Promise of the Season Designer Jackie Glass creates a holiday space for her family. 83 #holidaystyle Designer Lisa Moody imagines a holiday theme for a gorgeous home. 86
LEARN SOMETHING
IN THIS ISSUE... HOLIDAY 101 #trending Boho Style Christmas with Designer Jillian Straky 24 #trending Embracing Red Buffalo Plaid 28 Setting the Stage Get inspired by Marc & Mandy's holiday set design! 46 Mantel Inspiration Create your own stunning holiday mantel! 49 The Ultimate Kitchen Workspace Learn how to customize your kitchen with The Galley. 68 #ecoholiday Designer Deborah Soulier shares tips for reducing your waste. 90
Entertaining 101 Tips and advice for entertaining at home and on a budget! 100 Debt 101 Advice to help you manage debt over the holidays. 111 Handling Holiday Stress Manage stress this holiday season. 129 Find Your Holiday Style Are you modern luxe, bohemian chic or festive fun? 143
HOMES WE LOVE Bright & Fresh Creating contemporary holiday style with Designer Maria Killam 31 Small Space Marvel A stunning urban home with beautiful views. 62
Home Equity Basics Everything you need to know about using the equity in your home. 89 Warm & Cozy Tips to keep your home warm and cozy this winter. 97
New Year, New You Start the new year on a positive note. 117 This Issue's Trendsetters A look inside the work and lives of some of the industry's most innovative thinkers. 121 Tips from the Pros Our experts share some of their best advice for your home and lifestyle! 126 Gold Rush What does your favorite gold say about you? 148
MARC & MANDY'S ANNUAL HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE ⇒
Christmas at Home 36
IN THE KITCHEN ⇒
Rum & Jerk Glazed Ham 72
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Mango Chutney Ice Cream 75
Holiday 2021 Special Edition
Editor-in-Chief Marc Atiyolil www.MarcAndMandy.com
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Stocking Favorites 56
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Giant Cinnamon Bun 78
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Christmas in the Kitchen 64
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Easy Tikka Rub 81
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Better Living At Home 94
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Workshop Must-Haves 98
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The Office Wish List 112
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On The Techie Side 114
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Crafty Christmas 130
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Savvy Subscriptions 137
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Style on the Go 138
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Gifts that Pamper 150
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Family Game Night 154
Food Editor
A Child's Christmas 157
Chef Rob Thomas
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Associate Design Editor Crystal Williams
National Design Editor Glen Peloso
Lifestyle Editor Mandy Atiyolil
Design & Event Editor Evelyn Eshun
Design Editor Jillian Straky
Style Editor Jo Alcorn
Copy Chief Lorraine Jolicoeur
Art Director Micheline Gosselin
Contributors M. Killam, T. Knight, L. Moody, J. Glass, R. Cloutier-Williams, D. Soulier, P. Mann, M. Cummins, E. Lowe
Media Sales Inquiries: Canadian Sales Office: Ph: 1-866-984-0940 sales@canadianhometrends.ca www.canadianhometrends.com Production and Design Marc Atiyolil Media Inc. Published by: Marc Atiyolil Media Inc Box 7, 20 Centre Ave, Blumenort, MB R0A 0C0 1-866-984-0940 – FAX 204-346-9099 Email info@canadianhometrends.ca www.canadianhometrends.com
To Subscribe Call: 1-866-984-0940 All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher. Canadian Home Trends Magazine makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. Publications Mail Agreement No. 41438018 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Canadian Home Trends Magazine Box 7, Blumenort, MB R0A 0C0
OUR CONTRIBUTORS
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Editor-in-Chief, Marc Atiyolil, Designer Jackie Glass, Design Editor, Designer Jillian Straky, Designer Lisa Moody, Designer Deborah Soulier, Designer Maria Killam, Designer Trish Knight, Realtor Michele Cummins and Realtor Paul Mann
There is something magical about the holiday season. It is truly the most wonderful time of year! Whether family is near or far, this is the time where we slow down and spend time together. It's hard to choose my favorite part of the holidays. I love decorating our home and cottage, but gift wrapping is a close second. Choosing a color scheme and pushing the boundaries of design (while getting the kids to join in) brings such a festive spirit to the holidays. This year, we had the opportunity to work with our friends at Lowe's to outfit the studio with a stunning green, red and gold color scheme. I especially love how we brought a contemporary twist to this traditional color palette. It was such a joy to reminisce as we decorated using a color scheme that most of us enjoyed as children. Many of us haven't seen our family in some time and we find ourselves dreaming of yesteryear and reliving those memories. As Coco Chanel once said “Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.” As I get older, I find myself enjoying the simple things in life. Less doesn't necessarily mean a lack of but rather a carefully curated selection of pieces you treasure. When it came to choosing the perfect gift for my lovely wife, Mandy, we worked with our friends at Cool Canvas Co. to create gorgeous art pieces that now hang in our home and cottage. After many years of blissful marriage, a well though-out gift goes a long way. There is something about still finding a gift that moves your partner and touches her heart that brings a sense of holiday cheer to a husband. As for the kids, we've put together a wonderful list of the top toys that I'm sure your children will enjoy just as much as ours will! Happy holidays everyone! From all of us here at Home Trends Magazine and the Marc and Mandy Show, we wish you a warm and peaceful holiday season!
MARC ATIYOLIL Editor-in-Chief
marc@canadianhometrends.com
#trending Designer Jillian Straky shares her favorite finds for this season’s popular Boho Sustainability design style. - www.housewears.ca
2021’s holiday style is all about warm whites, woods and sustainability! Generous plumes of lush pampas grass, large gnarled branches of cotton buds and a woven cotton collar at the base creates a light and natural bohemian vibe. Glass balls, metallic paper ornaments and gifts wrapped with metallic craft paper keep this tree looking luxurious and textural while maintaining sustainability! Comfort and joy is the ambiance evoked by wood accent trees and more pampas grass for garlands on a fireplace for this holiday season! www.cb2.ca
www.luxebpampasgrass.ca
www.westelm.ca
www.cb2.ca
www.thebay.com
WHAT IS BOHO STYLE? Bohemian style is one of the most flexible design styles. It has very few rules and focuses primarily on creating a cozy, comfortable space that’s personal to you. Today’s modern bohemian vibe combines earth-friendly materials, nature-inspired patterns and opulent details with plenty of texture. Pieces shown here available from Speers Interiors, www.speersinteriors.ca.
One of the must-have décor pieces for this holiday season is the Christmas tree collar - a clean, simple alternative to the traditional tree skirt! This gorgeous woven collar is perfect for a bohemian look but you can find a variety of collars to add a modern, updated look to any décor style. Feeling creative? DIY collar ideas can easily be found online as well.
www.cb2.ca www.anthropologie.com
#trending RED BUFFALO PLAID: ONE OF THIS SEASON’S HOTTEST TRENDS FOR YOUR HOME AND WARDROBE!
Turn your bedroom into a cottage country oasis all winter long with a Sadfie Premium Comforter Set. Match your comforter with hotel quality white sheets and luxe black pillow shams for a look that provides the perfect blend of modern glam and country cozy.
CLASSIC CHRISTMAS Add a classic country feel to your holiday décor with red buffalo plaid accessories. Shown Here: Red Buffalo Plaid Tree Skirt with Sherpa, Gnome Truck Décor, iH Casadecor Adventure Awaits LED Velvet Cushion
All items on this page from: Giant Tiger, www.gianttiger.com
WARDROBE ESSENTIALS From cozy ponchos and comfy sweaters to classy dresses and even outdoor wear, red buffalo plaid is a great way to add a trendy touch to your fall and winter wardrobe this year! Shown Here: MONKEY BARS Girl’s Plaid Dress, Mountain Ridge Buffalo Plaid Toque, Woodland Wonder Hooded Poncho Blanket.
All items on this page from: Giant Tiger, www.gianttiger.com
Organize your home in style with these inexpensive Red Buffalo Plaid Baskets! Use them to store office supplies, winter wear, remotes or whatever small items you need! They also make great gift baskets for your holiday gifts! Cozy up around the Christmas tree this year in comfy Red Buffalo Plaid PJs for the whole family! Not only will you enjoy the classic comfort of Christmas morning in PJs but you’ll have some great photo ops of all your Christmas memories! Start a new tradition! Don your Christmas PJs on Christmas Eve, jump in the car, grab a hot chocolate to go and spend the evening listening to carols while checking out the lights around your neighborhood!
With built-in carrying handles, these baskets are also great for craft supplies, homework essentials, toiletries and other items you may need to easily transport from room to room!
bright
& FRESH
Text | Maria Killam www.mariakillam.com
When my personal/design assistant confided in me that she was not very happy with the espresso brown leather sofa, loveseat and chair they had recently invested in, we came up with a plan to create a fresh, contemporary space that would incorporate these more traditional pieces. Having recently purchased the home together with her husband, renovation plans included new flooring, moldings and an upgraded kitchen. Here are a few tips we worked with to keep on budget and create a contemporary holiday look using her existing pieces. REPLACE YOUR OLD AND DATED AREA RUGS with affordable seagrass rugs for a light and fresh look. LEOPARD PRINTS PICK UP EXISTING GOLD BEIGE/EARTHY TONES. We added them along with some white pillows to create a fresh look. Adding wooden accessories helps to repeat the warm tones of the leopard pillows.
A USED BOOKSTORE IS A GREAT SOURCE FOR affordable coffee table books that can be used to create vignettes throughout the space. ADDING FRESH EUCALYPTUS to a faux garland is an affordable way to make it look real! DRAPERIES DO NOT HAVE TO BE EXPENSIVE. Inexpensive grommet drapes can be hemmed to the perfect length for the room, creating a contemporary look on a budget.
Maria Killam www.mariakillam.com
CHRISTMAS AT HOME This year, I had the pleasure of teaming up with Cool Canvas Co to create a set of custom art pieces for Mandy. I surprised her with them while filming a Host Chat for our annual Holiday special episodes. For our home, I selected a simple piano themed design personalized with our names and wedding date to hang above her grand piano. It will fit perfectly with the monochromatic style of that room. For our cottage, I selected a black and white dock photo and had it customized with our names, our wedding date, our girls’ names and their birthdates. Cool Canvas offers a great selection of images you can pick from and customize with names and dates of your choice for a truly personal gift! - Marc Atiyolil - www.coolcanvasco.com
SAVE 20% Use Promo Code MARCANDMANDY20
THE POLYSLEEP PILLOW Polysleep has developed a pillow experience fully customized using adjustable layers of medical antimicrobial foam. The four layers of supportive Hybrid foam offer firm support for the back and neck! The cover is made of 100% cotton, giving a silky-soft finish. Never worry about finding the cool side of the pillow again. Made with antimicrobial foam, these pillows are suitable for those suffering from allergies. - www.polysleep.com
TALES OF LIFE CANDLES Artisan crystal infused aromatherapy candles made with pure soy wax, 100% organic plant-based essential oils and authentic natural crystals. Each piece of candle is thoughtfully designed and handcrafted to help you find peace and tranquility in the present moment, be more mindful and cherish every moment of your life! Tales of Life Candle Co. is a female-owned company based in Burnaby, British Columbia focused on creating products that emphasize self-care and happiness. All the candles are made with only the highest quality ingredients that are sourced ethically and responsibly with minimal impact on the environment. A portion of all monthly proceeds go towards local British Columbia charities that focus on helping children with special needs. - www.talesoflifecandles.ca
ALFRED SMART LOCKS A new smart deadbolt for your door and your new personal concierge. Unlock your unit with up to 20 different pin codes, including one -time codes and time-sensitive codes, perfect for short term rentals. No more hiding a back-up key under a rock anymore. Unlock the unit with a touch when your phone is nearby with One-Touch access or connect Alfred to Google Home or Alexa and unlock your door through voice command. Quick and easy to install, meaning anyone can do it. All you need is a Phillips screwdriver to transform the look of your front door. www.alfredinc.com
TRAVEL DUVET Take the comfort of home wherever you go. This duvet has been developed to be as light, compact and comfortable as possible. Folded and placed in your suitcase, it will press down to about 4 or 5 cm, yet it will fluff up beautifully when you unpack. There is an old Scandinavian tradition: when a young woman marries, her parents bless the happy couple with a new down-filled duvet and pillow set. This set would have been lovingly handmade for the couple by the bride's mother. To ensure a happy and prosperous life for the newlyweds, a coin was sewn inside the duvet. St Genève continues this tradition. Every duvet St Genève makes has a coin sewn inside; a wish of health and prosperity. - www.stgeneve.com
BEAUTY BENEFITS PILLOWCASES Put the “beauty” in “beauty rest” with Serenity & Purity Pillowcases by St Genève. Traditional cotton and polyester pillowcases have abrasive surfaces that scratch skin and tangle tresses, resulting in wrinkles, sleep creases, wild bedhead, and breakage. Serenity is gentle on hair and skin, and easy to launder! www.stgeneve.com VILNA WOOL-CASHMERE THROW Wrap yourself in luxury with this beautiful wool-cashmere throw, featuring a soft fringe finish. Available in several beautiful colors. - www.stgeneve.com
GLADE PLUGINS SCENTED OIL PLUS WITH APPLE OF MY PIE SCENTED OIL Stay warm and cozy at home over the holidays when you plug your Glade Apple of My Pie PlugIns Scented Oil into your PlugIns® PLUS warmer. Designed with new intuitive features like 8-hour Rest Mode and a Refill Indicator Light, you can enjoy long-lasting fragrance without wasting a “scent.” - www.glade.com KLEENEX HOLIDAY Trusted, loved and celebrated by Canadians coast to coast, Kleenex is the iconic facial tissue brand! Kleenex softly comforts skin and is there for all of life’s messy and unpredictable moments – so whether you’re wiping happy tears or runny noses, the unbeatable softness of Kleenex® facial tissue has you covered. www.Kleenex.com THE EGRET It’s time for cleaning technology to level up. Egret Lab Canada is proud to provide cutting-edge solutions that eliminate contaminants and protect the environment. The Egret is a research-backed cleaner that uses electrolyzed-oxidated water that’s safe enough for food and tough enough to clean your bathroom. www.egretlab.com CLOROX ON-THE-GO DISINFECTING WIPES Convenient and perfect for cleansing and disinfecting multi-surfaces while you are on the go. These disinfecting wipes are bleach-free and kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses. Perfect to keep in the car, your purse, at work or even for when you travel! www.clorox.ca CLEANCULT LIQUID HAND SOAP Cleancult is a zero waste cleaning brand on a mission to redefine clean with the power of high efficacy and eco-friendly, plant-based formulas. Cleancult’s Liquid Hand Soap is made with coconut oil, olive oil, vitamin E, and a specialized blend of essential oils to cleanse and moisturize your hands! Cleancult’s refills are shipped in paper-based milk cartons, and kept fresh with plant-based caps, pairing perfectly with stylish glass dispensers to put the formulas in. www.cleancult.com
ROOMBA J7+ iRobot’s most thoughtful robot vacuum yet. Powered by iRobot Genius, the j7+ gets smarter with each use, taking the time to understand your cleaning preferences, learning your cleaning rules, asking for and responding to feedback, and remembering how to react in the future. It can also start cleaning automatically when you leave home and stop when you return with “Clean While I’m Away.” PrecisionVision Navigation identifies certain obstacles and hazards on the floor, and even empties itself when it’s finished cleaning for up to 60 days at a time. - www.irobot.ca BRAAVA JET M6 Forget cleaning and enjoy more family time. With Smart Mapping you can decide where it mops and when. You can even set up Keep Out Zones so your robot knows to avoid sensitive areas. The Braava jet® m6 robot mop gets smarter over time, learning your routine and suggesting personalized schedules. It will even suggest an extra mop when your area’s pollen count is high or during pet shedding season. - www.irobot.ca SWEDISH CLOTHS These fun Swedish dishcloths are super absorbent, quick drying and washable many times over. Meant to replace your paper towels, these cloths are eco-friendly as they are biodegradable and made of cotton and cellulose. Sponge cloths replace the use of up to 17 rolls of paper towel, reducing the plastic packaging and overall waste in landfills. www.mindyourbeeswraps.com
SAVE 15% Use Promo Code MARCANDMANDY15
SWASH A common misconception is that more detergent is always better but overusing detergent can leave residue on clothing and build-up in your washer over time. Swash™ laundry detergent allows consumers to clean and care for their clothes. The Precision Pour Cap dispenses the amount of detergent needed for regular size loads in just one squeeze. No more, no less. This ultra-concentrated detergent washes up to 83 regular loads and is specially designed to help boost your washer's ability to fight stains. - www.swash.com
SETTING
the stage
SET DÉCOR PROVIDED BY Lowes, www.lowes.ca
This year, we gave our studio trees a makeover by flocking them. Flocking your tree is so easy to do and gives your tree a natural, outdoorsy look that works well with the luxurious updated traditional style that is so trendy right now! Ornaments and accents in rich greens, deep reds and touches of gold finish the look perfectly.
Leftover Christmas décor is fantastic for adding a decorative flair to your gift wrapping. This year, we used simple craft paper and added flair with bold ribbon and pretty decorative touches! Add in a keepsake ornament for an added personal touch!
Staff Favorites Handmade Infinity KH, www.lowes.ca
16-In Red Nutcracker www.lowes.ca
Ceramic Acorn Ornament www.lowes.ca
The perfect combination of tradition and elegance, Timeless Celebration offers chic decor in deep tones with gold finishes–creating an attractive contrast. Here are a few of our staff favorites from this collection! (Available from Lowe’s, Rona and Réno-Depot )
These gorgeous lanterns are beautiful on their own but adding an extra ornament to the top of each ties them in with the tree and adds an extra touch of luxury.
CANADIAN HOME TRENDS & TAV SCHEMBRI
16067 Heart Lake Road, Caledon
CUSTOM COUNTRY ESTATE PROPERTY FEATURES 91 Manicured Acres
45 minutes from Toronto
4 Bedrooms
2,400 sq. ft. Auxiliary Building
3 Bathrooms
Stunning Views 91 manicured acres with eye-catching views in South Caledon, close to the Caledon Trail, skiing, golf, parks and spas. This century home (1867) features 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms with charming character and unique custom craftsmanship including crown moldings, built-in cabinets, a grand dining room, den and master suite with spectacular views. An auxiliary building is perfect for a home office or hobby shop with over 2,400 sq. ft. on the upper level. A picturesque driveway leads to a pond and barn. The property is meticulously landscaped with stone walls and includes a back up generator, LED lights and 400 amp service. - Tav Schembri, Broker of Record, www.tavsells.com
Wall, Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan in Aubusson. Fireplace and mirror in Paloma. www.anniesloan.com
MANTEL n ra i n
To get started decorating your mantel, make sure you have supplies on hand to tie lights, attach ribbons and hang ornaments. This may include twist ties, floral wire, wire cutters, pipe cleaners, zap straps, etc. STEP ONE: GREENERY Decide on your garland material and don’t be afraid to mix it up! You can even mix real and artificial together. STEP TWO: LIGHT
Photos From: Kids Help Phone’s Homes for the Holidays, Photography by Janis Nicolay Top Photo: Design by Tanya Krpan Floral by Hilary Miles Flowers Retail Sponsor Indigo Bottom Photo: Design by Karin Bohn Floral by The Granville Island Florist
If you have a plug on the mantel you can use electric lights, otherwise plan on a few strands of battery-operated ones. I like to use two different sizes and styles of bulbs, but stick to the same color temperature. Wrap lights around the branches running from your furthest point back to the plug. With the batteryoperated strands, hide the battery pack underneath a large branch somewhere easy to reach to turn them on and off. Once you are generally happy with the light locations, use green twist ties to keep them in place and help direct the bulbs. Always work with the lights on, this makes it much easier to see if they are even. STEP THREE: EMBELLISH Much like when decorating a tree, plan on having different sizes and styles of ornaments you can use to layer and create interest.
Consider the color scheme on your tree or in your room in general.
WE LOVE...
STEP FOUR: FINISHING TOUCHES Think outside the box - this could be wide gauge ribbon (6”+), wood beads, strands of burlap, feathers, etc. Regardless of what you choose, start in the middle and work out to the ends.
Lowes www.lowes.com
STEP FIVE: PICKS AND SPRIGS These could be artificial or real and come in many sizes and varieties. For a more natural look, select picks that look like red berries or eucalyptus leaves. For a glamorous look, add gold or silver picks.
TEXT | Trish Knight www.knightvarga.com
Design by Gillian Segal Design Floral by Hana By Celsia Retail Sponsor Avenue Road
Canadian Tire, www.canadiantire.ca
Design by KPM Design Floral by West Van Florist Retail Sponsor Gardenworks
HomeSense www.homesense.com
Photography by Janis Nicolay Left Photo: Design by Purity Design, Floral by Floralista, Retail Sponsor Potters Right Photo: Design by Knight Varga Interiors, Floral by Hilary Miles Flowers, Retail Sponsor The Bay For the past 17 years, designers, florists and retailers across the Lower Mainland have worked together to create stunning holiday home tours in support of Kids Help Phone. This year, for the second year, the tour will be available in a virtual format that can be enjoyed across the country! From November 20th to December 5th, you can purchase tickets in support of Kids Help Phone and have an opportunity to virtually tour 5 gorgeous homes decorated for the holiday season! As an added bonus, Todd & Rebecca Talbot have teamed up with Homes for the Holidays this year, opening the doors to their charming family home as well. This annual event raises money for Kids Help Phone, Canada’s only 24/7 national service offering bilingual (English and French) professional counselling, information and referrals and volunteer-led, text-based support to young people. For more information, and to purchase tickets or make a donation to Kids Help Phone, please visit www.homesfortheholidays.ca or follow us on Instagram @homesfortheholidaysvan
Kids Help Phone Homes for the Holidays Photography by Janis Nicolay Design by Knight Varga Interiors Floral by Hilary Miles Flowers Retail Sponsors Indigo and Tweet Shoppe
STOCKING FAVORITES A STOCKING GIFT GUIDE FOR MARC, MANDY AND THEIR FAMILY!
Try This
Don’t have a fireplace mantel to hang your stockings from? A blanket ladder makes a gorgeous stocking display! Just hang your stockings from the rungs and decorate the ladder with Christmas ornaments and accessories for a pretty display!
PHILIPS ONEBLADE A revolutionary new hybrid styler that can trim, shave and create clean lines and edges on any length of hair. Forget about using multiple steps and tools. OneBlade does it all. It delivers an easy and comfortable shave thanks to a glide coating and rounded tips. With a cutter that moves at 200x per second, it’s efficient even on longer hairs. The Philips wet and dry OneBlade is easy to clean and can be used with or without foam. - www.philips.com CHEESEBURGER PICNIC APRON This retro style apron is great for barbecuing your favorite foods - like cheeseburgers. 100% cotton, machine-washable. www.swearnet.com TABBOO HYGIENE STICK An innovative way to protect your butt and other taboo areas from sweating, chafing, left-behind poo and general odor. It's made with natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and almond oil so it smells great without any harsh chemicals. Plus it provides a protective barrier for up to 24 hours, leaving you ready for any unexpected intimate encounter. www.shoptabboo.com LUMIN CLASSIC MAINTENANCE SET The best that men's skincare has to offer for healthy, refreshed skin. This lowmaintenance 3-step anti-aging routine helps prevent breakouts, even out skin tone, and fade acne scars. Expertly curated to provide an essential balance of hydration, cleansing, and exfoliation, this set is all you need to reveal your most vibrant skin yet. This set is perfect for all skin types who are looking for more balanced oil production and even skin tone. - www.luminskin.com LIQUORMENS DIRTY OL CANADIAN WHISKY A Whisky straight from Sunnyvale Trailer Park. This whisky offers subtle flavors of citrus and pine that leads to a light, polished finish. Perfect with ginger ale or cola for your liquor drink needs. - www.swearnet.com
Love This! TRAILER PARK BOYS RETRO FANIMATION JACKET (Chalk Line) This high end, licensed, collectible jacket is the perfect gift for the Trailer Park Boys Fan! 100% polyester, machine washable! - www.swearnet.com
DEEECENT HOT SAUCE (Coney Island Saucery) A Louisiana style, garlic forward hot sauce with a silky texture and the right amount of heat. Made with fresh allnatural ingredients. Also available: Green Bastard Hot Sauce – A verde style sauce featuring fresh notes of cilantro and citrus teamed with garlic. - www.swearnet.com
HONEY CHAI HAND CREAM To make this uncommonly crafted lotion, USDA organic cardamom is slow-steeped into creamy coconut milk and then blended into the lotions, making these the most precious and pristine bottles of infused, feathery softness you’ve ever enjoyed. www.farmhousefreshgoods.com MOON DIP BODY MOUSSE This weightless whip’s powder-soft texture is simply magical and includes a powerhouse blend of age-fighting ingredients like peptides and retinol normally reserved for high-end facial treatments. This is perfect for neck lines and sun-kissed chests, arms, and legs. www.farmhousefreshgoods.com HONEY HEEL GLAZE This Texas wildflower honey-based serum seals in moisture and brings rich color back to tired feet. Simply brush on and rub into feet for chalkless bliss - no more white,`` ashy look! www.farmhousefreshgoods.com TIMESCAPE MICROMAZING POLISH Thousands of tiny micromazing™ natural plant-based fiber particles that wipe away the years with micro-fine wonder in just 2 minutes. Clinical tests revealed in just 12 days of daily use, these exfoliating mega-wonders led to a 46% visual improvement in skin renewal. www.farmhousefreshgoods.com SUNDAE BEST CHOCOLATE MASK A natural, blended active face mask with soothing wholesome ingredients like cocoa, coconut milk and honey in addition to powerhouse enzymes that boost your natural defenses against the look of wrinkles and sagging. www.farmhousefreshgoods.com BUTTER RUM BODY POLISH Golden brown sugar and premium aged rum combine with rice bran oil in this butterysweet, butterscotch scented fine body scrub that instantly puts you in a good-time mood! www.farmhousefreshgoods.com ROOT & NOURISH Wellness experts Abbey Rodriguez and Jennifer Kurdyla teach women how to incorporate plant medicine into everyday life through food and self-care. These affordable, seasonal, and sustainable recipes, drawn from Western herbalism and Ayurveda, are designed to help you curate a personalized herbal apothecary that will serve you for a lifetime. www.simonandschuster.ca
MULBERRY SILK PILLOWCASES These 100% certified mulberry silk pillowcases in blush or white pair beautifully with a GhostBed’s Canadian-made mattresses or Ghostsheets for cool, comfortable sleep. www.ghostbed.ca FRESH FOOD Kabo is a subscription-based fresh dog food company that allows clients to make mealtime easy and enjoyable while doing what’s best for their pet. Kabo offers 4 different fresh recipes that include a Tender Chicken, Hearty Turkey, Savoury Beef, and a Luscious Lamb recipe. All Kabo foods are made from fresh Canadian, human-grade ingredients with no by-product meals, and no artificial flavors or colors. - www.kabo.co BELLY BIB Introducing the one and only Belly Bib from T.O. Dogswear. These innovative underbelly coats will keep your dog clean and dry this Winter from splash ups, snowballs, salt, mud and more! Their velcro straps make it easy to throw on right before your walk and will keep your dog dry, warm, and clean on all those slushy walks. They're 100% waterproof, have a quick dry material, and are machine washable. As if that's not enough, these amazing upside down coats are 100% ecofriendly, made from up to 23 recycled plastic bottles, and made in Canada! www.todogswear.ca
Create your own custom keepsake labels! These adorable little ornaments are a great way to personalize a stocking as shown here or they can be used as gift tags to put a finishing touch on your gifts. Once the gift is opened, your loved one has a lovely keepsake ornament they can add to their tree! To make these custom tags, we simply purchased 3” natural wood rounds from the local craft store. They were already pre-drilled and came with string for hanging! We then created a label for each person using Cricut’s Design Space and cut each label on permanent Smart Vinyl. We then transferred the labels to the wood rounds to create a custom tag for each stocking.
Try This
For a durable, long lasting finish, use a sponge to apply a layer of Mod Podge over each label. Attach a length of string or ribbon for hanging and you’re done!
GO POP! PRESTO Race to pop the bubbles! Complete the challenges on the Presto Cards and be the first to tap Bubblo to win the round! Players with quick reflexes, excellent eye-hand coordination and a good sense of observation will prevail in this fun party game for the whole family. - www.foxmind.com GO POP! Enjoy the tactile sense of infinite bubbles popping while engaging your mind in a light and fun logic game for two players ages 5 and up. Or, simply enjoy it as a fun and soothing fidget. www.foxmind.com EOS HOLIDAY LIP BALM SET Enjoy eos’ beloved lip balms in new holiday flavors that deliver long-lasting hydration and seal in moisture. - www.evolutionofsmooth.com OLA BAMBOO TOOTHBRUSH The first and only eco-friendly bamboo toothbrush made in Canada. Perfect for the whole family! - www.olabamboo.com KIDS AGAINST MATURITY Bring joy to your world with Kids Against Maturity! Keep your kids busy and laughing during the holidays and all year round with this hilarious, award-winning fill-in-the-blank game. With age-appropriate toilet humor for kids and witty layered innuendos for parents, Kids Against Maturity delivers festive fun for the whole family – ideal for parties, travel and sleepovers. www.kidsagainstmaturity.com CARE BEARS 14" PLUSH A group of huggable BFFs living that sweet caring life and what better way for you to join in on the fun than with these Care Bears Plush friends. Each Care Bears Plush is 14" inches in size, perfect for unlimited bear hugs, and ready for you to take on your adventures of sharing and caring! Available at Walmart. - www.walmart.ca KINETIC SAND SANDISFACTORY SET Mix, shape, slice, and squish Kinetic Sand like you've never done before with the Kinetic Sand Sandisfactory Set! The set includes everything you need to create your own mesmerizing sand surprise reveals and make oddly satisfying videos just like the ones you've seen online - right at home! With over 10 different tools and molds, and two pounds of Kinetic Sand, there's so many ways to create! Before you play, fluff the sand to get it flowing! Kinetic Sand is the original mesmerizing magic sand that flows through your hands and never dries out so you can play again and again. With red, blue, yellow, and rare black Kinetic Sand, you can mix them together to create new colors or add marble designs to your creations. www.spinmaster.com
MY SQUISHY LITTLE DUMPLINGS Adorable interactive characters with BIG personalities and the cutest accessories to match! Squeeze their cheeks to pop out their unique personalities! Squeeze, shake, toss, hold them upside down… they react differently depending how you play with them! The more you interact, the better you’ll get to know your new best friends and their adorable personalities. Collect the entire My Squishy Little Dumplings squad and master their language with the “Squishionary” dictionary! www.wowwee.com BLUEY PLUSH AND ALBUM Bluey is a multi-award-winning Australian children’s series that is charming audiences around the globe. Bluey follows the adventures of a lovable and inexhaustible six-year-old Blue Heeler who lives with her Dad (Bandit), her Mum (Chilli) and four-year-old little sister, Bingo. Inspired by the delightful characters from the multi-award-winning series, Bluey and Bingo are a cuddly soft plush duo ready for imaginative play. Bluey: The Album features 17 all original compositions from series one of the animated show. Composer Joff Bush incorporates classical themes throughout the soundtrack which moves between ska and folk. www.bluey.tv ELF PETS Santa’s Cuddly Helpers, the Elf Pets are magical animals that play important roles during the Christmas season! Sent straight from the North Pole, these cuddly pets serve as year-round pals to kids who can hug, love and play with them. Each holiday season, the Elf Pets aid Santa with his Christmastime duties, and with their Elf Pet in hand, kids can help Santa during Christmas too! All Elf Pets come with their own hardbound storybook explaining exactly what they do to help Santa. - www.elfontheshelf.com
small space
MARVEL
Professional Custom Homes Ltd www.prohomesab.com
When we started planning this home, we had young urban homeowners in mind. Building one of our largest projects to date in Calgary’s most sought-after inner-city communities will help provide, couples or young families not only a beautiful home, but an urban lifestyle as well. This home offers panoramic urban views from every level of the home which is poised on a beautiful south facing lot with unobstructed views. Multiple outdoor terraces and a walkout basement capitalize on the stunning views of the downtown skyline! This home features over 2,500 square feet of living space with many modern luxuries including an extended 12’ island, built-in ceiling speakers, heated flooring, upgraded built-in appliances, hardwood floors on all upper levels, painted ceilings, and extensive custom detailing. Designed with a walkout basement and an extended rear yard that leads to a rooftop patio on top of the double detached garage, the outdoor space is just as desirable as the home itself! Professional Custom Homes Ltd. www.prohomesab.com
ADD HOLIDAY FLAIR Keep the look simple and clean with just a touch of rustic country flair with a trendy black and white plaid holiday décor scheme!
www.gianttiger.com
CHRISTMAS IN THE
kitchen
ICEE MACHINE Pour yourself the coolest drink in town, made right at home with this counter-top Icee Slushie Machine. Looks and operates just like the ones you see in stores. Only 4 ingredients needed: water, ice, Icee flavoring syrup (sold separately) and salt to make the perfect Slushie. Includes easy to follow step by step instructions for use, care and cleaning. Makes up to four 8 oz. servings of amazing Slushies. - www.icee.com
KITCHENAID STAND MIXER Anyone can unlock their ‘maker’ spirit this holiday season using the KitchenAid Stand Mixer and its attachments – and you don’t need to be a seasoned chef or baker to use it! Whether it’s shredding chicken or making homemade pizza dough, create something extraordinary from scratch to elevate your everyday meals - regardless of your skill level in the kitchen. Features 10 speeds to gently knead, thoroughly mix and whip ingredients for a wide variety of recipes and comes in over 20 colors to perfectly match your kitchen design or personality. - www.kitchenaid.ca KITCHENAID CORDLESS COLLECTION All the power you expect but without the cord, letting you keep counter-tops clutter-free while maximizing time and space in the kitchen. The Cordless Collection features a Cordless Hand Blender, 5-Cup Cordless Food Chopper and 7-Speed Cordless Variable Speed Hand Mixer and comes in six carefully crafted colors including Blue Velvet, Empire Red, Matte Charcoal Grey, Onyx Black, Empire Red and White to bring the kitchen to life! – www.kitchenaid.ca COLOR CHANGING NORDIC MUG A little bit of holiday magic in every cup. This stoneware mug changes colors when you pour hot tea into it. Comes in a giftable illustrated box with adorable matching design! www.davidstea.com HOLIDAY FAVORITES MINI SACHET TEA CHEST Get more festive than Frosty with this sachet gift set packed with four of DAVIDsTEA’s jolliest holiday teas in 16 ready-to-steep sachets. This merry-filled collection is the perfect way to celebrate the season. - www.davidstea.com
DRINKMATE™ COUNTER-TOP The ONLY at-home beverage carbonator that allows the user to carbonate ANYTHING in the fridge. - www.drinkmate-canada.com SESAME SNAPS SEEDS & GRAINS Made with honey and supercharged with highly nutritious sesame seeds and puffed grains, the NEW Sesame Snaps Seeds & Grains bars are the perfect crispy snack to tide you over throughout your busy day. Gluten-free, they are made with natural ingredients, no artificial flavors or colors and contain no preservatives. A good source of fiber, this vegetarian snack is a good step towards choosing healthier options between meals. www.sesamesnaps.ca
NESPRESSO VERTUO Canadians deserve the best coffee, all day long. Nespresso Vertuo now offers even more coffee variety—from espresso to a full cup—so you can enjoy the pleasure of quality coffee at the touch of a button. Known for its impeccable taste and generous, smooth crema, Vertuo is designed to deliver the perfect composition of aroma and flavor, with five different cup sizes available to accommodate for different coffee desires. Making an exceptional cup of coffee has never been so easy and sustainable with aluminum capsules designed to be fully and infinitely recyclable. Learn more about the Nespresso Vertuo system and discover how to recycle your used Nespresso capsules in your municipality at www.Nespresso.ca.
SANTOKU KNIFE Kilne products are worthy of professional chefs but designed for home cooks. Kilne products—such as the company’s award-winning 6-Piece Knife Set—come with a lifetime guarantee. The Santoku Knife is ideal for fine slicing or chopping, and is a great overall multipurpose knife. In all Kilne knives, high-grade chromium German steel, form a perfectly balanced full-tang blade that stays sharp and cuts true. Equipped with a non-slip grip — even when wet — these knives are easy to hold. - www.kilne.com TABASCO® SRIRACHA SAUCE A blend of spicy, sweet and savory flavors from Southeast Asia with a touch of the classic Tabasco® Brand heat, with no artificial flavors that you can’t pronounce. Drizzle the premium sauce on your favorite dish or use it as a dip or topping to add an extra kick to your meal! - www.tabasco.com THERMOMIX TM6 Start with the amazing range of features on the TM6®. Add the 60,000+ guided recipes of Cookidoo®. 24 cooking modes. High quality construction. User friendly interface. All in one device that preps ingredients and cooks them to perfection. TM6® sets a new standard in all-in-one multicookers. And then there's Cookidoo®. Thousands of guided recipes that lead you through every step, ensuring your meal is flawless. Every time. Cookidoo's recipes span the globe, every dish chef-tested for tasty goodness. www.thermomix.com
THE ULTIMATE KITCHEN WORKSPACE
The kitchen is about much more than making a meal; it’s the heart of the home. The Galley was created to make life in the kitchen easier, more efficient and more enjoyable. Discover how a highly functional and social kitchen revolves around the Galley Workstation. REINVENT YOUR KITCHEN®
PREPARE | COOK | SERVE | ENTERTAIN | CLEAN In your Galley, you can chop, strain, and mix easily and ergonomically to prepare a meal and efficiently transition to cooking with a cooktop nearby. Using various Serving Boards, quickly and conveniently transform your prepare and cook station into a serve station or set out drinks and hors d’oeuvres to create an ideal entertain station. Contain the mess within your Galley and clean throughout preparing, cooking, serving, and entertaining!
Expand the functionality of your Galley without sacrificing under-counter storage or appliances by adding an 18 or 12 inch Built-in DryDock to either or both sides of any single or double bowl Workstation. Highly engineered for function, it expands the useful space in the basin by allowing you to dock your Culinary Tools to the side when you need more space.
In your Galley, you can chop, strain and mix easily and ergonomically to prepare a meal and efficiently transition to cooking with a cooktop nearby. Using various Serving Boards, quickly and conveniently transform your prepare and cook station into a serve station or set out drinks and hors d’oeuvres to create an ideal entertain station. Contain the mess within your Galley and clean throughout preparing, cooking, serving, and entertaining! Consider adding a separate WashStation™ to easily isolate the mess. The kitchen is about much more than making a meal; it’s the heart of the home. The Galley was created to make life in the kitchen easier, more efficient and more enjoya-
NO CUTTING CORNERS! The Corner Washstation makes great use of those awkward corner spaces in the kitchen. Get the most out of your kitchen with a Workstation + WashStation.
ble. Discover how a highly functional and social kitchen revolves around the Galley Workstation. THE PERFECT PAIR: The Galley Tap is the first and only kitchen faucet thoughtfully designed, engineered and manufactured to function perfectly with a specific line of kitchen sinks, or in our case, kitchen workstations. Simply put, it completes The Galley Workstation.
The Galley is available from Euro-line Appliances www.euro-line-appliances.com
RUM AND JERK GLAZED HAM INGREDIENTS 1 cup
pineapple juice divided
1/2 cup
brown sugar
1/4 cup
rum
2 Tbsp
jerk paste
2 Tbsp
lime juice
3 lb
fully cooked boneless spiral-sliced ham
INSTRUCTIONS With lid off, select Saute setting on Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer and set to High Temperature. Stir in 1/2 cup pineapple juice, brown sugar, rum, jerk paste and lime juice; bring to boil. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until thickened to syrupy consistency. Press Cancel. Remove glaze and set aside. Note: Do not clean pot. Place trivet in inner pot of Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer. Add ham, remaining pineapple juice and 1 cup water to inner pot.
Place lid on pot and lock into place to seal. Select Pressure Cook/ Manual setting on High Pressure for 8 minutes. When pressure cooking is complete, Naturally Release the pressure. Once pressure is released, remove the lid. Remove ham with tongs and drain liquid. Ensure that inner pot is dry. Add ham to air-fryer basket or inner pot and brush reserved glaze all over ham. Using the Air fryer Lid select Bake at 400°F for 10 to 15 minutes or until ham is golden brown, glaze is caramelized and meat thermometer inserted into center registers 160°F. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Recipe Note: Bake ham with pineapple slices if desired.
INSTANT POT® DUO CRISP™ + AIR FRYER 11-in-1 functionality doing everything the fan-favorite Instant Pot does, but swapping out the pressure cooker lid for the innovative air fryer lid enables a whole new, game-changing set of cooking techniques – all fast, easy and at the touch of a button. www.instantpot.com
MANGO CHUTNEY ICE CREAM
INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
2 cups 1/4 cup 1/4 cup 2 tsp 3 Tbsp 1/2 cup
Whip the cream until stiff peaks occur. Add in sweetened condensed milk, icing sugar and vanilla. Whip for an additional 30 seconds until well incorporated.
whipping cream icing sugar sweetened condensed milk vanilla KFI Mango Chutney mango puree
www.kfisauces.com
Gently fold in the KFI Mango Chutney and mango purée in the whipped cream with a spatula. Do not over mix. You want the mixture to be light and fluffy. Pour mixture into an airtight container and freeze for 4-6 hours.
FOODIE SPOTLIGHT
Giant Glazed
CINNAMON BUN Prep time: 25 minutes, plus rising time Cook time: 50 minutes Serves: 12 INGREDIENTS Dough 3 ¾ cups 2 Tbsp 2 ¼ tsp 1 tsp ½ cup ½ cup 2 ½ cup TOBEN FOOD BY DESIGN has been bringing unique and delicious food to Toronto since 2005. Chef Toben began his study at the Cordon Bleu School of Culinary Arts in Paris where he was awarded Le Grand Diplome for excellence. Toben prides themselves in the care and detail of all of their catering events and meals they deliver. With a menu of unique and delicious options fully customizable to suit any of your needs, there’s something for everyone no matter the allergy or dietary restriction. They offer many catering options and work closely with their customers to create a specialized menu perfect for the customers’ needs. They cater for corporate or private events, and weddings. They also have a food truck for events that is rentable, offering options for every catering need. Toben is a preferred caterer at many gorgeous venues all over Toronto and does catering for many events every year. www.tobenfoodbydesign.com
all-purpose flour granulated sugar instant dry yeast fine salt hot water 1% milk large eggs, room temperature unsalted butter, room temperature, cut in
Filling ½ cup 1 cup 1 tbsp
unsalted butter, room temperature brown sugar, lightly packed ground cinnamon
Glaze 1 cup 2 Tbsp ½ tsp
icing sugar 1% milk vanilla extract
INSTRUCTIONS For the dough, measure flour, sugar, yeast and salt in a stand mixer bowl. Stir hot water and milk together in a small container. Add milk mixture and eggs to bowl and start mixer on low, letting it go for a minute or two until dough is almost combined. Add butter, a few pieces at a time, while mixer is on. Increase speed one level and continue mixing until dough looks smooth, about 6 minutes.
FOODIE SPOTLIGHT
Transfer dough to an ungreased bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let sit on the counter for an hour. Refrigerate overnight (6 to 24 hours). For the filling, beat butter by hand to smooth it out, then add brown sugar and cinnamon, beating well. Grease a 9-inch springform pan. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll into a 12 × 18-inch rectangle about ½ an inch thick. Spread filling over dough. To make the giant spiral, cut dough lengthwise into four strips. Roll up one strip from the short side. When you reach the end, overlap the end with the short end of the next strip and continue rolling up into a spiral. Repeat with the last two pieces of dough so you have one giant spiral. Place spiral into pan and flatten dough with your palm so it almost reaches the edges. If using the LG ProBake Convection Slide-in Range with AirFry, place uncovered bun in oven and set to proof for an hour. If using a conventional oven, cover pan with a tea towel and let sit on the counter for about an hour until the bun fills the pan — you’ll see the centre pushes up a little when it rises. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C), or, if using a conventional oven, preheat to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 50 minutes, until a rich golden brown. Cool on a rack for 30 minutes, then remove from pan before glazing. For the glaze, whisk icing sugar, milk and vanilla together until smooth. Use whisk to drizzle glaze over bun. Let set for 15 minutes before slicing into wedges to serve. - www.newscanada.com
Try This
Looking for something fun to add to your holiday spread? Try these popular Korean rice dogs! There are a wide variety of options available including rice flour batter wrapped hot dogs, spicy sausages, all mozzarella rice dog and an option that’s half hot dog and half mozzarella cheese. The batter-dipped sticks are coated with optional toppings, from diced potato to breadcrumbs, and freshly fried on the spot. - www.chungchunricedog.ca
JAMJAR CANTEEN is a Lebanese restaurant based in Vancouver, British Columbia with four locations all in B.C. They can customize every meal they offer to suit any of your personal needs, and offer vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. They believe in only using the freshest local ingredients, and all of their meat options are hormone free and halal friendly. They offer not just sit in and delivery but also catering for any size event, and have numerous packages and options to fit any of your catering needs. They strongly believe in giving back to the community, so they try to participate in fundraisers for numerous causes or reasons throughout the year. Jamjar Canteen also sells some of the seasonings they use in their food at the restaurant. And if you’re looking to learn a little more about Lebanese Cuisine they offer cooking demos in groups of 2-6 for those wanting to learn how to make some of their most popular dishes. Their menu is unique and unlike any other restaurant, making them standout from the other restaurants in the area. They strive to be fresh, inclusive, and unique. - www.jamjarcanteen.ca
EASY TIKKA RUB
Add flavor to your holiday dish with this delicious Tikka Rub! INGREDIENTS 3 Tbsp 3 1 1/2
KFI Tikka Marinade garlic cloves small onion bunch of cilantro
INSTRUCTIONS Place all the ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth. Smother on your favorite meat before cooking. www.kfisauces.com Bake and enjoy!
PROMISE
of the season
TEXT | DESIGNER JACKIE GLASS, WWW.JACKIEGLASS.CA
The rose and eucalyptus garland makes a strong statement of promise and hope. Pink Christmas balls and greenery in clear cylinder vases set on the grand piano mimic the palette of the garland.
With a lifetime passion for injecting a touch of holiday glitz and glam into her Christmas decor, designer Jackie Glass shares her unique take on this year’s holiday décor theme for her lovely mid-century-style home that evokes a sense of promise and hope for this much-anticipated holiday season. This Christmas, everything is coming up roses for Jackie and her family with the promise of better days ahead and the hope that life is slowly but surely coming back to normal. Excited to decorate her home with the joy of Christmas once again, Jackie is looking forward to celebrating the season with friends and family while sharing a positive holiday message. Making an instant impact when you enter Jackie’s welcoming dining room off the main entrance hall, a striking garland, hand-crafted
with pink paper roses and seasonal eucalyptus, designed exclusively for Jackie by Canadian artist Catherine Oxley of Bouq Paper Flowers, is gracefully entwined throughout the impressive glass globe chandelier over the dining room table. Jackie’s holiday message is undeniably conveyed to her family and guests through this unique and elegant floral art installation. Jackie invites us to step into her stunning modern glass home, nestled in the heart of Ontario’s wine country at the foot of the Niagara Escarpment and hopes you’ll be inspired by her holiday décor lovingly composed of a mix of new and favorite decorations from Christmases past.
Space Design By Lisa Moody, www.grapevinedesigns.ca Photography by Janis Nicolay, www.janisnicolay.com
#holidaystyle with Lisa Moody To add holiday flair to this elegant room, stick to a simple and classy look that layers different textures with subtle color. A tall, 9' tree takes advantage of the height in the space. Decorate the tree with a generous amount of ornaments, keeping it simple with round balls in various colors and finishes. Keep your selection to medium and large ornaments in keeping with the size of the tree. Nestle a beaded garland into the branches for added texture. A simple faux fur tree skirt adds a completely different texture for interest and warmth. Add a holiday floral to the coffee table and a faux pampas grass garland to the mantel to continue the textured holiday feel. Of course, no Christmas décor is complete without candlelight. These glass hurricanes pair well with the subtle colour scheme while adding drama to the décor.
LISA’S SELECTIONS Christmas Tree, www.christmascentral.com; Ornaments, www.chapters.indigo.ca, www.houseofjadehome.com; Beaded Garland, www.wayfair.ca; Tree Skirt, www.cb2.ca; Floral, www.wayfair.ca, Hurricane Candle Holders, www.crateandbarrel.ca
Try This Love this look? Try these pieces from Speers Interiors! www.speersinteriors.ca
Shown here: Alastair Chair, Kacey Sofa, Aya 3 Piece Set, Lagom Rug
CANADIAN HOME TRENDS & TIMSOLD REAL ESTATE TEAM
Private Luxury in PRESTIGIOUS CACHET ESTATES
PROPERTY FEATURES 1.14 Private Acres Remote Controlled Gates 5 Car Garage
12,000 sq. ft. Indoor Swimming Pool Home Theatre Custom Wine Cellar
Located in Markham’s prestigious Cachet Estates, this magnificent, custom-built home offers 12,000 sq. ft. of living space on 1.14 acres of private land. This home boasts 19 foot ceilings in the grand foyer, an indoor pool, a fully finished basement with a custom-built wine cellar, wet bar, home theatre, sauna and much, much more. Located close to top ranked schools, shops, restaurants, transit, parks and all the amenities you could need. Tim Keung, Broker, www.timsold.com
Home Equity Basics Owning a home can be financially beneficial or very expensive, depending how you handle your assets and equity. It is always good to remember there are tools available to help alleviate financial stress and keep you on the path you want to be on. Looking into the value of your home, or otherwise known as equity, is a great first step. Borrowing against your home’s value can provide you an opening to large amounts of money, and this type of loan is easier to qualify for because the loan itself is secured by the property. There are many benefits to signing up with a private mortgage company for a home equity loan. These benefits are mostly available because when a homeowner uses their home as collateral it allows the lender to make large funds available because, as mentioned earlier, the loan is secured with the property as collateral. It is important to keep in mind home equity loans are loans secured with the residence you own. Whether it’s a home, condo, semi, triplex, commercial units or even a trailer on leased land, a private mortgage brokerage can assist you in accessing the equity you have built up over the years!
To properly define home equity, one must simply understand as you start to pay off your mortgage, your property will start to gain substantial value, otherwise known as home equity. If you pay off large sums of your mortgage and continue to do so over time your home equity will continue to rise. Choosing what to do with that equity is a decision unique to every Canadian homeowner. How about a “Home Equity Line of Credit”? Just like a normal line of credit from the bank, private mortgage brokerages will offer Home Equity Lines of Credit to the customer that may not qualify with banks. Use and reuse the money you have applied for, without worrying about paying it all back in one year. Home Equity Line of credits can be great if you are in need of a large sum of money. BENEFITS OF A HOME EQUITY LOAN: Rates: Home equity mortgages usually have lower interest rates than an unsecured loan. This allows a private mortgage company to keep borrowing costs to a minimum.
Taxes: In the right situation borrowers may deduct portions of their home equity loan, especially when making improvements to the property itself. Inquire with your private broker today for more details. Approval: Don’t let bad credit stop you. As a homeowner, a home equity mortgage may be easier than you think to obtain. A private mortgage agent understands you own your home, and that can help manage the risk involved in lending funds based on significant equity. Always keep in mind when applying for a HELOC, you can use your funds however you see fit, although most homeowners use their funds for larger expenses such as renovations and remodeling improvements. The HELOC is the most flexible option available because it allows the homeowner control over their loan. Interest rates are variable, but usually a private brokerage will offer the most competitive rates on the market. For more information contact your mortgage agent today. From our mortgage family to yours, wishing you a happy and safe holiday season. www.jmsmortgages.com
#ecoholiday
Trying to be sustainable and reduce waste at this time of the year can be a real challenge. Here are a few eco-friendly décor tips to keep your home healthy and happy this holiday season. TEXT | Designer Deborah Soulier, www.soulierdesignstudio.com
LIGHT THE NIGHT What is a festive dinner table without that gorgeous glow and ambiance that candles offer? To keep your air quality healthy and happy, make sure you are opting for beeswax or soy candles rather than toxic petroleum-based candles.
THAT’S A WRAP There are thousands of gorgeous wrapping papers to choose from. Sure, all this gift wrap looks amazing under the tree but there are more eco-friendly choices that are not as wasteful, and chances are most of this commercial gift wrap contains metals or plastics and therefore are non-recyclable. Recycled brown kraft paper and boxes for gifts have become increasingly popular. It is super strong and very inexpensive. With a few creative touches added to your gift such as ribbon, pinecones, cedar branch tips, boxwood, dried oranges, or any nature-inspired treasures you can find, not only will you have a beautiful creative package to give to a friend or loved one but one which also has the environment in mind. So put on your favorite holiday tunes, grab your beverage of choice, sit in front of the tree, and wrap away! OH CHRISTMAS TREE Real or artificial tree? The great debate! A real tree is the most eco-friendly and sustainable choice. Not only does buying a tree from a farm help support the local small business owner but when the holidays are over, the tree can be added to your compost, recycled into mulch or if you have purchased a potted tree, it can be planted. Artificial trees made from plastics, can be reused but at the end of their life, end up in landfill as they are not easily recycled. Plastic decorations are no match for mother nature! Grab a basket and go for a stroll in your backyard or ideally a forest. The forest floor is a treasure chest overflowing with natural elements such as pine or cedar branches, wood, flora, berries, dogwood, and pinecones for endless DIY eco-friendly projects. Door wreaths, fireplace mantel garlands, window boxes, a holiday table centerpiece are just a few ideas that you can create to add some warmth and coziness to your home during the holidays. As a bonus, nature inspired décor seamlessly coordinates with all styles!
BETTER LIVING AT HOME COOL TO CONNECT This deck of 52 conversation and connection prompts are designed to make meaningful conversations feel easy and impactful! www.cooltoconnect.com EARTH WATER Bottled in a fully reusable, infinitely recyclable can. 70% of aluminum cans are recycled globally, compared to less than 30% of plastic. To lessen the carbon footprint, Earth Group works with spring and glacial water sources throughout the world. Earth Water is bottled at the source which is fed by a mountain spring. The Earth Group is a social enterprise (and B Corp) that exists entirely to provide food, water, and education to children globally in partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) helping fund school meal programmes globally. - www.earthgroup.org BEESWAX FOOD WRAP SETS Mind Your Bees’ beeswax food wraps have revolutionized zero-waste, eco-friendly food storage. They are the new kitchen essential. These wraps help reduce food and plastic waste in your kitchen, simply: Wrap it. Wash it. Reuse it! The Market Fresh print is inspired by the beauty and variety of local goods at farmers Markets. www.mindyourbeeswraps.com
SAVE 15% Use Promo Code MARCANDMANDY15
THE MAGIC BAG CAMOUFLAGE EDITION An extended (long) hot/cold compress with a rustic look that is ideal for those who love nature, the great outdoors, hunting and fishing. Do you love hunting or fishing, and also want to help your body recover faster after a long outing? The hot/cold MAGIC BAG compress provides completely natural pain relief. It also helps correct poor posture that comes from hunching over a computer. Available in the extended model—which fits comfortably around the neck—and in the pad model— ideal for the shoulders or back—this MAGIC BAG can be used as a hot compress for relaxation or as a cold compress to reduce inflammation, heal bruises or relieve pain. www.masdelinc.com SMARTSILK’S SILK-LINED PILLOW These premium, hypoallergenic pillows are designed without chemicals, using all natural materials to ensure a luxurious night’s rest. Each pillow is made with the highest quality breathable material to keep you comfortable while you sleep. SmartSilk’s products are patented and Certified Asthma & Allergy Friendly™ so you can sleep soundly knowing your health is protected in the cleanest environment possible. - www.smartsilk.com MRS. MEYER’S CLEAN DAY ORANGE CLOVE JAR CANDLES This Orange Clove scented candle brings together warm, spicy, and citrus notes for a truly unique holiday combination, and the recyclable glass candle jar makes it a great gift idea as well. All Mrs. Meyer’s candles are made from vegetable wax, soy wax, and other thoughtfully chosen ingredients. The lead-free cotton candle wick has a 35 hour burn time and provides fragrance while you clean or relax at home. www.mrsmeyers.ca SOLSTIC ENERGY A healthy alternative to popular energy drinks on the market. It is low-calorie, sugar-free, and packed with natural ingredients such as guarana, grapeskin, decaffeinated green tea extract, ginseng, and B vitamins. These ingredients provide stimulatory effects to help reduce fatigue, improve mental alertness, and provide an energy boost. www.naturessunshine.ca PAPERLESS TOWELS & GIFT TAGS Made to replace paper towels, friendlier paperless towels are absorbent, machine washable and compostable! They are soft enough to bath babies and strong enough to wipe muddy pet paws! They make a great gift for teachers, Secret Santas, new moms and more. Finish your gift with a friendly gift tag made from Canadian seed paper that can be planted indoors over the winter! - www.friendlierfootprint.ca
ALL NATURAL BATH & BODY SET This luxurious waterless and low waste bath and body gift set is the perfect gift for your mom or anyone looking for a sustainable self-care experience. The clean and concentrated natural Body Balm sticks help you, ‘Stick it to dry skin’ and are great for moisturizing on the go. Melt away stress in a bath with a perfectly moisturizing, dye-free bath bomb that smells amazing, won't irritate your skin, or stain you or your tub. A nourishing lip balm finishes off this sustainable and mindful gift set. www.duckish.ca HANDCRAFTED GIFT SET This thoughtfully curated gift box includes a wonderful spa escape with two bars of handmade soap in the aromas of Eucalyptus Spearmint and Luscious Lavender. Handcrafted items include a container of lemongrass-scented lotion and a lavender Bath bomb. This box is accented with handcrafted green vines. A wonderful and elegant spa gift package suitable for any occasion, created for individuals who are health conscious and enjoy beautiful things. www.corksandbubbles.ca
RAGLAN BAMBOO LONG SLEEVE SLEEP SUIT Nest Designs' new long sleeve children's sleepsuits may be the best choice for your child's swaddle transition, as they're made with breathable, eco-friendly materials including a unique bamboo blend with wool and Sorona® filling. They're incredibly soft to touch, and they're intended to be durable for children on the move! - www.nestdesigns.com BAMBOO SWADDLE SLEEP BAG A wearable blanket with easy-to-remove swaddle wings. The lightweight sleep bag is made with stretchy bamboo blended muslin, making it a great option for all seasons of wear, and it can be worn three different ways! - www.nestdesigns.com COTTON DRY BABY WIPES These dry baby wipes are perfect for baby's (or your) sensitive skin. Simply wet with water or with your own solution, these durable wipes are made from 100% cotton and are fully biodegradable. www.nestdesigns.com ACTIVATED CHARCOAL BATH BAR Experience a luxurious cleanse with Yardley’s Activated Charcoal bath bar made with bentonite clay. This bar will help leave your skin feeling clean, soft and moisturized while a hint of stimulating spearmint essential oil revives and energizes. - www.yardleylondon.com GENTLE CHARCOAL ULTRA SOFT TOOTHBRUSH Designed with charcoalinfused bristles, this ultra soft toothbrush helps gently remove surface stains for a clean that's effective yet gentle on gums. Best of all, the handle is made from 50% post-consumer recycled plastic, and is recyclable through the TerraCycle collection program. - www.tomsofmaine.ca COCONUT LAVENDER ANTIPERSPIRANT This antiperspirant contains a wetness protection ingredient made from recycled aluminium (which was originally derived from natural mineral bauxite ore). The product also contains anti-microbial olive leaf extract, 100% natural fragrance and is free of artificial preservatives and animal ingredients. www.tomsofmaine.ca LUMINOUS WHITE TOOTHPASTE Tom's NEW! Luminous White® toothpaste with activated charcoal uses a natural whitening technology to remove surface stains that is also safe on enamel, fights cavities and is safe for everyday use. It's made with biodegradable or mineral derived ingredients, plus water and contains no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. - www.tomsofmaine.ca
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WARM & COZY We wanted to keep things toasty this holiday season, so we’ve gathered our team and put together a quick list of tips to ensure that your home stays cozy throughout the coming winter months. We hope this quick list of tips helps you stay warm and comfortable over the chilly winter season. - Surex Insurance, www.surex.com
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WHEN SHOULD I TURN ON MY FURNACE?
WHEN TO TURN ON THE HUMIDIFIER IN YOUR HOUSE?
We suggest that you turn your furnace on when the weather starts to consistently sit at less than 18º C (64º F). In most provinces, we’ve found this to be around late October or early November. To combat the cool weather, we recommend that you set your thermostat to 20º C (68º F) for optimal comfort during the day. As for the nighttime, we suggest dropping the temperature to around 16º C (60º F). This will help you stay comfortable and save on electricity. Keeping your house toasty won’t just help you stay comfortable; doing this will also minimize the chance of frozen pipes (which can lead to expensive damage down the line). Feel free to reach out to one of our team members to confirm what type of water damage you’re covered for.
We realized that many of us struggle with dry air in the wintertime, a simple solution is using a humidifier. As a rule of thumb, we start using our humidifiers around the same time we turn on our furnaces in the late autumn.
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HOW TO USE A FURNACE HUMIDIFIER? For the best results, we like to use our furnace humidifiers (also called whole-house humidifiers). These excellent tools help you humidify the air throughout your entire home, not just a select area. These humidifiers are either built into your furnace before installation or installed afterwards. Simply locate the humidistat on your appliance and set it to your preferred settings. In general, the lower the setting, the more humid your home will be.
Workshop MUST-HAVES Pro-Lock
The Pro Lock is a heavy-duty, contractor-grade extension cord that even comes in handy around the house. It's THE LAST EXTENSION CORD YOU WILL EVER NEED. The Pro Lock sets itself apart from all other cords in the industry with a quality design, unique, patented safety features, and four vibrant theft deterrent colors. Pro Lock is distributed in Canada exclusively by The Blue Collar Pros. - www.thebluecollarpros.com Available in FOUR bright, theft deterrent colors.
The unique locking device rates at 80lbs of pull strength, and the patented 'Continuous Ground Monitoring system' CGM for short, ensures that your cord is grounded back to the circuit. The Pro-Lock also has a lighted power check on the male end, reinforced nickel-plated blades, and a sturdy cold weather jacket for hard service use. Universally recognized by OSH, these incredible features keep up safety and cut down fines on any job site.
Pro-Lock is the only cord in the Canadian market that allows you to personalize it by getting your name printed all along the length of the cord. Now you will never lose a cord again, plus extra marketing for your company on the jobsite!
Telesteps Most extension ladders can be awkward, heavy, and difficult to store but with the Telesteps extension ladders, all those problems go away! Telesteps extension ladders can have a height from 10.5ft to 14.5ft but what makes them so special is that they are telescopic meaning they can extend to those heights from their original closed height of only 32 inches! Great for storage whether it’s in your closet or under a bed, these ladders are made from aircraft aluminum alloy making these lightweight to carry but provide superior strength and security. - www.telestepsladder.com
DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT Located in Perrault Falls, Ontario, Peffley’s Wilderness Camp offers the perfect combination of remoteness, affordability and great fishing. Whether you’re looking for a weekend away with the boys or the perfect place to disconnect and reconnect as a family, Peffley’s has everything you need including excellent fishing, gorgeous scenery and fantastic family adventures. Since 2005, Peffley’s has been family owned and operated and the owners pride themselves on running a clean and well managed camp.
Looking for a great gift idea for that special person on your list? Book a getaway at Peffley’s and give a gift they will look forward to and remember for many years to come! www.peffleyscamp.com
OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING Over the last year and a half, many of us have embraced outdoor living and started enjoying our balconies, patios and backyards to the fullest. But just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean spending more time outside needs to stop. Be a great cold-weather gettogether host by following these tips: PICK A SHELTERED LOCATION! A covered or enclosed patio is a great option for the hot summer months, providing shelter from bugs, rain and the heat of the sun. As the months grow colder, these same spaces can be converted into the perfect space to entertain with protection from cold winds and snow! While we wouldn’t recommend using a seasonal canopy during a blizzard, on a mild winter night, putting out your canopy can add a bit of extra protection and help keep the heat in as you visit outdoors! ShadeTree canopies are easy to remove and store but the supports and tracks can stay up, allowing you to bring out the canopy for special occasions and easily store it back away for the rest of the winter!
ShadeTree Canopies www.shadetreecanopies.com
ALWAYS KEEP GUESTS WARM Probably the top concern when it comes to cold-weather gettogethers is making sure everyone is warm and comfortable. Fortunately, you can accomplish this in style with a rustic firepit, chiminea or patio heater. You can also light candles and provide cozy blankets for some added warmth. DECORATE WITH SEASONAL ITEMS Enhance the theme of a festive winter get-together with country and farmhouse décor, like plaid linens and pillows. You can also create a nature-inspired tablescape with fresh pinecones and evergreen branches. A vintage wooden sled makes for a charming side table to set with drinks and snacks. SERVE COMFORT FOOD AND DRINKS There’s nothing like old favorites to make spirits bright. You’ll never go wrong with a classic hot chocolate and marshmallows or s’mores by the fire. If you’re feeling creative, try French toast fingers dipped in maple syrup. Want to give guests a hearty meal? Make some chili earlier in the day and reheat it, or fire up the grill for some maple-glazed wings and stuffed squash to add some extra warmth.
Lowes www.lowes.ca
Bring the warmth IN STYLE WITH A RUSTIC FIREPIT, CHIMINEA OR PATIO HEATER
Home Hardware www.homehardware.com
EXPERIMENT WITH SOUND Nothing sets a positive atmosphere quite like some good music. Bring people together and create the perfect ambience for an evening with friends or family with ad-free music from SiriusXM. Simply connect the SXM App to your smart speaker and browse through the extensive catalogue of genres and artists to find the right soundtrack for a memorable, merry gathering.
A wooden sled MAKES FOR A CHARMING SIDE TABLE TO SET WITH DRINKS AND SNACKS.
Walmart www.walmart.ca
www.newscanada.com
You’ll never go wrong WITH A CLASSIC HOT CHOCOLATE AND MARSHMALLOWS OR S’MORES BY THE FIRE.
Blue Banana Market www.bluebananamarket.com
2-DAY GUEST BATHROOM Adding a new bathroom or powder room doesn’t have to require expensive plumbing – there is, in fact, an easy, affordable way to go about installing a bathroom. Saniflo SFA is an innovative, inexpensive and painless method to make installing a full or half bathroom as easy as pie. Instead of going through the construction to lay down messy pipework under the floor, and attaching it to the main line – the SFA upflush pump does all the work for you. How? These units are installed behind your toilet; to move your waste upward and away to the main sanitary line that could be more than 150 feet away. No Mess. No hassle. No construction. With Saniflo’s reliable and trusted range of products, adding your dream bathroom can take as little as 2 days! - www.saniflo.ca
Creating a stunning, memorable holiday season does not have to break the bank, even if you are the host! Here are some great ways to plan a holiday celebrating that is not only affordable but also environmentally and economically conscious! NEW DOESN'T MEAN BETTER! You can find stunning furniture, decor and accessories at your local thrift or consignment store to create the look you want, at a lower cost, and a style that is unique and personal to you! SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES that don't rely on "transitional goods." Not only does this help you avoid the current issues with shipping and transportation, but it also keeps money in your own community! LOOK FOR GIFTS THAT ARE SENTIMENTAL rather than trendy. A second-hand Royal Doulton with your grandmother's name, for example. NEED MORE DINNER SPACE? Instead of spending money on a larger dining set or extra china, get creative. Mix and match your current chairs with a set of second hand chairs to provide more seating. Don’t be afraid to mis-match china patterns. You can create a beautiful table setting by blending various sets of china together instead of purchasing all new pieces! www.themillionairesdaughter.com
HOTEL LUXE Create a cozy, comfortable guest bedroom on a budget by mixing second hand store finds with luxurious, hotel quality linens! Selecting secondhand furniture or repurposing pieces you already own will allow you to create a guest bedroom on a budget. Adding new, fresh linens is the perfect touch to create that feeling of hotel luxury for your guests! We love this Solis Sheet Set from Wyndon! - www.wyndon.co
DESIGN FOR ENTERTAINING
Arguably the best part of the holiday season is opportunities to spend time together with family and friends. Now more than ever before, homeowners are looking for ways to turn their homes into places where loved ones can gather and enjoy time together. Basements have become prime real estate, offering space to entertain other or even just yourself! When planning your basement renovation, here are a few things you will want to consider!
THEATER SPACE A home theater is at the top of many wish lists this year! The only thing better than taking in a movie on the big screen, is enjoying the big screen in the privacy of your own home! A home theater provides the perfect spot to binge watch holiday movies, host a game night to cheer on your favorite sports team or get the family together to enjoy a new release! Just add popcorn and drinks and you have the perfect movie date night right in your own basement!
FUN & GAMES What is your favorite part of a night out on the town? Perhaps you like to hit the dance floor with your girls. Maybe a night of billiards or ping pong is more your style. Does an evening at the arcade sound like a blast? Bring your favorites home with you! Plan your space to include these activities with plenty of space for game tables, a dance floor, built in lighting, a great sound system or whatever you need to create the perfect party right at home! SERVE IN STYLE A built-in bar is essential for any basement that is meant for entertaining. A well-planned bar area will provide a surface for serving drinks and snacks, extra seating and a place to store essentials so you aren’t running back up to the kitchen all night long! PLENTY OF SEATING Ensure your basement is ready for anything with a layout and design plan that allows for plenty of seating. This could include armchairs, benches, a sofa or two, bar stools, bean bag chairs, cushions and folding chairs to be used as needed! FLEXIBLITY With a space meant for entertaining, an element of flexibility is also important. Design your space in such a way that you can enjoy an intimate evening for two but also comfortably accommodate a large group for family get togethers! Consider things like dimmable lighting, multi-purpose and moveable furniture, as well as game tables that can double as dining space or fold up out of the way when not in use or a sofa bed for extra sleeping space!
Spaces built by Capable Group Inc. www.capablegroupinc.com
FLEXIBLE PLAY Looking for the perfect gift for a new parent or little one on your list? The Coconut was created by a new mom looking for a stylish option for play furniture that would encourage creativity while still looking great in her small home. Made completely in Canada, The Coconut is made from safe and durable soft foam with a machine washable cover. It looks stylish enough to sit in your living room and offers limitless opportunities for children to explore their imaginations! The Coconut is as must have if you are entertaining family this holiday season. When in sofa position, it provides extra seating for the little ones in the room. While the adults visit, The Coconut becomes a play fort, a spot to nap, an obstacle course to conquer and more. The Coconut can also be turned into a queen size mattress, offering extra sleeping space for guests! www.gococonut.ca PUT SAFETY FIRST When preparing for the holidays, we take time to meticulously plan out every detail from the décor to the menu, but it is important to make sure that safety is part of your plan as well. Here are three things you can add to your holiday prep list to ensure you have a safe holiday season and beyond! Proper Coverage - You may not have enough devices to sufficiently protect your home! According to the National Fire Protection Association, you should have smoke and CO alarms inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of your home including the basement! Test Run - Include testing your devices on your holiday prep list and change batteries on any devices that have not had new batteries in the past six months. Replace - Smoke and CO alarms to have a shelf life! If your device is more than 10 years old, it's time to update to ensure you have the most advanced sensing technologies and the latest safety features available. www.firstalert.ca
Debt 101
Managing the Holidays
Every year people who are in debt struggle with anxiety and stress around the holiday season. Not only are they financially strapped but then November arrives and their social media accounts fill up with pictures of the perfectly curated and decorated holiday home, with the food, table settings, matching family outfits and color coordinated wrapped gifts adding to the sense of hopelessness. But it doesn’t have to be that way. You can still have an amazing holiday and not break the bank. Here are my 5 tips on how to juggle holiday expenses if you’re struggling with debt. 1. Be discerningly honest with your family and close friends about your situation. While it may be embarrassing to share that you can't afford to buy everything you would like to this year, there’s something liberating about sharing your struggles, too. Your understanding family and friends will also appreciate knowing your heart and will be supportive of your goal to get out of debt sooner than later. 2. Keep it simple. Debt shouldn’t keep you from being a gift giver. You do not have to celebrate empty-handed! There’s lots of gifts available that would fit any budget. If you come from a big family give a family gift instead of individual gifts! For example, purchase a gift card for a movie night for under $75 for your brother, sister in law and their 2 kids instead of buying individual gifts for them. Alternatively, you could buy a couple bags of popcorn, chips, candies and chocolates and place it in a gift box with a GC for an Apple TV
movie for a night-in at home for under $40! 3. Give gratitude! Yes, it’s a gift! In a world where pictures are worth 1000 unspoken words, the holidays are a perfect time to reflect on people’s impact and positive contribution in your life. Who doesn’t appreciate receiving a hand-written note filled with intentionally remembered memories and appreciation? 4. Host a combined effort buffet dinner instead of being in charge of the full holiday meal. This will save everyone (not just you) a lot of money, reduce a lot of food waste and everyone can enjoy each other’s cooking at the same time! 5. Practise self-control. Avoid going on social media apps that will distract, tempt or encourage you to be more elaborate in spending money during this season. It’s more harmful than helpful to you. Remember the reason for the season and focus on that instead! For more detailed information on all the debt management options available as well as how to choose the right advocate for you, download my complementary ebook at www.fromdebttolife.ca
Jennifer Croft, Author and Debt Relief Expert
THE OFFICE WISH LIST Whether you're shopping for the busy professional, small home business entrepreneur or college student with many hours of study ahead, items that increase productivity and improve comfort in the office are a great gift idea! We asked the experts at POI Business Interiors to suggest their top gift ideas for the office!
Flexible
WORKSPACE
SOTO LAPTOP STAND Use a laptop as a second screen with an external keyboard and mouse or secure your tablet or mobile phone horizontally. This stand supports rear or side-mounted docking stations.
LEAP TASK CHAIR This chair delivers full support for various body shapes and sizes. it is a perfect fit for anyone on your gift list with an exceptional range of adjustments.
Stylish
SUPPORT
SERIES 1 TASK CHAIR This office chair delivers on what's important - performance, style and choice. It retains everything that's valued in a chair, while making it attainable for everyone. Steelcase Series 1 was thoughtfully designed with integrated LiveBack technology, adaptive bolstering and 4D adjustable arms, delivering dynamic performance you've come to expect from Steelcase.
SOTO WIRELESS CHARGER Use wireless charging technology to power your mobile phone. The cork surface provides a soft landing spot for your phone, and it's angled to provide visibility at all times. Optional cork pedestal adds additional articulation.
SOTO HUB Mount under any existing worksurface! The charging hub features two ports, UBS-C (60W max.) and USB-A (2.4A max.), enabling it to discretely charge two devices at a time, including a USB-Ccompatible laptop, tablet or mobile phone.
www.POI.ca
Simply
CONNECTED
DASH MINI LIGHT The dash LED task light, designed by Steelcase in collaboration with Foster + Partner, uses an optical system to eliminate contrast and shadows, and has dimming control from 15%-100%. Points of articulation provide maximum user control, and it's the first freestanding personal task light to meet BIFMA level 1 certification. - www.POI.ca
ON THE TECHIE SIDE Whether they are at the office, at home or out on their latest adventure, these techie gifts from Mike’s Computer Shop are sure to be a hit! JELLY COMB DUAL-MODE MOUSE Available in White-Gold, this mouse uses 2.4Ghz USB + a Type C dongle with powerful and reliable wireless connection. Widely compatible with Windows 7/8/10/ XP, Vista, Mac OS X 10.10 or later. Supports all USB/Type-C devices, laptop, tablet, desktop, computers, Surface book, Surface pro, MacBook pro, iMac and more. - Learn More! OOMO SOUND Forget everything you know about Bluetooth earphones! These audiophile-preferred earphones feature a patented acoustic structure that separates the sound frequencies to provide clarity and 3D Virtual 5.1 Surround Sound. You will hear every aspect of the output produced, as all the sounds are distributed in distinct channels. Fidelity like you've never heard before. - Learn More! FIZZICS DRAFTPOUR Available in four stunning finishes, Fizzics uses their popular Micro-Foam Technology to convert your favorite cans or bottles of beer into a nitro-style draft. DraftPour runs on either USB or battery power (2 AA) so you can enjoy fresh from the tap taste at home, in the backyard, or easily take it to parties and even tailgating! Learn More! ECOFLOW RIVER 600 MAX (576WH) PORTABLE POWER STATION DOUBLE-UP with a portable solar power generator + Extra Battery that gives you reliable power for outdoor adventures, indoor use, and emergency situations. The RIVER can power up to 10 devices simultaneously. With 3 pure sine wave AC outlets, the RIVER can power devices up to 1800W with the X-Boost mode on. With EcoFlows X-Stream technology, the smart inverter enables a fast rechargeability that takes less than 1 hour to charge from 0% to 80% without the need for a separate power inverter. Learn More!
MOBILE PIXEL Featuring an easy to use design that simply magnetizes to the back of any laptop as the perfect solution for the working professionals, gamers, stock traders, entrepreneurs, developers, and students! Powered through either USB Type-A or USB Type-C, the TRIO is an upgraded plug-and-play solution for a multiple monitor setup while you're on the go. You can opt for a dual-screen to the left or right of your laptop monitor, or clip two TRIOs together for a triple screen viewing experience. The possibilities are endless. - Learn More! DEVOS OUTDOOR PROJECTOR SCREENS Designed to be lightweight and easy to assemble. The ultimate in viewing, Devos outdoor projector screens make it possible for all to enjoy movies, slideshows or presentations in locations from the backyard to the park. Devos Outdoor premium screens offer ultra -sharp image quality and easy set-up. - Learn More! THE NORTHERN GLOW A stunning TKL Keyboard built with quality and design in mind. It features the new high quality DG optical clicky switches and RGB leather wrist rest. It also features double injection keycaps, aluminum backplate and over 55+ RGB options that can be accessed on the keyboard or using Venatos’ software. Learn More!
Find more great gift ideas at: www.mikescomputershop.com
RAZER VIPER ULTIMATE Forget about average and claim the unfair advantage with the Razer Viper Ultimate - a wireless gaming mouse built to win. 25% faster than any other wireless technology available due to its high-speed transmission, lowest click latency, and seamless frequency switching. Its new-and-improved sensor has 99.6% resolution accuracy, which allows for an acute level of precision for game-winning headshots. The switches in this mouse actuate with an industry-leading response time of 0.2 milliseconds, giving you closer control and flawless execution. - www.razer.com
RAZER CHROMA LIGHT STRIP SET The perfect gift for the gamer in your life. Light up your gaming, powered by Razer Chroma RGB for truly customizable lighting. Includes 3 on-device buttons for effect/brightness control. - www.razer.com
CLEARLY GAMER A collection of glasses tailor-made to provide long-lasting comfort, protection, and style to meet the expectations of today’s gamers and act as a true extension of their performance equipment. The collection features 11 different styles including oversized, contemporary thin designs, iconic D-frames, and classic rectangular shapes in bright and understated colors, to suit every gamer’s unique set-up. The new line is the perfect complement to Clearly’s BlueReflect Plus TM technology that facilitates clear and comfortable vision for gamers, accelerating performance and promoting eye health and longevity. - www.clearly.ca
New Year, New You?
While I will still set goals for the new year, there are also 3 simple, positive steps I plan to take moving into the new year! I will make a list of the people who have impacted my life the most in the past year and I will write a short letter of acknowledgement and gratitude to each of those people. I will include myself on that list and write myself a letter, acknowledging all the growth and progress I have made this past year. (And then, I will run a nice hot bubble bath and read the letter back to myself! Because bubble baths make me smile and I deserve it.)
The biggest problem with new year’s resolutions isn’t that we don’t keep them. It’s that they focus primarily on the negative! We spend time picking apart all the things we don’t like about our lives in order to come up with a grand list of big life changes we vow to make in the new year. This year, instead of focusing on everything I haven’t accomplished or all the things I would like to change,
I want to focus on the positive. I want to celebrate the areas where I have grown this year. I want to acknowledge the people who have been a big part of my journey over the past year. I want to focus on the beautiful moments, the special memories and all of the wonderful things that often get overlooked in the frantic rush to create a list of “improvements needed!”
Finally, before setting my goals for 2022, I will make a list of all the things I have accomplished in 2021 and take a few moments to celebrate those successes before I start to plan the next year of this journey! This year, for myself anyway, the new year will be a time of celebration and joy, not a time to beat myself up over things I haven’t done yet. Join Me! - Crystal Williams, Senior Associate Editor
CAREER MOVES New year, new career! Have you been wanting a career change but have been putting it off? There is no reason to keep waiting, Mortgage Brokering might be the perfect fit for you. In just 5 days you can start a career that helps others arrange their finances and get their dream home. Since Mortgage Agents are usually paid a commission by the lender after the mortgage is funded, you have the power to grow your income exponentially. Why wait any longer? There are 3 steps to get licensed in Ontario: 1. PASS THE COURSE – The course can be done in as little as 5 days for as little as $338. 2. GET HIRED – You must join a mortgage brokerage first before you can get licensed. 3. COMPLETE THE FSRA APPLICATION – The FSRA (formerly FSCO) licensed mortgage brokerage applies to FSRA for your mortgage agent license. There’s no better way to start this new year than by starting a new and exciting career. If a new career path is on your resolution list then don’t wait any longer, and become a Mortgage Broker in as little as 5 days! What’s stopping you from reaching your goals? For more information please visit www.remic.ca and if you register, use the code CHT2021 for a $50 discount!
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this issue s TRENDSETTERS
A look inside the work and lives of some of the industry’s most innovative thinkers.
Edward Lowe always knew he wanted to choose a career in Health Sciences where he could help others. Watching his own dentist's passion and love for dentistry is what led Dr. Lowe to choose the dentist career path for himself. He graduated from the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Dentistry in 1986 and went on to establish The Lowe Centre for Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry in Downtown Vancouver in 1989. He has taken numerous courses in cosmetic and implant dentistry, and he likes to stay up to date with his knowledge of materials and applications on the cutting edge by constantly reviewing publications in advanced esthetics and implants.
Dr. Ed Lowe
Dr. Lowe believes in treating everyone like family and with respect. He loves meeting with his patients, and the work he gets to do brings him so much joy. One of his favorite parts of his job is the team he surrounds himself with and getting to teach and coach many colleagues. He believes everyone should feel confident with their smile and wants to help as many people as possible reach that level of self confidence. "Smile makeovers are not something for the novice dentist," Dr. Lowe cautions. "The person doing it must have experience in cosmetic dentistry and be able to use all the possible tools dentistry has to provide to achieve an esthetic and functional outcome in the most conservative way possible."
www.mysmilemakeover.com
Michele Cummins Paul Mann From actress to first Realtor in the family. The career change came naturally to Michele Cummins with her prior experience working for herself and running a business. Since starting her real estate company in 2003 she has been given the Diamond Award with RE/MAX every year and became a Medallion Member of her board. She is a Certified Luxury Marketing Specialist and a Certified New Home Construction Specialist. Michele loves helping people benefit in every way they can by “unlocking her client’s full real estate potential.” Along with running a successful Real Estate company she also has the only real estate radio show in the Lower Mainland. “When you can buy, and find the right place to buy, you should buy!” Michele advises. “Don’t try to time the market or hold off, you might just miss out on the home of your dreams.” Canadian Home Trends: If you could have lunch with any one person in the world, who would you pick and why? Michele Cummins: Elon Musk. He's inspiring, smart, he takes action, he's a dreamer who believes that dreams can come true if you actually do everything you can to make them happen, and he has a great mindset and outlook in life and that 'can do' attitude. CHT: What is your favorite room in your house? MC: I love all my rooms!! My home was used in a Hallmark movie called "The 27 Hour Day" about a Montana Bed and Breakfast. My bedroom has my soaker tub and a cool balcony with amazing views and my great room has such a cool vibe with logs and a rock wood burning fireplace with items hidden inside. CHT: What is your favorite holiday memory or holiday tradition? MC: Christmas with family and getting our Christmas jammies on Christmas Eve. Waking up early and getting into your stocking!
www.michelecummins.ca
Paul Mann fell in love with the idea of real estate ownership at a young age. He purchased his first home when he was about 20 years old. It was a simple one bedroom, one bathroom condo that he sold for a good profit less than 2 years later, quickly learning that home appreciation was one of the easiest ways to make money! After buying, improving, and selling a few more, Paul finally had enough money to buy 2 homes simultaneously! One for him and one for renting. It was a huge accomplishment for him! This continued for years until he had a few investment properties, had improved the value of multiple homes, and he realized being a real estate professional was his calling. Paul had developed a keen eye for value, sharp negotiating skills and knowledge about how to improve property. He wanted to share his expertise and know-how with others to help them reap the rewards of investing in real estate and enjoy the feelings of pride of homeownership. Canadian Home Trends What inspires you? Paul Mann Every day I wake up and try to be the best version of myself that I can be, see where I can improve, and do better the next day. As I become a better version of myself, I can then be a better husband, father, friend and professional, which then allows me to improve the lives of those around me. It's a win-win! CHT If you could have lunch with any one person in the world, who would you pick and why? PM My amazing wife, and no she didn’t force me to say that! We’ve been together nearly 14 years now and every day gets better. I’ll have lunch with her any chance I get! CHT What is your favorite holiday tradition? PM This year is extra special for our family as my wife and I have just recently welcomed our first baby into this world. We are so excited to create new traditions with our little girl and experience the wonders of the holidays through her eyes. - www.mannestates.com
Tips from the Pros
OUR EXPERTS SHARE SOME OF THEIR BEST ADVICE FOR YOUR HOME AND LIFESTYLE!
Host the perfect foolproof holiday dinner party by following a few, simple rules: DON’T JUST DECORATE THE TREE. Start at the front door with the wreath and carry your theme from the tree to the fireplace and don’t forget to decorate the dining table. SET THE MOOD. Put together a playlist for the festivities. Hint: not every song needs to be a holiday tune. PREP IN ADVANCE. Prepare as much food in advance so you can spend time with your guests, rather than in the kitchen.
Colin Cowie Celebrity Event Designer
SET THE MOOD WITH A SCENT. Spice toasted nuts are always reminiscent of the holidays. Simply roast nuts in a pan with a bit of oil and then dusting with black pepper, cayenne or cumin for a special treat. - Visit www.CanadianHomeTrends.com for more tips from Colin Cowie.
The holidays can be one of the most difficult times of the year to stay active. Here are three easy to follow tips for you to stay on track with your fitness goal during the holiday season. 1. Find creative ways to be active. Bundle up and take a walk with your family to look at the lights or try activities like skating or skiing. Build physical activity into your holiday traditions. 2. Eating well is part of staying fit. Watch your portion sizes and drink plenty of water. Eat something small before you head to that holiday party, so you won’t arrive on an empty stomach.
Paul Taylor Brickhouse Gym
3. Just as you would schedule time for a meeting at work or holiday shopping, when you make time on your calendar for exercise, it’s more likely to happen. Review your week ahead and figure out the most practical times to exercise.
One of the biggest and most important drawbacks to hiring an unlicensed plumber is that an unlicensed individual will not be able to acquire insurance. Water can be unpredictable and damaging if you don’t know what you’re doing. Imagine hiring an unlicensed individual to save a few dollars, only to end up with a flooded home instead of a completed project. It’s not just water damage you have to worry about. Your home could even be set on fire while soldering if the individual doesn’t know what they’re doing. Without proper insurance, the cost to fix the flood or fire will be on the homeowner and their insurance. This is why hiring an individual with proper credentials and liability insurance is so important. If something does goes wrong, both parties are covered.
Jeff Wright, The Great Plumbing Co.
Jennifer Kaiman Pretty Puppy Smiles One of the best ways to keep your dog's mouth healthy is to have regular cleanings just as you do for yourself and your family. Keeping your Furbabies teeth free from plaque and tartar help them to have a longer, healthier and happier life. Pretty Puppy Smiles is anesthesia free. We all know the dangers of anesthesia and would not regularly use it on ourselves or our families. My passion and love for dogs is the difference at Pretty Puppy Smiles. You can rest easy knowing that the only person working with your dog is the owner who is highly trained and certified.
Zain Peerani Kevin Breitner Peerani’s Flooring CRESI When flooring, it’s important If thereselecting is one piece of design advice I challenge you to find an to look beyond appearance and price that I would swear by, it is(other this. than investment opportunity only! You need to do research and Real Estate) that will allow to purALWAYS buy quality! It isyou much take into account unique details of better to have lessthe something that’s chase it with only aof 20% down your project including structure, great thanand a lot of aastuff payment have thirdthat’s partynot payso off finishes, how it80% will hold up in different great. This is especially important for the remaining for you, while the environments, flow andflooring, your long itemstraffic like finishes, assetterm continues to appreciate. I can’t lifestyle. Thelarge cheapest options are appliances, furniture items and think of one. As we all know, Investing not theMATH, best, the most other items the that will bebut costly is allalways about and theto returns expensive option may not be thehold replace down the line if they don’t with a rental property heavily outweigh best“bad for stories” your home up. the you either. hear. Again, to keep it simply about the MATH, The CRESI Team will not only help you find a great rental property, we will also find you a great tenant and manage it all for you, removing all the headache and still leaving the extra income in your pocket.
Frank Silletti Cabinet Refacing To Go Your kitchen has a lot of potential. With the holidays approaching, this is the perfect time to give your space a facelift! You can DIY a kitchen remodel with cabinet refacing or cabinet re-dooring for a fraction of the cost of a professional remodel. With expert know-how and Canadian made cabinets from Cabinet Refacing To Go, your kitchen can look like a brand-new space in time for holiday hosting!
Clyde Bryant Main Street Mortgages
Uptown Windows Looking for a great way to balance stunning view and privacy? UMOTION Zebra shades offer two layers of alternating, striped, light filtering fabric can be aligned to create an impressive attenuated view, staggered to create privacy, placed at any location in the window or raised out of the way for a fully exposed window.
Michal J. Cerny Ambassador Fine Homes The streamlined process of custom designing your home with the actual builder saves both time and money. The design process simultaneously considers how the build process will take place, eliminating architectural changes due to structural requirements.
Did you know that Canadians have the ability to hold a mortgage on a piece of real estate inside a registered account, such as an RRSP or a TFSA? Your money is used to fund a mortgage on a selected piece of real estate (Residential or Commercial) that offers real, physical security for your investment while generating net returns of 7 to 10% per year for your portfolio. As your mortgage broker, we can help you get set up and grow your wealth!
HANDLING HOLIDAY
stress
TEXT | Kristina Virro, www.fresh-insight.ca
Musicians might tell us Christmas is “the most wonderful time of the year,” but this isn't the case for all of us. Between attending 295732987535 parties and having to see relatives you pretend to not share genetics with, it can be one heck of a stressful time. Registered Psychotherapist, Kristina Virro, shares three tips to help you survive the holiday season.
1
CHANGE YOUR EXPECTATIONS A lot of stress can come from simply feeling like you “should” be enjoying something you don’t. If the holidays are a hard time for you, accept this rather than trying to fight reality as that will only add to your stress levels.
ANTICIPATE OBSTACLES AND STRATEGIZE ABOUT HOW YOU’LL HANDLE THEM I'm certain that you’d be able to predict potential stressors in vivid detail before the actual event. This is a skill you can use to your advantage! Write down all the things you suspect might happen and add how you’ll handle yourself. It might be something as simple as saying a mantra to yourself or taking a “bathroom break” for a timeout. Go in prepared.
2 3
SET BOUNDARIES You may feel obligated to go to certain events, but remember that there’s always wiggle room for your needs, too. You can leave at a certain time so you don’t stay any longer than necessary. You may sit on the opposite end of the table from someone you don’t like so you don’t have to engage with them as much. Or, you might bring a light-hearted board game so people aren't stuck conversing about controversial topics. Be creative and own up to what you’re willing and not willing to do throughout the night to make things easier on yourself.
Crafty Christmas
Project Ideas
CRICUT MAKER 3 Unleash your creativity with the power, versatility and speed of Cricut Maker 3, the ultimate smart cutting machine. Now smarter and faster than ever, Cricut Maker 3 has the power to cut 300+ materials – everything from the most delicate fabric and paper to heavy chipboard, tooled leather, balsa wood, and more. With speeds up to 2X faster than the previous generation, Cricut Maker 3 is compatible with all-new Smart Materials for super-long, super precise cuts up to 12 ft (3.6 m) without a mat. Choose from 13 tools to cut, score, write, deboss, engrave, or add myriad other decorative effects with pro-level power and precision. - www.cricut.com
EASY EARTH FRIENDLY WRAPPING
FUROSHIKI WRAPPING CLOTH So SUPER useful and handy and GREEEN you definitely need more than one! Luckily there’s more than one cute pattern to collect!!
Check out these helpful HOW TO for more easy and fun ideas!
Family Fun TREEMENDOUS ORNAMENT DECORATOR Your family can customize colorful keepsake ornaments while starting a new tradition. Perfect gift giving for grandparents, teachers, family and friends. 8 colorful non toxic markers and 3 ornaments are included. Additional ornaments sold separately. www.eggmazing.com
Light and compact, 25” square of gorgeous soft cotton, handprinted by fair trade artisans in eco-friendly dyes. Furoshiki reusable gift wrap also folds down to the size of a quarter so you can always have one with you! We are obsessed, and we think you will be too! www.kateaustindesigns.ca
Try This
Project Idea
Bring Memories Back to Life!
To create this stunning Advent Calendar display on the Marc & Mandy Show, we took an inexpensive hula hoop and spray painted it gold. We then decorated the hoop with a pine and greenery swag. Using our Cricut Maker 3, we designed and cut the ornament number labels from Smart Vinyl. We attached a label to each mini brown paper bag, placed small treats in each bag and strung them from the hoop at varying heights using twine. www.marcandmandy.com
VIVID-PIX Give the gift of restored memories with software that fixes old photos. Vivid-Pix RESTORE’s patented AI powered software fixes virtually any image in just one click, automatically improving old, faded photos, slides, and documents, as well as new digital photos and documents to bring back images you thought were long gone. Right now, take advantage of the Holiday BOGO event. Buy Vivid-Pix for yourself and get one to give as a gift.– www.vivid-pix/com/bogo-restore
Gift in a Jar Simplified Mandy is giving the gift of cookie jars this year! We filled beautiful mason jars with all the dry ingredients for Mandy's favorite cookies and cut labels for the jars on our Cricut Maker 3. Using Smart Vinyl, we were able to cut all the labels in one continuous cut which saved plenty of time as well! For the gift tags, we used the Cricut Black Marker to print the instructions on heavy card stock and then used the cutting blade to cut each set of instructions into a separate label with a small snowflake detail for an extra touch. Being able to do both steps with one machine made the process quick and simple with professional looking results! - www.marcandmandy.com
SAVVY SUBSCRIPTIONS
Subscription boxes are a great way to give a personalized gift that keeps giving! There are literally subscription boxes for nearly every interest. Here are two that we love: TRAVELISTA BOX A quarterly subscription for the travelling lady. Bringing a new destination or travel theme to your door, every season. Travelista Box is curated by travel industry professionals, giving you the experience of travel, and worldwide destinations at home. Each box supports small/local/handmade when possible, and has an array of items such as; home decor, jewellery, stationery/books, food/ beverage, drinkware, clothing, accessories and general travel items. Each box has a minimum of $150+ value, and a professionally curated destination guide. - www.travelistabox.com CLEVER CANINE BOX Are you tired of searching out toys and treats that your dog will love and keep their minds challenged? Do you need help keeping your pup occupied while you are busy? Treat your dog (and yourself) to a monthly subscription to the Clever Canine Box. Each curated box gives you a variety of food dispensing and fun toys that you can use over and over again. The treats that you will receive in your box are chosen to work with each month’s toys. www.petsubscriptionboxes.ca
STYLE on the go THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, GIVE THE GIFT OF STYLE WITH THESE FANTASTIC GIFT IDEAS FOR THE PERSON WHO IS ALWAYS ON THE GO!
Work and Beyond 18L PLEATED BACKPACK X The essential everyday pack, designed to keep everything you would need to go from home to work to gym. Removable sweat gear bag to keep post workout clothes separated. Internal laptop sleeve holds a 15" laptop that allows for quick and easy access. www.forwardwithdesign.com
Essentials
PLUM PROTEIN SHAKER Enjoy clump-free smoothies from now on with the FWD protein shaker bottle. Designed with an ergonomic handle for easy carrying and a leak-proof snap seal lid that provides ease of mind while you’re on the move. A stainless steel double-wall vacuum design keeps liquids cold for 18 hours and hot for 8 hours. This protein shaker includes a spiral silicone mixer ball designed to minimize noise while powering through your protein powder so clumps and buildup are a thing of the past! NOURISHING BODY LOTION A blend of natural, nutrient rich fruit and plant extracts, avocado oil (which provides Vitamin E) and jojoba (provides Vitamin E and B-Complex) to leave the skin feeling smooth and hydrated. HIP PACK Designed for day excursions where you only need the small necessities. Back zipper pocket protects valuables from being accessed. Internal compartments help to organize small items. Removable shoulder straps allow you to change up the colors based on your style and mood. www.forwardwithdesign.com
Flexibility
FRAME TOTE 2.0 Organize your belongings with maximum efficiency with this ultra-convenient, wireframed bag that stays open as you pack your water bottle, laptop, sunglasses, gym clothes, shoes and the rest of your daily essentials. Added internal separated compartment means you can store any sweaty gym gear from the rest of the contents!
EWOOL® PRO+ HEATED VEST Designed to be the perfect mid-layer with a thin, stretch-fit, the vest hugs your body, creating a snug fit for layering under jackets or sweaters to wrap the upper body with warmth. The ewool PRO+ vest is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts – those who enjoy snowmobiling, backpacking, hiking, hunting, golfing, fishing and board sports – as well as outdoor workers such as security guards, construction workers and police officers. It also comes in handy when walking the dog, working in a cold office or having an outdoor meal. Comes with one battery. The ewool PRO+ Heated Vest comes in all shapes and sizes for all bodies ranging from XS to 3XL. - www.ewool.com CLEARLY Clearly Basics is the brand’s in-house collection, with frames starting as low as $9. Stylish and affordable, this collection features a variety of looks including plastic and metal frames, round and rectangular shapes, and bright and neutral colors. You can even try on the glasses virtually on Clearly’s website. Clearly Junior is the brand’s in-house collection tailored specifically for children. The range is available in a variety of fun colors and styles to suit every kid’s personal preference. October marked the 1-year anniversary of Clearly’s ‘Free Glasses for Kids’ program. Clearly wants to equip kids with the necessary tools to live up to — and see — their full potential. They’re able to do so in-store, with the Free Glasses for Kids program, as part of Clearly’s wider mission to eliminate poor vision. - www.clearly.ca
FIND YOUR
Holiday Style
Modern Luxe Modern style in classic black and white gets a luxurious update with stunning pumps and accessories in black and gold!
Try This Carrera 2013T, Hudson Bay Optical, www.hudsonbayoptical.com
Outfit, Shoes, Winners, www.winners.ca; Jewelry, Made You Look, www.madeyoulook.ca
STYLE TIP: Opt for lenses with an anti-glare coating! This will reduce glare when driving home from holiday gatherings but also help to reduce that irritating eyeglasses glare in holiday photos!
Boho Chic Embrace your boho side with soft, glowing styles, strappy heels and lacey drop earrings for a look that is sure to steal the show at any Holiday event!
Try This
Kübik ONE KK8019, Hudson Bay Optical, www.hudsonbayoptical.com
Dress, VisibleArt, www.etsy.com Jewelry, Made You Look, www.madeyoulook.ca Shoes, Modesens, www.modesens.com
STYLE TIP: Do you avoid colorful frames because they don’t go with everything? Having options in a variety of colors and styles allows you to coordinate your eyewear to your outfit for a pulled together look!
Cozy Classic Breeze through the holidays in classic, cozy style with a holiday top and a cozy cardigan. Complete your look with classic, Canadian-made jewelry!
Try This
Kübik ONE KK8018, Hudson Bay Optical, www.hudsonbayoptical.com HOLIDAY TIP: Are holiday movie marathons part of your holiday plan? Opt for a blue light filtering lens. There are lenses made from a blue light blocking material that can provide 95%+ protection. Enjoy your movies while protecting your eyes!
Outfit, Boots, Maurices, www.maurices.com Jewelry, Made You Look, www.madeyoulook.ca
Holiday Fun Prefer to keep things light and casual? Pair a fun holiday top with whimsical accessories and cozy footwear for a comfortable, light hearted style.
Try This TOMMY HILFIGER TH1635, Hudson Bay Optical, www.hudsonbayoptical.com
Outfit, Old Navy, oldnavy.gapcanada.com Jewelry, Made You Look, www.madeyoulook.ca Boots, Cougar, www.cougarshoes.com
STYLE TIP: Love outdoor winter fun? Protecting your skin and eyes is just as important in winter! Opt for transitions lenses that adapt to changing light conditions and provide 100% UV protection!
Romantic Elegance Spark holiday romance in a classic, Canadian-made little black dress, sparkling romance themed accessories and chic handbag.
Try This Kate Spade IZABEL, Hudson Bay Optical, www.hudsonbayoptical.com
STYLE TIP: High Index lenses work really well to minimize the thickness of your lenses and they are much lighter. This is a great option for keeping your look light and comfortable while you're on the go!
Dress, ProsandConsClothing, www.etsy.com; Jewelry, Made You Look, www.madeyoulook.ca; Shoes, Marshalls, www.marshalls.com; Bag, Michael Kors, www.michaelkors.ca
MOMMY + ME Add holiday flair to your nights with matching Mommy + Me PJs! With a wide variety of styles and sizes available, you can find the perfect pair for you and your little mini me! Dad can get in the action too with styles available for men as well! www.hatley.com
GOLDrush
Yellow Gold
WHAT DOES YOUR FAVORITE GOLD SAY ABOUT YOU?
Featuring pieces from the Glacier Fire collection! No matter what your jewelry style, Glacier Fire offers stunning options featuring the highest quality diamonds mined, cut and polished right here in Canada! www.charmdiamondcentres.com
White Gold
You have a laid back, minimalistic personality. You love versatility and you choose pieces with a modern feel that work well with any outfit so that you can wear them often.
You love tradition and are drawn towards timeless classics. You enjoy mixing new with old, bringing new life to classic luxuries. You're not afraid to embrace change, but you hold the traditions of the past in high regard.
Rose Gold
You are a romantic at heart. You embrace love and you look for the beauty around you, from your relationships to your home décor and everything in between. You surround yourself with people and things that make you feel loved.
In The Mix CAPTURED MEMORIES Looking for a gift idea with a story? We love these diamond pendants from the Glacier Fire collection! Each one shares a piece of Canada, from the Northern Lights to Niagara Falls, the lighthouses on the East Coast to the Rocky Mountains and more! Find a piece that shares your favorite Canadian destination or brings back memories of cherished holidays spent together, for a truly Canadian, truly meaningful gift! www.charmdiamondcentres.com
Prefer to mix and match? You don't like to think inside the box. You love to mix it up, embracing a variety of styles and colors in your wardrobe and your home. You love things that are unique and prefer to stand out rather than blend in!
LIP BALM Formulated with cacao butter and now available in new mint and berry flavors, this lip balm is sure to be your go-to lip product for the ultimate hydration. - www.flexitol.ca HEEL BALM Formulated with enhanced exfoliating and nourishing properties to hydrate and refresh dry, cracked heels and feet. - www.flexitol.ca RAPID RELIEF HAND BALM A fast acting and non-greasy formula to soothe itchy, irritated skin while protecting hands from the damaging agents that can cause excessive moisture loss. - www.flexitol.ca SENSITIVE SKIN LOTION Formulated with 100% naturally derived ingredients to increase skin hydration in 14 days and safe for sensitive skin. - www.flexitol.ca DR TEAL'S GIFT SETS Transforms an ordinary bath into a moment to unwind from the day by combining Pure Epsom Salt (Magnesium Sulphate U.S.P) and beneficial essential oils to soothe the senses, relax tense muscles and provide relief from stress. Choose from eucalyptus to help relax and create a sense of harmony of body and mind or lavender to help soothe and relax for a deeper sleep. Each set includes Epsom Salt Soak, Foaming Bath, Body Wash, Body Oil and Body Lotion. - www.drteals.com ROSE DEEP HYDRATION FACE CREAM Formulated with damask rose extract and hyaluronic acid to deliver 72-hour hydration and a perfect, dewy glow. www.fresh.com JR WATKINS LAVENDER HAND SET Gift this set with plant-based gentle hand soap and shea butter hand cream in a lovely lavender scent. - www.jrwatkins.com GLYCOLIC RENEWAL SMOOTHING LOTION Lightweight skin rejuvenation for the whole body. This 10% Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) lotion combines Glycolic and Citric Acids for powerful antiaging action. Glycolic Acid is scientifically proven to target skin’s natural filler, plumping and volumizing the appearance of skin, so that wrinkles appear smoother. Specially formulated to provide a potent and precise delivery of Glycolic Acid while maintaining an optimal pH of this high-strength formulation. - www.neostrata.com OPTIMAL HYDRATION REPLENISHING BODY LOTION Cetaphil Optimal Hydration Replenishing Body Lotion is a lightweight formula with 48-hour hydration that replenishes and protects the skin’s moisture barrier. Formulated with soothing botanical blue daisy, sunflower seed oil, niacinamide, vitamin B5 and antioxidant
GIFTS THAT PAMPER
rich vitamin E to rehydrate the skin. It contains HydroSensitiv Complex to keep the skin hydrated for 3X longer. Clinically proven to visibly improve dry skin in just 2 weeks. Suitable for sensitive skin. - www.cetaphil.ca OPTIMAL HYDRATION DAILY GLOW CREAM Cetaphil Optimal Hydration Daily Glow Cream is a lightweight skin boosting cream that improves the skin’s radiance with 48 hr hydration. After one week skin’s appearance is more smooth, firm, even and supple- revealing a natural glow. Formulated with soothing botanical blue daisy, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin B5 and antioxidant rich vitamin E to rehydrate the skin. It contains HydroSensitiv™ Complex, to keep the skin hydrated for 3x longer. Suitable for sensitive skin. - www.cetaphil.ca HOLY HYDRATION! FACE CREAM For a powerful boost of hydration to the face and luminous skin, indulge in this fragrance-free moisturizing face cream. It’s packed with skin-loving ingredients that even out skin tone and replenish lost moisture for a firmed-up, bouncy complexion. - www.elfcosmetics.com HOLY HYDRATION! MAKEUP MELTING CLEANSING BALM A solid cleansing balm that melts into a luxurious oil and turns into a nourishing milk texture that rinses off clean. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides leaving your skin feeling silky smooth and plumped with hydration. www.elfcosmetics.com HOLY HYDRATION! DAILY CLEANSER This hydrating cleanser contains skin-loving ingredients hyaluronic acid and ceramides, leaving skin feeling moisturized, clean and healthy-looking. - www.elfcosmetics.com HOLY HYDRATION! EYE CREAM Hydrates the eye area and helps minimize dark circles leaving your eyes looking refreshed. Ideal for wearing under makeup to lock in moisture. - www.elfcosmetics.com HOLY HYDRATION! HYDRO-GEL MOISTURISER This gel-based formula is infused with Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, and Peptides to hydrate skin to the fullest while supporting a bouncy, healthy-looking complexion. - www.elfcosmetics.com HOLY HYDRATION! SLEEPING MASK Treat your skin to a good night’s sleep and wake up with a refreshed, hydrated complexion. This rich, creamy mask is your skin’s “reset button,” delivering an extra boost of moisture plus Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, and Peptides to replenish, plump, and nourish the skin. www.elfcosmetics.com
VinoSpa is like no other brand on the market with science discovered naturally and not in a lab. The signature ingredient, The Pinot Noir Noble Grape, and its red wine contain naturally occurring resveratrol and polyphenols that deliver powerful healing, age-defying antioxidants to your skin. HAIR & BODY WASH BAR Use as a refreshing cleanse in the AM or to kick back in the evening embracing the scents whilst you lather your body and hair. FACIAL CLEANSE A natural creme soap that can be used every day as a wonderful skin cleanser to remove pollutants and bacteria. TONE This Champagne facial toner is anti-fungal, antiseptic and treats acne. It has been successful in treating dermatitis and eczema, and fades blemishes while healing skin inflammation. Promotes glowing skin, while removing dirt and grime, excess dead skin cells, and excess sebum and germs stuck in pores. MOISTURE VinoSpa Moisture nourishes the skin, energizes and stimulates circulation. Rich in fats for excellent emollient and moisturizing. NOBLE SPA A salt scrub rich with nutrients found in grape skins, rose hips, bull kelp and calendula. BODY SCRUB Enjoy this invigorating cleanse and salt exfoliation as it reveals fresh new skin. BUTTER VinoSpa Butter melts as your skin drinks in the moisture and nutrients. Skin is left supple, quenched and rejuvenated. FACIAL FABRIC Remove eye make up with water to prevent harsh chemicals and oils from entering your eyes. Made to last through years of use and luxuriously soft and gentle for your face. MINDFUL CANDLE Made with local Beeswax, Shea Butter, Coconut Oil and Vitamin E, then infused with essential oil blends. EO HEALTHY, EO HAPPY, EO MINDFUL, EO RELAX Breathe in deeply, and allow the aromas of our EO Roller Ball to heal your mind, body and soul with the intensely concentrated aromatherapy oils. The 100% natural formulation with a portable delivery system that allows you to find serenity amid a hectic day. FACIAL MASQUE Indulge your skin. Leaves the skin soothed, hydrated and nourished. Get your sensitive skin glowing. OIL A perfect blend of beautifully light oils that glide through hair and over skin with the relaxing aromas of the west coast. www.myvinospa.com
FAMILY GAME NIGHT FRESHEN UP FAMILY GAME NIGHT WITH THESE FUN FAMILY FAVORITES THAT ARE SURE TO BRING HOURS OF FUN! SEQUENCE - It’s fun, it’s challenging, it’s exciting, it’s SEQUENCE! Play a card from your hand, and place a chip on a corresponding space on the game board. When you have five in a row, it’s a SEQUENCE. Learn to block your opponents or remove their chips, and watch out for the Jacks – they’re wild! With a little strategy and luck, you’ll be a winner. www.goliathgames.com SPLENDOR - Make a name for yourself in the prestigious and lucrative jewelry business of Renaissance Europe in Splendor, the award-winning game of gems! Deceptively simple, Splendor involves quick strategic thinking and intense competition! Deceptively simple, Splendor involves quick strategic thinking and intense competition! - www.asmodee.com RUMMIKUB - The family game of strategy that’s never the same! Be the first player to place all your tiles on the table to win this classic family game. - www.rummikub.com DON’T FORGET THE LITTLE ONES! POP! THE PIG - Pop the Pig® is an international preschool classic that is adored by millions of children. Kids spin the spinner, pop a hamburger into the pig’s mouth and push down on his head. The more they pump, the more his belly grows until . . . pop! - www.goliathgames.com SHARK BITE - Get ready to have a REEL-y good time when you play Shark Bite! Snag the fish and be the winner, but if the shark jumps, you’ll be his dinner! Place the fun and colorful sea creatures into the game unit with a snap, and grab your friends to start playing. Players take turns rolling the die and fishing for the sea creatures using the fishing rods. But watch out – you never know when the shark is going to bite! - www.goliathgames.com
CLASSIC PUZZLES "Disney Treasures From the Vault" is a unique collection that celebrates some of the most beloved Disney characters from the first fifty years of the Walt Disney Company. The Walt Disney Archives Team opened the Disney Vaults to share vintage Disney artwork from the 1930s through the 1970s to serve as the inspiration for this collection. In 2021, a new collectible puzzle will be released each month for Disney fans to collect and puzzle. - www.ravensburger.org
MILK & DARK FAVORITES GIFT BOX Each gift box holds an awesome selection of assorted caramels, creams, soft centres and nuts. Made with sustainable cocoa. www.purdys.com PEPPERMINT BARK Creamy white chocolate with loads of crunchy candy cane bits, drizzled with dark chocolate. Made with sustainable cocoa. - www.purdys.com COCONUT CASHEWS Roasted and glazed with their signature caramel and coconut, this addictive tropical mix is a long-standing fan favorite – and for good reason. These are pretty much the next best thing to snacking on candy in the tropics. www.nutandfudge.com
A CHILD’S
christmas
CROCHET TOYS These crochet toys are handmade in Canada, and are the perfect heirloom piece. A variety of different stuffed animals are available that can be customized in any color. - Trinkets by Chaos, www.etsy.com/ca/shop/ TrinketsbyChaos
LEARN AND GROW MAGICUBE SHAPES - Geomag world magnetic toys has turned toddler magnets into something “magical.” These eco-friendly 94% recycled plastic magnetic building blocks have large mix and match building shapes that click to create imaginary vehicles and characters. www.geomagworld.com
MAGICUBE ANIMALS - Watch your toddler build and identify Animals by using magnetic Geomag Magicubes that are uniquely designed to connect on all sides. A toddler's first construction set that will also teach them to recognize a tiger, dolphin, eagle, monkey, kangaroo, and bear! www.geomagworld.com
GEOMAG SUPERCOLOR - The Supercolor Panels 100% Recycled magnetic kids building line is for kids to discover building with colors! Each colorful magnetic building set includes magnetic sticks/rods, non-magnetic balls, triangles, squares and pentagons. www.geomagworld.com
THE JOYFUL BOOK - Whether it's celebrating a holiday, sharing a meal, or learning new things, The Joyful Book inspires readers of all ages to spread the joy near and far, to loved ones and friends. Todd reminds us to look for all the ways that we can give and receive joy this holiday season. The traditions that make us unique can also bind communities together, and they are a comforting balm, such as: celebrating a holiday, sharing a meal, or learning new things. www.toddparr.com
PIXICADE - Develop selfconfidence, creative thinking, critical thinking and problem solving skills with this mobile game maker! Turn your drawings into playable games in just three steps, share your games online and play games created by your friends as well! www.pixicade.ca
L.O.L. Surprise! Confetti Under Wraps Unbox a re-released doll from the Eye Spy Series in a new confetti package. Find 15 surprises, including a pop of confetti, a mystery disguise, and an L.O.L. Surprise! Doll with a watery surprise. The confetti Pop ball can be put back together and popped again and again. Feed or bathe the doll to reveal a water surprise. - www.lolsurpise.com L.O.L. SURPRISE! PRESENT SURPRISE Unbox 8 surprises and the perfect gift or glittery party favor for any occasion with L.O.L. Surprise! Present Surprise. Each Series 3 doll features all-new, fierce dolls with outrageous accessories in a new theme. Each doll's look is inspired by an activity specific to their month. Will you find your birthday month? Each unique gift bag package comes already wrapped with a bow on top. Perfect for a present or a glittery party favor. - www.lolsurprise.com SNAPSIES GEMS In time for the holidays, Snapsies™ GEMS features dazzling new seasonalthemed characters like Ivy Shimmer, Sugarplum Sparkle, Snowflake Glitz and more. Available in mix and match sets of 2, 3 and 5. www.funko.com BIG HORSE SHOW WITH DRESSING TENT Sarah and Tori are cleaning their Tennessee walking mare and Lusitano stallion. In the tent, the girls make themselves up in front of their mirrors. Outside, the arena is decorated with plants, bows, vine bunting and flags. It’s showtime! Beneath the spotlights, they lead the horses from the paddock and over the carpet to the jury’s table. What will be on the scoreboards? With over 100 accessories, the set promises hours of play! www.schleich-s.com
COLOR FUSION NAIL POLISH MAKER Create over 200 custom nail polish colors. With three easy steps users can match, make and mix custom colors to customize nails with glossy or shimmer style finishes. Through innovative patent pending technology Color Fusion uses a trio of pigments to create a wide range of nail polish options custom to the user's preferences. Perfected your favorite polish color? Keep your personalized color in one of the brush cap bottles to use again. - www.makeitrealplay.com
LETSGLOW STUDIO The first-ever influencer video creator kit that includes a 16 color LED light and a remote control where you can customize your Tiktok, Instagram and Youtube videos, photos or livestreams. Use the sticker sheets to cut out custom shapes to stick to these Shutter Shades to glow them up with style! Choose from wide or thin material to cut and clip into hair, make bracelets, necklaces, or even use the reflective tape to wrap designs around your arms and legs! Place the 16 color LetsGlow LED Clip on any smartphone, tablet or laptop next to the device’s camera. Control the lightshow using the LetsGlow Remote to light up your LetsGlow Reflective Accessories and Apparel! - www.letsglowhg.com
POLLY POCKET RAINBOW FUNLAND THEME PARK PLAYSET An amazing playset experience that features 3 rides, 7 play areas, micro Polly™ and Shani™ dolls, 2 unicorns and 25 surprises (30 total play pieces). Start the fun by riding the roller coaster, the unicorn carousel and the Ferris wheel (which dispenses surprises by turning the yellow star knob and is reloadable). The 7 castle play areas include three turrets, a throne room, gift shop, game room and food court. Further explore the three castle turrets that include a bathroom, extra play space and a secret surprise--kids use a key to unlock a turret area to find the golden unicorn! - www.mattel.com
GLA’MORE Gla’more is the newest doll line where each doll has a true passion for fashion! With a dress that transforms into the ultimate gla’morous closet, you can style your doll’s hair and accessorize her any way you’d like. Show off her look in her very own fashion show, complete with a light-up runway. With 13 trendy clothing and accessory pieces for each doll, you can mix and match their fashions for endless couture-looks! Gla’more, what’s your fashion passion? - glamoredolls.funrise.com
BRIGHT FAIRY FRIENDS SERIES 3 Unbox your new BFF to unveil which magical fairy doll you get, along with multiple surprise fairy accessories! Each fairy comes housed in its very own fairy home with bright, motion-activated twinkle lights. You can also use your fairy home as a night light. Press your fairy’s necklace to make her wings glow with radiating, multi-colored lights. Collect all fairy dolls from Series 1, 2 and 3, and enjoy swapping out their fashions and accessories. Shine on! - brightfairyfriends.funrise.com
PETS ALIVE POPPY THE BOOTY SHAKIN' PUG Poppy's hilarious booty shaking, head- turning and 360 body spins, combined with cute flapping tongue and realistic Pug features, promises to get the entire family - including the dogs - dancing and laughing for hours! Poppy the Booty Shakin' Pug dances to three popping songs and sports an adorable dog collar. Available at Target and Amazon! BRUSHALOT TOOTHFAIRY KIT - This award winning kit, founded in Toronto, helps encourage healthy dental routines to last a lifetime by motivating kids to want to brush their teeth and practice good oral hygiene! Make bedtime fun with an engaging storybook
and color-changing nightlite and celebrate those "lost tooth" milestones in a new and exciting way. www.brushalot.com LITTLE LIVE PETS SCRUFF-A-LUVS CUTIE CUTS Messy Mutt to Pampered Pet! Unfold the box to create a beauty salon and reveal 10 surprises! Which puppy will you reveal? You'll have to love and nurture them to find out! - www.redpg.plush to collect.
COLOR CHANGING NIGHTLITE - Tommy the Dinosaur and Rylie the Unicorn offer a safe, energy-efficient nightlite with a soft, BPA free silicone exterior and a long lasting LED light. Designed to give a soft glow, your child can change the color of the light simply by tapping it on the head! Designed by Globe Electric, a Canadian designer, manufacturer and supplier of innovative lighting, electrical and smart home automations. www.globe-electric.com THE BEDTIME BOOK - This story follows an array of animals and all of their reasons not to go to bed - punctuated by one hilariously annoyed bird who just wants everyone to go to sleep. The Bedtime Book will make adults and children laugh - and hopefully relax enough to get a good night’s sleep. www.toddparr.com
WOWmazing WINTER EDITION Here’s a perfect way to turn an ordinary winter day into a Winter Bubbles Party! It’s just what you need to begin creating WOWmazing bubbles immediately – including 8 very cold-activated magical stickers. First, you’ll transform the all-white wands into one-of-a-kind magic wands, as you place the waterproof stickers. Let your creativity go wild and place the cold-activated winter waterproof stickers on the bubble wands in any design you want. As you go outside at 50°F or below, the winter - theme stickers will activate, making jumbo size bubbles out of this world!! - www.southbeachbubbles.com
X-SHOT ROYALE EDITION - OMEGA DART BLASTER The ultimate Chrome Gold Blaster every true thrill seeker has been waiting for! Players can annihilate their opponents with the single-shot function from up to 90ft/27m away! When the heat of battle intensifies, unleash the awesome 30-dart belt with Slam-Fire and take out the enemy with an inferno of flying darts! x-shot.zuru.com X-SHOT CRUSHER The first X-SHOT blaster touting a 35-dart capacity belt! Featuring load handle pump-action, a rotating 35-dart barrel, a 90-foot range and two different styles of blasting - single shot or slam-fire modus which enables up to four darts per second. - x-shot.zuru.com X-SHOT EXCEL ROYALE EDITION - REFLEX 6 Dart Blaster for blasting without hesitation, load your blaster with 6 darts. Enjoy the autorotating barrel that can fire all within 10 seconds. Speed and frequency make this blaster unstoppable! Prime, lock 'n' load before firing your foam darts over 90ft/27m! x-shot.zuru.com X-SHOT EXCEL ROYALE EDITION - HAWK EYE DART BLASTER Exercise your precision vision! With its detachable targeting scope and pump-action loading mechanism, X-Shot Hawk Eye takes blasters to the next level! Load up your additional storage with 4 darts and use the tactical grip handle to ensure that the rapid dart fire hits any moving target! - x-shot.zuru.com
Funko POP! Moment Wall-E: Wall-E and Eve Commemorate this sweet scene and complete your Wall-E collection with the Pop! Moment of Wall-E and Eve. They may not be able to clean up after you, but they are sure to make you smile when you see them. - www.funko.com FUNKO POP! Whether it be your kids, your friend who loves Star Wars or a sitcom loving family member, Funko POP! has you covered with figurines for every interest. - www.funko.com
THOMAS & FRIENDS RACE & CHASE R/C Little engineers can zoom, race and chase all over Sodor and beyond with the Thomas & Friends™ Race & Chase™ R/C from Fisher-Price®. The large, remote-controlled Thomas and Percy train engines are linked together with a steam cloud carrying handle and feature realistic train sounds and character phrases from the show! www.fisher-price.com HUGGIES DIAPERS & WIPES Huggies believes in the power of hugs and knows that your baby is the most special delivery. Inspired by the perfect care you provide for your baby, we created our own special delivery. Huggies Special Delivery is the softest diaper with plant-based materials, trusted protection and a 100% breathable outer cover. Huggies Special Delivery wipes are soft and gentle to help keep baby’s skin clean and healthy. Both Huggies Special Delivery Diapers & Wipes are fragrance free with no harsh ingredients to help comfort your baby. - www.nobabyunhugged.com
ROBOT BATTLE & DINO ATTACK SUPERHERO SURPRISE A complete unboxing experience, allowing kids to bring the included comic book & the story to life! Each features over 20 surprises including mask and cape, Super Hero Vlad and Niki figurines, Baby Christian figurine, a dinosaur or robot figurine, two die-cast cars, slime egg, light up skateboard, wrist snap-band, stickers, tattoo and much more. Vlad and Niki is among one of the largest YouTube channels in the world; it is the #1 Boys Show and #2 Family Show on YouTube with more than 181+ million subscribers worldwide, 69+ million subscribers to their English Channel and 99+ billion views, while averaging five billion monthly views on 21 channels and translated into 18 languages. www.vladandniki.com
BRIO FIREFIGHTER SET An 18-piece firefighter themed wooden train set is full of firefighting role play action. Jump on board the Fire Rescue Truck with batteryoperated siren and lights to quickly get to the scene. Then use the powerful water hose on the back of the Fire Rescue Train to extinguish the fire and save the day. The Firefighter Set is fully compatible with other BRIO World sets, tracks and trains. www.brio.net
CROSSED SIGNALS A fast-paced, light and sound matching game. Offering the ultimate physical-and-electronic play experience that challenges you to a frenzied game of trying to match light and voice commands using the joysticks before the timer runs out. Players can test their speed and accuracy by moving the joysticks to match the product’s light and voice commands before the timer runs out. With four different gameplay variations, you can master your skills in a solo round, or challenge friends to a game utilizing the built-in multiplayer mode and digital scorekeeping. - www.mattel.com
CAT POWER HAULERS - These vehicles feature Motion Drive Technology allowing for fun and intuitive play that brings the action to life! With Motion Drive Technology, push the vehicle forward to make the engine rev and activate the lights; push the vehicle backward to hear back-up sounds; move the bucket or dump bed to hear hydraulic sounds and flash the lights. The features activated by the child’s interaction with the vehicle create an engaging and realistic Cat experience every time they play. www.cattoysofficial.com FIX-IT PHILLIP - The chunky, preschool-friendly Fix-It Phillip is a large 12” vehicle filled with personality and designed to make learning fun and easy for young ones! Driving to the job site will animate Phillip’s face and bring a smile to your little ones. Transform the vehicle into an immersive teaching tool bench packed with fun with a push of the helmet. www.cattoysofficial.com HOT WHEELS ACTION MASSIVE LOOP MAYHEM This epic track includes a huge 28-inch wide loop that's designed for multi-car play - vehicles whip around the loop and avoid nail-biting near-misses with each other! Kids send the first car into action using the slam launcher, then add more and more cars until there's the inevitable crash (additional cars sold separately). The challenge lies in how many cars can run at once - it's a trick of timing and skill. hotwheels.mattel.com