In a unique venture, three local businesses are coming together in vibrant downtown Mission. As of Nov. 20 Unison Yoga will be moving to First Avenue, sharing space with Pure Fitness and Alicia’s Esthetics.

Tracy Loffler, owner of Unison Yoga and a recent winner of the Mission Chamber of Commerce’s Young Entrepreneur of the Year Business Excellence Award, is thrilled about the move.

“Sharing the space, and in effect, creating a “wellness mall” will be a great addition to the downtown core. This is a wonderful example of community-minded business practices. We need to work together and pool our resources to succeed in business and to create a healthy, sustainable community,” she said.

"We have done extensive renovations to create a bright, welcoming, boutique atmosphere. People are always surprised at how nice it is up here,” said Natasha Gibson, owner of Pure Fitness. “Our goal is to create something really special here in Mission.”

The three businesses compliment each other well, offering esthetics services, women’s only fitness training and co-ed yoga classes.

“We are really excited to work together,” said Alicia Sebel, owner of Alicia’s Esthetics. “All three of us are moms with small children and coming together like this allows us the flexibility of self-employment, without some of the pressure that can come with owning a small business.”

“It’s definitely helpful to know that we can work together and really support one another,” adds Gibson.

To celebrate the collaboration, the trio is hosting a Conscious Christmas Craft Fair and Open House on Nov. 20 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the studio on First Avenue. All are invited to come out to this fun, festive, ethical fundraiser.

“We'll have refreshments and door prizes, so bring a friend and make it a night out,” said Tracy. “This is holiday shopping you can feel good about.”

The Shanti Uganda Society will be there with handmade paper jewellery and bags, and 100 per cent of the proceeds go to help support women and children with HIV in Uganda. Other vendors include Monica's Mobile Massage, Michelle Cervo Photography, Julia’s Vegan Gift Baskets and more.

Learn more about The Shanti Uganda Society at www.shantiuganda.org. For event details go to www.unisonyoga.ca or www.purefitnessstudio.com.