When owner Lillian Berghauser unlocked the doors of Anchor Apparel & Lifestyle one year ago, the longtime local resident felt equal parts excitement and nerves.
“I was grateful for the work my husband, and many others, did to make my vision come together,” recalls Berghauser.
Twelve months later, the boutique at 4493‑B Marine Avenue has become a downtown destination for sustainable fashion and coastal‑inspired lifestyle goods. To thank the community that helped it flourish, Anchor Apparel will host a one‑year anniversary celebration on Saturday, May 24, featuring extended hours, prize draws and “pick‑your‑discount” savings of up to 40 per cent.
From the moment doors open, shoppers will be treated to complimentary drinks, sweets and a chance to enter prize draws with every purchase. Customers who bring a nonperishable food item for Powell River Action Centre Food Bank will earn an extra entry.
The festivities continue after hours, from 4 to 7 pm, when Somerset Moss founder Sam Miles will offer mini‑facials using her botanical skincare line.
“Please call or drop in to book so we can accommodate you,” says Berghauser. “There will be a $20 deposit to be used on your product purchase and to hold a spot.”
While Anchor Apparel launched with a balanced mix of women’s and men’s pieces, Berghauser spent the past year fine-tuning her menswear selections.
“The store is stocked with a full range of everything you will need for the summer events you will attend.”
The shop’s racks feature contemporary shirts, pants and casual wear from Canadian and Scandinavian labels that combine “modern minimalism” with sustainable practices.
Among the newest arrivals is Deus Ex Machina, the Australian brand known for bold graphics and its roots in surf, skate and motorcycling cultures.
“I’m excited for men to discover Deus in the store,” adds Berghauser. “Their philosophy recalls an era before fun pursuits were marketed into fundamentalist fashion, and now I get to bring this worldwide brand to Powell River.”
Also new is The Normal Brand, designed by a pair of Midwestern brothers in search of well‑fitting, everyday staples that suit west coast living. Another recent addition to the store is Finnish sneaker maker Karhu, which has been turning heads with colourful runners that marry vintage style and serious arch support.
Whether she is buying men’s shirts or women’s dresses, Berghauser places durability and environmental impact at the top of her checklist.
“Many brands are cutting down on water use, harmful dyes and synthetic fibres,” she notes. “If you’re going to spend money on new clothes, they have to last. I don’t agree with fast fashion that ends up in landfills after one season.”
That philosophy has resonated with customers from teenagers to retirees, many of whom discovered the store for the first time this spring.
“Almost every day, someone walks in who hasn’t been here before.”
Local enthusiasm was evident when Anchor Apparel earned nominations in two categories—New Business and Small Business—at the Powell River Chamber of Commerce Business Awards earlier this year.
“It was a huge honour and a sign of community support.”
Giving back is a core part of the business model. Over the winter, Anchor Apparel joined a Women in Business fundraiser for qathet SAFE, and routinely donates to local causes. The May 24 anniversary event will continue that tradition through the food bank collection.
As Anchor Apparel enters its second year, Berghauser hopes to deepen the store’s impact.
“I’d like people to feel they can bring visitors here for a beautiful shopping experience, while we meet the fashion needs of our growing community,” she says. “I thank each person who has come through the doors to browse or buy, and I can’t wait to see you again.”
For more information, call 604.208.7288 or go to anchor-apparel.ca. Regular store hours are 10 am to 5 pm Monday to Saturday.
