Anchor Apparel & Lifestyle is the brainchild of longtime Powell River resident and entrepreneur Lillian Berghauser. With doors open from 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Saturday, the independent boutique offers a curated selection of men's and women's clothing, accessories and lifestyle products that reflect the coastal spirit of the community.
"I've had a dream to have my own storefront all my life," says Berghauser. "In the time it has taken me to make the dream a reality, I've loved helping other people in their businesses and learning from them."
Her journey to opening Anchor Apparel is rich with experience. From her early days working in the men's department at Woodward's department store to collaborating with female entrepreneurs on new ventures, she has cultivated a deep understanding of the fashion industry and retail management.
The boutique prides itself on offering brands not previously represented in the qathet region, focusing on classic pieces made with quality and sustainable fabrics. Many of the lines feature organic materials and natural fibres that are gentle on the skin and the environment.
"Many of the brands have responsible practices and are trying to cut down on negative impacts to the environment," explains Berghauser. "That means some of the brands we carry either contain low-impact, cruelty-free, organic, biodegradable or recycled fibres, or are manufactured using industry-leading technologies and processes."
In addition to apparel, the store features accessories like hats, scarves, jewellery and lifestyle items such as candles and skin-care products. Local artisans are featured, with handmade jewellery and bath and body products sourced mostly from British Columbia.
As a new addition to the local business landscape, Anchor Apparel & Lifestyle is committed to enriching the community.
"We're helping to keep your hard-earned dollars in the community where it can grow," says Berghauser. "By supporting what's here, we have more money to invest in bringing what we need to Powell River."
The store also supports local nonprofits, including qathet SAFE, with profits from select handmade items donated to the organization.
Anchor Apparel offers personal styling services, with friendly and knowledgeable staff ready to assist customers in finding the perfect outfit or gift.
"Mostly, I want the store to be a place where someone can come in, take a deep breath and relax while they're surrounded by beautiful things that bring a smile to their face," says Berghauser. "Hopefully they will find something to add beauty and function to their wardrobe and bring them joy."
To engage with the community, Anchor Apparel & Lifestyle is planning special events, including a Ladies' Night on November 15, and an upcoming Men's Night in December featuring discounts and gift draw entries.
Customers can stay updated on new arrivals and promotions by subscribing to the store's newsletter, following its Instagram and Facebook channels, or by visiting its website: anchor-apparel.ca. The boutique offers online shopping with an option for local customers to pick up in-store.
Berghauser also invites community members to visit the store at 4493-B Marine Avenue.
"I would love to meet you and welcome you to come see what I have to offer. There is always a chocolate and a smile waiting for you."
For more information, contact Anchor Apparel & Lifestyle at 604.208.7288, or by email [email protected].
