THE MAGAZINE
EDITORIAL
EMBRACING THE HOLIDAYS: A TIME FOR HOPE AND CONNECTION
EDITOR
South Shore Furniture
@MeublesSouthShore
@southshorefurniture
@southshorefurniture
For as long as I can remember, end-of-year celebrations have always been founding moments in my life. This festive period marks the end of a year, of a cycle. Although it’s tinged with a certain nostalgia to see another year come to an end, it’s also cloaked in a veil of magic and hope for the future. For a moment, we can put aside the day-to-day grind to make way for wonder.
It goes without saying that celebrating Christmas and New Year’s Day is synonymous with family gatherings, socializing and good food! It’s a golden opportunity to set the tone for a new year filled with healthy resolutions, but also with surprises! I’ve always found this to be the best time to announce big news. My wife Sylvie can attest to that! One Christmas, I took the opportunity to ask her to marry me. The next, we subtly hung a little bootie on the Christmas tree to signal the arrival of our first baby. You can imagine the looks of surprise and delight on the faces of our guests when they noticed it!
For little ones, the months of December and January are associated with vacations, anticipation, freedom from routine and, of course, presents! As parents, we can’t fail to be thrilled when we experience the holiday season again through our children’s eyes. Seeing them in awe of the illuminated houses, Santa Claus and the decorations is priceless.
I was lucky enough to experience it not once, but four times. I feel privileged to have been able to offer them magical Christmases throughout their childhood, but I’m aware that not everyone is so fortunate. My daughter Claudia took over the South Shore Furniture Foundation a few years ago. In the next few pages, she’ll tell you more about this organization’s mission and how it helps vulnerable young people and their families during the holiday season.
Together, Sylvie and I love to create a festive environment that will appeal to our guests’ senses. For us, welcoming family and friends is priceless. Our sole objective: to organize a party that will be remembered! In this holiday edition, you’ll discover how to host a beautiful reception in your home. You’ll find furniture with practical features to meet everyone’s needs, as well as eye-catching pieces, because it’s the perfect time for your decor to look its best!
In short, when I imagine what the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025 will look like, two words come to my mind: hope and love. I’d like to take this opportunity to highlight the exceptional work of the entire South Shore Furniture team, who focus on creating furniture for real life, your life. Because enjoying the moment with loved ones is what the holiday season is all about.
Jean Laflamme President & CEO
SPREADING GENEROSITY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
At this festive time of year, the South Shore Furniture Foundation gives hope to families in need. Today we are interviewing their director, Claudia Laflamme, to learn more about the many ways the Foundation supports our community.
CLAUDIA LAFLAMME DIRECTOR
Hi Claudia, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. You have been the director of the South Shore Furniture Foundation for over 7 years now. In one sentence, can you explain the mission of the foundation?
The Foundation’s goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals and families.
In which fields does the foundation make a difference on a daily basis?
We work mainly with families and young people who need it most, in collaboration with other organizations and foundations.
What are the initiatives that have stood out for you over the years? What accomplishments are you most proud of?
There are many! The one that comes to mind first is the implementation of a support and psychological development program with horses in collaboration with the Projets porteurs d’espoir and the CISSS Chaudière-Appalaches.
Then there are all the refugee families that we have furnished, in collaboration with the Quebec Furniture Bank and the valuable volunteer involvement of South Shore Furniture employees.
By working in the community, we meet exceptional people every day who contribute to making the world a better place.
The holiday season is a time that encourages mutual aid, generosity and the sense of community. However, it is also a more vulnerable time for many people, especially families. How do you manage to bring magic to people in need?
In many ways! We are organizing a Christmas day at the Royal Amadeus farm for all the young people
housed by the Chaudière-Appalaches Youth Protection who do not have the chance to go out with their parents during the holiday season. Simons and Chocolats Favoris, our valued partners, are supporting us on this occasion.
We also contribute to the Christmas baskets and their distribution with the food banks in the region.
Plus, each year we gift a room makeover alongside the Furniture Bank and South Shore Furniture.
Why is it important for South Shore Furniture to get involved in its community?
We are a family business. It is therefore only natural for us to look out for each other. A community is like a big family. Overall, we are living in difficult times, which is why it is even more important to get involved. Each of us can make a difference in people’s lives. Sometimes, a kind look can change the outcome of a day. The magic is in the daily moments.
Thank you, Claudia, for introducing us to the South Shore Furniture Foundation through your testimony. Finally, if you could make one wish for the year 2025, what would it be?
Peace and love! I wish that each human can be touched by a little more love and humor, to leave more room for both inner and outer peace.
FESTIVE GLOW
THE 6 DECORATIVE TRENDS THAT WILL BRIGHTEN UP YOUR HOLIDAYS IN 2024
Discover our trendy tips for celebrating in style.
1
Natural green tones
Green evokes both comfort and escape. This color will add vitality to your home in these darker months of the year by its promiscuity with nature. In perfect symbiosis with traditional holiday colors, such as red and gold, it will easily match your current decorations.
2
Nordic feel
Scandinavian design has been on the rise for several years. Originating in Nordic countries, this trend emphasizes simplicity and functionality. Natural materials and neutral color palettes are the focus of this trend.
3
Vintage decor
The holidays are THE perfect time to bring out your slightly tacky decorations, the ones that have a special place in your heart. Proudly display your vintage knick-knacks and accessories, for a unique look which is fully customized to your tastes.
4
Twinkle lights
To captivate your guests, select warm-toned garlands and lights. This will create a cozy and magical atmosphere.
5
Festive aromas
The sweet smell of grandma’s meat pie and of the crackling logs in the fireplace are unique to this time of year. For an even more striking olfactory experience, incorporate aromas of cinnamon, vanilla, citrus and pine wood into the shared spaces using candles and potpourris.
6
Local expertise
Being concerned about the environment and the local economy is trendy! This year, fill your glam bar trolley with local cocktail syrups and spirits to showcase your local specialties.
Stylist tip :
Place the bar cart in a central spot in the room, near a sofa or coffee table, so it can act as a visual focal point.
WELCOMING DECOR:
PREPARE YOUR ENTRANCE FOR CELEBRATIONS
As the sun sets earlier and the mercury drops, the houses gradually light up and give rise to a grandiose spectacle. Get ready to welcome family and friends in style by embellishing your porch with lanterns, decorations, garlands and glittering outdoor furniture.
WE LOVE: ILLUMINATED FURNITURE FOR OUTDOOR INSTALLATION, DURING WINTER!
DISCOVER OUR FLUORESCENT POTS AND SIDE TABLES IN POLYETHYLENE RESIN.
COME IN!
Hosting people requires a functional entrance. Boots, scarves, mittens, coats: your guests and all their little kids will undress in this space. Choose practical furniture made to sit on or to store outwear. The first impression is the most important, be prepared!
NEW WARDROBES TO CREATE THE PERFECT ENTRYWAY
COOK, SHARE & HAVE FUN
The art of setting up a convivial
kitchen for festivities
GATHER WITH FAMILY AROUND THE KITCHEN ISLAND
HOLIDAY SOUP
Cream of carrot, turnip and maple syrup
A RECIPE FROM NANCY ROY ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
INGREDIENTS
1 onion, chopped
1 tbsp. oil
1 leek, chopped (white part only)
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
1 turnip, peeled and cut into pieces
4 cups chicken broth
Pinch of nutmeg
1/4 tsp. cardamom (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
3 tbsp. maple syrup
1/2 cup 15% country-style cream
PREPARATION
In a saucepan, sauté onion in oil.
Add carrots, turnip, leek and chicken broth.
Bring to the boil, then simmer for 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Add nutmeg, cardamom, salt and pepper.
Purée in a blender.
Return soup to saucepan, add maple syrup and cream.
THE BEST STUFFED TURKEY RECIPE
A RECIPE FROM MARIE-PIER PERRON
IT PROJECT MANAGER
INGREDIENTS
Turkey:
One large turkey, fresh or thawed
½ cup softened butter
6 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper
1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce
Moist cheesecloth, same size as turkey breast
Stuffing:
1 lb pork
¼ lb chopped bacon
1 cup cooked and cooled potatoes
1 onion, finely chopped
1 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper
PREPARATION
Preheat oven to 325°F. Place rack at the bottom of the oven.
In a bowl, combine all stuffing ingredients and season with salt and pepper.
Carefully peel the skin from the flesh, without tearing, creating a kind of pocket.
Using your hands spread the applesauce evenly under the skin.
Stuff the inside of the turkey. Tie legs with butcher’s twine.
Brush turkey with butter and cover breast with cheesecloth.
Place in a roasting pan, breast side up, and pour in chicken broth.
Cover with aluminum foil and place in oven.
Cook the turkey for 35 to 40 min per kg, i.e., 4 h to 4 h 30 for a 7 kg turkey.
Sprinkle with pan juices every 30 min. Add broth as needed.
After 3 h 10 of cooking remove the aluminum foil so that the skin becomes golden and crispy.
Check internal temperature is 150°F with a thermometer.
Ready to serve!
COOK YOUR BEST RECIPES ON A DURABLE MELAMINE SURFACE
FAIRY GINGERBREAD COOKIES
INGREDIENTS
Cookies:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp. ground ginger
2 tsp. ground cinnamon
¼ tsp. cloves
¼ tsp. nutmeg
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 cup butter
1 3/4 cups brown sugar
⅓ cup molasses
2 eggs
Buttercream:
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
3 tbsp. softened butter
1 tablespoon milk
PREPARATION
Cookies :
In a medium bowl, combine flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and baking soda.
In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar with a mixer; add molasses and continue beating until smooth. Crack the eggs into the mixture and beat until well incorporated.
Add half the flour mixture to the butter mixture and stir to combine. Add remaining flour mixture and continue mixing.
Roll out dough to about 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface to prevent sticking. Flour roller as well.
Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Using a cookie cutter, cut out round or fir tree shapes and place on parchment paper. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 12 to 13 minutes.
Buttercream:
Mix powdered sugar, butter and milk, beating until creamy.
Spread over cooled cookies.
YOUR HOSTING ESSENTIALS
THE HOME BAR :
A HOLIDAY STAPLE
What type of epicurean are you? Get inspired by these 3 types of bar furniture to create a space at the top of trends that reflects your needs.
THE ORGANIZED ONE
You hate running out of space and prefer versatile furniture that matches your decor year-round? Our bar cabinets and sideboards with wine storage are both spacious and timeless. They will satisfy all your desires!
THE FUNCTIONAL GLAMOUR
You like when everything is in its proper place and have a taste for refined furniture? The Hype sideboard, with its golden legs and handles, will seduce you with its multiple compartments for your glasses and bottles, but also with its elegant surface with a faux marble finish.
THE SEDUCTOR
You enjoy partying and being the center of attention?
The Maliza bar trolley will shine brightly in the room. Display your best bottles on its glass surface and move it around easily.
ORANGE AND ROSEMARY MOCKTAIL
2 SERVINGS
INGREDIENTS
2 cups orange juice
1 cup sparkling water
1/2 cup water
2 tbsp. honey
1 sprig fresh rosemary
Orange slices for garnish
Ice cubes
PREPARATION
Prepare the rosemary syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water with the honey. Add rosemary sprig. Heat over medium heat until honey is dissolved. Remove from heat and leave to infuse for about 10 minutes. Remove the rosemary and allow the syrup to cool.
Pour the orange juice into the cooled rosemary syrup and stir well.
Fill 2 glasses with ice cubes, pour the mixture into both glasses and add the sparkling water. Stir gently.
Garnish with a slice of orange and a sprig of rosemary.
A RECIPE FROM EMILIE OUELLET ARTISTIC COORDINATOR
We love the 2-door metal storage cabinet. Its versatility allows it to fit into any decor!
GET YOUR DINING ROOM READY FOR A SPECIAL OCCASION
YOU ARE ORGANIZING A RECEPTION AT HOME THIS YEAR AND DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START? HERE ARE 4 TIPS FOR CREATING A FESTIVE DINING ROOM.
1
Choose a theme and follow it: Select a theme and color palette that reflects the occasion to be celebrated. Use a tablecloth, centerpiece, and a few matching decorations for a harmonious environment.
2
Count your guests: Count the number of people you expect and make sure you have enough seating to accommodate everyone. If necessary, add benches or stools around the kitchen island.
our
favorite!
WE LOVE: THE ADDITIONAL STORAGE IN THE KITCHEN
3
Prepare a soundtrack: Music is at the heart of any great human interaction. It will contribute to the dynamism, atmosphere and rhythm of the party.
4
Opt for a sideboard for storage: A sideboard is great for storing dishes, cutlery, and other tableware. Use it to display drinks or dishes, while keeping the table clear.
MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME!
Create a friendly living room for the holidays
In your home, you want people to feel at ease, to be free to relax and to enjoy the present moment. To do this, focus on comfort: provide cushions, blankets, poufs and side tables. Make sure everyone has what they need!
PRO TIP : Select multifunctional and modular furniture that will allow you to free up floor space and, thus, maximize the capacity in your living room.
FESTIVE CANAPÉS WITH SMOKED SALMON AND WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE
INGREDIENTS
Topping: 24 crackers
120 g smoked salmon, cut into 24 pieces
15 ml (1 tbsp.) chopped fresh parsley
15 ml (1 tbsp.) chopped fresh chives
Whipped cream cheese:
100 g cream cheese
125 ml 35% cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1/2 lemon zest salt and pepper
PREPARATION
Place cream cheese in microwave for ten seconds to soften. Add cream and whisk together. Add chopped dill and lemon zest. Season and set aside in the fridge.
Spread whipped cream cheese on crackers.
Garnish crackers with smoked salmon, parsley, and fresh chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Living room furniture for all tastes AND budgets!
WE LOVE THE SAFE ROUNDED CORNERS!
2024 GIFT GUIDE
Perfect gift ideas for a wonderful Christmas
FUEL YOUR LITTLE ONES’ BIG DREAMS
GIFT GUIDE FOR KIDS
DO YOURSELF A FAVOR!
BEDROOM GIFT GUIDE
SETTING UP A WINTER BEDROOM
The new bleached oak finish fits perfectly into the cold season. It encourages you to take refuge under the covers, to turn on your bedside lamp and to grab a good book on a freezing winter evening. In 3 simple steps, create a comforting atmosphere in your bedroom.
Dim the lights : Use lamps and accent lighting instead of ceiling lights. Choosing a bulb with a warm rather than cold tone will also help to make the space even warmer.
Mix textures : You spend more than a third of your life sleeping! Don’t skimp on sheets and blankets! Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton and bamboo. In very cold weather, add warmer wool comforters for maximum comfort.
Enjoy a hot drink : Take the time to appreciate the moment by quietly sipping a hot chocolate, tea or coffee under the sheets. There’s no better way to relax and unwind after a long day.
A READING RECOMMENDATION FROM MEGAN, OUR MARKETING COPYWRITER :
C hristian Guay-Poliquin’s The Weight of the Snow depicts a city cut off from the world, without electricity, where Mathias is entrusted with the care of a man injured just before the arrival of winter. Together, they live in a small makeshift cabin, gradually buried by snow. A unique complicity will develop between them, but will they be able to survive until spring?
BY MEGAN DESLONGCHAMPS MARKETING COPYWRITER
CUT-OUT CARDBOARD HOUSES
STEPS
1
Cut out the template of your favorite house.
2
Place the template on the cardboard box and use it as a guide to cut out the shape of the house.
DID YOU KNOW?
3
Using permanent markers, chalk or white paint, use your imagination to decorate the front of your home! Doors, windows, fireplaces and trimmings: there are no limits!
4
To have more fun, punch a hole at the top, thread a string through it and hang the ornament in your Christmas tree!
We saved 20,400 trees by using 100% recycled corrugated cardboard in our packaging.
THE MAGAZINE
The South Shore Furniture family wishes you Happy Holidays! May health, joy and success drive you for the coming year.