UNDER $50

This Silk & Snow Silk Sleep Mask is buttery soft, gentle and made from 100% mulberry silk. I love a sleep mask to block out the light while I’m sleeping, whether it’s Adrian’s phone screen or the bit of light peeking through the curtains when I’m trying to sleep in on the weekends. Get this for those who need to catch some extra z’s.

Florence by Mills just recently released products at Shoppers Drug Mart. Pick up the A Few of My Favorite Things Gift Set for someone just starting out their skincare and makeup journey or make your own bundle with some of my faves! I cannot stop using the Surfing Under The Eyes Hydrating Under Eye Treatment Gel Pads and the Spot A Spot Acne Patches.

These Vesper Cocktails Infusion Kits are a super innovative idea for the aspiring mixologist in your life. Similar to making cold brew coffee, you just fill the jar with the liquor that goes with the recipe, leave it in your fridge for 1-3 days, then strain it and add your favourite juices or sparkling water for 16 servings of a delicious cocktail. There are currently 8 cocktail kits to choose from so you’ll be sure to find something that fits their taste.

I’m often sceptical of tanning products, but this Coco & Eve Antioxidant Face Tanning Micromist is a genius product. The innovative tanning mist technology, combined with skin-loving antioxidants & hydration, gives you a gorgeous sun-kissed tan without the splotchiness. Because it’s a micromist, it creates a beautiful, streak-free glow (something that can often be a deterrent for me).

Easily the softest, slouchiest, stretchiest toque I’ve ever laid my hands on, the Harris Boyfriend Toque from This Is J is perfect for the cold winter months in Canada. It comes in 10 different colours and is made of 100% hypoallergenic acrylic. This is one of the brands whose products have been manufactured in Canada for 20+ years!

Fill your space with incredible the smelling LOHN Everywhere Mists. They are so versatile that this is a no-brainer gift for the 2023 season. Spray a few spritzes throughout your space, on your linens, your clothing, and your body for a scent that lasts several hours. The four scent options are made from vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free ingredients, and the bottle has an easy-to-remove lid so you can use it again and again.

$50-$100

For all the Disney fans (and Marvel fans, and Star Wars fans..), see what it’s like to live on the dark side as you strive to achieve your own devious objectives in the Disney Villainous Board Game. In this epic contest of sinister power, take on the role of one of six Disney Villains in the base game. However, there are so many expansion packs created for this game that the fun is truly endless. Find your winning strategy while thwarting your opponents’ schemes. It’s fun for the entire family!

I’ve been using my Quip Limited Edition Pride Smart Rechargeable Brush for almost two years now, and I’ve received nothing but a bill of good health from the dentist! Its soft-bristle brush head uses timed sonic vibrations to provide you with a fantastic clean, and the replaceable brush heads make for an eco-conscious, 85% reusable brush. With the purchase of this Rainbow Pride brush, Quip is donating $50,000 across three charities serving LGBTQIA+ youth and communities, but there are plenty of other colour ways to choose from.

One of the companies we discovered this year at the One of a Kind Show is Brightfield Candles. The owner was so sweet and incredibly passionate, so we had to grab a handful of delicious-smelling candles. This Holly Jolly Gift Box is chock full of their holiday scents to help you spread the holiday cheer. Brightfield is based in Toronto and donates $1 for every candle sold to charities and grassroots organizations helping support environmental and social change. This one is a feel-good gift all around!

Based in Canada, Tuck is a modern bedding company that is thoughtful, sustainably manufactured, and well-made. Knowing that the textile industry is one of the largest polluters in the world, they created products that do the planet and its people a little better. The Classic Pillow Case is woven from a blend of organic cotton and TENCEL™, and each set includes two pillowcases to help them get the perfect night’s sleep. They even offer a $20 monogram add-on to make this gift that much more personalized.

For the coffee connoisseurs, the Fellow Clara French Press is an award-winning design that features vacuum-insulated walls to keep your coffee hot, no matter how many cups you have… It also has an enhanced mesh filtration system to make each cup taste as smooth and silt-free as the first, because no one likes that last mouthful of coffee grounds. It’s super easy to use and clean, plus the sleek black exterior is something anyone would want to display on their kitchen counter.

Another brand we discovered at the One of a Kind Show is LOVEFRESH. This brand is also Toronto-based and is genuinely driven by the joy of its customers. They’ve got all their bases covered -all-natural, sustainable, cruelty-free, women-owned and operated, and made in Canada. The LF OG'S Holiday Bundle is the perfect mix of body-nurturing products to bring the spa experience to their home. The bundle comes with hand and body wash, hand and body lotion and body butter in three different scents. My fave is the lavender!

$100+

I am absolutely obsessed with these Lover’s Tempo Etoile Duet Star Drop Earrings in Gold. I’ve already worn them twice, and it isn’t even December yet. These sparkly double drops will leave onlookers starry-eyed, and Lover’s Tempo plants a tree for every order placed. The company also created their Full Circle Artist Program, collaborating with Canadian artists who will incorporate their jewels into a unique piece of art to give used jewelry a second life.

These alder apparel get dirty workwear overalls are designed and constructed by women for women. It is often challenging to find the perfect fit, but the get dirty overalls are made from a blend of high-quality cotton and spandex to create a soft, stretchy feel without compromising on durability. Always created with tons of thoughtful design elements, alder apparel has made it much easier for women to find performance-driven and playful clothing pieces.

We are constantly looking for sleek and unique pieces to add to our home as we build out our space, and the Saje Aroma Wave Ultrasonic Diffuser fits the bill perfectly. Its got a gorgeous stand-out design and a run-time of 6-12 hours to fill any medium-sized room with relaxing aroma therapy scents. Plus, Saje diffusers are heat-free and whisper-quiet so you can enjoy immersive ambience at the touch of a button.

I bought myself this Commuter Backpack, and I will never look back. It has so many pockets and tons of space that I can fit everything I will ever need inside. It also has an extra shoulder strap to convert the backpack into a messenger bag. Poppy & Peonies is a Métis female-founded, cruelty-free, Canadian accessory brand. They donate a portion of every order to support the Indian Residential School Survivors Society to support survivors and families across British Columbia and beyond.

One product that is a powerful, fast, no-heat-damage hair dryer and an ultra-versatile multi-styler all in one? Sign me up! The Shark FlexStyle® Air Styling & Drying System is just that. One twist is all it takes to swap out the different styling heads for effortless styling on any hair type. The price tag is worth it when you think about the cost of each of these styling tools alone. So curl, volumize, smooth, or dry with the Shark FlexStyle® —the choice is yours.

Another company that manufactures their products in Canada is seray. Founder Lauren wanted to create a women’s apparel line designed to put women first. By creating sleepwear like The Mocha Set in sizes ranging from xxs to 2x, seray offers the softest temperature regulation for a good night’s rest. With just the right amount of stretch, they will surely be reaching for seray sleepwear at the end of every day.

Grab your last-minute Black Friday/Cyber Monday deals on several of these products and brands. Many of them have sales on until tomorrow! Have you started your holiday shopping, or are you procrastinating like I typically do? Did you find some inspo in this year’s guide? There are plenty of Canadian brands to support, so be sure to shop local!

Wishing you all a happy and safe holiday season.

❤

But that’s the trouble here, right? Why is self-care (read: self-gratification or with a partner..) such a touchy subject? Why don’t we have this dialogue more comfortably? And how do we break down the walls of the taboo here and start talking about building a healthy relationship with ourselves and our bodies? Because that is ultimately what is being discussed here.

Maybe you’re confused; I won’t use code or beat around the bush at this point. I really contemplated writing this post for a number of reasons. Firstly, I’m obviously struggling to remain consistent in my writing on the blog lately, but that is a story for another time (we talk about mental health a ton, so I’ll make this lighter). Second, my grandparents read this blog, but again, why are we hiding this conversation? Let’s talk toys, and not slinkies or Tonka trucks, either. Self and mutual gratification toys - vibrators, and such that you can use in self-play and partner play. First though, it needs to be said right now: don’t let anyone make you feel bad for having these.

Now, with that out of the way, we can get into the real conversation: LELO. Some of you reading this might have already spent your hard-earned dollars on adult toys. If so, way to play, my friends! But for those of you reading who have never even considered the topic, let alone acted on an impulse to purchase something fun, let me tell you about LELO.

LELO has long established itself as THE luxury pleasure brand, describing itself as leading the market in design, innovation, technology, and reputation. But it’s not just an adult toy brand; LELO has created a self-care movement aimed at those who know that satisfaction transcends gender, orientation, race, and age. As a luxury brand, the price point can be intimidating. However, LELO was generous enough to send me a few products to test out to decide for myself if the brand is worth the luxury price tag.

Even as one of the brand’s newer releases, it is not surprising to me that the LELO DOT™ is already a best seller.

The DOT™ is a clitoral pinpoint vibrator that you use externally, allowing for multiple orgasms. Where other vibes might cause numbness from the same sensation repeated over a period of time, the DOT™ utilizes a revolutionary elliptical motion to keep you on your toes.

Due to its shape, you can use this vibe to stimulate any erogenous zone, making it great for solo or couple’s play.

Don’t forget the LELO Personal Moisturizer, because slick is sexy. Made with all body-safe ingredients, this lube is glycerine-free, paraben-free and unscented for safe, discreet and healthy pleasure. It’s also water-based, making it non-greasy, non-staining, and safe for use with all LELO products and latex (read: condoms).

It comes in two sizes, 75 and 150 mL, so you can take it with you or display it on the nightstand. Each product I’ve received from LELO also comes with a mini sachet of the personal moisturizer so you can test it out before you purchase it. Gentle on the skin, easy to dispense packaging, and enhances your fun? How could you go wrong here?

There are also plenty more options for people with any body and any relationship status. Sure, you can go out to your local sex shop and purchase yourself one of several options on the market, but why not treat yourself when it comes to pleasure (just like you treat yourself when it comes to coffee or clothing, I see you and your PSL)? You can save money and buy a tiny lipstick vibe that will eat through batteries so fast that you’ll spend more using it than you did in upfront costs OR you can grab yourself one of the deliciously luxurious toys and accessories from LELO.

If this is a topic of conversation you’d like to see more of, and you are interested in LELO toys just past the ones mentioned here, please make your voice heard! Comment here or on my social media post to let me know because they’ve got tons of new innovations to chat about all the time.

❤

ILIA Limitless Lash Lengthening Clean Mascara

A while ago, I was on the hunt for a mascara that didn’t flake or hurt my eyes. I asked for suggestions on my Instagram stories and got plenty of fantastic suggestions. Two of the recommendations are in this blog post, and this ILIA Limitless Lash Lengthening Clean Mascara is one of them. It’s got the Sephora Clean seal, which means that the product is formulated without certain ingredients that are potentially harmful to your health and the environment. It’s also natural, ophthalmologist-tested, and safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. I’ve found that even if this mascara flakes or falls into my eyes, it doesn’t hurt like my past mascara favourites have. Beauty is painLESS with this absolute repurchase.

Starface Rainbow Hydro-Stars

These rainbow hydrocolloid pimple patches from Starface are the most fun and colourful way to heal a pimple in half the time. I have ordered almost 200 of these little guys over the course of the last year, which to me, is an indicator of how much I love them. The rainbow colour way is just one of the many options, these star-shaped hydrocolloid patches come in yellow, blue, black, rainbow, and more and are clinically proven to absorb fluid and help reduce the appearance of inflammation to shrink spots overnight. They also serve as a colourful reminder not to pick at my spots. Did I mention that all net proceeds from the rainbow stars are allocated to the Black-Led Movement Fund and the Hetrick-Martin Institute for LGBTQ+ Youth in the U.S., Black Thrive in the U.K., and Black Women in Motion in Canada? Hell yeah, social responsibility!

Maison Margiela 'REPLICA' Coffee Break Eau de Toilette

I pride myself on always smelling good. In fact, I carry around a travel-sized bottle of various perfumes in almost all of my bags. This one from Maison Margiela smells incredible, just like sitting at a quiet corner table in your favourite coffee shop, sipping on a vanilla latte. The REPLICA collection is packed full of scents that transport you to treasured moments of the past, and many of them are unisex. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning, springtime in a park, or the perfect coffee break, this travel-sized bottle is the perfect way to sample a fragrance before committing to a full-sized bottle.

Volition Celery Green Cream

Including this one on the list will be no surprise for my regular readers. I’ve talked about this brand before, and I’ve even highlighted this product before. The Celery Green Cream from Volition is a no-brainer repeat purchase, and I use it up until there is literally not a molecule of it left in the jar. It’s that good. This oil-free, lightweight gel moisturizer purifies and minimizes the appearance of pores for healthier-looking skin. It’s like the ultimate punch of hydration, and it smells incredible. I’m talking plush moisturizer without that thick, gloopy feeling. This is one of the products I go through the fastest because I use it every day.

Starface Clear As Day SPF 46

Another product in my regular rotation is the Starface Clear As Day SPF 46. It has been a journey trying to find a sunscreen that I love, that I can wear every day, and that doesn’t break me out into a million pimples. I’ve tried everything, but nothing is quite as foolproof as this one. The texture is so unique. It almost feels like a dry oil; it’s so smooth. It’s lightweight and invisible, and it’s developed by an acne-centric company, so it only makes sense that it will protect you from those harmful rays without clogging your pores. Starface is a permanent holy grail brand, a hall-of-famer for sure. Just don’t forget to apply some on your ears and underneath your chin!

Nyx Plump Finish Setting Spray

Here comes the second mascara recommendation. Now I know what you’re thinking: “Zoe, this is not a mascara.” No, it’s not, but it has helped my mascara stay put all day so that it flakes less and doesn’t get in my eyes nearly as much. The Plump Finish Setting Spray from Nyx has helped tremendously extend the life of my makeup. While I haven’t been wearing a ton of makeup (since COVID, or really ever), when I do, I want to ensure I’m not that person who has weird creasing or barely any makeup at all by the end of the day. I especially like this formula because it gives my skin a boost of hydration; a makeup product and a skincare product all rolled into one!

Have you tried any of these products? What are some of your favorites that you repurchase regularly? I love hearing what you love, so be sure to share your suggestions in the comments!

❤

I posted on my stories a few weeks ago about how I no longer set New Year’s resolutions but rather intentions for the year. I want to explain what that means and why it is important to me. So, first, let me discuss the difference.

A resolution, most common in the Western World, is a promise you make to yourself to do something differently in the new year. People often use a new year as a fresh start, a chance to do something they didn’t get around to or never thought of doing the previous year. For example, exercise more, lose x number of pounds, learn a new skill or hobby, read x number of books, etc.

An intention tends to be much less rigid. They are soft, qualitative, and compassionate and serve as a reminder rather than an exact goal. For example, listen to and honour my body, read more books, prioritize self-care, live compassionately, etc.

In the past, I have set resolutions. I wanted to provide myself with structure and exact goals so that I felt a sense of accomplishment once I achieved them. For some people, that system works really well. However, as the years have gone on, I have learned that setting fixed, inflexible goals for myself causes more harm than good. I would stress more about getting stuff done and not consider how the resolutions were truly going to enrich my life. Consider, alongside this, S.M.A.R.T goals. S.M.A.R.T is a mnemonic acronym, standing for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. As I mentioned, for some people, these are fantastic. They provide set goals that you can keep track of and must be completed within a given timeframe.

Here’s the thing with resolutions: for so many others, they don’t help but hinder progress. How many people do you know commit to going to the gym more at the beginning of a new year in order to lose weight (or whatever other goal they have) and then lose momentum part way through January? How many people do you know who tell themselves they want to read 15 books by the end of the year and then feel immense guilt if they only get through 5? The trouble with resolutions is that they don’t provide room for change. Life is not linear, things come up that we don’t expect, and that can throw us off the wagon so far that we have no hope of hopping back on.

That is why I’ve pivoted, and chosen to set intentions for the year to come instead. Anytime I do something, whether that’s cooking, moving my body, spending money, or what have you, I remember my intentions. They keep me grounded and focused on growth but don’t steer me away from enjoying the thrills of life. In the past, my intentions have been focused on change: spending more time in therapy, developing a healthier relationship with my body, giving myself grace and being kinder to myself. This year, I (and Adrian by proxy) have chosen to focus on healing. I want to reduce waste (food, spending, etc.), and increase self-love and exploration. It has become so important (to both of us) to have more fun. That can include being active and moving our bodies, nourishing ourselves but also leaving room for traditionally ‘unhealthy’ foods, and spending time with loved ones, all while caring for ourselves mentally. As creative people, we want to get back to feeling inspired about the world around us.

Day by day in 2023, we will remind ourselves to only buy what we need and only give energy to things and people that serve us. This reminder keeps us on track, but won’t be accompanied by a sense of incompletion come December.

What do you think about New Year’s intentions? Do you typically set resolutions for yourself? Would you try intentions instead? Share with me in the comments!

❤

With that said, let’s get into it because the holidays are literally knocking on my door, and I know you need those last-minute gift ideas (because I ALWAYS do..). This year, we’re returning to the price-point format, but please let me know in the comments which format you prefer! If you do your shopping based on the person rather than cost, I can consider that for next year! But I digress.

UNDER $50

Fleur & Co is a plastic-negative e-commerce retailer that offers you some of the most diverse selections of trendy houseplants, delivered right to their door (or yours). A plant is the perfect gift to brighten up their space during the winter months, especially tropical ones that make them feel like they are on vacation.

Fleur & Co’s plant delivery service is an awesome option for plant lovers, trend-setters, students, even beginner plant parents. They provide an easy, accessible way to access a variety of plant types, from the most fickle to the most laid-back. Plus, adding greenery to your home helps purify the air and is a fantastic way to boost their mood. Fleur & Co also shares the best plant care tips for their plants, and their trusted plant experts are there to answer any questions. Get them to take the plant quiz to find the perfect one for their lifestyle.

Sugandha is a South Asian-owned small business creating plant-based self-care creations. From delicious tea blends to blissful bath soaks, this brand will provide them with herbal earth-friendly products that help them develop their own self-care routine.

The Organic Infused Oil Blend Trio Pack contains scrumptious-smelling oil blends that are carefully infused with organic flowers and herbs in coconut oil for 32 hours to give them a rich aromatic experience. The roll-on bottles can easily fit in their pocket and travel with them anywhere, so they can bring relaxation with them anywhere they go. The scent combinations in this trio include lavender + chamomile, rose + orange, and lemon grass + rosemary.

If you know me at all, then you will not be surprised by this suggestion. Anything and everything has to be sparkly, and that is no different with Holo Taco. This brand was created by Cristine Rotenberg, the personality behind Simply Nailogical. She, like myself, loves all things holographic, so she decided to launch her own nail polish brand to bring high-quality special effects nail polishes to the masses.

There are so many formula options - from toppers to cremes to holos and even a newly launched magnetic line - you’ll be sure to find something for your gift recipient. Holo Taco is all about having fun and being a little (or a lot) sparkly, and each polish is vegan & cruelty-free.

All of Christy’s Gourmet Gifts are made lovingly by hand in Burlington, Canada. Found at many different craft shows around Ontario, Christy’s Gourmet Gifts are wonderfully delicious ways to show your appreciation for your loved ones this holiday season. Shop pre-made gift boxes and platters, ready-to-cut and bake cookie doughs, and this adorable and kid-friendly Winter Wonderland Sugar Cookie Decorating Kit.

Help them enjoy the winter season with the entire family with this festive cookie decorating kit - fully equipped with already-baked cookies, colourful sprinkles, and plenty of icing that will inevitably end up all over the table. Bring Santa's workshop to their home and let their creativity shine bright.

Take them on a celestial journey with the 12 Zodiac medallions of wellDunn jewelry’s Astro collection. Each necklace symbolizes the traits linked to its astrological sign. The collection is the result of a unique co-creation with Julie Kim, author of the book Rituels Astrologiques. Head to each product page to read a thorough description of the different signs.

wellDunn jewelry’s products are entirely handmade in Montreal, Canada, and are individually and carefully fashioned by hand, each piece unique in its own way. The Zodiac medallions are available in silver plated or in solid sterling silver OR in gold plated, in 18K gold vermeil or in solid 10K gold.

$50-$100

I’ve shared Keys Soulcare with you before, so you can check out my Mother’s Day gift guide from earlier this year for more, but the holiday season also provides us with awesome gift sets to try out a variety of products at reasonable price points. The Soulful Celebration Kit features Keys Soulcare’s best-seller formulas that go beyond skin care to nurture your body, mind, connection and spirit. This trio of full-sized (!!) skincare products cleanse, moisturize, and visibly illuminate skin for a radiant, hydrated complexion.

I adore the Let Me Glow Illuminating Serum for its visible shimmer (obviously, see Holo Taco above), but this kit is also an incredible way to share this brand with them and get them absolutely hooked. The trio is packed with antioxidants, brightening agents, and a ton of skin-plumping hydration to nourish and revitalize. Everything is also free of parabens, formaldehydes, phthalates, coal tar, hydroquinone, sulfates SLS & SLES, triclocarban, and triclosan. Not to mention cruelty-free.

Quick disclaimer here: all of the Snow Fox Shadow Stick Vaults are sold out online (normally found at shoppersdrugmart.ca). However, there are plenty still available in store! In fact, I was just at Shoppers the other day and saw a whole display full, so you can still snatch these sticks up for whoever you think needs them (everyone).

That being said, these 10 No Budge Shadow Sticks will help them create the perfect lustrous and shimmering holiday look this season. Chock-full of limited edition favourites, the e.l.f. Cosmetics Snow Fox Shadow Stick Vault provides long-wear eyeshadows in easy-application stick packaging that can be worn alone or under/over eyeshadow. Blend these shimmery and matte shadows with a brush or a fingertip to create endless festive flair.

From a small business created in Tel Aviv, Israel, to a chain of cosmetics and lifestyle products with over 100 stores around the world, Laline is a brand that might already be known to you. They offer products inspired by connection, pampering, tranquillity, and romance, and they ensure no one in the family is left behind.

Inspired by the sweet air of a summer breeze by the beach, the Frozen Pear fragrance is the perfect blend of wild pears & sensual magnolia. It is enriched with the soothing scent of fresh flowers that will leave a part of you everywhere you go. This Love Yourself Kit has everything they need to get that luxurious fluffy feeling, with nourishing body soap and body cream, hydrating hand cream, and a fragrance diffuser and soft towel for that spa-like experience at home.

Maison d' Etto is a luxury, artisanal, gender-neutral fragrance house founded by Brianna Lipovsky. After over a decade of working with the top brands in fashion, luxury, lifestyle, and beauty, Lipovsky decided to start a business of her own.

Taking inspiration from her first scent memories, she curated a range of fragrances that are inspired by the horses that have taken her on personal journeys — fostering a connection to self, others, nature and the world. The Discovery Set includes samples of all five fragrances in spray form: Rotano (inner power and confidence), Karat EG (hope for the future and renewal), Durban Jane (a sense of place and purpose), Macanudo (groundedness and togetherness) and Canaan (freedom, passion and drive).

I’ve developed an awesome relationship with this brand over the last year or so. Find La Pimbêche at the One of a Kind Show each season, but the brand is also an e-commerce business run out of Montreal, Canada. Help them embrace their inner badass with The Badass Manifestor oracle cards. These 62 cards, all designed by the brand’s creator herself, will help them in their journey to becoming the most badass version of themselves.

Each affirmation card is unique. Just pull a random card every day or when they feel inspiration strike, and let the inner spirit read into the symbolism. The deck is available in both English and French. And did I mention that everything is ethically manufactured by people who are treated fairly, with respect, and dignity, and are paid well? Badass vibes, for sure!

$100+

Finding their perfect knee-high boots that fit their calf size and height has never been easier with DuoBoots. This brand celebrates the fact that every person’s body is unique, offering luxurious leather boots designed for those who are tall, short, athletic, slender, curvy, and everything in between.

DuoBoots remain the only brand in the world to offer a range of knee-high boots in eight different calf sizes to ensure the perfect fit. The boots are designed in London and handmade in Portugal, placing timeless design and European craftsmanship at the forefront. With the Find Your Fit quiz, and a total of 72 sizes in calf-fit boots and 18 sizes in ankle boots, they can narrow down their shoe size, calf width, and boot width to find themselves a pair of boots that fit like a glove.

For those in your life that are constantly reaching for their eyelash curler, the Anti-Gravity Lash Lift at MYNC is the ideal gift. Their innovative treatment lifts lashes directly from the root, up and nourishes lashes with a deep conditioning and strengthening serum to promote shine & growth. Unlike traditional lash perms that can be uncomfortable and even painful, this lifting treatment uses soft silicone pads that carefully and gently lift the lashes right from the root. Continuous lift, curve and separation? Sign me up!

You can even add on a Lash Tint to the service for an extra $5 to create fabulously defined lashes from root to tip. Find me at my local MYNC location, getting my lashes tinted like a queen.

Founded in 1983 by Dr. Paolo Vranjes, this brand is an Italian luxury home fragrance house. Born and raised in Bologna, Italy, Dr. Vranjes grew up studying chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, and cosmetology. Ultimately, it was his wife, Anna Maria, who encouraged him to pursue his passion for fragrance.

Dr. Vranjes Firenze’s star fragrance, Rosso Nobile, features notes of orange, grapes, berries, violet, magnolia, and birch wood. The scent was inspired by a love of wine and the rich scent of red wine, recreated. This candle gift set fills the room with a relaxing, aromatic fragrance, a unique and festive addition to their home for the holidays.

For the crafty ones at heart, share with them the wonderful world of bookbinding this year with Catalina Sánchez’s DIY Bookbinding Kit. This kit will teach them the basic principles and techniques for making books, inspiring them to create their own masterpiece.

Each kit includes the tools necessary for the bookbinding process and step-by-step instructions to make it easy and fun to design their own notebook. All materials are vegan and eco-friendly, and use premium recycled paper because it is ever-important to be conscious of your impact on the world. The paper used in this kit is acid-free, and items are handcrafted by Catalina with love, excellent craftsmanship and a one-of-a-kind feeling in Toronto, Canada.

If you are looking for something for the aesthetically inclined in your life, this wall-mounted, tip-over-resistant bookcase is a trendy addition to any space. They can give their space a fresh vibe with two chic finishing options: faux white marble shelves and white metal legs or glam graphite grey shelves and gold metal legs.

Display collectibles, décor, photos, books, and much more on the four open shelves for a stylish look. A wall anchor kit is included with the bookcase to secure it to the wall and prevent tipping injuries. #SafetyFirst

The gift guides are endless here on The Canadian Creative Blog, so if nothing on this list sparks your fancy, there’s plenty more where this came from! Hopefully, we can all do our best to plan ahead better for next year, but for now, we can all use a little bit of gift-giving inspiration! What are you giving your loved ones for the holidays this year? Maybe a shared experience instead? Let me know in the comments section!

Wishing you all a happy and safe holiday season.

❤

In the past, I’ve written plenty about mental health. This is not a new concept here on The Canadian Creative blog. I’ve written about a few tactics that I like to utilize when trying to break myself out of a rut. I’ve also [more] recently written about my current mental health struggle. So why the long silence here on thecanadiancreative.com? Well, let’s chat a bit about burnout.

Up until 2020, I was very capable of multitasking. I could work my job, write my blog, and have a social life. Everything felt balanced. However, COVID uprooted a lot of things for a lot of people, and for me, that was my ability to focus on more than one thing at a time. Managing my calendar is harder, and socializing with friends and family too, and even watching tv or reading a book can sometimes feel way too overwhelming for my brain. Sometimes, when an email comes through to my inbox, I read it and then immediately mark it as unread again to come back to later. The issue with that tactic is that… well, I don’t always come back to them, and then I end up with 900 unread emails over the course of the time I’ve had this account. Oops.

Then, I began my current job. A job, mind you, that I absolutely love! My team is fantastic and supportive, the work I’m doing is meaningful, and I receive plenty of positive feedback to keep me moving forward. So, why did I take such an extended break from the blog?

My first thought is the time commitment. Writing this blog takes time. I need to write the post, take photos, edit the post, format the text and photos to ensure everything looks good, and then do it all over again for social media. That takes a lot of time and effort. Yet, I did it every year since 2017, even when I was in school. Hell, I used to write blog posts from work once my shift was over! I made it work, and I figured it out.

Then, I considered the pandemic. Everything was shut down. There was nothing new to report, so I had way less to write about. Fair enough. People were let go from their jobs, businesses had to close their doors entirely. It was really tough to find anything to talk about other than what I was watching or what we were cooking.

Finally, what I’ve settled on is burnout. And I want to give a special shoutout to my friend Bonnie who I recently reconnected with and who has truly reignited my passion for personal writing. My current job requires me to write. A lot. And I absolutely love writing. In fact, I’ve gotten really good at it, if I do say so myself! Be that as it may, when you write all day every day for almost a year, it makes it a bit more challenging to feel motivated to write in your personal time.

I’ve done some reflection on this, too, because I really wanted to understand what happened here. I love this blog. I started it because I wanted to share fun and practical and coveted brands and activities and just general life stuff with the people in my life. This blog has taken me all over. I’ve written about some of my travels, I’ve attended fashion events and restaurant openings, and I’ve shared endless, copious amounts of skincare with you. But somewhere along the way, I got stuck. I carry around fewer spoons every day now. And, most definitely, my social battery requires way more to recharge and way less to diminish.

Thanks to support groups, therapy, and Bonnie’s willful attempt at ensuring I don’t fall into the same experiences she has, I have managed to break through this fog I’ve been drifting through. Of course, there are many other people and things to attribute this come-back to. However, what matters most is that I want to get back to sharing my life with you. I want to show you the makeup and skincare I’ve been loving lately. I want to talk all about the fun cocktails I want to make for the holiday season (can you believe I’m hearing about gift guides already??). I can’t wait to highlight some of my favourite fall/winter clothing pieces because this is the coziest time of year. And I especially want to continue this open dialogue about the lasting impacts that COVID has had on myself and many, many people in my life.

With all of that said, I want to say hello again. Because I intend to get back to writing the blog. I will ease myself back into it, but this little slice of the internet is near and dear to me, and I hope you haven’t missed me too much.

Stay safe, take care of yourself, and see you around the internet again real soon.

❤

TREETOP TREKKING

One of the best outdoor activities for the entire family is Treetop Trekking. There are parks located in various conservation areas and regions all over Southern Ontario. Each park is unique, but some of the awesome games and activities they offer include aerial courses and zip lines, Treewalk Villages and kids courses, night walks, and team building programs. Test your physical prowess, spend some valuable time in nature and have a ton of fun, all at the same time. All of their activities can be customized depending on the size and age range of your group, so be sure to do some research and refer to their website for all of the park-specific details!

BEACHFRONT BBQ

Something else my family loves is barbecuing. We’ve got a barbecue in my parent’s backyard, but you can purchase smaller, more portable barbecues for much less. The great thing about portable ones is that you can take them anywhere, including the beach! Just like bonfires, Toronto specifically has a number of regulations when it comes to public grilling. However, once you find the perfect location (some parks even have grills already set up!), you can have quite the meal to remember. Last summer, we frequented Cherry Beach, where you can grill outside and then hop in the lake to cool off in the summer heat. Bring a frisbee or a football, and you’ll be sure to have a great time with Dad this Father’s Day.

DRIVE-IN MOVIES

There are plenty of drive-in movie theatres that have popped up over the years, especially due to the pandemic. Heading to a drive-in with the entire fam is a fabulous way to celebrate the special men in your life. Grab a bunch of snacks, get comfy, and be sure to let Dad pick the movie! It’ll be like a blast from the past with some of the classics, or a drive-in facelift showcasing new releases. Ontario alone has several drive-ins including (but not limited to) the Starlit Drive-In in Grand Bend, Muskoka Drive-In in Gravenhurst, the Mustang Drive-In in the heart of Prince Edward County, and the 5 Drive-In in Oakville. Have a look at the theatre websites to see what’s playing this Father’s Day!

VIDEO GAME TOURNAMENT

If you’re looking for more of an at-home, low-cost option, I recommend hosting your own video game tournament. We’ve already talked about outdoor tournaments, but why not bring the competition to the Mario Kart racetrack, or maybe challenge Dad to a dance-off with Dance Dance Revolution. For those families who already have video game consoles, there are plenty of affordable game options to add to your arsenal for Father’s Day fun. Best Buy has an entire clearance section for games that are $30 and under, and you can check out the Free-to-Play section on Steam for even more choices. Play something co-op to bond and collaborate, or compete against the family and see who comes out on top!

Are you ready for fun with the family this Father’s Day? What do you have planned for the special Father figures in your life? And do you prefer to give physical or experiential gifts? Let me know in the comment section. And an honourable mention to all of the fabulous in-person Pride events (finally) happening this month too!

❤

These four brands are awesome for many reasons and I’ll share each unique brand with you below, but the most important thing to consider is that they are all inclusive - body-inclusive, gender-inclusive, you name it. These lingerie brands are for everybody and every body. Let’s get into it.

Knix

Leading the charge in body positivity in Canada, Knix is one of those brands that has been around for years and for good reason. They are redefining lingerie in many ways by offering extremely comfortable and size-inclusive bras, underwear, loungewear, swimwear, and the list goes on and on. With the goal to make you feel comfortable in your own skin, Knix is the perfect brand for 2022. Some of their stand-out products include the Catalyst Front Zip Sports Bra, the WingWoman Contour Bra, literally any of the Period Underwear, and the Thigh Savers that I cannot (I repeat cannot) live without.

ThirdLove

ICYMI, I love ThirdLove. I’ve never felt more connected to a brand and I can honestly say that ThirdLove helped me to love my body again. Their bras come in 60+ sizes, including half cups, so you can always find the perfect bra in the perfect fit. Everything is stylish, sexy, and of course, comfortable, and the brand even offers virtual fitting and styling sessions so you are guaranteed to get exactly what you need. Some of my faves are the 24/7 T-Shirt Bra, the Comfort Stretch Underwear, and the ultra-soft WonderKnit Romper.

Parade

Calling all you Gen Z’s out there, you’re going to absolutely love Parade. This is the brand with a huge range of fabrics in a huge range of sizes, for literally any and all gender identity out there. Comfort for any occasion. I personally love Parade because they celebrate diversity, but you’ll love Parade because their products are also good for the planet. They strive to make all their products from reclaimed, recycled, responsible, renewable or regenerative materials, and they only continue to create collections that you adore to reduce warehouse waste. The cherry on top is that they give you the choice to donate 1% of your order to nonprofits that the brand believes in. Feel good, amirite? My must-haves are the Sexy Silky Mesh Triangle Bralette from the Tyler McGillivary collab, the Ultra-Soft Re:Play Triangle Bralette, the Ultra-Soft Re:Play Underwear, and every. single. bodysuit.

Sewn

Another Canadian brand I adore is Sewn. Every piece is handmade in Calgary, Alberta, so you’re sure to feel special wearing anything from this brand. Their limited edition pieces are made in small batches due to the selectiveness of their chosen fabrics and are available only until their supply runs out, but not to worry, because the staples are always available. I love Sewn because the brand draws inspiration from nature and our surroundings, but I also love that everything is meticulously high quality and priced fairly. I would share my fave piece from Sewn, but it’s no longer available. However, anything and everything that’s currently in the shop are pieces you’ll fall in love with!

What are your favourite lingerie brands? There are tons more I adore, but these four are the ones I always reach for.

❤

BEAUTY

Juice Beauty PREBIOTIX Freshly Squeezed Glow, 20% Vitamin C Serum

If you follow the blog, you’ll know that I am no stranger to Vitamin C. This powerhouse ingredient is popping up in everything, and for good reason. Vitamin C is full of antioxidants and other healing properties, which, of course, makes gifting mom the Juice Beauty Prebiotix™ Freshly Squeezed Glow Serum a no-brainer.

Provide her with a smooth complexion and the ultimate hydration for a balanced, healthy look that the special woman in your life will absolutely love. And, not to mention, this serum boasts Certified Organic Ingredients and a sustainable recyclable glass bottle. Good for her skin, and for the planet!

Keys Soulcare Let Me Glow Illuminating Serum with Niacinamide

Continuing on the serum train, because obviously, we love skincare on The Canadian Creative Blog; give her the gift of glow with Keys Soulcare Let Me Glow Illuminating Priming Serum with Niacinamide. Everything about this product is amazing. The packaging is gorgeous, with affirmations written on the side of each bottle. The brand ambassador is everything, because who doesn’t love Alicia Keys? But really, it’s all about the glow that radiates from your skin when you use this serum!

Perfect for use under make-up or alone and fresh-faced, it’s chock-full of brightening Niacinamide and hydrating Rose Water to bring out her inner glow. Buy it for Mom for Mother’s Day… and maybe a second one for you to keep.

HOME GOODS

The Good Card Grow Your Card Kits

I discovered this gift at the One of a Kind Spring Show a few weeks ago. If the special lady in your life has more of a green thumb, the combo of a heartfelt greeting card and a Grow Your Card Kit from The Good Card is the perfect present.

The kits come in three beautiful pastel colours, and contain everything she needs to grow your Mother’s Day card at home (except the card, of course)! I think founder Ashley puts it perfectly on the product page, “These planters are 3D printed using plant-based materials from fermented organic matter such as sugarcane and corn starch. The planters are biodegradable and tough enough to last a lifetime - just not thousands.”

Enigma Art Puzzles The Little Gardener II Puzzle by Sabina Fenn

I think many of us picked up puzzles during the many.. many lockdowns we faced over the last 2 years. We even found one in the shape of a pizza! So, naturally, a spectacular Enigma Art puzzle by one of my all-time favourite artists, Sabina Fenn, is going to be on this list.

Not only is this puzzle stylish enough to frame once your special lady is complete, but all of Enigma Art’s puzzles are also designed by talented female artists from around the world! Building a community of like-minded women who love art and puzzles? Sign me up!

FASHION

Hunter Canvas Desert Commando Boot

Since spring has sprung (for the most part) in Toronto, it’s surely hiking season, which means you should ensure Mom is well-equipped with these breathable Canvas Desert Boots from Hunter. They come in three fashion-forward colours and are specially designed to be worn in the warmer months!

I love these boots for more than just their looks, however. They are also water-resistant, certified vegan, and have a multi-directional tread for the ultimate traction and mud release. She’ll look extra stylish and feel extra comfy as you trek through these three breathtaking Bruce Trail hikes.

Smash + Tess x Barbie® The Live Big Hoodie Romper

Finally, the nostalgia that you’re all here for. Give the lovely lady in your life the gift of comfortable confidence in the Smash + Tess x Barbie® Live Big Hoodie Romper in midnight black.

We love Smash + Tess on the blog for their unadulterated body inclusivity, but now we love them extra for collaborating with a childhood fave! Deck her (and yourself) out in Barbie® pink with literally any of the items in this collection, but especially the hooded romper. Made with sustainable fabric that puts comfort and the planet first, this piece showcases the Barbie® logo in a sweet and subtle way.

What are you giving the special ladies in your life on Mother’s Day? Whether chosen or by blood, family is extra important these days, so I’m sure it is absolutely the thought that counts!

❤

First, let’s briefly acknowledge my three-month hiatus. I have had very little time to breathe the last few months, with a ton of changes and transitions coming my way. However, as things begin to even out and Ontario continues to ease its restrictions, I will have more and more to share with you on the blog, yet again!

That isn’t to say that there haven’t been any fabulous new products I’ve discovered over the last few months, but as you know, I like to vet everything on the blog before writing about it! So, let me share with you some of the amazing brands I’ve been loving as I head into a full reset for spring (you know, like spring cleaning but for your entire life).

KAILU OPEN ROAD PORTABLE THROW SET

As the weather gets better, we find ourselves spending more time outside. Not to mention, the pandemic has really forced us to get creative when thinking of fun activities to do. One of the things I enjoyed doing a lot last summer was taking our indoor activities outdoors! Let me give you some examples: movie nights moved to the drive-in, dinners with friends moved to the park, vacations turned into staycations, etc.

Now, because we have to get creative, we of course need something versatile to take along with us for comfort and adaptability. What I’m referring to is the Open Road Portable Throw from KAILU. Their products are handmade with care in the Yangtze River Delta, unveiling years of ancient family traditions that are guided by nature. Not only are the products high quality and special, but the Open Road Portable Throw is also essential for spring stargazing, chilly nights at the drive-in, and even to accompany you during the many, many travels we have coming our way (thanks for nothing COVID-19).

WILD FLICKER SOY WAX CANDLES

I am definitely no stranger to candles, scents and aromatherapy. Everyone who knows us knows that our apartment ALWAYS smells good. Which is why I absolutely had to have the Eucalyptus Lavendar Soy Wax Candle from Wild Flicker.

Handmade in small batches, owner Ainsley and her husband are dedicated to creating products with amazing fragrances that are just strong enough to fill the room, but subtle enough not to cause a headache.

All of their scents smell lush, and I absolutely recommend trying out fresh-smelling Citrus + Sage, heart-warming Spiced Pear, of course, the thematic Spring Punch, and one of my absolute favourite scents in any way, shape, or form - Vanilla Latte. There is definitely an option for everyone, and did I mention they’re made in Ontario?!

SCOTTIES AND HOUSE & HOME DESIGNER SERIES

Let me start by saying that my mother and I have been reading House & Home magazine for as long as I can remember. There was always a copy of it somewhere around the house, and I adore the decorating and design features. I always fantasized about my dream home with all of the beautiful interior design tips and photos that accompany the stories.

When I saw the collaboration between Scotties and House & Home, I knew the universe was sending me a message: even if you’re allergic to the cat and blow your nose 50x a day, you can still do it in style.

Featuring eight absolutely stunning and trendy designs, the new H&H Designer Series for Scotties makes it easy to decorate your home like the pros in the publication. There are fun graphic prints, gorgeous medallion motifs, and fabulous florals to add just a hint of elegance to a runny nose. Seasonal allergies? We’re ready for you!

VIVIER AGE-DEFYING BODY LOTION

Even though winter is winding down, we Torontonians know that the cold weather continues to persist until around the beginning of May (it’s currently snowing as I write this..). With cold weather comes dry, cracked skin, and we all know how obsessed I am with skincare. I literally keep bottles of lotion all over the apartment, especially next to the bed and in my backpack. I will not let dehydrated skin rule the day!

So, naturally, when I was told about Vivier’s Age-Defying Body Lotion, I had to give it a try. An 'all-in-one body lotion that visibly firms and tones the skin, while also providing hydration'? Sign me up!

This bottle is jammed-packed full of peptides, antioxidants, and hydration boosters to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and restore moisture to the skin. The lotion also has a refreshing citrusy scent so I always smell absolutely delicious. Pair it with the Vitamin C Scrub (full of hyaluronic acid and biodegradable exfoliating beads) and you’ve got a match made in skincare heaven!

What are some of your favourite discoveries for spring? Have you done a big reset lately? I feel like I needed some change! Let me know how you’re doing and what you’ve been loving recently in the comments section.

❤

Maybe it’s the beauty buff in your life, perhaps they’re super into sustainable fashion, or maybe they just love cookies. Whomever you’re shopping for, I’ve got a handful of fabulous brands with wonderful products that I’d like to highlight for all of your 2021 shopping needs! Check out all the options below:

BEAUTY

Voir Haircare has just recently released an entire collection of holiday-themed gift sets. From winter essentials to an advent calendar, there’s bound to be something they’ll love!

Definitely not new to the beauty game, but new to Shoppers Drug Mart in Canada, Kylie Skin/Cosmetics products are fun stocking-stuffer-sized gifts for your beauty buff. From the coveted lip kits to mini skincare sets, Kylie has definitely got our backs this year.

From Canadian beauty brand, NUDESTIX, the Glowy Nude Skin Kit (and any of their kits for that matter) is a stunning addition to any beauty routine. Add a bit of holiday glow to their life in the form of sun-kissed colour sticks.

I’ve been using the Bye Bye Dark Spots Niacinamide Serum from IT Cosmetics’ Bye Bye Serums collection and I’ve got to say I’m not sure how I’ve lived this long without it. Choose from 4 serums that help minimize the look of fine lines, dark spots, visible pores, or dullness and give them the gift of skin that glows from the inside out.

WELLNESS/SUSTAINABILITY

The OURA Alta Towel (which is currently on sale, might I add?) is the hypoallergenic, antimicrobial, ultra-plush towel that you won’t want to give away. It’s super soft and super absorbent, and will even promote skin health and elasticity. Meet the only towel they’ll ever want to use.

No waste. No water pollution. No microplastics. No microfiber release. Seems like there’s not much to it, but the NONIE Trench is absolutely everything. Made from pre and post-consumer materials, this made-to-order trench is good for their closet and for the environment.

We obviously love a Canadian brand, and ecologyst definitely represents us well. All of ecologyst’s products are intentionally made with nature top of mind, so you can feel good about gifting them this beautiful gender-neutral cinnamon-coloured anorak for the holidays this year.

Unlike most clothing brands, Cuyana only produces as many items as they think they can sell. This helps reduce an enormous amount of waste. Their clothing and leather goods are not only produced responsibly, but they’re also totally gorgeous too.

SMALL/LOCAL

I met Yudith from House and Honey at the One of a Kind Show this year and immediately fell in love with her work. Everyone at the show was uber-talented, but something about the meticulousness that goes into each and every one of her pieces made her jewelry and home goods stand out among the rest. You won’t go wrong gifting your loved ones anything made by this lovely human!

To continue the Canadian brand hype, anything and everything made by Sirani's Fashion should be on their wishlist AND yours this holiday season. Shop all of the eye-catching African fashion including dresses, jumpsuits, blazers, headwraps, and more.

The art by Andrea of ANML Studio now takes up permanent residence in my brain and I think about these earth-tones on the regular. You can’t go wrong gifting your loved ones one of her unique and delicate limited edition prints.

When you don’t know what to get someone in your life, look to Naughty Florals for easily the most beautiful (and the most relatable) stationary, tote bags, stickers, and more. Because sometimes all they need is a tote bag that validates the fact that none of us really have any idea what we’re doing.

FOOD

Coffee is always a good idea, and the coffee from Melitta Canada never disappoints. There’s dark roasts and whole beans and hazelnut, oh my! Be sure to pick up some of their earth-friendly bamboo coffee filters to go alongside the beans too.

Hamilton Beach has a new 6 Speed Hand Mixer with Easy Clean Beaters that will forever replace any other hand mixer I’ve owned. Help them do all their holiday baking with endless mixing performance, minus the annoying clean-up.

Sample some of Soul Chocolate’s truffles, chocolate bars, or drinking chocolates and you’ll absolutely fall in love. With the goal of purchasing their cacao directly from the farmers themselves, you can feel good about indulging.. I mean giving their chocolate as a gift.

Handmade gifts are always welcome, which is why a hot chocolate kit accompanied by Loacker wafer cookies is the perfect gift for all the foodies in your life. Mix and match flavours to customize to their taste, from lemon and blueberry yogurt to matcha and tiramisu, and even classics like hazelnut and vanilla.

I’ve released gift guides every year since 2017, so the ideas certainly do not end here. Let me know what presents you’ve already picked up in the comments below, and don’t forget to give yourself a little grace this holiday season. It can be pretty chaotic, and ultimately, it’s the thought that really counts this time of year.

❤

Revive Superfoods

At first, Revive Superfoods only offered smoothies. Now don’t get me wrong, these smoothies alone were completely worth purchasing. However, over the last couple of years, they’ve added supermeals, soups, frozen desserts, and more to the menu. Everything is perfectly convenient for those who have minimal time first thing in the morning but don’t want to compromise on healthy foods and nutrition. Revive Superfoods is an excellent option if you’re looking for plant-based meals or want something ready-made in just a few minutes.

Holiday Promo: Get 40% off your first box of plant-based goodies with the code RSF40

truLOCAL

No surprise here. My work with truLOCAL is extensive, and that is because they are absolutely fantastic. They offer customers clean, locally sourced meat, poultry, and fish products, and I am absolutely never disappointed by the quality. Everything comes frozen over dry ice, so even if your box is delivered while you’re away from home, your order will remain cold and fresh till you come back. I should also mention, their customer service is top-notch. truLOCAL is consumer-centric and ensures that each and every customer receives their box, how they ordered it and when they ordered it. They even often leave you little thank you notes inside for a happy surprise when you open everything up.

Holiday Promo: Order your preset holiday boxes before November 30th and get early bird discounts, starting at only $109! As of December 1st, they go up by $10 each.

Special Bonus: As the promotions don’t stack, you can alternatively receive $25 off of any regular-sized box when you use my code: TRUCANADIAN25

General Assembly

Toronto cult classic General Assembly also offers a subscription box, and if you’re a pizza lover, you should check it out ASAP. Choose from various best-selling pizza combinations, from Mila Margherita to the plant-based Magic Gathering, to Sweet Heat and everything in between. The pizzas come frozen over dry ice, so you can choose to heat them up right away or save them to share (or not..) later. In just 7 minutes, you’ll have naturally leavened pies that use delicious ingredients from the comfort of your own home and that stack up to the restaurant original.

Holiday Promo: Receive free shipping and 10% off all new orders for the holidays, valid until January 4, 2022

GoodFood

We tried out a handful of recipe-based food subscriptions during lockdown, and GoodFood came out on top by a landslide. We enjoyed pretty much every single meal we ordered, to the point where we got my parents hooked on the subscription service as well. Their meals are chef-designed and easy to follow. They fit into categories such as vegetarian, easy prep (minimal prep time), clean15 (lower calorie, lower carb), slow cooker, and more, which means there is something available for everyone. GoodFood also now offers grocery delivery, holiday kits, breakfast options, and ready-to-eat meals, so you can get anything and everything you need.

Holiday Promo: Get $120 off with your first deliveries and skip the grocery line! $60 off each of your first 2 baskets (New clients only)

Which, if any, food subscription services do you use? Any new or exciting options that I should know about? Leave your recommendations in the comments and I’ll definitely check them out!

❤

Easily one of my favourite dispensaries in the city, and it’s by no means close to home but is more than worth the trip, Two Cats Cannabis Co. transports you back to the 1920’s Prohibition Era the second you walk in the door. The entire place is meticulously designed and curated, right down to the giant call bell on the back counter (but the size was actually a hilarious mistake). We even got the chance to speak to the owners (Hi Michael and Victoria!) who told us all about how their intention was to make cannabis products more accessible and approachable for everyone. Customers are able to see the product, available at a wide range of prices, and ask questions to the very knowledgable ‘budtenders’ to better understand what they are purchasing. The cherry on top would have to be what I’d like to dub The Great Wall of Terpenes. If you want to know more, you’ll have to go check it out at 1014 Gerrard St E!

Another great option and frequent pickup point for us is Bodega at 198 Ossington Ave. Just like stepping into a beachy New York bodega (sounds strange but I promise you’ll love it), this spot is the perfect mini escape from Toronto’s dropping temperatures. The good vibes are carried out from the tropical plants to the ‘Daily Specials’ shelving displays, right down to the branded merch and accessories. Products are chosen based on what’s most popular, so you’ll always find something you’ll like. Not to mention, Bodega is Toronto’s first black-owned dispensary, from the same owners as the well-renowned Caribbean restaurant, Roywoods. This place is definitely a cut above.

If you’re looking for an extra luxurious cannabis experience, look no further than Edition X. They’ve got two locations in midtown Toronto (270 Dupont St and 764 St. Clair Ave W), stocking cannabis and cannabis products that you’ll be proud to display on your coffee table. With an online personal ‘budtender’ that can make recommendations based on your preferences and super knowledgable ‘budtenders’ in-store, you are bound to get the quintessential high-end dispensary experience.

Stumbling upon Bonnefire at 244 Queen St W was very much a happy accident. Right at the beginning of the pandemic, just a few weeks before lockdown in Toronto, we were taking a walk in the neighbourhood. The dispensary had just opened and we wanted to know what the place was all about. It was barely furnished and still brand-spanking-new, but they were still more than happy to get us what we needed. Now, in 2021, it’s a super cozy, Canadiana campfire-themed dispensary that prides itself on being welcoming and educational for people from all walks of life.

With the goal of supporting and lifting people up, Levicann on Eglinton Ave E is an excellent choice for the Davisville and Sherwood Park neighbourhoods. The community-centric dispensary is beautifully designed and is sure to provide a noteworthy experience for both newcomers and cannabis experts alike. They’re even developing their own cannabis education seminars, community outreach programs, and local business and local artists features to help better the community that they operate in. Stay tuned to their website and social media for more information on all of those programs!

What are your favourite spots in the city? Where do you go for all of your cannabis products? I’m sure it’s clear now that I love dispensaries with fabulous interiors, so feel free to share your regular haunts with me in the comments. And be sure to consume responsibly!

❤

Dear Zoe,

The last year or so has been a challenge, to put it lightly. It was hard, not just for yourself, but for an entire global population confined to their homes in order to prevent the spread of a deadly virus. Many people, including you, have been forced to slow down, and have had a lot of their typical outlets or positive coping mechanisms taken away from them. You can no longer lean on keeping yourself busy as a way of maintaining mental ‘stability’, and that is terrifying.

It has frequently and consistently felt like you are living in a cloud. That sharp focus and mental clarity you deeply identify with has evaded you for longer than you’d like, and it’s hard to not feel like the ‘Zoe’ you’ve come to know is slipping away. Your energy levels have decreased dramatically, your capacity to be around people is not what it once was, and it requires you a lot more time and care to bounce back from hard days. The heavy feeling in your chest seems to never completely go away, and losing a family member doesn’t make the fight any easier. Even the smallest of tasks feel like running a marathon or climbing a mountain.

You’re not great at truly taking care of yourself (completely selfishly), and that is approximately 99.9% of what recovery is. Sure, you’re trying to get healthy for your friends and family, those who care about your well-being, but ultimately the only person who will gain full benefits from getting better is you. The hardest part is over; admitting to yourself that you need help. Identifying symptoms and behaviours that often feel outside of your control is step 1 to healing. Those behaviours don’t define you or your personal identity, no matter how far from who you know yourself to be that you feel you’ve become.

Amongst all the pain, you are more than lucky and privileged to live the life you do. You’ve had the time and space (literally and figuratively thanks to COVID 19..) to figure out what is creating this storm in your head, and you’ve been given the chance to work your way towards recovery without any major financial, physical, or psychological burdens. You’ve got easy access to an amazing health care team that supports your decisions, and not everyone is able to say the same for themselves.

There’s no placing blame here, no one person or incident in your life is the source of this pain. You can look to diet culture and North American capitalistic ideals to fuel this self-hatred, but placing blame won’t help you in your journey towards healing. Getting back to a ‘Zoe’ that you love takes work, but it’s not impossible. Half the battle is unseen, and there doesn’t always have to be tangible evidence for progress to be made. Talking about it openly is important, and one of the only ways you won’t have to suffer alone. Each person will respond to this differently, and that is not your responsibility to address.

See your current situation as an opportunity to speak up and give a voice to those who don’t have the strength or ability (or privilege) to use theirs. If you don’t use your platform to discuss difficult topics, how can you expect to hold others accountable to do the same? This blog is a space to express yourself, and that (to you) means your full self. Here’s hoping that by sharing your story, someone reading your blog today, tomorrow, or any time in the future will benefit from knowing there are people willing to explain their situation so they don’t have to.

I love you, even in your darkest times, even when you’re the most difficult to love.

And to you, the reader: Use this letter as a resource to tell people in your life you need help. Or just as a beacon of hope to know you’re not alone. Because in any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians will personally experience a mental health problem or illness (CAMH, 2021) and I’m sure that’s been exponentially exacerbated by the pandemic. Support is adaptable and comes in many forms. It can look different from day to day, and sometimes you need to ASK someone to know which type of support is needed on any given day. 

For those of you who need it, here is a list of some accessible mental health resources, just in case:

• Wellness Together Canada (Canada)

• BounceBack Ontario (Canada)

• LGBTTQQ2SI Youth Line (Canada)

• Sheena’s Place (Canada)

• CheckPoint (International)

• UnitedGMH (international)

• Centre for Clinical Interventions (Online and Australia)

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SERENITY THROUGH COLOUR

The Japandi style is all about creating a calming oasis at home and doing so through the use of soothing earth tones and natural materials. Sharon suggests focusing on items made of wood, rattan, sea grass, stone, and glass in lighter colours such as blonde wood, as opposed to darker espresso wood tones, to evoke harmony and balance. This will bring a natural warmth and airiness to the space.

“Avoid cool tones and bright shades of white. Instead, opt for colours like Muslin OC-12 or Jute AF-80 that will transform your space into a comfortable oasis.”

Our space:

LONG-LASTING AND INTENTIONAL

The basis for the Japandi style is sustainability and intention, aiming to create a space full of responsibly sourced furniture and items that are intended to last you a long time. It combines the editing down and decluttering of the Japanese style with the multipurpose items of the Scandinavian style. Be thoughtful about what you choose to display and where, and highlight pieces that you treasure to give them room to stand out. Do some good and donate anything that no longer works, says Sharon.

“Include pieces and accessories that are designed for longevity and well-crafted while minimizing “disposable” items.”

Our space:

SIMPLE AND COMPLEMENTARY

The reason these two styles mesh and flow so well is because they both place emphasis on simplicity and comfort. I love creating at-home oases, especially throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and I think that is why we were drawn to Japandi in the first place. It is relaxed and serene, while still maintaining a level of modernism and sophistication. Sharon suggests using a paint like Regal Select in a matte finish to give your space an effortless appeal and achieve a stylish balance of elegance and tranquility. Matte finishes create a sense of ease.

“Painting walls in a neutral tone is ideal for this serene look, however the Japandi style can embrace pale, warm hues of green or clay such as Guilford Green HC-116 or Dusty Trail 1157.”

Our space:

We’re really happy with how the new space has come together so far, but want to keep adding treasured pieces like the growing art wall in our bedroom to make it feel well-rounded. Have you got any recommendations for us? What style is your space decorated in (if any!)? And what are some of your treasured pieces? Big shout-out to Sharon Grech and Benjamin Moore for the amazing tips and suggestions, and to the team at Strategic Objectives for facilitating. Benjamin Moore has also recently launched its first-ever online paint store at https://store.benjaminmoore.com/ where you can order your favourite Benjamin Moore interior or exterior paint, or colour samples and swatches from your couch at home. Have fun and get creative, friends!

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PORTABLE BONFIRE

An iconic summer activity for June 20th, 2021 is a bonfire. In Toronto, in particular, there are a number of limitations imposed by the city that make having summer fires challenging. However, if you haven’t got your own propane or natural gas fire pit at home, these portable bonfires from City Bonfire are a small, grab-and-go, and safe option for your favourite summer activity. And a summer bonfire is nothing without s’mores. My favourite combo of ingredients is HoneyMaid Graham Crackers, Smashmallow Toasted Vanilla Marshmallows, and Lindt SWISS CLASSIC Milk Chocolate. Still make sure to do your research on local fire safety legislation and proceed with caution before partaking in these delicious treats though.

DIY BACKYARD TOURNAMENT

I personally love celebrations that include activities. For my last 4 or 5 birthdays (pre-COVID), I made sure to go somewhere that had drinks, snacks, AND fun stuff to do. Father’s Day 2021 is no different, and that is why setting up your own DIY backyard tournament is fun for Dad and the whole family. Whether you prefer team games or individual competitions, a backyard tournament is a great way to spend some quality time together and enjoy some fun in the sun. There are plenty of places to find instructions and required materials to build your own cornhole boards or ring toss set-up, or just order a game set online from your local toy/hardware store. Some fun options include bocce ball, spike ball, horseshoes, and the aforementioned cornhole. Hell, you could even pick multiple games and create your own carnival midway. Get creative!

VIRTUAL GAMES

If you’re still unable to connect with your loved ones in person, even socially distanced, virtual games are an awesome way to still bring everyone together. With loads of options to choose from, and more popping up as the pandemic has progressed, you can choose your favourite virtual game and host a games night! Skribbl is one of my personal favourites, but some other options include creating a Kahoot trivia deck, playing a virtual game of Codenames, or even just a good ol’ game of charades over video-chat. Whatever game you choose, be sure to let Dad have a fighting chance at winning. It is his special day after all..

What are some fun and creative ways you’ve chosen to celebrate the special people in your life during the pandemic? Is there a family/friend group favourite? I’ll be sure to add them to my own list so share your suggestions with me in the comment section. Be safe and have fun!

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The greatest gifts to give (IMO at least) are experiences and quality time. Taking the time to carve out a portion of your day that is specifically dedicated to being with her is the perfect way to show the leading ladies in your life that they matter. Crafts and activities are awesome ways to spend this quality time. Create fun art projects, do a workout together, even build a puzzle or play a board game; any such activity will help you share a laugh and create memories that will last a lifetime. Give her the gift of a subscription to The Idle Free Box and provide months’ worth of fun, or just one box for the opportunity to discover new hobbies and interests alike! To top it all off, the box also includes resources such as guided meditations, a 15-minute clarity session with a success coach, and a ton of useful materials from the Canadian Mental Health Association.

Give her the gift of hydration with the HidrateSpark STEEL, and she’ll never forget to drink water again. I’m not kidding, I’ve been using my HidrateSpark STEEL for a few months now and I’m currently on a 25-day success streak! The bottle comes fully equipped with an LED smart sensor that reminds you to drink water and tracks your intake throughout the day. It syncs via Bluetooth and connects with tons of fitness apps like Apple Health and Fitbit. She’ll love the vacuum insulation that keeps water cool for up to 24 hours, and the added bonus of lots of customization: pick the lid, the size, and even the colour of the LED lights. Drinking water has never been so fun.

For the fashion-forward lady in your life, opt for a couple accessories or a pair of shoes from ALDO. The great thing about accessories is that you rarely need to know their size. That and they tend to be more affordable. A pair of sunglasses or a stylish handbag are a fabulous and foolproof gift for Mother’s Day 2021. Cater to her style with some trendy platform sneakers, or a classic pair of gold plated hoop earrings. Whoever she is, she’ll be rocking your gift well into spring and summer this year.

Haircare inspired by skincare? Sign me up! Schwarzkopf Professional recently came out with an entire series of products that utilize well-known skincare ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and collagen, and I never knew I needed them until they came into existence. With such a genius concept and so many products to choose from, the BC Bonacure brand will deliver her beautiful and healthy-looking salon-quality results at home. From Keratine to Peptides and everything in between, there is a line of products perfect for all hair types and they’re so good, you may even need to pick up a few options for yourself while you’re at it!

And on the topic of skincare. Why not opt for one of my most frequently given gifts: sheet masks! They’re awesome to mix and match, go perfectly in a care package or gift set, and help address a variety of different skin concerns. Choose from masks that moisturize and hydrate, tone and clarify, or fight visible signs of aging, puffiness, and hyperpigmentation. Pack a major skincare punch with any of the masks from Pacifica, but more importantly, give her skin the full hydration treatment with the Disobey Time Rose & Peptide Facial Mask and the Vegan Collagen Hydro-Treatment for Undereyes & Smile Lines. Both of which I am giving away to one lucky Canadian reader.

To find out how to enter, head on over to my most recent Instagram post by clicking here! Open to Canadian residents only.

Have you started shopping for Mother’s Day? What awesome gifts have you come up with to give to your favourite women? Share with me in the comments below for an extra entry into the Pacifica giveaway!

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But now, our workspace is our home space, and the line between working from home and living at home can become blurred. Being able to set boundaries for yourself, whether physical or mental, is extremely beneficial and can mean the obvious difference between your 9-5 job and your personal time. That is why I make the effort to make my space during personal time extra luxurious and relaxing. Read on to see how I like to unwind at the end of a WFH day.

ESSENTIAL OILS

One of the best ways to make your space feel like a serene spa is by using essential oils. I love dropping my fave scents into my Saje diffuser and letting it fill my space with comforting and calming smells. For your morning routine, try invigorating oils such as citrus and eucalyptus, and for bedtime opt for grounding oils like chamomile and lavender. Some of my go-to options from Saje are Liquid Sunshine, Dream State, and the Relaxation Room Collection, but you can find essential oils anywhere. Even your local grocery store or health food store will likely stock these relaxation-in-a-bottle oils.

QUIET MUSIC

Once my essential oils are running, I like to throw on some quiet background music to either wake up or wind down to. There is something about getting zen alongside a soothing playlist of ambient music. Put it on and have the playlist further contribute to your personal sanctuary at home with the subtle sounds of jazz or new age instrumental. Here are a few of my most-played choices:

COLOURED LIGHTS

Another thing I really like to do, especially before bed, is put on coloured lights. I find that greens, purples, and yellows are the best when I’m trying to slow down and calm my mind at the end of a workday. Studies have shown that colour does, in fact, provide restful and soothing effects. Green reminds us of nature, yellow the sun, so it makes perfect sense that coloured lights would help create a personal sanctuary within your home. We use Philips Hue smart lights which are controllable by mobile device and compatible with Google Home and other smart home devices. However, there are tons of options out there now when it comes to coloured/changeable lighting.

HUMIDIFIER

In winter especially, I cannot live without a humidifier. Not only does it help quench my severely parched skin, it also contributes to the overall atmosphere of my space. I prefer a humidifier that is quiet and long-lasting so I don’t have to constantly refill it throughout the day. The one I regularly have next to me, whether in the bathroom getting ready in the morning or on my bedside table at night, is the Sienna humidifier from So Dreamy Co. It comes in two different colours, mists for anywhere from 5-7 hours, is rechargeable and wireless and doubles as a warm-toned nightlight.

Bonus: I’ve recently partnered with So Dreamy Co. to give away a personal humidifier of your very own. For more info on how to enter, click here or check out So Dreamy Co.’s Instagram feed.

How do you differentiate between work time and home time? Do you have a favourite essential oil or playlist that you love to help you slow down and rest at the end of the day? Let me know in the comments!

And don’t forget that today is International Women’s Day. So, be sure to celebrate all of the special women who have had an impact on your life!

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Below you’ll find some of my recommendations for last-minute gifts to give to your loved ones this holiday season. The images have been borrowed from the brands listed, and I only take credit for compiling the list. As Christmas creeps up on us, take time now to be more mindful of your spending. Choose to purchase your gifts locally to not only support those in need but to help reduce the environmental impact caused by shipping and the importing of commercial goods. Many of your favourite retailers have search filters that allow you to find what you need from Canadian businesses, Etsy is a great example of this. It doesn’t take much effort, but this small change makes a big impact.

UNDER $50

$50-$100

$100+

Have you finished all of your holiday shopping yet? Or are you like me and you’re waiting till the very last minute to have everything arrive before Christmas? I promise everyone will get their gifts in time… (if you’re reading this, Adrian). Sometimes the best gift ideas come when you’re down to the wire! I hope some of these suggestions spur some inspiration for you. Next year, I’ll be back to shooting everything in person, but this year I thought it was worth crediting Canadian businesses for all of the hard work they do to remain in operation! See also my 2019, 2018, and 2017 (for the men in your life) gift guides for some other ideas.

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Over the last few months, I’ve been taking extra special care to support local and Canadian businesses. It is important to me to keep Canadian businesses afloat, and taking this into consideration when purchasing your holiday gifts this year is a great way to show your support for your fellow Canadians. Each one of the brands mentioned below have some great Black Friday and holiday season sales going on. So, if you’re like me and you’re a biiiiit tight on cash this year, I’m sharing with you some of my favourite items from some fellow Canucks.

Groupe Marcelle

One of my favourite gifts to give, or even items to purchase for myself, are gift sets. They’re especially great when they include skincare items, but that is obviously not a requirement. SO many brands come out with gift sets for the holiday season, so you won’t be too pressed to find one that suits your gift recipient. This one from Groupe Marcelle is awesome because it includes all the necessary essentials for makeup removal and cleansing. I particularly love the ‘Essentials’ line of products, and the Oil-Free Multi-Defense Lotion with SPF 15 (not pictured) has been in my rotation for something like 2 years now. These gift sets are also a good way to try out the products before committing them to your routine, as they often come in smaller sample sizes.

Ten Degrees

While some of the options from Ten Degrees, such as the Ontario Ring shown above, are a bit pricier, they are more than worth it because they serve multiple purposes. A brand fully focused around representing Canada and prioritizing embracing life’s journey, Ten Degrees has a wide variety of jewelry that is both pre-designed or customizable. Building your own spinner jewelry like rings or pendants is a fun way to make your gift feel more personalized, and spinners are a great way to relieve stress. I bought myself a customized spinner ring from Ten Degrees, and I use it every day to ground me and positively channel any nervous energy I may be feeling. Choose from over 2000 different custom combinations, or opt for one of the 13 different designs in the Strong + Free Collection that are inspired by the Provinces and Territories of Canada.

Coral Lashes

If you’re following along on my social media, you’ll have seen me share these lashes recently. A local company founded by one of my fellow Creative Industries graduates, Coral Lashes donates a portion of the proceeds from each sale to International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) projects. Now that’s what I call a gift that keeps on giving! The cool thing about these lashes is that they’re magnetic, which means no muss and no fuss of your regular everyday lash glue. By applying them in tandem with the Magnetic Eyeliner Lash Adhesive, you’ll get a fabulous cat-eye (if that’s your style) and lashes that literally snap on and off your eye. The Xenia lash has got you covered for all of your holiday Zoom call needs.

Yummi Candles

One of the best gifts I gave last year were these 2oz soy wax candles from Yummi Candle. They’re extremely affordable and are a good way to (like the gift sets) try out a scent before buying a full sized candle. An awesome stocking stuffer, these mini candles come in a wide variety of scents including some of my seasonal favourites like Quebec Maple + Pumpkin Pie and Atlas Cedar + Vanilla Musk. You can find Yummi Candle in tons of different retailers, or grab your favourites curb-side from their Mississauga Factory location. Share your favourite seasonal scents with your loved ones or stock up yourself to make your home smell delicious and create a personal sanctuary away from the snow.

Have you been supporting more Canadian businesses this year? Which ones should have been included in this post? If you have your own Canadian business, share it in the comments so that other readers can support YOU! And stay tuned to the blog for some more seasonal content and my #CanadianCreative 2020 Gift Guide, coming at you soon.

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