Editors’ NotE
Dear reaDer
As the year draws to a close and twinkling lights illuminate our communities, this special Christmas edition of ADVO Magazine invites you to look beyond the wrapped packages and festive decorations. This is a moment to unwrap something far more precious: hope. The holiday season has always been about more than celebration—it’s about connection, compassion, and the extraordinary power of giving. In a world that often feels divided, charitable acts become our most profound language of unity. This issue is more than a magazine. It’s a call to action. As you turn these pages, we challenge you to see beyond the surface—to recognize the potential for change that lies within each of us. Whether it’s a monetary donation, volunteering your time, or simply extending
kindness to a stranger, every gesture matters. The true magic of the holiday season isn’t found in perfectly wrapped gifts, but in the unwrapped moments of genuine human connection. It’s in the smile of a child receiving support, the relief of a family finding hope, the warmth of community embracing those in need.
As we close another year, let’s embrace the spirit of giving—not just as a seasonal gesture, but as a lifelong commitment to making our world a little brighter, a little more compassionate, one act of kindness at a time.
Wishing you a season filled with hope, love, and meaningful giving.
Sam & San
unwrapping hope
unwrapping hope
The Caribbean comes alive with vibrant celebrations, rich traditions, and a spirit of giving that resonates deeply within its communities. Christmas in the Caribbean is not just a time for family gatherings and feasting; it is also a poignant reminder of the power of generosity and the quiet revolution of giving that has been transforming lives across the region. As you unwrap these pages, we invite you to unwrap the Caribbean spirit—anchored in the vibrant soul of Barbados. Feel the rhythm of steel drums, taste the richness of black cake, see the brilliance of carnival costumes. This is a celebration of a region and an island that pulse with an undeniable, transformative hope.
The wrapping paper falls away, revealing more than just gifts. In the soft glow of Christmas lights, something deeper emerges—a glimpse of human potential, a moment when compassion becomes tangible, when hope transforms from an abstract concept into a living, breathing reality.
Charity during the Christmas season is often misunderstood. It's not about grand gestures or momentary displays of generosity. True giving is a quiet revolution, a subtle rewiring of human connection that happens one small act at a time. It's the grocery store clerk who slips an extra meal to someone struggling to make ends meet. It's the neighbor who notices a family's silent struggle and responds with dignity and care.
community centers across the country, volunteers work tirelessly, their efforts a testament to a hope that refuses to be dimmed. They're not just distributing meals or gifts—they're restoring dignity. Each carefully prepared food basket, each wrapped present for a child who might otherwise have nothing, is a message: You matter. You are seen. You are valued.
Consider the network of local charities that come alive during the holiday season. These are not faceless institutions, but collections of individuals who understand that hope is a collaborative effort. A local mechanic repairs a single mother's car free of charge. A group of retirees knits warm clothing for homeless shelters. Students organize gift drives that transform entire neighborhoods.
The mathematics of hope defies conventional calculation. A ten-dollar gift can spark a moment of joy that reverberates through an entire family. A moment of kindness can become a memory
“The mathematics of hope defies conventional calculation. A ten-dollar gift can spark a moment of joy that reverberates through an entire family.”
that sustains someone through difficult times. Charity is not about the size of the gift, but the depth of human connection it represents.
Many who give understand a fundamental truth: we are all one community, one interconnected network of human experience. Poverty is not a personal failing, but a complex social challenge that requires compassion, understanding, and collective action. The Christmas season becomes a magnifying glass, highlighting both
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wor D ai DS D a Y 2024
“Let us also consider supporting local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts or food products. Not only does this help sustain local economies, but it also strengthens community ties and encourages a culture of giving back.”
“The mathematics of hope defies conventional calculation. A ten-dollar gift can spark a moment of joy that reverberates through an entire family.”
our challenges and our incredible capacity for empathy. Children, often the purest embodiment of hope, play a crucial role in this season of giving. School drives, youth volunteer programs, and family conversations about compassion plant seeds of empathy that will grow long after the Christmas lights are packed away. They learn that giving is not a seasonal activity, but a way of being in the world.
Religious communities, secular organizations, businesses, and individuals—all become part of tgiving. It's a beautiful paradox: in a seasonw that can often feel commercialized, the most powerful currency becomes human kindness.
Yet the most profound charity extends beyond the holiday season. The real magic happens in the quiet moments after the decorations come down. It's the ongoing support, the continued care, the recognition that hope is not a one-time gift but a sustained commitment to human dignity.
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A Season of Hope
This season let us remember that hope is a gift that transcends material wealth. It is about believing in a better future for ourselves and our communities. The stories of resilience and generosity that emerge during this season remind us that every act of kindness contributes to a larger movement toward social change. Let us also consider supporting local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts or food products. Not only does this help sustain local economies, but it also strengthens community ties and encourages a culture of giving back.
Challenges Ahead
While there is much to celebrate, challenges remain. Economic disparities and social injustices still affect many Caribbean communities. However, by fostering a culture of giving—whether through donations, volunteer work, or simply spreading awareness—we can collectively address these issues.
Let us commit to making giving a year-round practice—one that uplifts our neighbors, empowers our youth, and strengthens our communities. In doing so, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute to building a brighter future for all.
Unwrapping Hope Together
As the year draws to a close, we unwrap something far more precious than material gifts. We unwrap our shared humanity. We unwrap hope—not as a fragile, delicate thing, but as a robust, resilient force capable of transforming lives, one act of kindness at a time.
This is the true spirit of the season. Not in the grandeur of celebrations, but in the quiet moments of connection. Not in perfect gifts, but in imperfect, beautiful acts of human kindness.
Meet our 2024 Christmas Cover Girl
Malisha Francis—better known in the beauty world as "Berry Berry"—her passion was as vibrant as the tropical landscapes of her Caribbean roots. Hailing originally from Dominica and now calling St. Kitts home, Berry Berry is more than just a make-up artist; she's a true entrepreneur who has transformed her artistic vision into Berry Art Treats, a powerhouse beauty studio that's redefining personal beauty experiences.
Eight years ago, Berry Berry took a courageous leap into entrepreneurship, founding her studio from scratch. It wasn't just about applying makeup—it was about creating a sanctuary where confidence is crafted with every brushstroke. Her studio has
become a beacon of beauty innovation in St. Kitts, specializing in makeup and brow artistry, with a recent exciting expansion into Permanent Makeup. What sets Berry Berry apart isn't just her technical skill—it's her philosophy. "We work on your heart too," she tells us, and you can feel the sincerity in her words. Microblading, micro shading, and her signature combination techniques aren't just services; they're transformative experiences.
In the world of Berry Art Treats, makeup is more than cosmetics—it's an art form, a confidence booster, and a personal revolution.
@BerryArtTreats On Instagram & Facebook.
Photo Credits goes to Karlyn Joseph
BerrY BerrY
There’s nothing quite like the magic of the holiday season—festive music, beautiful decorations and the joy of finding the perfect gifts for loved ones. But let’s be honest: along with the cheer, there’s often a nagging anxiety that creeps in, especially when it comes to gift giving. One minute you’re happily filling your online cart, and the next, you’re staring at your credit card statement thinking, “Wait, how did I spend so much?”
With the cost of living on the rise, managing your Christmas budget has never been more important. Overspending might feel good in the moment, but come January, it can leave you with financial regrets and unnecessary stress.
The good news? Being mindful with your spending doesn’t mean skimping on the holiday spirit. In fact, smart spending can make the season even more enjoyable—because nothing says “Merry Christmas” like starting the new year without a pile of unnecessary debt!
Why Christmas Spending Often Gets Out of Hand
Christmas has a way of turning even the savviest spender into a splurger. The pressure to find the “perfect” gifts and host Pinterest-worthy celebrations can be overwhelming. Add in those tempting seasonal sales flashing “too good to miss” discounts, and it’s easy to justify just one more thing.
Then there’s the emotional pull—nostalgia, joy, and the desire to make the season magical. We spend to show love and create memories, but often, our hearts lead while our wallets struggle to keep up.
The Real Cost of Overspending
Christmas cheer can quickly turn into January
“Christmas has a way of turning even the savviest spender into a splurger”
regret when the bills start rolling in. With January already feeling like the longest month, many are left facing a “financial hangover”—credit card debt and unpaid bills casting a shadow over the new year.
Overspending doesn’t just hurt in the short term—it can derail long-term goals like building savings or investing for the future. In fact, studies show that the average person racks up hundreds of dollars in holiday debt each year, often taking months to pay it off.
By keeping spending in check, you can enjoy the season without sacrificing your financial
Merry ChristMas
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Steps to Manage Your Christmas Budget
Set a realistic budget: Break it down into categories—gifts, decorations, food, and social gatherings—and stick to it. Knowing exactly how much you can spend in each area helps avoid overspending.
Make a list and stick to it: Plan your purchases ahead of time. A clear list keeps you focused and prevents impulse buys.
Track your spending: Whether you use a budgeting app or a simple spreadsheet, tracking helps you stay on top of your budget and spot potential overspending early.
Opt for creative or DIY gifts: Meaningful, personalized gifts often have more impact than expensive ones. A little creativity goes a long way in showing you care without breaking the bank.
A Holiday Season with Less Stress and More Joy
Sticking to a budget doesn’t mean missing out on the magic of Christmas. In fact, it allows you to enjoy the season without the stress of overspending.
Imagine starting the new year with peace
of mind, free from financial worry— that’s a gift worth giving yourself!
Focus on What Truly Matters
At the heart of the holiday season are the things money can’t buy— connection, love, and gratitude. By focusing on these, you’ll find that the true joy of Christmas isn’t in the gifts under the tree but in the moments shared with those you care about most.
By Deanzer Roberts
Katrina Alkins is no stranger to reinvention. A trained graduate teacher who dedicated 11 years to teaching mathematics and now works as a measurement and evaluation manager, Katrina has always embraced challenges with an open mind and a creative spirit. Beyond her professional career, she’s a sister, an aunt, a foodie, a music lover, and a self-described DIY enthusiast.
It was this love for creativity that led her to launch For Feet's Sake, a brand offering personalized mats that blend artistry with practicality. The idea came to her unexpectedly while exploring potential business ventures. She stumbled upon a video showcasing custom mats and was instantly captivated. "I had a ‘this is it’ moment," Katrina explains. After immersing herself in research and discovering a gap in the Barbadian market, she knew this was her calling. By July 2021, For Feet's Sake was officially launched, introducing Barbados to a product unlike any other.
Each mat created by For Feet's Sake is a labor of love. Made
with coir and backed with rubber for durability, the mats are brought to life with vibrant outdoor paints. The customization process is entirely customerfocused, from gathering ideas and inspiration to finalizing drafts and completing the designs. Katrina’s attention to detail and willingness to collaborate ensures that each piece is both personal and practical. Customers often provide inspiration photos or ideas, and Katrina works closely with them to bring their vision to life. Her knack for translating concepts into striking designs sets her work apart.
But the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Finding quality materials at reasonable prices proved tricky at first,
requiring persistent searching and clever sourcing. Katrina was determined to offer premium products without pricing herself out of the market, a balance she has successfully achieved. As she reflects on her early days, she acknowledges that persistence and creativity were key to overcoming these obstacles.
Customer feedback has played a vital role in her business evolution. What began as a mat customization service now includes gift certificates and sip-and-paint experiences, diversifying her offerings while maintaining her commitment to creativity. She credits her customers with inspiring these expansions, explaining that their requests and enthusiasm
“Make sure you love what you do; it will help you stay the course. Don’t sell yourself short, and believe in yourself and your product.”
encouraged her to think outside the box and continually innovate.
For Katrina, the joy of her work lies in the reactions of her customers. "Seeing their faces light up when they see their mats for the first time is priceless," she says. Whether it’s a bold, festive design or the intricate Chelsea FC logo, her mats are more than household items—they’re expressions of artistry. These reactions fuel her passion and serve as a reminder of the impact her creations have on people’s lives. Her favorite moments include unveiling designs that hold special meaning for her customers, creating a connection that goes beyond the transaction.
Christmas is her busiest time of year, with personalized mats becoming thoughtful gifts for loved ones. For those unsure of what to choose, her gift certificates allow recipients to craft their own unique designs. Katrina’s mats are especially popular during the holiday season, when families and friends look for meaningful, personalized ways to celebrate the season. Each mat
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“Each mat becomes a cherished part of the recipient’s home, adding warmth and character to any space.”
becomes a cherished part of the recipient’s home, adding warmth and character to any space.
Looking to the future, Katrina dreams of expanding her product line to include different materials and collaborating with other artisans. She hopes to see a For Feet's Sake mat in every Barbadian household. Her passion for creativity is matched only by her practical approach to running a business, ensuring that every design is not just beautiful but also durable, with care instructions provided to maintain quality. She envisions branching out into new styles and possibly introducing new services, such as workshops or partnerships with local businesses. Katrina’s journey is also a testament to the power of social media and word-of-mouth marketing. Through platforms like Instagram, she has built a loyal following that appreciates her attention to detail and creative vision. Her posts not only showcase her products but also provide a glimpse into her artistic process, fostering a sense of connection with her audience. This digital presence has allowed her to reach customers far and wide, ensuring that her brand remains at the forefront of personalized gifting in Barbados. When asked about advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, Katrina [<<< Continued
is resolute: "Make sure you love what you do; it will help you stay the course. Don’t sell yourself short, and believe in yourself and your product." For her, success isn’t just about growth or profit—it’s about happy customers, creative innovation, and the personal fulfillment of creating something meaningful. She emphasizes the importance of perseverance and selfconfidence, traits that have guided her through both the highs and lows of her entrepreneurial journey. This Christmas, For Feet's Sake offers more than just mats. It
offers the chance to give a gift that is both functional and deeply personal. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your home or a heartfelt present for a loved one, Katrina Alkins invites you to step into her world of creativity and bring a touch of artistry to your doorstep. With every mat she creates, Katrina continues to redefine what it means to welcome someone into your home, one design at a time.
IloveYou
MInDful WrappIng A Caribbean Guide to Sustainable Gift Presentation
The art of gift wrapping, while beautiful, contributes significantly to holiday waste. Each year, millions of pounds of wrapping paper end up in landfills, with metallic and glitterenhanced papers being particularly problematic as they cannot be recycled. However, our Caribbean heritage offers creative and sustainable alternatives that not only protect our environment but also add a unique touch to gift-giving.
Traditional Caribbean Solutions
The tradition of using cloth for wrapping, similar to the Japanese Furoshiki technique, has deep roots in Caribbean culture. Many grandmothers preserved special fabrics for wrapping precious items, a practice that perfectly aligns with modern sustainability goals. Consider using colorful madras fabric, which can later serve as a headwrap, table decoration, or be reused for future gifts.
Natural Caribbean Elements
Our islands provide abundant natural materials perfect for gift decoration. Dried palm fronds can be woven into decorative elements, while hibiscus flowers, bougainvillea petals, and fragrant leaves add natural beauty. Sea grape leaves, when dried, make excellent gift tags, while banana leaves offer a biodegradable wrapping option for larger items.
Upcycling with Style
Transform yesterday’s newspapers into today’s gift wrap by adding natural dyes from local fruits and plants. Soursop leaves and sorrel can create beautiful patterns when used as stamps. Old maps, vintage magazines, and calendars can find new life as distinctive wrapping paper, preserving memories while creating new ones.
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Mindful Materials
When purchasing wrapping materials, opt for uncoated brown paper that can be easily recycled or composted. Seeds embedded in some eco-papers can be planted after use, contributing to local garden growth. Consider using biodegradable twine or raffia instead of plastic ribbons, and repurpose old jewelry or shells as decorative elements.
Creative Containers
Incorporate reusable containers into your gift presentation. Local market baskets, handwoven
containers, or repurposed coconut shells can become part of the gift itself. Clay pots, which are both decorative and functional, make excellent gift containers that recipients can use long after the holidays.
Future-Forward Thinking
The shift toward sustainable gift wrapping reflects a broader movement in Caribbean culture – one that honors our traditional practices while addressing modern environmental challenges. By choosing ecoconscious wrapping methods, we not only preserve our environment but also pass down valuable lessons about resourcefulness and responsibility to future generations.
Community Impact
Local artisans and small businesses are increasingly offering sustainable wrapping alternatives, from handprinted papers to reusable fabric bags. Supporting these initiatives strengthens our community’s economic fabric while promoting environmental consciousness.
Looking Ahead
We’re not just wrapping gifts – we’re wrapping hope for a cleaner, greener future. The choices we make during the holiday season can inspire year-
round changes in how we think about waste, reuse, and the beauty of mindful presentation.
Remember, the most meaningful aspect of gift-giving lies not in the wrapping but in the thought and care behind it. By choosing sustainable options, we add another layer of meaning to our gifts – one that shows care for both the recipient and our shared environment.
A Story of Tradition and Determination
By Deanzer Roberts
Merry
Nestled in the heart of a bustling community, The Kookie Shop is more than just a bakery; it is a testament to tradition, resilience, and the enduring power of a grandmother’s touch. At its core, this St. Lucian-born business reflects a love for baking that began in childhood and during the past 28 years and has blossomed into a cherished brand.
For Claudia Innocent, the owner, inspiration came from her grandmother, whose mastery of the art of baking left an indelible mark. “I started in Home Economics at school and continued with my grandmother,” she says, crediting her grandmother’s recipes and methods which are over 76
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years old as the bedrock of her business. Every cookie crafted in her shop is steeped in the flavors of St. Lucian heritage, capturing a slice of nostalgia and authenticity that sets her apart. When it comes to crafting specialty cookies for various occasions, tradition reigns supreme at The Kookie Shop. “I’m traditionally 100%,” she declares. While creativity shines through in packaging and presentation, the recipes themselves remain untouched. Her steadfast commitment to preserving her grandmother’s style of baking and using non-chemical ingredients ensures each batch meets the highest standards—a perfect blend of heritage and quality. The journey to establishing the
was not without its hurdles. “Loads of no, no, no, no, no,” she recalls. Being an outsider brought significant challenges, with rejection being a recurring theme. However, her resilience and determination saw her through. “I didn’t give up because I am a very determined human being,” she says. The support of loyal customers who recognized the exceptional quality of her products played a crucial role in her perseverance. “For that,
attention that goes into maintaining her grandmother’s time-honored techniques.
While every order holds a special place in her heart, what truly stands out is the unwavering support from customers who often purchase in bulk. This loyalty inspires her to keep making cookies “the way they are meant to be made.” Feedback from customers is invaluable, shaping her business
“All my products are very, very addictive... The moment you open the jar or box, you’ll eat the entire batch.”
and fueling her passion to innovate while staying true to her roots.
The future of The Kookie Shop is brimming with possibilities. Plans for expansion include a factory setting where visitors can tour the facility and witness the magic of cookie-making firsthand. “It takes people to grow,” she says, envisioning opportunities to employ more individuals and introduce additional treats from her grandmother’s repertoire, such as carrot cake, banana nut bread, and even savory meat pies.
What does she hope people feel when they bite into a cookie ?
Pure delight. “All my products are very, very addictive,” she admits with a smile. “The moment you open the jar or box, you’ll eat the entire batch.” Each cookie, she assures, speaks for itself, a sweet embodiment of tradition, love, and passion.
In every bite of a Kookie Shop cookie, there is a story—one of heritage, dedication, and the joy of sharing something truly special.
The KineTic energy in inTenTional
D ne SS
We health professionals pretend sometimes as if we have all the answers. The truth is, we don’t. Even if there is some high knowledge base, it could take a simple random act to reset the truly important things in life.
The following is a real event: Most mornings I find myself at my local beach engaged in some form of physical activity or appreciation of nature. It’s a familiar beach; I’d like to think the sand recognizes my footprints from over the years. That morning in question, I had a troubled spirit, and I hoped the early sunshine could evaporate my anxiety. At the end of my workout and swim I was still unsettled and so I read from my book hoping to regain the sense of agency I felt I’d lost. While I read, a stray dog trotted up and sat not two meters from me. The dog
“The dog let out a long exhale and snuggled against my ankle. My unconscious exhale was even longer, and my anxiety vanished.”
was also familiar; I had not had this close a proximity before, but she always appeared clean and playful. In my mood I had no time to entertain a dog, let alone a stray one. So, I continued to read, and she just patiently sat looking -the occasional wag of her tail.
After many minutes, my book still did not give me what I was looking for and I gave up. I looked at the
dog and gave a gesture with my fingers, not knowing what to expect. She immediately closed the distance and sat at my ankles and I, surprisingly, scratched behind her ear.
What happened next was amazing. The dog let out a long exhale and snuggled against my ankle. My unconscious exhale was even longer, and my anxiety vanished. As if my thoughts had been a wet blanket tethered to an anchor, there was this feeling of being unyoked.
It’s impossible to know who gained more pleasure from this moment of mutual commiseration, but my loss of dread and frustration was certainly dramatic.
moment…a day… a month? Even if it was just a mere stray dog.
I think at Christmas time, we should all be aware we have this power. We should be aware of the miraculous kinetic energy wrapped up in an intentional act of kindness. Behind all the smiles and well wishes between the supermarket aisles, there is a lot of pain out there. Everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, has something going on behind the veneer of that smile. And while it’s not your place to be up into other folks’ business, you can safely assume that whatever it is folks are going through is magnified at this time of year.
“We should be aware of the miraculous kinetic energy wrapped up in an intentional act of kindness.
So, what really happened here? Let me be clear. I don’t know. I don’t have all the answers. What I do know is that I felt better. Significantly better. Part of it, perhaps, was realizing I had the power to alter someone’s trajectory positively, for a
That nameless dog rescued me that morning. Without intent, she disentangled the real (or imagined) complexities I created within. In this life, no situation is eternal or unique and we should have the confidence to reach out with intention this Christmas season to try to do the same with other acts of kindness. To a cloistered friend, to a family member down on their luck, you will be amazed at the immense power of a phone call, a well phrased text, a bouquet of flowers or simply a sincere flesh on flesh handshake. It has the power to remold the troubled texture of someone’s life just sitting there, close by. We are all beings in continuous psychological flux. This includes the conscious
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stray dog who still has a strong need for validation through touch. Without expecting anything back in return, the gift of a positive social interaction has tremendous merit…not only to the recipient but for the patron also. Make this a THING this season. The dividends received may encourage you to continue well into the new year.
“You will be
amazed at the immense power of a phone call, a well phrased text, a bouquet of flowers or simply a sincere flesh on flesh handshake.”
Dr. Derek Thorpe is a Nuclear Medicine and Functional Medicine Physician with post graduate degrees from Cornell, School of Medicine and the University of Florida. He mentors clients through the ketogenic diet and treats, pain and injury through optimization of blood flow.
FOUR SIMPLE WAYS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
1 2 3 4
The Gift of Time
Offer two hours of your time to someone who needs it - whether it’s helping an elderly neighbor with errands, babysitting for a single parent, or simply sitting with someone who’s lonely. Sometimes presence is the most meaningful present.
Make That Call
A genuine phone call to someone who's been on your mind - not a text. Take 10 minutes to really listen and connect. Sometimes, being heard is the greatest gift.
The Power of a Letter
Write a handwritten note to someone who made a difference in your life this year. Be specific about how their actions impacted you. Mail it - the unexpected envelope can brighten their whole week.
Create a Comfort Package
Put together a small care package for someone going through a tough time. Include their favorite tea, a cozy sock pair, and a handwritten note. The thoughtfulness behind each item shows you truly care.
CARIBBEAN
COCKTAILS &
1
Sorrel Rum Punch
“Deep crimson elegance meets Caribbean spice in this festive rum punch, garnished with fragrant cinnamon and star anise.”
2
Coconut Coquito (Caribbean Eggnog)
“Creamy island-style eggnog blends rich coconut with warming spices for the ultimate Caribbean Christmas indulgence.”
3
A Festive Fusion
Tropical Christmas Mojito
“Fresh mint and passion fruit bring tropical brightness to this holiday twist on a classic mojito.”
CHRISTMAS & MOCKTAILS
4
Festive Sorrel Mocktail
“All the joy of traditional sorrel, brightened with orange and honey for an alcohol-free celebration.”
5
Coconut Ginger Sparkler
“Refreshing coconut water meets zingy ginger in this sparkling mocktail, crowned with fresh fruit”
6 Spiced Christmas Punch
“A jewel-toned melody of cranberry and spice creates holiday magic without the spirits.”
1
Sorrel Rum Punch
Ingredients:
• 2 oz brown rum
• 4 oz fresh sorrel (boiled and strained)
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• Dash of angostura bitters
• Cinnamon stick and star anise for garnish
Method:
In a shaker filled with ice, combine rum, sorrel, simple syrup, and lime juice. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds. Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and star anise. The deep red color and spiced flavor capture the essence of Caribbean Christmas traditions.
2
Coconut Coquito (Caribbean Eggnog)
Ingredients:
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut cream
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup rum (brown or white)
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• Cinnamon stick for garnish
Method:
Blend all ingredients until smooth. Chill thoroughly. Serve in small glasses garnished with a cinnamon stick and a sprinkle of nutmeg. This creamy, rich
3
Tropical Christmas Mojito
Ingredients:
• 2 oz rum (brown or white)
• 1 oz fresh passion fruit juice
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Fresh mint leaves
• Splash of soda water
• Crushed ice
• Mint sprig and passion fruit slice for garnish
Method:
Muddle mint leaves with simple syrup in a glass. Add rum, passion fruit juice, and lime juice. Fill with crushed ice and top with a splash of soda water. Stir gently
4
Festive Sorrel Mocktail
Ingredients:
• 4 oz fresh sorrel (boiled and strained)
• 1 oz honey
• 1/2 oz fresh orange juice
• Splash of sparkling water
• Cinnamon stick
• Orange peel for garnish
• Optional: Dash of vanilla extract
Method:
Combine sorrel, honey, orange juice, and vanilla extract in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with fresh ice. Top with
5
Coconut Ginger Sparkler
Ingredients:
• 2 oz coconut water
• 1 oz fresh pineapple juice
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz ginger syrup
• Sparkling water
• Fresh mint leaves
• Pineapple wedge for garnish
Method:
In a glass filled with ice, combine coconut water, pineapple juice, lime juice, and ginger syrup. Stir well. Top with sparkling
6
Spiced Christmas Punch
Ingredients:
• 3 oz cranberry juice
• 2 oz apple juice
• 1 oz fresh orange juice
• 1/2 oz cinnamon syrup
• Splash of sparkling water
• Whole cloves
• Cinnamon stick
• Orange slice for garnish
Method:
Mix cranberry, apple, and orange juices with cinnamon syrup in a punch glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water. Garnish with whole cloves, a cinnamon stick, and an orange slice.
Mocktail Tip:
For an extra festive touch, rim glasses with colored sugar or garnish with fresh herbs and fruit slices. These non-alcoholic options ensure everyone can join in the holiday cheer.
Serving Suggestions:
• Chill glasses before serving
• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients
• Experiment with garnishes
• Adjust sweetness to taste
These cocktails and mocktails capture the vibrant spirit of Caribbean holidays—full of color, flavor, and joy. Whether you’re enjoying a rum-based punch or a refreshing non-alcoholic sparkler, these drinks bring the warmth of the Caribbean to your festive celebrations.
