From all of us at rock-it promotions, here’s wishing you and yours a very healthy, happy and prosperous 2011.
Happy New Year!
xo,
The Fourth Floor
The Fourth Floor
Happy New Year!
Monthly Archives: December 2010
Special Media, Darling post: Holidays, Part 2
Remember our special Media, Darling post from last week? Welcome to Part 2! We asked some of our contributors to share with us their holiday plans, New Year’s resolutions and hopes for 2011. Here is what they told us:
Jen McNeely
What’s your favourite holiday tradition?
Wearing a dumb hat from my cracker at the dinner table. It’s probably the only real tradition we have.
Favourite store to receive a gift from?
Store? I prefer spa. Body Blitz in Toronto or Scandinave in Collingwood.
How will you spend your time off?
In my jammies, with a cup of tea, rolling around the carpet with my husband and dog.
What’s your favourite holiday tradition?
When I was a kid, it was my dad taking me to the Eaton’s Centre’s Toyland – it was this magical place where there was every Barbie I’d ever wanted. Now that I’m an adult, I enjoy the grown-up version of this; coming across the extravaganzas that are the holiday windows at The Bay and Holt Renfrew. They always depict a fantasyland that I just want to jump into.
Favourite store to receive a gift from?
Anthropologie. Between the clothing and the home décor items and the jewellery, I have literally never left that store without buying something that I’ve continued to adore for years down the road. It’s a sure bet that if you get something for me there, I’ll love it.
How will you spend your time off?
In New Orleans! My parents, my boyfriend and I are heading down to NOLA for five days, and I can’t wait to experience the food, music and southern culture.
What is your New Year’s resolution?
I don’t exactly believe in resolutions. There’s this great quote from author Anaïs Nin: “I postpone death by living, by suffering, by error, by risking, by giving, by losing.” I plan to spend 2011 doing just that – and add “by loving” to that list.
What was 2010’s highlight for you?
Twitter. Since joining in February, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting dozens of talented individuals in Toronto and connecting with many more throughout the country and abroad. Twitter has broken down barriers and made the industry (and the world) a much more accessible place. For that, I am grateful.
Twitter. Since joining in February, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting dozens of talented individuals in Toronto and connecting with many more throughout the country and abroad. Twitter has broken down barriers and made the industry (and the world) a much more accessible place. For that, I am grateful.
What are you most looking forward to in 2011?
Next steps. New adventures. Leaps of faith. Great writers. Great writing. The last year before 2012.
What is your New Year’s resolution?
I don’t ever make New Year’s resolutions. I try to take advantage of or create opportunities that come my way during the year.
What was 2010’s highlight for you?
So many good blog things happened in 2010, but I really loved my trip to Los Angeles this summer.
What are you most looking forward to in 2011?
It’s really short term, but I’m looking forward to my March ski vacation in Whistler.
What is your New Year’s resolution?
I am a believer in New Year’s resolutions. It is one of the few common holiday traditions I like to take seriously. I usually try to choose something that is modest and measurable, making it easy to keep, but this year I’m feeling like I’m into audacious, broad, unmeasurable stuff. I want 2011 to be the year of YES. Whether asking or answering, I want my default setting to be on “just go for it”, and see what happens when I throw caution to to the wind and allow myself to be gutsy and uninhibited about doing what I want to do.
What was 2010’s highlight for you?
2010 was a mixed bag of a year for me, full of highlights and lowlights and sometimes no light. Above all, the highest point was also the lowest: the end of an eight-year relationship, a devastating moment that forced me to truly ask myself what I really wanted to do with my life, and then take some kind of action and move. Flying over the Atlantic for the first time to start a new life in a totally unfamiliar city has really been one of the most significant moments of my entire life so far.
What are you most looking forward to in 2011?
I’m looking forward to exploring a continent where everything is very old, but very new to me. Hello Europe, I’m coming over.
Meet Our Team: Lara
Lara is the newest addition to the rock-it team, and we couldn’t be happier to have found her. After graduating from the University of Western Ontario, Lara worked in television production and fashion styling before pursuing a career in publicity. After a short time at The Mint Agency, Lara joined the rock-it team, bringing her happy-go-lucky attitude with her.
Lara is obsessed with cereal for lunch (with almond milk), and is on a never-ending search for the perfect cheek stain to get that all-over glow (which we think she already has).
Twitter: @laratobinstyle
How long have you been part of the team?
Two months.
Two months.
Ideal vacation spot?
Travelling is a huge part of my life, so narrowing it down is impossible. But give me anywhere with mountains and water and I’m in heaven.
Travelling is a huge part of my life, so narrowing it down is impossible. But give me anywhere with mountains and water and I’m in heaven.
What do you love most about living in Toronto?
Whenever there are city events, like a parade or outdoor concert, I have the same thought every time, without fail: “Whoa… Toronto is way bigger than I realize.” I feel T.O. pride when I see huge numbers of people coming out to participate, giving our large city a smaller community feel.
Whenever there are city events, like a parade or outdoor concert, I have the same thought every time, without fail: “Whoa… Toronto is way bigger than I realize.” I feel T.O. pride when I see huge numbers of people coming out to participate, giving our large city a smaller community feel.
Best gift you’ve ever received?
A pinky ring from my mom (ironically, for her 50th birthday). My mother, my sister and I each have one; it represents our own sorority.
A pinky ring from my mom (ironically, for her 50th birthday). My mother, my sister and I each have one; it represents our own sorority.
Best part about being a publicist?
Letting your creative juices flow. I’m a people person, and love to meet and talk to new people. I also love to write, research and learn; all of which PR holds the key to.
Letting your creative juices flow. I’m a people person, and love to meet and talk to new people. I also love to write, research and learn; all of which PR holds the key to.
A little more from the fourth floor:
Website: http://www.theselby.com/
Designer: Alberta Ferretti and Gwen Stefani (L.A.M.B)
Store: Holt Renfrew Last Call
Book: The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. I can’t find my copy though, that’s gotta be bad karma.
Snack: Nachos
Season: Summer
Sexy: Summer
Inspiration: Family. Everyone at rock-it. Spiritual thinkers and optimistic folks.
Drink: Beer, especially Magic Hat, which is only available in the U.S.
Motto in two words: One Love
Designer: Alberta Ferretti and Gwen Stefani (L.A.M.B)
Store: Holt Renfrew Last Call
Book: The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. I can’t find my copy though, that’s gotta be bad karma.
Snack: Nachos
Season: Summer
Sexy: Summer
Inspiration: Family. Everyone at rock-it. Spiritual thinkers and optimistic folks.
Drink: Beer, especially Magic Hat, which is only available in the U.S.
Motto in two words: One Love
Rave: Great vacation reads
Vacation time is here, and one of the ways we love to relax is with a good book. Whether on the beach or inside by a cozy fire, we’ve found some great reads for our break. Here are three that we’ve been sitting down with:
Set in 1962, The Help is a story about the white children of Jackson, Mississippi, and the black women who raised them. The story begins when Skeeter Phelan comes home after graduating from Ole Miss to find her much-loved maid, Constantine, is gone. When her mother offers no answers about Constantine’s whereabouts, Skeeter embarks on a journey to find her.
Skeeter asks two maids to help her – the always-loyal Aibileen and the always-loud Minnie. In doing so, Skeeter is exposed to the tough realities of racial divide. While Skeeter’s journey begins as a pursuit of the truth, together these three women start a movement that forever changes their Southern town. Written by Kathryn Stockett, The Help is a hopeful book about the boundaries that exist and the time to cross them.
Transitioning between the past and present, Sarah’s Key breaks the silence on Paris’ Vél’ d’Hiv’ roundup of Jewish men, women and children. The book begins in 1942, when French police arrest Sarah and her family. With no foresight of the danger that lies ahead, Sarah locks her brother in her family’s apartment cupboard to try and keep him safe. While the French police hold the family captive at the Vel’ d’Hiv’, Sarah holds the key to her brother’s life in her pocket.
In 2002, journalist Julia Jarmond’s editor assigns her to write an article to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Vel’ d’Hiv’. As Julia begins her investigation, the information she discovers connects Sarah’s past to her own family’s future. Following Sarah’s journey from the roundup on, Julia’s life becomes forever intertwined with hers. Written by Tatiana De Rosnay, Sarah’s Key is an unbelievable Holocaust story about our duty to always remember. It’s not a light read, but will be one of the most memorable books you pick up.
After giving birth to a daughter during a monsoon in a remote Indian village, Kavita has no choice but give her up. Kavita brings her baby to a Mumbai orphanage with nothing but a silver bangle. Meanwhile, in California, American-born Somer and her Indian husband Kris decide to adopt a child from his birth place, Mumbai.
Though she loves her adoptive parents dearly, Asha takes a break from college life to discover her roots. She returns to Mumbai to find out who she is and where she came from. Switching between the stories of the two families, The Secret Daughter, written by Canadian Shilipi Somaya Gowda, tells the story of a mother suffering the loss of her daughter, and a daughter’s search for the mother who gave her up.
Pick up one of these books and become immersed in another world, giving you the mental break that you deserve during vacation. Happy reading!
What are your top vacation book picks? Tweet us – @rockitpromo!
Fashion-able: Bags vs. Clutches
If you like to peruse fashion blogs (and by “like to peruse” we mean “are obsessed with”), you might have come across the online debate about bags versus clutches. The Bag Snob likes, well, bags. And The Man Repeller prefers clutches. It’s a fascinating debate that seems to have online peeps pretty evenly split. It got us chatting about this choice up on the fourth floor, and we were pretty evenly split as well.
We know that many of you will not be purchasing $2,000 purses, but we couldn’t have a post about bags and clutches without mentioning some heavy-hitters in the accessories world! But, we also mixed in some affordable alternatives. Here are some options to satisfy all of your bag and/or clutch needs, whether high-end or high-value.
Clutches
Serious splurge: Derek Lam Evie Studded Clutch ($589 – sale price at Barney’s! Regularly $990)
Work this lovely little piece of heaven for a look that’s rock-and-roll chic. With a flap front and magnetic closure, this clutch comes with cool metal stud embellishments. Lined in fabric and featuring Lam signature ram hardware, the clutch has also has great woven lace-up trim detail. Perfect for day or night, this Aries-inspired clutch will take you from brunch all the way through to dinner and dancing.
Score a save: Matt & Nat Sondre Wallet/Clutch ($75)
Vegan (and Canadian!) line Matt & Nat has been producing gorgeous bags, clutches and wallets since founder Inder Bedi was challenged to become vegetarian for 30 days. Each piece produced is environmentally friendly, with linings made from recycled plastic bottles. This pretty little clutch doubles as a wallet, and has a similar studded design as the Lam clutch above, but without the hefty price tag. It also comes in a cool peacock blue.
Serious splurge: Hunting Season Leopard Envelope Clutch ($1,432)
If you aren’t already completely decked in this season’s must-have print, then we have the clutch for you. Hunting Season’s luxe Leopard Envelope Clutch ($1,432) is made of patterned calf hair and trimmed in black snakeskin. With bold prints and a ladylike shape, find this clutch in the pages of Vogue and Elle.
Score a save: Club Monaco Emily Clutch ($198)
Incorporating leopard into an outfit with an accessory is a subtle way to rock a trend, and won’t set you back a ton. This clutch from Canadian favourite (well, formerly Canadian) Club Monaco is sleek and simple, ensuring that you’ll have it around for a few years.
Bags
Serious splurge: Marni Goat Hair Leather Bag ($1,500)
Because a girl can never have enough fur in her closet. This quirky Marni leather cross-body bag’s goat hair is shaggy in the front and shaved in the back. With all the “it” factor a Marni girl could want, the bag has an adjustable strap and black leather trim. If you are already on PETA’s wanted list, then this bag is surely for you.
Score a save: Zara Faux Fur Handbag ($59.90)
We think this Zara faux fur option is pretty cool, even though not exactly the same as our Marni pick. It will make those who are PETA-friendly feel good about carrying something that resembles fur, and will add some edge to your look. The colour palette will go with almost any outfit, but steer clear of wearing anything else fur related.
Serious splurge: Miu Miu Leather Hobo Bag ($1,186)
Words cannot express our love for fringe, but let us tell you in the words of Rachel Zoe – it’s mah-jor. Carry this statement piece in the season’s neutral colour palette of choice. Embellished with leather fringe trim, this nude-hued bag is timeless, cool and original. Designed with a fold-over flap and clasp closure, the bag comes complete with an adjustable and removable shoulder strap and strategically placed pockets. Bag lovers, make room in your closet for this fringe take on a Miu Miu classic.
Score a save: Danier Leather Fringe Purse (on sale for $69, regularly $139)
Though not as fringe-tastic as the Miu Miu purse, this Danier version is still really pretty and very chic. Made from soft lamb leather, the purse is a cute size, with just a bit of fringe detailing, meaning you won’t get sick of it in just one season. The braided handle adds a fun bit of subtle boho. It’s also available in black and grape. And the sale price is impossible to beat.
After weighing all of our great bag and clutch options, our verdict in the great debate? Go for both! You can never have too many choices.
A holiday message for you
Special Media, Darling post: Holidays
For the holiday season, we thought it would be fun to ask some of our previous Media, Darlings how they’ll be spending their holidays. Here are a few of the answers, we’ll post more next Thursday!
Personally, I love wrapping presents. I have a bit of a stationery and wrapping paper problem in that I amass a lot of the stuff, more than I can use. (Especially the individual printed paper sheets at DeSerres, when they go on sale.) I could be wrapping and wrapping and wrapping all year long – I find it really relaxing, sort of methodical and meditative. Slowing down and doing that is my favourite part of such a consumer season. I wrap everything that goes into every stocking, all my extended family’s presents to each other, but that’s still not enough, so now I even offer to do it for my friends and their gifts for other people. I’m not exactly Candy Spelling but our rec room is a temporary wrapping workshop right now. I should probably volunteer for the Salvation Army wrap station or something and get it out of my system.
Favourite store to receive a gift from?
In Toronto? My gourmand side says Good Egg in Kensington Market, hands down. There isn’t really anything in that store I don’t love. I cook a lot (see above) and for my birthday last week a very clever friend gave me a book called The Flavour Thesaurus from there; Mika has great taste and is a terrific buyer; I always find things I’ve never seen before, and her staff know their stuff and can help you find the perfect thing for everyone on your list. Whether they’re a foodster or not. It’s a whole lifestyle store.
In Texas? Anything from Specs, the humongous liquor store chain. I collect hard-to-find small batch bourbons and they have aisles of the stuff. It makes my sister’s Christmas gift to me very easy!
How will you spend your time off?
I’ll be in Texas. Baking, swimming, reading and browsing antique and vintage shops around Houston and Austin. It’s all about spending time with my whole family together, which I don’t get to do very often. My father travels overseas a lot and my sister lives in Texas, where my parents have a second home and my mother spends half her time, so we’re really only ever all together at Christmas. Our French heritage really dominates come the holidays and even my father, who’s from England and is therefore mad about all things Christmas in a different way, gets in on the French-Canadian traditions. He’s made the signature tourtières for years (along with his mince meat tarts and the Bûche de Noël), and my very favourite part of the holidays is the last couple of days leading up to Christmas, and in particular, Christmas Eve.
The delicious Bûche de Noël
My sister, mother, father and I are all in the kitchen cooking and preparing the snacks, the cookies, the sausage rolls and the meal all day long. The ovens basically run non-stop, the kitchen is as warm as a bakery, and my dad and I compare notes on the craft holiday beer we’re drinking as we cook. And we listen to our favourite Christmas album, which is Kenny and Dolly’s Once Upon a Christmas, over and over, singing along with abandon like goofy lunatics. It’s really fun.
What’s your favourite holiday tradition?
Growing up, my brother and I had a sleepover every Christmas Eve (sleeping bags and alternating our rooms each year). When we woke up Christmas morning we were allowed to go through our stockings but had to wait until our parents were up to touch the gifts under the tree. The excitement of it all always made me happy and it still stands out as a favourite tradition.
Favourite store to receive a gift from?
That’s a hard one! Indigo has a really amazing selection of stocking stuffers, stationery and home stuff (not to mention all of the books and mags) so I can’t say I’m ever disappointed with something from there.
How will you spend your time off?
I’m heading back to the East Coast to rest, recharge and catch up with friends from home. Halifax can be damp this time of year but there’s nowhere I’d rather be (and then back to Toronto in time to ring in the New Year).
What’s your favourite holiday tradition?
Two weeks before Christmas, buying a tree, setting it up, writing and addressing Christmas cards while watching Bill Murray in Scrooged. (Ed. note: a must-see. Go rent it if you’ve never watched it!).
What’s your favourite holiday tradition?
The nine adults in my family draw names and exchange stockings on Christmas morning. It’s kind of cheesy but doing a lot of small presents for one person is a good way to acknowledge who they are and what they like: specific books, cosmetics, silly stuff, notes, treats. I dig it.
Favourite store to receive a gift from?
Any used book store. I love getting books more than anything. Barring that, Holt Renfrew.
How will you spend your time off?
I’ll be in suburban New Jersey and New York City at Christmas this year, so I’ll be chasing my nephews and nieces in the snow, and doing the classic Manhattan-at-Christmas stuff.
Rockefeller Center
Rave: Coffee & Baked Treats
If you are anything like us, your morning does not begin until you’ve had a cup of coffee. We are cranky without it. While you can never start your day off wrong with a latte, coffee goes best with baked goods. Really, what doesn’t go best paired with something sugary, flaky and full of fat? Mmmm…
Back to coffee. There are a ton of great cafés in Toronto, so choosing a favourite is tough. We are known to indulge in the occasional cup from Canada’s favourite hockey-player-turned-coffee-guru chain for the quick hit of caffeine needed for work. But when we really want to sit down and wrap our hands around a steaming hot mug of java, these are our first picks.
It may be famous amongst the Queen Street crowd for its chocolate chip walnut cookies, but trust us: its scones are just as good. Arrive early in the a.m. before they are all sold out, and choose from butterscotch, cranberry and blueberry flavours. For a quick caffeine fix, try one of their cappuccinos, a perfect blend of espresso and milk. Le Gourmand has delicious scones and super cappuccinos; need we say more?
Donuts are back in a big way. Let’s just say that this season they are to baked goods what Proenza Schouler is to fashion. Since you would never say no to a bag by Proenza Schouler, you really could never turn down a donut from Little Nicky’s Coffee. Hit up this recently opened coffee hot spot, and watch as mini donuts come fresh off the conveyor belt.
The donuts are then tossed in cinnamon and sugar, and into a paper bag for easy eating. Wash them down with Little Nicky’s special blend of espresso, which is a house blend made especially for them.
When you think about it, muffins are really morning cupcakes. And who doesn’t love cupcakes? But if you need a healthier take on the icing-topped mini cakes, muffins are the answer to sweet tooth cravings before noon. Check out Cherry Bomb for a daily selection of mixed-berry and almond muffins.
On weekends, try their special banana espresso chocolate chip variety. A great joint for take-away coffee, choose between the ultimate in lattes or some of city’s best hot chocolate.
Lit just opened their third location on the first floor of the Burroughes building (danger alert!). Yes, delicious espresso, French-press coffee and lattes are now just downstairs from the fourth floor. Like we said, danger.
Lit Espresso Bar carries Stumptown Coffee Roasters, based out of Oregon, who pioneered direct trade coffee. This tastes great and makes you feel good.
To make things even more dangerous, Lit carries baked goods from Circles & Squares bakery. Their banana bread is amazing. We now have access to coffee practically 24/7. Yikes.
Tip: When buying baked goods, it’s best to buy in bulk. Pick up enough for your office, and you’ll instantly become the most popular coworker. Ever.
Teacher’s Pet: How to get your name out there and get hired
For our third student inquiry, we’re tackling a question that applies to any job or industry. Sophie Garber, a Humber Public Relations Post-Graduate Certificate student, asks: “When starting out in the PR industry, what is the best way to get my name out and land the job of my dreams?” We’ll answer it from a PR perspective, but many of the tips apply to other positions.
Twitter: @SophieMGarber
Our Answer: Graduating from school can be both an exciting and scary time. Start off on the right foot with these tips and let the job offers roll in!
Volunteer – Volunteer, volunteer, volunteer, and when you feel you’ve done enough, volunteer some more. If you’re into fashion PR, apply to volunteer at Fashion Week. Into film? Put some time in during TIFF. Volunteering truly is the best way for students to get practical experience in a corporate environment.
Volunteering hot-spot: volunteering at the door of events is a great way to meet media members and industry professionals face to face. At rock-it, all staff are expected to check guests in at the door, as we all enjoy greeting people as they come in. It’s often a misconception that the door is a lousy place to be. It can actually be the best place to make good connections and ensure that you see everybody who comes in.
Informational interviews – If you have your eye on a coveted internship position, set up an informational interview a couple months before applying. Professionals working at the company will be impressed by your initiative, and will likely be more than happy to talk to those who share a passion for their work. These meetings give you a foot in the door, teach you about the company and make a contact or two. Always remember to follow-up with a thank you note. Bonus points for something handwritten and snail-mailed.
Use your school’s resources – Your school’s employment office, instructors and career counsellors are great resources for internship positions, jobs and job hunting tips. When in doubt about a job opportunity or internship dilemma, ask them!
Networking – Take advantage of networking opportunities both online and in person. If you aren’t already signed up, join LinkedIn now. The professional network is an amazing tool for connecting with the right people, and finding business and job opportunities in the industry. Volunteering at events is not only a chance to gain work experience, but also a break to network. Introduce yourself to people – now’s not the time to be shy (especially if you want to work in people-oriented PR!).
Do some research – This one is said often but deserves repeating: Research the name of the hiring manager. “To whom it may concern” fails reflect genuine interest in a company. Be sure to tailor your cover letter and resume by focusing on work and volunteer experience that is relevant to the company.
Pay attention to details – SPELL CHECK. We can’t say it enough. Spell check your resume and cover letter. It’s crucially important – this industry is all about communication, so all communications, both written and spoken, should be accurate. Have a friend who’s good with writing read over your application with a critical eye. Give yourself enough time to put together an application you’re really proud of. It will show your effort and that will get you noticed.
Have a PR question you want answered? Send it to carly.intern@rockitpromo.com. We’ll choose the best and answer it on our blog.
Rave: How we’re spending our holidays
We’ve been counting down to this time of year since, well, last December! Whether we celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, or something else, we’re all looking forward to a few days of rest, relaxation and time with our nearest and dearest. Everyone has different family holiday traditions, so we thought it would be fun to share what we’re up to over the coming weeks.
My fiancé and I are spending Christmas Eve with the in-laws, Christmas Day with my parental units and then taking off for the Dominican Republic (alone) for one week of all-inclusive bliss! After a hectic, fun-filled fall, I’m craving some time off to lay on a beach (wearing SPF 50, of course) and read a good book. I’ve been counting down the days – literally, with a white board on my fridge – to bathing suits, flip flops and snorkeling. Added bonus: we’re gone for New Year’s, eliminating the need to plan for the most-hyped night of the year.
Michelle was so jealous of my plans, she’s bringing her whole family to a resort down the road. 😉 See you at the airport, Mich!
My family has had a home in Florida since I was very young, so we travel there every year during the holidays. We visit my dad (who lives there six months of the year), catch up on loads of movies and books, eat good food, shop and rest. We have a beautiful lake outside our door and egrets and ducks that run around wild. On New Years Eve, we make wishes off of the bridge over the lake. It doesn’t matter if the weather is warm, or cool – it’s just our very special escape. It’s one of my favorite places in the whole world. Our home away from home.
Lara
I’m spending my holiday in NYC, my home away from home. 🙂
Okay, I lied a little. I’ll actually be staying in Brooklyn at my friend’s house, while she’s away visiting her boyfriend in Switzerland. My plans there consist of:
– Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge at least once to commute into the city.
– Exploring the High Line.
– Exploring the High Line.
– Seeing one of my favourite bands on New Years Eve and Day (and maybe also on December 30 if I end up getting a scalped ticket once I’m there)!
– Eating dinner at least once at a low-key restaurant I discovered (and am a little hesitant to share, but be that as it may, they deserve it), Alta in the West Village.
– Trying the banana pudding at Magnolia Bakery.
– Trying not to eat at all of the restaurants of every chef that I watch and love on Chopped, like Scott Conant, Alex Guarnaschelli, Aarón Sánchez, Marcus Samuelsson, Chris Santos (especially Chris Santos) and Geoffrey Zakarian.
– Going to Eataly for ingredients to make delicious home-cooked meals in my Brooklyn abode.
– Doing what I always do when in NYC: just walking walking walking, looking looking looking, and smiling smiling smiling.
If The Ghost of Christmas Past were to tell me anything, it’s that the first half of my vacation will be spent Christmas shopping. Every year I tell myself I won’t wait until the last minute, and every year I find myself scrambling. I’ll also watch lots of Christmas movies (It’s A Wonderful Life, Elf and Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer are some of my favourites). Then comes the really good stuff…
Christmas Eve
Dinner with my boyfriend, Jesse, and his brother (Kelly) and sister-in-law (Rita). We’re going to have a big feast at my house with lobster as the main course. Jesse’s cooking – he’s the best cook ever.
Christmas Day
Christmas dinner with my entire immediate family, plus Kelly and Rita. So like 10 people and two dogs in my tiny apartment. Turkey and the works. It’s stressing me out. I will definitely be drinking.
Boxing Day
A lunchtime visit with the grandparents (mom’s side). Afternoon/evening – visiting my dad’s side of the family at my grandmother’s house. It’s a tradition – we gather there every year, eat ourselves silly, drink lots of wine and exchange gifts.
Aside from fitting in as much sleep as I can, that’s pretty much it. I’m sure more fun stuff will pop up, but I’m just taking that as it comes. Merry Christmas!
I live away from all of my family, so the holidays are really the only time I get to see them all at the same time, in the same place. My fiancé, Justin, and I are celebrating Christmas together in Toronto on December 23; then we’ll head our separate ways for family bashes. My family is really big, so it’s always loud and hectic, but lots of fun. Lots of kids, lots of laughs and the odd drink or two.
Evidently, we are people that put costumes on our pets.
I’m going to St. Thomas (Ontario, not the Virgin Island, unfortunately) to see my mom, dad, brother and sister at various places over the holidays. One of our Christmas celebrations is at a farm, so we will often hook up a wagon to a tractor and head out into the countryside for a snowy ride (complete with hot chocolate and sitting on hay bales). I guess I am a small-town girl at heart.
I am over going out for New Years Eve. Bars are too expensive, too crowded and ultimately disappointing. So this year, our good friends are having a house party in Leslieville. Everyone is bringing snacks and drinks, and I know it’s going to be a blast.
I love that holidays mean quality time with people you care about (and, I also love getting gifts).
On December 23, my first day of holiday vacation, I will probably just sleep in and watch some holiday movies. Elf is a favourite.
On Christmas Eve, I am going back to my suburbian hometown, Pickering, to have dinner with my family, which is always entertaining. It’s become a tradition that later in the evening, a few of my girlfriends (who are also visiting back home) and I get together to enjoy some wine and giggles.
And this year, on December 25 at 5 p.m. (yes, I am also counting down), I will be heading south to the Dominican Republic with my mom and two sisters. I won’t be checking email for seven days, which will take a couple of days (make that hours) to get used to.
I plan on relaxing, reading, tanning, exploring, dancing and potentially having a holiday fling (joking)! I am also happy to report that I will still be in the Dominican for New Year’s Eve, so will be ringing in 2011 wearing a little summer dress, sandals and bare legs!
New Year’s Eve in the Dominican Republic will look something like this.
For the holidays, I’m a Miami girl through and through. There, I’ll be on a steady diet of Original Pancake House chocolate chip pancakes and Cheesecake Factory grilled cheese.
Delicious chocolate chip pancakes.
I can be found by the pool in a mismatched bathing suit, reading Cutting for Stone or Half Broke Horses. During tanning breaks, I’ll be shopping at Barney’s, Bloomies and Saks. Dinners and movies are with friends and family; the food is always good and the movies are always comedies. After a week away, I’ll come back relaxed, tanned and wearing a new Alex Wang outfit. Yesss.
My hubby, Ariel, and I are staycationing. The plan is to put our son into daycare (sorry Oliver!) and enjoy our time together (ALONE!) just doing everyday things. Movies, lingering lunches, massages, naps. You get the idea. Happy Holidays!
My holiday vacation will be filled with shopping, movies, coffee dates, trying new restaurants, cottaging and most of all, partying.
Christmas at Muskoka Wharf.
I’m most excited about a tradition with my dad and three sisters, where we spend the day together and shop for Christmas presents for my mom. We’ve kept this tradition going for 20 years, and it is easily our favourite day of the year. Especially since it gives us all time to enjoy lunch together, chat and take in the Christmas-y spirit!
RIB 2 