VMholiday.
3. Leave a comment on our Facebook page.

Nominations close on November 22, 2011, so get hopping. Feel free to nominate more than one place to get that perfect Santa photo, or to second someone else’s nomination. We’ll compile all of the nominations, and share the best Santa photo spot in Vancouver during the last week in November, so you’ll have plenty of time to get your own holiday snapshot before Christmas rolls around.

Now, leave us a reply and let us know your pick for best Santa photo in Vancouver!

Photo Credit: Coquitlam Centre

At VancouverMom.ca we pride ourselves on having the inside scoop on the city – but we know we’ve got nothing on the moms who live here. As we start making our holiday shopping lists, we decided to turn to our readers and find out where to go in Vancouver to find the perfect gift. We’re on the hunt for hidden gems that are right in our own backyard. We know that you can tell us about the best craft fairs, boutiques and shops across the city, so we reached on Twitter and Facebook to ask you.

Talking Holiday Shopping on Facebook

We had some great discussions on Facebook, here and here. Here’s where our Facebook fans head for some serious holiday shopping:

Laura Murray said, “‎Arts Off Main Gallery, Main & 28th, lots of unique gifts from local artists and craft persons.”

Lesley Stenning – who was our top mom blogger of 2010 – loves handcrafts. She said, “One of a Kind Show, Got Craft, Shiny Fuzzy Muddy. They’re all excellent craft shows.” We have to say that the name Shiny Fuzzy Muddy is pretty inspired.

Harmony Dental Studio chimed in, saying, “I always find stuff to love in Steveston. This year the village is having a ‘girls night out’ shopping event complete with late hours, good deals and an after party! Dec. 1 6-9pm.” Now you know where your dentist will be buying her stocking stuffers.

Ashley Robinson said, “Lola’s in Deep Cove (North Van). Something for everyone of all ages!”

Joyelle Brandt cast another vote for handcrafts, saying, “Got Craft Sale – gotcraft.com.”

Three Dog Bakery spoke up on behalf of our furry friends with, “Three Dog Bakery! Don’t ‘fur’get the pups!!!” We wouldn’t dream of it.

Aman Deol-Bassi said, “Wee Piggies & Paws! )”

Tutu Mama shared her top pick, saying, “West Vancouver Craft Fair on Nov. 13th!”

Sheila Page-Cimmarusti does her holiday shopping in Steveston. She said, “Pieces, Serenity and Lofty Living in Steveston all have cute stuff.”

Leila likes has several favourites. She said, “Online: Raspberry Kids! Craft Fair: Make it! Vancouver, One of A Kind Show, Got Craft, and Fab Fair @ Heritage Hall.”

Heather Van Mil said, “Love Lola’s on Deep Cove and the various kids swaps around town.”

Rachel Cather, a Stella & Dot Independent Stylist, gave herself a plug, saying, “Stella & Dot home trunk show – a little something for you – a little something off the Christmas list and the best part is you don’t have to enter a mall!!!”

Sue Sinclair of Raspberry Kids said, “I am with you Rachel, and I do not go to malls at the best of times, let alone during the holidays. Obviously I have the kiddos in my life taken care of at Raspberry Kids and I actually often gift some of our Litterless Lunch concepts or Scotch Naturals for the ladies and hostesses around the holidays. With the exception of the Liquor Store, the rest of my shopping is done online including picking up some tasty gifts at Mink Chocolates! Cannot go wrong with wine and chocolate!” Wine and chocolate – we like the way you think, Sue.

Nicole Shannon shared her top pick, saying, ‎”Homecraft Importers Wool Shop on West 4th in Kits!”

Finally, Erin Braverman does her holiday shopping at, “One of a Kind Show for sure!”

Twitter’s Top Holiday Shopping Spots

Not to be outdone, our Twitter followers weighed in with some holiday shopping tips of their own:

Julie, a.k.a. @LMSDiapers, said, “I love Circle Craft!”

Elain Evans, whose Twitter handle is @Elain_Evans, shared this, “Favourite holiday shopping spots in Vancouver? Stepback on Broadway – got my niece the best mini vintage camera from there.”

Danielle Christopher, who tweets as @just_d_world, weighed in with, “Fort Langley!!! Loads of Mom and Pop shops.” When asked for her favourite spots, she said, “Wendel’s Bookstore and Fort Toy Box.”

@bcfamilymedia said, “Circle Craft Xmas Market has a great food section/super for the hard to shop for.”

@lotusevents is another craft show fan, saying, “Got Craft! 50+ local handmade vendors, DIY area by Spool of Thread to make your own projects, food + more.”

Finally, @Babe_Chilla shared her top pick: “Fine Finds in Yaletown!” We agree – and we’re thrilled that Fine Finds is participating in our Vancouver Mom Makeover Contest.

Your Holiday Shopping Picks

You’ve heard from our friends on Facebook and Twitter, now it’s time to chime in yourself. Do you know of a holiday shopping hidden treasure in Vancouver? Leave a reply and tell us about it!

*Image Credit – Kimli on Flickr

One of the first questions that I get when I tell people that I am from France is, “Why would you come to Vancouver when you used to live in France?” It is true that France is a beautiful country and there are lots of things I miss about it, especially the food! Most French expats feel that way and that is probably why we usually know where to find the best French food wherever we go. We’re always searching for these sometimes hidden gems where we can satisfy our French cravings.

There are certain things that you can’t live without when you have been eating them since you were a child. Vancouver has quite a few places operated mostly by French natives (but not only) where you can find some of these essential specialties. Here’s a little sample.

Baguette

It is not a myth that French people eat baguettes. The best way to eat one is warm, straight out of the oven. In France, some bakeries display a board outside with the time when the bread can be purchased warm. Here’s my pick for this staple of French food:

Baguette & Co
3273 West Broadway, Vancouver
While you’re at it, why not taste one of their very French pastries?

Croissant and Pain au Chocolat

In France we usually eat these for breakfast, but they’re also a great after-school snack for kids. I really recommend opening the croissant and spreading some jam in it. Where’s the best place to get one in Vancouver? I go to:

Plaisir Sucre
2668 Arbutus Street, Vancouver, 604-736-0515

They also have very tasty desserts that you can special order for birthdays (try the chocolate cake). This bakery has a nice play area for babies. French food and kid-friendly? It’s a winner!

Escargots

I understand why it can seem weird for someone not accustomed to French food to think of eating snails. I guess it is cultural. The best way to taste them is with a persillade sauce. Here’s where I get mine:

La Regalade
2232 Marine Drive, West Vancouver

All of the food is fantastic here, and at the same level as any very good restaurant back in France. Some of the meals are even served inside the pan and it makes it really homey.

Fondue Savoyarde

Fondue can be found in the region of Savoie, but also in Switzerland. It is what we would consider comfort food and is mostly eaten during the winter. It’s the perfect French food to eat after a day spent in the mountains skiing.

Au Chavignol
843 East Hastings Street, Vancouver

The fondue is great, but the raclette is also very nice along with the charcuterie and cheese plates.

Macarons

Most French people cannot give up this guilty pleasure. The macaron is a traditional almond and sugar based French patisserie that you can find in lots of different colors and tastes. If you were in Paris, you would have to try out the macarons from La Durée, but since you’re in Vancouver, here’s a macaron worth checking out:

French Made Pastries

They will be opening a store soon, but for now you can find them at various markets around Vancouver. They also have some other popular French treats such as madeleines and canelés.

Cheese

Ever seen a kid in the middle of a candy store? Well that’s how a French person feels when surrounded by cheese. In France, we say that the more a cheese smells, the tastier it is. Here’s my choice for this fabulous French food:

Les Amis du Fromage
2 locations in Kitsilano and East Vancouver

If you want to make your own fondue or raclette, you can buy the cheese here and they will loan you a raclette machine or fondue pot for the night.

Steak Frites

This sounds like junk food when you think about it, but it is not if the meat is good and the potatoes are fresh. You can find some fabulous steak frites here:

Les Faux Bourgeois
663 E 15th Avenue, Vancouver

They have great steak frites, but everything can be ordered without regret. This is probably one of the busiest French restaurants in Vancouver. You might need to book two weeks in advance.

Crepes

Crepes are the kind of French food you can eat any time of day. They are really easy to make and is always a crowd pleaser. The salty ones are called “galettes” and are made with buckwheat flour. Eating crepes at home is always a great excuse for a get-together with friends. If you’re headed out, visit:

Et Voila
555 W Hastings Street, Vancouver

You can find them either at this location or around some markets in Vancouver. Check their website and Twitter page for updates.

French Food from the Source

If, after trying out these French specialties you find yourself craving for more, why not plan a trip to France? The best way to discover French food is by experiencing it from the kitchen perspective. France sur Mesure, a French company based in Vancouver, will book some very exciting culinary tours for you, including pastry classes.

If you know of any other great places to taste French food, please share them. I am still looking for a great local place where I can eat French-style frog’s legs.

Emilie Sarkissian owns Apricot Culotte, an online store selling affordable European baby clothing. She carries previously loved baby clothing directly imported from France, and end of season baby clothing at up to 50% off retail value. To keep up-to-date on her latest news and specials, follow Apricot Culotte on Facebook.

*Image credit – Terrazzo on Flickr.

Best of Vancouver Kids Haircuts: The Winners

1. Melonhead – When we asked for your top spot for kids haircuts, Melonhead was the clear winner. We can see why. They offer the classic kids haircut experience, where kids can sit in a train or a pony and watch videos while the stylists work quickly. They focus on kids haircuts, so you know that your stylist is used to working with wiggly, uncooperative three-year-olds. Visit them at 2962 West Broadway in Vancouver, and see for yourself why they’re our winner.
2. The Hairloft – The Hairloft was a close second to Melonhead when we asked for your picks. They also focus on kids haircuts, so you can rest assured that pretty much whatever your kid throws at them is old hat. Your little one can sit in a train or a car, and watch videos while the stylist works. They also do ear piercing, and offer princess spa makeovers that include updos, light makeup and more. Find them in the Kids Market on Granville Island.
3. Your Salon – Many of you have found that the best place for kids haircuts is the same as the best place for grown-up haircuts. If you’ve been seeing your stylist for years, and you’ve come to trust him or her, it’s only natural that you’d bring your kids there, too. Regular salons are often more affordable than traditional kids salons, and the stylists may have a broader skill set because they’re not focused on only one type of client, so your kid won’t look like everyone else’s kid. It makes sense to us!
4. Sparky’z Kutz for Kidz – While the name leaves a little something to be desired, many of you have had great experiences at this kids salon. This is another place where your little ones can sit in a colourful car and watch a video while the stylist works. Located at Lonsdale Quay, Lansdowne Mall, Brentwood Mall and Coquitlam Centre, they have a number of locations to choose from for those of us who live in the Vancouver suburbs. Our kids need haircuts, too!

Honourable Mention

• ‘Fin’tastic’s Cuts for Kids – This salon caters to kids of all ages, offering video games for their older customers as well as the traditional car chairs and videos. They also offer Glamour Girl birthday parties in a separate party room. You can find them at 101-15905 Fraser Highway in Surrey.

How did we do? Did we include your favourite place to go for kids haircuts? Is there a fabulous salon that we overlooked? Leave us a reply and tell us about it.

*Image courtesy of Melonhead.

We’re sorry – we just couldn’t resist the pun.

Where to get Kids Haircuts in Vancouver

Since that first cut is such a milestone, you want to choose the place it happens with care. Salons that cater to kids may be more understanding if your little one has a hard time sitting still, and many parents love them. Still others swear by their own stylist, or find that cutting their little one’s hair themselves gives the best results. With time and experience you’ll undoubtedly find the best solution for you. Until you have a few kids haircuts under your belt, though, we’re here to help.

We surveyed our contributors and our friends on Facebook and Twitter, and asked them to give us their favourite spots for kids haircuts in and around Vancouver that won’t leave you (or your kids) crying. Now we want your help in narrowing down the top spot to get your children’s hair cut in the city. Vote for your top pick in the comments section before the end of the day on Tuesday, October 4. We’ll compile the results and share the very best of Vancouver kids haircuts in a post that will run in mid-October.

The Contenders for Best of Vancouver Kids Haircuts

• Chop Shop – With locations on Granville Street and Commercial Drive, even kids can rock out at Vancouver’s original rock n’ roll hair shop.
• ‘Fin’tastic’s Cuts for Kids – Located at 101-15905 Fraser Highway, this salon caters to kids of all ages, offering video games for their older customers.
• Great Clips – With locations across Metro Vancouver, this salon doesn’t cater to kids specifically, but they are affordable and quick with customers of all ages.
• The Hairloft – Located on Granville Island, they offer kids haircuts, as well as ear piercing and princess spa services, including makeovers.
• Home – Many parents have found that the quickest, easiest and cheapest cut is the one that you (or a friend or relative) do in your own kitchen. We’ll just cross our fingers that your kids haven’t done it themselves using their safety scissors!
• Magicuts – Find them at locations all across Vancouver. They’re not a kids salon, but they are great with their youngest clientele.
• Melonhead – Located at 2962 West Broadway in Vancouver, this was our number one response from our friends on Twitter and Facebook.
• Sparky’z Kutz for Kidz – Located at Lonsdale Quay, Lansdowne Mall, Brentwood Mall and Coquitlam Centre, this salon caters to kids, as the name implies.
• Your Salon – You’ve been going to the same place for your own haircuts for years, you’ve built a relationship, and you see no reason to take your kids elsewhere. Many moms find that the best kids haircuts happen at the same place as the best grown-up haircuts.

Vote

You’ve read our picks, now vote for your favourite from our list by leaving a comment on this post before the end of the day on October 4, 2011. We want to hear from you!

*Photo credit – B, K & G on Flickr

Tango’s Gourmet Meats

865 Denman Street

Great cuts of beef, lamb, pork and chicken, an array of cured meats, and a selection of salads and cheeses are the main draw of this fabulous little butcher shop. The guys behind the counter are fantastic. Brandon and his staff are always knowledgeable and really helpful with special requests and cooking advice. While they put together my order, I can chat with other customers (who says living downtown means you don’t know your neighbours?) or peruse their carefully stocked shelves of pastas, jarred sauces, and other goods. Not only is their service great, but there’s just something more appealing about meat wrapped in old-fashioned butcher paper instead of a plastic-wrapped styrofoam tray.

Constituency Offices

Both my MLA, Spencer Chandra Herbert, and my MP, Hedy Fry, have their constituency offices on Denman Street. Mr. Herbert is at 923 Denman Street, and Dr. Fry is tucked into Denman Place Mall at 1030 Denman Street.

It’s easy to feel like politicians are distant figures, caught up in drama in Victoria and Ottawa, and detached from the neighbourhoods they serve. But with both of their offices so close to where I live, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with both of my representatives in person, and discuss the issues that matter to me. Whether I voted for them or not, it comforts me to know that the people elected to represent my neighbourhood have a presence just around the corner from my home.

Vancouver Public Library – Joe Fortes Branch

870 Denman Street

The local branch of the library is a hub for the community, serving kids from the local high school as well as the many seniors who live in the area. It’s been a life saver for me on rainy days, as I sit in the kids’ section with my son and read story after story. My three-year-old already has his own library card, and loves picking out books himself every week. He says the books are to “take home for a little while”. I love how excited he gets about reading!

South Van Produce

1057 Denman Street

I love this little mom ‘n’ pop grocery store at the corner of Denman and Comox. They have a good selection of everything you need, good prices, and lovely flowers. The service is friendly, and they recognize my son and know how much he likes to be the one to hand them money for our purchases. They also have loads of local produce in the summer – something that’s often not easy to find in the larger grocery stores.

A-maze-ing Laughter

Sculpture by Yue Minjun, Morton Park, off Denman at the foot of Davie

There are almost certainly sophisticated arty reasons why I should love this sculpture at the foot of Davie Street, but the truth is, I love it for its whimsy. I love it for the delight my son gets from making big booming sounds by banging on its hollow legs with his hands. I love it for the way tourists and locals alike pose in front of it, as if they can’t help but imitate the way the sculpture’s arms and legs are positioned. Everyone walks away from this installation with a smile on their face. What’s not to love about that?

Now I’ve shared with you five places I love in my neighbourhood. Will you share what you love about yours?