Hey again! We all have heard of Gateway by now, living in and around Nova Scotia. It is inarguably the most well-known independent grocery store in Nova Scotia. But did you know there are others? Today, I’m going to highlight different independent grocery stores that are focused on international food. For all of you adventurous […]
Buy Local, Health & Wellness, Local Economy, Local Produce, Local Supply Chain, Support Small Business
The Many Benefits of Buying Local
25
Jan
Jan
We’ve been hearing more and more about the benefits of buying local lately. And we’re one of the steadfast contributors to this important conversation here at vLife. Why? Because research has shown that by buying locally sourced products, you’re supporting your fellow community members, growing your local economy, and reducing your carbon footprint. So, it […]
18
Jan
Jan
Big Corporate Local or Small Indie Local? “Supporting local” doesn’t necessarily mean supporting small local businesses in your community. “Local” is term that gets tossed around a lot lately. In fact, it’s used so much that it’s become a little kitsch. But what does it really mean? Well, technically, local can be used to refer […]
Buy Local, Food & Drink, Local Economy, Local Supply Chain
Supporting Local Wineries and Breweries: Nova Scotia Options
11
Jan
Jan
Local wineries and breweries play a vital role in your local economy. While many people will still go for your typical Budweiser or Barefoot selections, the increase in local drinks connoisseurs over the past few decades has been significant – infusing strong growth in the microbrewery and micro winery industries. Especially in Nova Scotia! As […]
Activities with kids, Buy Local, comic books, Family activities, Learning and Books, Things to do
Local Bookstores in Halifax: Treasures for Book Lovers
04
Jan
Jan
Local bookstores and the treasures therein have been a big hobby of mine since I was little. Whether they’re selling used, or new books, they just have a special feel to them, you know? They bring me comfort on days when I need it the most. So, it’s my genuine pleasure to take you on […]
Buy Local, Local Economy, Local Supply Chain, Small Business Tips, Support Small Business
Real Challenges of Being a Small Business Owner
28
Dec
Dec
They say money makes the world go round. For the most part, the phrase is true. But to say just big money turns the wheel is wrong. Small businesses and their owners make up 40% of the Canadian GDP and employ 60% of all Canadians. From small bakeries to the rise of online shops, small […]
Buy Local, Local Economy, Local Supply Chain, Small Business Tips, Support Small Business
Projected Recession Q&A: What does it all mean?
21
Dec
Dec
The projected recession looms large and we wanted to provide some helpful info – for context, and to help the small business owners we love prepare for what may be in-store. We’re still reeling from the health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. And, as we will see, the pandemic economic effects are not […]
Activities with kids, Family activities, Food & Drink, Learning and Books, Music Lessons, Support Small Business, Things to do
A Newcomer’s Guide to Halifax: Resources, Supports and Things to do!
14
Dec
Dec
Being newcomers to any country can be confusing as well as overwhelming when you don’t have someone to guide you. I know this from first hand experience. In July of 2014, my family and I made a very big…..change. We decided to move from the warm, tropical, and top tourist destination known as Jamaica to […]
Buy Local, Holiday Gift Ideas, Local Gifts, Uncategorized
Christmas, Boxing Day, and Sustainable Shopping
07
Dec
Dec
Sustainable boxing day shopping can mean one big thing – more stuff. Look, I know Christmas at its core is about the spirit of it all, but come on. Gift getting, gift giving, who doesn’t love it? But as Christmas ever encroaches and boxing day sales loom, I’ve been giving more and more thought to […]
Buy Local, Local Economy, Local Supply Chain, Sports Events, Support Small Business
The World Cup, Canada and Buy Local – A Mixed Bag
30
Nov
Nov
We’re done. The Canadians are mathematically out of the FIFA World Cup. But not without making a statement. After a historic run, Canada’s men’s soccer (or football, and vice versa) made The World Cup for the first time in 29 years and scored their first goal ever. And Canadians were watching. In fact, over 3.7 […]