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A SEASON FOR COMPANY With At-Home Entertaining Expert Gregory Fast

A CHRISTMAS STAY AT THE SCOTSMAN Memorable Moments In Niagara-on-the-Lake

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

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Holidays for the

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

CONTENTS DWELL COVER FEATURE 35

A HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS A Timeless Family Home Designed for Celebrating

A WORLD OF YOUR OWN Peaceful Countryside and Thoughtfully Appointed Estate

A NATURAL BALANCE Simplicity and Heritage Come Together

COMPANY YOU BUILD WITH Award Winning Home Created with Precision

GLAMOUR 60

WEATHER WINTER IN STYLE Embrace Texture, Beautiful Fabrics and Layers This Winter

WINTER LAYERS Refined Layers, Rich Textures and Timeless Pieces

WANDER

84 20 | November • December 2026

LIGHT & BRIGHT Embracing Winter Fun in Montréal

AUTUMN RETREAT Discovering Leeward House, Thornbury

A CHRISTMAS STAY A Festive Escape with Historic Charm and Holiday Magic

AT THE EDGE OF JAPAN Diving, Black Pearls and Star-Filled Nights in The Wild

SAVOUR 94

A SEASON FOR COMPANY With Gregory Fast At-Home Entertaining Expert

100

THE NEXT CHAPTER OF CENTRO Part of Our City’s Culinary History bestsidemagazine.com

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CONTENTS LIFESTYLE 106

A SUNDAY MORNING JOURNEY THROUGH FALL A Celebration of Exceptional Automobiles and The Open Road

110

AGAINST THE GRAIN Davoud Khosravi’s Lifelong Instinct to Create

114

WILD AT HEART Turning a Lifelong Love of Wildlife Into a Shared Purpose

120

TOGETHER IN SONG Burlington’s Myriad Ensemble Brings Its Holiday Performances Home

123

A DAY OF HOPE Turning a Simple Idea Into a Global Movement

SIDE NOTES 33

DWELL

GLAMOUR

WANDER

SAVOUR

105

LIFESTYLE

106 BEST FINDS

THE BEST THINGS, GIFT WRAPPED A Curated Collection of Gift Ideas For The Holiday Season

MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT Warm Metallics and Festive Touches For a Home Ready to Celebrate

SOCIALIZING 126

22 | November • December 2026

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Contributors

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2026 Co-Founders SUE BARTHOLOMEW LAUREN LOWE Creative Director KELSEY ADDISON

KARIN BENNETT Interior Design

GREGORY FAST

LINDA BARNARD

Hosting / Entertaining

Travel / Destinations

Graphic Designers BLYNDA DACOSTA CATHRYN HAYNES CARMEN JIMÉNEZ Sales Director SUE BARTHOLOMEW Sales Representative RAY SPEERS

SUE BARTHOLOMEW

Co-Founder / Sales Director

LAUREN LOWE

Co-Founder / Publisher

KELSEY ADDISON

Creative Director / Editor

Making Spirits Bright he holidays bring us back to what matters most: the people around our table, the places we call home, and the traditions we look forward to sharing. There’s joy in the preparations, too: bringing out favourite decorations, choosing a thoughtful gift and making plans with friends we don’t see nearly often enough throughout the rest of the year.

season, and Grand Touring Automobiles invites us along for A Sunday Morning Journey Through Fall. We also meet Blake Moynes in Wild at Heart and explore The Next Chapter of Centro In The Square.

Our November/December issue celebrates that spirit, beginning with our cover story, A Home for the Holidays, featuring Butler & Lowe. Gregory Fast welcomes us into A Season for Company, while Karin Bennett’s A Natural Balance and Stuart Riley Bespoke Homes’ The Company You Build With explore the care that goes into creating a home.

As another year draws to a close, thank you to our readers, contributors and partners for being part of Best Side. Wishing you a very merry holiday season, good company and a wonderful year ahead.

Andrews helps us Weather Winter in Style, Knar brings a little sparkle to the 26 | November • December 2026

Further afield, Japan, Montréal, Leeward House and The Scotsman Hotel offer inspiration for your next escape.

Contributors MAIRI ANN LINDA BARNARD KARIN BENNETT MACKENZIE BEST MARTHA BREEN KEN DIXON GREGORY FAST CORRIE GEORGE KIRSTEN GORDON JUDY HUM BARBARA HUNTER Photographers MIKE CHAJECKI PHOTO GTA KYLE KIRKWOOD DANIEL NEUHAUS SCOTT NORSWORTHY Publisher

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Best Side Magazine is published by Preferred Publishing. Copyright © Preferred Publishing. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the prior written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in editorial content are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Preferred Publishing or its advertisers. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, Preferred Publishing assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or any loss arising from the use of this publication. Editorial content is provided for information and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to replace professional advice. Advertisers and contributors are solely responsible for securing all necessary rights and permissions for materials supplied for publication. Preferred Publishing accepts no liability for copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property claims arising from advertiseror contributor-supplied content.

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The Best Things, Gift Wrapped A C U R ATED CO LLEC TI O N OF GIFT IDEAS FOR TH E S E A SO N

Aline Nasseh Artisan Chocolates Limited Edition Holiday Bear Box | Starting at $35 AlineNasseh.com

Barringtons White & Warren Cashmere Slippers (available in Grey, Sandwisp, Heather & Rose Petal) | $315 Barringtons.ca 28 | November • December 2026

Quince 100% Leather Oversized Bomber Jacket | $350 Quince.com

Nutterie Grazing Board Trio | $69.99 Nutterie.com

Electric Lemonade Beauty After Hours Hydra Luxe Rescue Mask (30 mL) | $47 ElectricLemonadeBeauty.com

Nutterie Happy Hour Mix | $5.99 Nutterie.com bestsidemagazine.com

Budds Group Defender x YETI 28L Waterproof Panga Backpack | $790 Shop.LandRover.com

Brava Boutique Above: Lise Charmel Cuir Couture Bra | $268 Above: Lise Charmel Cuir Couture Waspie | $238 Right: Marjolaine Désirée Silk Chemise | $530 BravaBoutique.com

Quince Luxe Baby Cashmere Cable Cardigan | $345 Quince.com bestsidemagazine.com

Knar Jewellery The Winding Geneva by KERIS | $2,275 Knar.com

Budds Group Defender x YETI Dog Bowl Large | $135 Shop.LandRover.com

Andrews 12 Days of Christmas 402 Set | $185 AndrewsCo.com November • December 2026 | 29

2054 LAKESHORE RD E OAKVILLE - $33,000,000

1540 WATERSEDGE RD. MISSISSAUGA - $13,499,995

10 BROOKFIELD RD. OAKVILLE - $10,900,000

15 CHARTWELL RD OAKVILLE - $9,995.000

46 SECOND ST OAKVILLE - $7,599,000

129 WOLFDALE AVE OAKVILLE - $7,470,000

1081 ARGLYE DRIVE OAKVILLE - $7,188,000

1074 LAVENDER LANE OAKVILLE - $5,799,000

100 APPLEBY PL BURLINGTON - $5,749,000

25 TURTLE LAKE DR. HALTON HILLS - $5,599,000

2372 CARRINGTON PL . OAKVILLE - $5,399,000

130 EDGECLIFFE PL . BURLINGTON - $4,795,000

1387 WAVERLY AVE . OAKVILLE - $4,349,000

287 MACDONALD RD. OAKVILLE - $3,769,000

2209 PINENEEDLE ROW MISSISSAUGA - $3,149,000

*Not intended to solicit persons or properties currently under contract.

335 HELEN LAWSON LANE OAKVILLE - $3,425,000

1168 CAREY RD. OAKVILLE - $3,175,000

105 WHITTIGTON PL . OAKVILLE - $2,850,000

24 BIRKBANK DR. OAKVILLE - $2,999,000

2073 DERAMORE DR. OAKVILLE - $2,888,000

1063 GREENOAKS DR. MISSISSAUGA - $2,699,000

1530 CHASEHURST DR. MISSISSAUGA - $2,625,000

104 WHITTINGTON PL . OAKVILLE - $2,599,999

380 WATSON AVE . OAKVILLE - $2,599,000

85 PARK ST. W. MISSISSAUGA - $2,249,000

401 CAIRNCROFT ROAD OAKVILLE - $2,195,000

303-123 MAURICE DR. OAKVILLE - $1,875,000

255 SPRING GARDEN ROAD OAKVILLE - $1,749,000

2331 MARINE DR. OAKVILLE - $1,439,000

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DWELL BENJAMIN MOORE 2027 COLOUR OF THE YEAR Benjamin Moore’s 2027 Colour of the Year, Webster Green HC-130, is a timeless, adaptable green that brings depth and personality to interiors. Balancing classic appeal with a fresh perspective, the shade offers a confident way to introduce colour into a space while complementing a range of design styles. BenjaminMoore.com

TEAKORA LAUNCHES TEAK UTENSIL SET Bring natural warmth to the kitchen with Teakora’s nine-piece Everyday Set. Crafted from sustainably sourced teak wood with no plastic, synthetic coatings or harsh chemicals, each utensil features a unique natural grain. Designed to be durable and timeless, the collection offers a simple alternative to conventional plastic kitchen tools. ShopTeakora.ca

BEAUSOLEIL’S SKY COLLECTION Coming soon to Burlington, the Sky Collection at BeauSoleil introduces nine expansive 1,500-square-foot suites starting from $1.7 million. Set near downtown and the lake, the 29-storey building features sweeping lake and city views, oversized window walls and a distinctive sailinspired design by Turner Fleisher Architects. BeauSoleilCondos.com

BRING THE HOLIDAYS HOME DUPRAY BLOOM AIR PURIFIER The Bloom Air Purifier by Canadian company Dupray combines clean air with thoughtful design. This HEPA-13 purifier removes airborne pollutants while doubling as a plant stand or accent table with storage. Its customizable design allows it to blend seamlessly into your space rather than looking like another appliance. Dupray.com bestsidemagazine.com

Oakville’s fivedoorsdown Holiday Market returns to Oakville with a thoughtfully curated collection of Christmas décor, gifts, seasonal accents and fresh greenery, available through its online holiday shop. Founded by Wendy Saunders and Kim Saxton, fivedoorsdown also offers custom fresh and faux wreaths, seasonal porch pots, centrepieces, holiday decorating services and thoughtful gifting for family, friends and corporate clients. fivedoorsdown.ca November • December 2026 | 33

“With its traditional lines and Carefully considered details, the home draws on Oakville’s rich architectural heritage.” – Joris Keeren

A Home For the HOLIDAYS 65 Highland | A timeless family home designed for living, gathering and celebrating By Mairi Ann For homeowner Ashley McNabb, 65 Highland was envisioned as a home that feels warm, welcoming and inviting, yet elegant and timeless. Natural materials, beautiful millwork, warm neutral tones and layered textures create a sophisticated setting that remains comfortable for family life. Furnishings from McNabb Furniture complement the home’s thoughtful design, adding to its inviting atmosphere. Designed for entertaining as much as for raising a family, the home balances beauty with functionality, with nothing too precious to be enjoyed. bestsidemagazine.com

November • December 2026 | 35

“The vision was to create a Classic family home that would feel Distinctive while respecting the neighbourhood’s Character.” – Jordan Butler

The spaces where family and friends naturally gather are especially meaningful, particularly during the holidays. Christmas is Ashley’s favourite time of year, when festive decorations bring an extra layer of warmth and magic to the home. The Highland neighbourhood was equally appealing, with its mature trees, established character and strong sense of community. Its peaceful residential setting, combined with the ability to walk to downtown Oakville, makes it a place where family life and local connections come naturally. For Jordan Butler and Simon Lowe, owners of custom home builders Butler & Lowe, the vision was to create a classic family home that would feel distinctive while respecting the neighbourhood's character. Traditional architecture, beautiful proportions and thoughtful detailing give the home an impressive presence without compromising its welcoming spirit. 36 | November • December 2026

The intention was never to follow passing trends, but to create a home that would stand the test of time. Formal entertaining spaces are balanced with comfortable, functional rooms for everyday living, allowing the home to work beautifully through every season. Their collaboration with Joris Keeren, principal of Keeren Design, brought this vision to life through carefully considered architectural details and transitions that make the home feel both timeless and current. Joris had previously designed Ashley’s home in Bronte Village, making 65 Highland an opportunity to continue a successful working relationship. Reflecting on the project, he shares: “Having designed Ashley’s previous home in Bronte Village, we saw this project as a welcome opportunity to continue a successful collaboration. Ashley brought a clear vision for both the exterior and interior—something we always appreciate in a client. bestsidemagazine.com

“With its traditional lines and carefully considered details, the home draws on Oakville’s rich architectural heritage. Although newly built with every modern amenity, its façade and overall massing reflect the character of homes found here more than a century ago, giving the design a timeless quality. “Ashley brought her own design talents to the interiors, selecting exquisite details and finishes that beautifully complement the exterior architecture.” What made the project particularly special for Jordan and Simon was the opportunity to build for the family a second time. A returning client speaks to a relationship built on trust and a shared understanding of how a family wants to live. While their previous experience brought familiarity to the process, this home offered the excitement of creating something entirely new. Watching it evolve from architectural drawings into a welcoming family home was among the most rewarding aspects of the project. The landscape architects at ProScape Landscape Land Design completed the vision for 65 Highland, extending the home’s timeless character into its outdoor surroundings. Thoughtfully designed to complement the architecture, the landscape enhances the property’s overall appeal and creates a cohesive setting for family life throughout the seasons.

“A returning client speaks to a Relationship built on trust and a shared understanding of How a Family wants to live.”

– Simon Lowe

That welcome extended to the wider community when 65 Highland participated in St. Andrew’s Christmas House Tour. Visitors could experience the home dressed for the holidays and see how its architecture, interiors, and seasonal touches worked together. Sharing it gave Ashley’s love of Christmas a place within a longstanding Oakville tradition. The tour’s charitable purpose made that participation especially meaningful. Raising funds for St. Andrew’s Church and local organizations supporting people and families in need, it connects an appreciation for homes and design with the opportunity to give back. For visitors and homeowners alike, the occasion brings a community together around the season. At 65 Highland, opening the door was a natural extension of the original vision. Conceived as a place for family life and gathering, the home also became a place to share with others. Its holiday story belongs as much to that spirit of welcome as to the decorations. bestsidemagazine.com

November • December 2026 | 37

Urban Towns in Brampton Starting from the $400s

Singles in Midhurst Starting from the $800s

Freehold Towns in Bradford Starting from the $700s

Rosehaven’s award-winning urban towns are coming to the heart of North Brampton. Located at Inspire Blvd. and Russell Creek Dr., and start from the $400s. 2 & 3 Bedroom suites from 931 - 1,305 sq.ft.

Tour Rosehaven’s stunning models at Springside Trails, a limited collection of 36’ and 44’ single homes in Midhurst. Minutes from Barrie and Highway 400, homes start from the $800s.

Now selling 20’ freehold towns at Rosehaven’s award-winning community in Bradford. Located at Crossland Blvd. and Professor Day Dr., homes start from the $700s.

Presentation Centre: 310 Randall St., Oakville (519) 316-1576 countryside@rosehavenhomes.com

Model Homes/Presentation Centre: 48 Sweet Cicely St., Midhurst (249) 388-9177 springsidetrails@rosehavenhomes.com

Presentation Centre: 971 Langford Blvd., Bradford (905) 551-0183 dreamﬁelds@rosehavenhomes.com

GIF RUSSELL CREEK

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Singles & Towns in Oakville Starting from the $900s

Singles & Towns in Innisfil Starting from the $700s

Singles & Towns in Stoney Creek Starting from the $600s

Located at Sixth Line & Burnhamthorpe, Ivy Rouge is a prestigious collection of singles, and freehold townhomes starting from the $900’s. Now in its third phase, these homes feature timeless architecture and superior craftsmanship, and are surrounded by top-rated schools, major retail hubs, trails, parks, and golf courses — a perfect setting for families and professionals seeking luxury and convenience.

Just ﬁve minutes from Lake Simcoe, Simcoe Woods offers 20’ freehold towns and 33’ and 39’ singles starting from the $700’s. This serene neighbourhood blends natural beauty with modern convenience, offering walking trails, green spaces, and access to local amenities in Alcona. With Highway 400 and the future Innisﬁl GO Station, commuting to Toronto is easy, making Simcoe Woods ideal for those looking for a quieter lifestyle with convenient amenities.

On The Ridge is a new collection of 35’ singles and stunning 20’ freehold towns set on the Niagara Escarpment in Upper Stoney Creek. Located at Upper Centennial and Highland Road, you’ll ﬁnd some of Ontario’s most stunning trails and waterfalls, with access to convenient amenities and a rich history.

Model Home/Presentation Centre: 46 Settlers Rd. W., Oakville (905) 582-8880 Ivyrouge@rosehavenhomes.com

Model Home/Presentation Centre: 2153 Donnelly Cres., Innisﬁl (249) 388-8561 simcoewoods@rosehavenhomes.com

Presentation Centre: 272 First Rd West, Stoney Creek (289) 389-1365 ontheridge@rosehavenhomes.com

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! home in Oakville home in Stoney Creek home in Caledon home in Brampton home in Bradford home in Innisfil home in Midhurst at

Learn more at Rosehaven.com Call our hotline to be directly connected to any of our sales offices (416) 410-0175

best signature home 1272 FIDDLERS GREEN ROAD ANCASTER

WORLD of your

OWN

Peaceful countryside, remarkable entertaining spaces and thoughtfully appointed private retreats come together on this gated Ancaster estate. 40 | November • December 2026

bestsidemagazine.com

et behind gated access on 5.2 acres, 1272 Fiddlers Green Road is an extraordinary country estate where contemporary architecture and expansive grounds create a world of their own. A landscaped approach, courtyard fountain and onethird-acre pond establish a memorable arrival, just minutes from the heart of Ancaster. Inside, the sprawling bungalow with lofted in-law quarters pairs custom moulded ceilings reaching 14 to 18 feet with porcelain and wide-plank hardwood floors. Granite feature walls and fireplaces anchor the living spaces, while floor-to-ceiling windows frame the gardens. Whole-home automation brings everyday ease to the impressive surroundings. The kitchen combines appliances by Sub-Zero, Thermador and Miele with a butler’s pantry and a dedicated bar for coffee and cocktails. Generous dining spaces accommodate family celebrations, while the adjoining lanai extends entertaining outdoors with heated Eramosa flagstone, a fireplace and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. The principal suite is a private retreat, complete with an expansive dressing room and a patio with its own hot tub. Heated herringbone floors, a soaking tub beside a fireplace and a digital rain shower distinguish the ensuite. Three additional bedroom suites occupy the opposite wing.

An elevator connects to a lower level designed for gathering, with a party room, full bar, games room and professional gym with sauna and steam shower. A remarkable 24-seat theatre features a 254-inch screen and immersive Dolby Atmos sound. For collectors, a 5,210-square-foot detached garage includes a lounge, wash bay and private fuel station. Outdoors, a heated pool, entertainment cabana, 14-person hot tub, sports court and children’s playground create a setting for recreation and relaxation. bestsidemagazine.com

Private, spacious, and thoughtfully equipped, this home offers room for quiet routines, memorable celebrations, and everything in between. Listed at $14,800,000 Contact: Kevin Girard Girard Team – Royal LePage State Realty 905-574-7441 • girardteam.ca

SCAN TO TAKE A CLOSER LOOK INSIDE November • December 2026 | 41

FRENCH-INSPIRED BUNGALOW IN OAKHILL 21 HARRINGTON PLACE, ANCASTER

LISTED AT $3,900,000 | 5 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 6,145 SQFT | 0.45 ACRES 100 SENECA DR, ANCASTER

1043 JERSEYVILLE RD W, ANCASTER

RESORT-STYLE DREAM HOME

4.1-ACRE LUXURY PAR ADISE

LISTED AT $3,495,000 | 6 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 7,000 SQFT

LISTED AT $3,395,000 | 3 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 4,280 SQFT

1272 FIDDLERS GREEN RD, ANCASTER

1099 MINERAL SPRINGS RD, ANCASTER

814 BINKLEY RD, ANCASTER

LISTED AT $14,800,000 7 BEDS | 13 BATHS | 22,387 SQFT | 5.2 ACRES

LISTED AT $5,995,000 3 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 6,674 SQFT | 39 ACRES

LISTED AT $5,695,000 8 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 8,075 SQFT | 6.37 ACRES

DEVELOPMENT LAND IN DUNDAS

126 MCGREGOR CRES, ANCASTER

18 ELDER CRES, ANCASTER

LISTED AT $4,995,000 120 UNIT CONDO OR RETIREMENT

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We pair simple forms with textured stone, richly grained wood and vintage furnishings.

A NATURAL Contemporary simplicity and modern heritage character come together in a home designed for gathering. By Karin Bennett | Photography by Mike Chajecki

A restrained palette helps these elements work together. Warm neutrals and earthy colours allow you to notice the grain in a cabinet, the surface of a stone fireplace or the weave of an upholstered chair. There is still contrast, but it comes as much from the materials as it does from colour. Darker woods are particularly useful in this approach. Against pale walls and lighter finishes, they give a room depth. Paired with soft upholstery and woven accents, they bring balance without making a space feel heavy.

MEET THE DESIGNER KARIN BENNETT Owner, Principal Designer KarinBennettDesigns.com

Arches also sit comfortably between these design influences. They soften the geometry of contemporary interiors while recalling more traditional architecture. Used thoughtfully, an arch can frame a view or mark the transition between rooms with little need for added decoration.

ontemporary design and modern heritage style share more common ground than you might expect. Both value materials, proportion and craftsmanship. Bringing them together allows for interiors with clean lines and a sense of history—rooms that feel considered without feeling formal. In our work at Karin Bennett Designs, we often explore that balance. We pair simple forms with textured stone, richly grained wood and vintage finds. The architecture provides structure, while the materials and collected pieces give each home its character. bestsidemagazine.com

November • December 2026 | 45

For anyone drawn to this style, I suggest starting with the materials and pieces you respond to. need to make a statement. Leaving some elements quiet gives others room to be appreciated. For this project, those choices were shaped by the homeowners and how they wanted to spend their time. This is a place to relax together and welcome family and friends, so comfort and ease were central to the design. Their sense of style gave us direction, while personal details made the spaces their own. The gallery wall in the primary bedroom is one example. In the children’s bedrooms, we took a more playful approach, introducing details that gave each room its own personality. A consistent palette and recurring materials hold the home together, leaving room for these individual expressions.

These ideas guided the design of this second home, where the surrounding Canadian landscape offered a natural starting point. Coniferous trees, water and sandy shores informed the palette and reinforced our choice of wood, stone and other natural materials. In the living room, the stone fireplace anchors the space. Upholstered furniture and curved shapes balance its presence, while arched shelving introduces darker framing and a wood backdrop. Books, pottery and personal objects add interest without competing with the architecture.

space. Repeating a form in different ways helps connect the rooms while allowing each to have its own identity.

One of my favourite views looks through an arch in the entry with exposed wood beams and tiled floors beyond. It captures the relationship between simple forms and more traditional materials that runs throughout the home.

Furnishings play an equally important role. I like to source from a variety of places, combining contemporary furniture with antique and vintage finds. Older pieces introduce different finishes, proportions and signs of use. They help a home feel collected over time.

The arched shower gave us another opportunity to explore this idea. A first for our team, it brings the architectural language of the house into a more private

The key is in the mix. A woven chair offers something different from an upholstered sofa or a wood table. Each contributes to the room, but every piece does not

46 | November • December 2026

For anyone drawn to this style, I suggest starting with the materials and pieces you respond to. Build a foundation with natural textures and a manageable colour palette, then introduce contrast through wood tones, furnishings and objects. Something aged or unexpected can be just as important as a new purchase. What interests me most about combining contemporary and modern heritage influences is the freedom it allows. There is room for clean-lined furniture, traditional details and the things a family has collected along the way. In this home, that combination supports exactly what the homeowners wanted: a place to settle in, spend time together and make their own. bestsidemagazine.com

A Few of Our Favourite Things

by: Jason & Jennifer W H E N T H E H O L I D AY S C A L L FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL, F I N D H O L I D AY G I F T I N G AT C E N T R O G A R D E N .

1. Mixed Cedar Wreath D24” $115. 2. Pearl Embellished Cone Trees Lg $45 Sm $32. 3. Metal and Paper Mache Tree with Candy Canes H13.75” $99. 4. Gold Heart Ornament H4” $8. 5. Large Balsam and Cedar Boxed Crackle Glass Candle $110. 6. Alpine Trees Pillow L21” W12” $69. 7. Beaded Cocktail Ornament H4.5” $21.

437 Brant St. | 289.337.5755 CentroGarden.Com Centro NOCA | 590 Brant St. | 905.635.0543

best finds

Making Spirits Bright

W ELCO M I N G S E ATS , WA R M M E TA LLI C S A N D FES TI V E TO U C H ES F O R A H O M E R E A DY TO C ELEB R ATE

5) Star of the Season A sculptural star in polished brass-finished iron adds festive shine to a mantel or console, with appeal well beyond December. AndersonsInteriors.ca 3.

1) A Little Starlight Spheres wrapped in tiny golden lights add holiday magic to branches and entryways, especially when hung in clusters. CocoonFurnishings.ca

4. 5.

2) A Fold of Festive Bring the forest indoors with pleated paper trees in deep teal and olive, adding festive texture to mantels and tabletops. CocoonFurnishings.ca 3) Oh, Deer! With sweeping antlers and an antique green patina, this sculptural reindeer brings storybook Christmas charm to a mantel or entryway. CrateAndBarrel.ca

8. 9.

10.

48 | November • December 2026

7) A Glowing Pear Hand-poured pear candles bring a warm glow and subtle fruit fragrance to holiday tables, nestled among greenery or grouped together. CocoonFurnishings.ca 8) A Golden Welcome With its gilded wood rays, this sunburst mirror brings a festive gleam to the room, reflecting the glow of holiday gatherings. ElizabethInteriors.com

4) Room for Company Make room for holiday company with the Boutique sofa, pairing curved lines and moss green upholstery for a welcoming gathering spot. JoshuaCreekFurniture.com

11.

6) A Merry Little Turn Take a festive turn in the Coco swivel chair, where soft green upholstery and curved lines invite guests to linger. JoshuaCreekFurniture.com

9) Bells on the Door Five vintage brass-finished bells hang from red velvet ribbon, bringing Christmas cheer to a wreath, banister or welcoming doorway. CrateAndBarrel.ca 10) Green & Gleaming Glossy moss green ceramic and antique brass accents give these sculptural finials a festive presence, perfect for a mantel or console. AndersonsInteriors.ca 11) Feather Your Festive Nest Birds and blooms in rich seasonal colours grace this cotton velvet lumbar pillow, adding a festive flourish to your favourite chair. ElizabethInteriors.com bestsidemagazine.com

FU R N I T U R E • RU GS • C A R P E T • D R A P E RY • R E U P H O L S T E RY L I G H T I N G • FA R ROW & B A L L PA I N T • WA L L PA P E R

686 Guelph Line, Burlington 905.639.0666 andersonsinteriors.ca @AndersonsInteriors

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$1,675,000

MISSISSAUGA

3 BEDS | 3 BATHS | LOT SIZE 50 X 150 FT EAST CREDIT, MISSISSAUGA IMPECCABLY RENOVATED

SOLD

MILTON

Our Team 2025 -2026

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5563 Whitehorn Ave

SOLDS, BUYERS REPRESENTED & LEASED PROPERTIES FROM JANUARY 2025 TO THE END OF SEPTEMBER 2026

$1,699,999

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4+1 BEDS | 5 BATHS | LOT SIZE 54 X 111 FT

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5 BEDS | 3 BATHS | LOT SIZE 62 X 120 FT

SCAN HERE FOR MORE LISTINGS & SALES

SCAN QR CODE FOR OUR LIST OF 2026 SALES

Chances are We’ve SOLD in

Your Neighbourhood!

TORONTO 416.236.1871 | GTA 905.466.8888 PHINNEYREALESTATE.COM

SAFE AT HOME:

Expert Advice from Corrie George

SHORTER DAYS. SMARTER HOME PROTECTION. Canada First shares a practical approach to keeping your home and family protected through the winter.

As days grow shorter and holiday plans fill the calendar, the way we use our homes changes. We arrive home after dark, leave deliveries on the doorstep and head away to visit family. Amid the preparations, home security can easily slip down the list. For Canada First, helping homeowners feel safe begins with awareness. A few practical changes, paired with an understanding of a property’s weak spots, can make a meaningful difference. Well-lit entrances, properly secured windows and doors, and having someone collect packages while you’re away are useful starting points. The goal is to make your home less inviting to an intruder while building habits that support everyday peace of mind. LOOKING BEYOND THE FRONT DOOR When Canada First assesses a property, its specialists consider how someone might attempt to gain access. Basement windows can be overlooked, particularly when landscaping conceals them from the street. A ladder left outside may provide access to an upper floor, while unsecured tools could be used to force an entry.

PROTECTION THAT WORKS TOGETHER The company builds its recommendations around three functions: detect, delay and deter. Cameras help monitor activity, while security window film and upgraded door locks add resistance at potential entry points. Alarms provide another layer of protection. Canada First also offers FogShield™, a system that can connect to an alarm and release fog when triggered, reducing visibility within a room. It's part of the company’s broader approach to discouraging intruders from staying inside. Every property has different needs. The right combination depends on the home’s layout, its existing security measures and the areas most vulnerable to entry. Understanding those details helps homeowners decide where improvements will be most useful. A CLEAR PLACE TO START Beyond possessions, home security protects the people, memories, and sense of comfort associated with home. Canada First’s Free Home Defence Audit gives homeowners a starting point for that conversation.

The assessment also considers the strength of doors, locks, and windows. These physical barriers deserve as much consideration as the technology monitoring them.

During the visit, a specialist conducts a 66-point inspection to identify vulnerabilities and explain potential improvements. The aim is to help homeowners understand their options and make informed decisions, including simple steps they can take themselves.

Cameras and alarms play an important role in home security, but they serve a different purpose than reinforced entry points. A camera can capture activity, and an alarm can signal a problem. Strengthening a door or window makes entry more difficult.

Preparing for winter doesn’t have to mean a major investment or a complete security overhaul. It can begin with better lighting, a stronger lock or a closer look at a basement window. Knowing where your home stands is the first step towards feeling more confident within it.

That distinction is central to Canada First’s approach: buying time.

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THE COMPANY YOU BUILD WITH At Roseland Manor, Stuart Riley Bespoke Builder brings careful craftsmanship, precision construction and a trusted team to an award-winning home. By Barbara Hunter | Photography by Scott Norsworthy Photography 54 | November • December 2026

bestsidemagazine.com

At 3093 Princess Boulevard, natural stone, peaked rooflines, and white oak shutters give the home a welcoming presence. Inside, a two-storey glass wall frames the garden, while pale wood floors and a tall fireplace surround bring warmth to the great room.

For Stuart Riley Bespoke Builder, realizing that vision meant resolving construction challenges, coordinating specialist trades and paying close attention to details long before the finishes arrived. Known as Roseland Manor, the Burlington home won the Luxury Residence Canada category at the 2024 International Design & Architecture Awards. Behind that recognition is a building process grounded in craftsmanship, experience and collaboration.

A home that fits Stuart’s construction career started over 30 years ago with high-end custom cabinetry tailored to individual clients’ needs and wants. Stuart Riley Bespoke Builder was built on the same principles of listening and respecting each client’s choices, but on a far grander scale. Custom homebuilding was a natural progression, where understanding how someone lived could shape an entire house. “A custom home is the most personal thing most people will ever build, so every project starts with listening,” he says. bestsidemagazine.com

The word “bespoke” reflects that commitment. Just as a tailored suit is made for its wearer, a home should respond to the people who live there. Stuart brings that thinking to his work with architects, designers, engineers and trades, guided by craftsmanship, attention to detail, honesty, transparency and collaboration.

Precision from the ground up When the drawings first arrived for Roseland Manor, Stuart immediately saw the possibilities: the scale of the great room, stone extending through the gables and chimney, and the house opening towards the garden. The project tested the team early. A high water table complicated excavation, particularly where the car elevator required digging approximately four feet below the basement floor. The elevator demanded precision across several disciplines. The concrete work, welded steel, and lift installation had to come together precisely, requiring close coordination among engineering, the specialist subcontractor, and the builder. Drainage was equally

November • December 2026 | 55

critical. A collection basin and high-output sump pumps helped manage the water and keep the basement dry. Accuracy below the surface mattered as much as the finished result. From the concrete to the steel, careful execution was essential to the elevator’s fit and function. That approach carried through framing. The great room’s two-storey glass wall demanded precise openings and straight structural work. Its slim black window grilles would reveal small discrepancies. Across the room, the fireplace surround required its panel seams to align with the mantel and ceiling. The team resolved those relationships on paper before installation.

Care in every detail Outside, the cedar shake roof contributes natural texture and depth to the home’s traditional profile, complementing the stone and oak. Its quality and detailing form part of the overall craftsmanship, with the roof’s appearance considered alongside the gables, chimney and timber accents. The white oak shutters and timber brackets required a different kind of patience. Each piece was traced and cut by hand to follow the natural stone’s irregular contours, fitting without gaps or filler. Look closely where the brackets meet the wall beneath the garage roof, or where the shutters sit beside the windows. Each junction reflects the time taken to fit the wood to the surface behind it. For Stuart, quality workmanship carries forward from one trade to the next. Early collaboration and daily oversight help maintain that standard throughout construction.

A trusted team David Prince had planned to retire when Stuart began building next door in 2015. Watching the work sparked an interest in custom homebuilding and eventually led to a partnership. “I was immediately impressed by the quality of the subtrades he attracted and his ‘no problem’ attitude,” David recalls. After building award-winning homes together with Stuart, David turned to him for a home for himself and his wife, Rhonda. Her morning walks had drawn her to Roseland’s history and character, making Princess Boulevard a fitting setting for their next chapter. They reunited the same core group of professionals, with Stuart Riley Bespoke Builder as general contractor. Rhonda worked closely with the designer throughout, bringing an eye for detail that Stuart credits as essential to the finished home. 56 | November • December 2026

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When an item begins to exceed its projection, Stuart raises it early. Clients can weigh their priorities, refine a finish or reallocate funds elsewhere. That ongoing conversation helps them work towards the custom home they want within their desired budget. It is another expression of the bespoke approach: tailoring decisions to the client’s needs, preferences and financial priorities, with information available throughout the build.

Built for the years ahead Stuart’s concern extends beyond appearance. Spray foam insulation contributes to insulation and air sealing, while a heated driveway helps manage winter snow and ice. They chose natural stone for longevity, and the covered outdoor room extends seasonal use of the garden. “A well-built home is one where those decisions are made early, by people who are thinking about how the house will perform in its twentieth winter and not only how it looks on the day the photos are taken,” he says. Stuart deliberately limits the number of builds he undertakes each year so he can remain directly involved on site. That involvement lets him follow the work closely and maintain the relationships a custom build depends on. Walking through Princess Boulevard today, he remembers the early meetings, long days of coordination and tradespeople working towards a shared goal. The award recognizes the finished home. Stuart also takes pride in the commitment behind it—and in knowing every trade can stand behind the work. StuartRiley.ca

Bespoke, with a clear budget Understanding what clients want also means understanding what they want to spend. Stuart’s cost-plus model pairs actual construction expenses with a fixed management fee, supported by a detailed budget tracking system developed with David during an earlier project. Monthly reports show line-item budget allocations, actual expenditures and individual trade payments. Contracts, quotes, and invoices are documented, giving clients a clear view of where their money goes. bestsidemagazine.com

November • December 2026 | 57

NATURAL BRILLIANCE

natural lavender sapphires & brilliant diamonds

frida fine jewellery by carrie lamb 1477 LOWER WATER ST, BISHOP’S LANDING | HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA PRIVATE & VIRTUAL CONSULTATIONS AVAILABLE | FRIDAJEWELLERY@FRIDA.CA | FRIDA.CA

GLAMOUR KNIX STORE OPENS AT MAPLEVIEW CENTRE KAIA NATURALS BODY REFRESH Canadian clean beauty brand Kaia Naturals is taking its odour expertise beyond the underarm with The Body Refresh, an alcoholfree mist for body and hair. Designed to address odour at the source, the formula combines triethyl citrate and zinc to help neutralize odour-causing compounds while leaving behind a light fragrance veil. KaiaNaturals.com

Canadian-founded company Knix has opened a new store at Mapleview Centre, bringing its innovative collection of intimates, swimwear, and activewear to Burlington. Founded with a focus on comfort, inclusivity, and real-life needs, Knix is known for pioneering leakproof underwear and creating products designed to help people feel confident in their own skin. Knix.ca

ESSENCE BEAUTY’S RED LIGHT THERAPY MEMBERSHIP Essence Beauty Salon is making consistent self-care easier with its Red Light Therapy Membership, offering up to 12 sessions each month in private treatment spaces. Red light therapy is used to support skin health and cellular function, making regular sessions an easy addition to a wellness-focused routine. EssenceBeautySalon.ca

RACO DUO PEARL WORKSHOP Create something beautiful at Raco Duo’s two-hour guided pearl jewellery workshop in a cozy downtown Toronto loft. Choose between a freshwater pearl necklace or bracelet and work with premium pearls, gemstones, and 14k gold-filled accents. Your experience also includes a complimentary drink and all materials. RacoDuo.com bestsidemagazine.com

APOTHE.KA MOON KITS Hamilton’s apothe.ka has created a Moon Kit designed to accompany the entire lunar cycle, from setting intentions and celebrating growth to releasing the old. Each kit includes ritual mists, essential oil body blends, candles, and beautifully illustrated cards with guidance for creating your own meaningful rituals. Apothe-ka.com November • December 2026 | 59

STY LE W E AT H E R W I N T E R I N

@ ANDREWS

Winter dressing is an opportunity to embrace texture, beautiful fabrics and layers that feel as luxurious as they look. At Andrews, staying warm is anything but ordinary. Think sumptuous faux fur, fine merino wool, and elegant cashmere, shaped into cardigans and turtlenecks that make layering an art form. Combining timeless appeal with everyday versatility, these pieces take you effortlessly from crisp morning walks and city strolls to winter weekends away and the season’s social occasions. All winter long, Andrews offers inspiration for keeping cozy and looking your best.

60 | November • December 2026

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1 2

1 Harris Wharf London, Balmacaan Cashmere Blend Coat, $1,295

2 Soft Goat, Girlfriend Turtleneck, $825

3 Utzon, Shearling Double Breasted Merino Straight Long Coat, $6,320

4 4 Maison Lecomte Flament, Bandana Cashmere Scarf, $305

5 Giovanni, Gisele Short Faux Fur Hooded Vest, $275

6 Mackage, Mai Double-Face Wool Wrap Coat, $1,190

5 7 Polo Ralph Lauren, Wool Cashmere Classic Cable Glove, $108

62 | November • December 2026

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Herno, Shiny Nylon Short Zip Fur Collar Jacket, $1,155

Polo Ralph Lauren, Shawl Collar Cardigan, $898

10 Barbour, Isla Tartan Boucle Scarf, $110

8 11 Duno, Lavia Tech Wool Rib Neck Down Jacket, $1,135 AndrewsCo.com

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November • December 2026 | 63

DOWNTOWN OAKVILLE 905 845 2031 www.barringtons.ca

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WANDER

SLEIGH RIDES AT VALLEY RIDGE Bundle up for a magical horsedrawn sleigh ride through the 128 acres of fields and forested trails at Valley Ridge Family Farm in The Blue Mountains. Pulled by two Clydesdales, the experience includes time to meet the horses and take photos, followed by hot chocolate around a campfire at the barn. ValleyRidgeFamilyFarm.ca

ROSEWOOD HONG KONG Rosewood Hong Kong has retained the No. 1 position on The World’s 50 Best Hotels list for a second consecutive year. The 419-room property pairs personalized service and bespoke details with 11 restaurants and bars, Tony Chi-designed interiors and the Asaya Spa by Guerlain, overlooking Victoria Harbour. RosewoodHotels.com

MOUNTAINTOP SKATING AT BLUE MOUNTAIN Lace up your skates for a winter experience high above the Niagara Escarpment. Located at Blue Mountain’s South Summit, the Woodview Mountaintop Skating Loop winds 1.1 kilometres through a scenic winter landscape. Skate rentals are available and there’s no time limit once you enter the rink. BlueMountain.ca

THE ALGONQUIN RESORT IN ST. ANDREWS

DISNEY CRUISE TO ATLANTIC CANADA

Since 1889, The Algonquin Resort has welcomed guests to St. Andrews by-the-Sea, overlooking New Brunswick’s Bay of Fundy. The historic resort offers seaside charm, maritime adventures and heritage architecture, while its new Nordic-inspired USVA Spa will introduce hydrotherapy pools, sauna experiences and outdoor wellness spaces. AlgonquinResort.com

Disney Cruise Line is bringing the Disney Wish to Atlantic Canada in Fall 2027. Following its return to New York City, the ship will embark on seven voyages ranging from four to seven nights, with itineraries stopping in Boston, St. John and Halifax during the height of autumn. DisneyCruise.Disney.Go.com

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November • December 2026 | 73

Montréal shines with outdoor festivals when the snow flies.

LIGHT

Montréal en Lumière (Montréal in Light) is one of the globe’s largest winter celebrations. (Photo: Eva Blue - Tourisme Montréal)

74 | November • December 2026

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BRIGHT EMBRACING WINTER FUN

LIKE A MONTRÉALER By Linda Barnard Award-Winning Travel Journalist

When the nights grow longer, Montréal leaves the lights on. Think of it as an invitation to bundle up and play outside. Starting in November, from Old Montréal to the Old Port and beyond, Canada’s second-largest city tempers winter’s chill with brilliant illuminations. The lightup season heralds winter festival time Montréal, starting with outdoor Christmas markets. Le Grand Marché de Noël is the largest. It runs for six weeks, starting in midNovember in the Quartier des Spectacles, a multi-block cultural district between downtown and Old Montréal. More than 50 wooden chalet-style kiosks sell local products, drinks and food. There is ongoing entertainment while the lights create a festive scene after sunset. The Montréal Christmas Village outside the Atwater Market in the cool Little Burgundy neighbourhood also has entertainment, fire pits and chalet-style vendor stalls with local handcrafted items. For a beat-the-cold bonus, duck into the market to warm up. Electronic music festival Igloofest, billed

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as the coldest music festival in the world, lights up the Old Port with cool beats in January. Montréal en Lumière (Montréal in Light) is one of the globe’s largest winter celebrations. It takes over the Quartier des Spectacles for eight days, starting in late February 2027. The LUMINO winter lights festival dazzles from November to March, with more than 30 creative and colourful sculptures and light and video installations around the Quartier des Spectacles and Old Montréal. Many of them are interactive and the creativity is impressive. My visit to Montréal en Lumière coincided with the Nuit Blanche (sleepless night) cultural celebration. While other cities in Canada hold the free, dusk-to-dawn global event in fall, Montréal has been hosting Nuit Blanche on a winter night across the city for the past 20 years. The assignment is to stay up until morning. There are hundreds of free Nuit Blanche activities across the city, including music, film, art installations, discos and workshops. Cultural institutions like the Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal (Montréal Museum of Fine Arts) stay open until midnight. Restaurants offer next-day brunch specials for nighthawks.

November • December 2026 | 75

Above: Strolling around Plateau-Mont-Royal’s streets. (Photo: Tourisme Montréal - Madore - Maude Chauvin) | Bottom Left: Maple syrup taffy at a sugar shack trailer. (Photo: Jaysson Gallant - Tourisme Montréal) | Bottom Middle: Bagels come fresh and hot from the wood-fired oven at St-Viateur Bagel. (Photo: Tourisme Montréal - Madore - Maude Chauvin) | Bottom Right: The LED-lit skating trail at Montréal en Lumière. (Photo: Eva Blue - Tourisme Montréal)

Eager to experience Montréal en Lumière like a Montréaler, I strolled about 20 minutes from my room at Hotel W near Old Montréal, to Quartier des Spectacles. Along the way, I interacted with some LUMINO installations. My favourite was the “geometric light portal” called Stargate. Before I knew it, I was dancing to thumping EDM with some new friends beneath an illuminated SUV-sized inflatable crab puppet. Who cares about the cold when block after block pulsed with fun and action?

a hot chocolate or winter cocktail instead, there’s a café with a terrace overlooking the fun.

Licensed vendors held bottles of booze aloft, calling out to revellers who wanted a shot with their beer. An illuminated Ferris wheel provided expansive, if chilly, views of the party below, including the pulsing lights on the 300-metre elevated, LED-lit skating trail that’s created every year for Montréal en Lumière. Rentals are available but if you prefer to watch the scene with

Ancestra Lumina is the latest light-based nighttime attraction in the city. Follow two kilometres of landscaped paths in NotreDame-des-Neiges Cemetery on Mount Royal as sounds, light and images tell the stories of some of Montréal’s founders. It’s created by Moment Factory, the Montréalbased global multimedia entertainment studio.

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I stopped for the classic Quebec winter treat at the cabane à sucre (maple syrup sugar shack) trailer. A vendor poured a ribbon of boiling maple syrup across a wooden frame filled with snow. Within minutes I had some maple taffy on a stick, a sweet treat to end the evening. NEW LIGHTS, HISTORIC LOCATION

DINNER MEETS THEATRE Move inside for some light-up magic with “La Vie, le mort, le dessert” (life, death, dessert). The three-hour blend of gastronomy, projections and surprising theatrics takes place beneath an 18-metre dome at the Society for Arts and Technology in downtown Montréal. The surprising take on dinner theatre returns for four weeks in December after a successful run last year. It was slightly bonkers, yet mesmerizing, and felt fitting for the city that’s headquarters to Cirque du Soleil. The inventive menu by celebrity chef Clément Boivinė was excellent. COZY COCKTAILS Numerous terraces that offer outdoor dining and cocktails in summer are transformed into winter wonderlands across the city. Cozy up with hot chocolate

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under a faux fur throw by a firepit, or sample winter menus inside the warmth of transparent domes. WHERE TO EAT From poutine to smoked meat pizza, Montréal has so many local specialties it feels like an impossible task to get to everything. Get a taste of some of the top offerings at the Time Out Market downtown.

Outdoor terraces become winter wonderlands across the city.

O-thym restaurant in The Village showcases Québec-sourced products, including venison, duck and exceptional Arctic char. Better still, it’s a bring-your-ownwine restaurant with no corkage fees. Drop by a local dépanneur or wine shop and pick up a crisp Quebec white wine to enjoy with dinner. If cocktails and tapas is your thing, try Bar Edicol. It’s located behind a brightly painted door off the entrance to an alley in downtown Montréal. And the coffee is terrific. BAGEL TIME Of course you’ll want a bagel. Eat it like a Montréaler: hot from the wood-fired oven at St-Viateur Bagel without any fillings or toppings. The small bakery has barely changed since Myer Lewkowicz opened the doors in the historically Jewish Mile End neighborhood in 1957. My second-favourite way to eat a St-Viateur bagel is at Beautys Luncheonette, about a 10-minute walk away in neighbouring Plateau-Mont-Royal near Mount Royal Park. Walk off breakfast with a stroll around Plateau-Mont-Royal’s streets. Colourful brick buildings stand out with a blanket of snow. They combine Victorian design with signature Montréal style. Staircases to apartments inside are on the exterior to maximize interior space. Some are graceful steel spirals. WHERE TO STAY The W Montréal Hotel is a short walk to downtown for shopping and the charming cobblestone streets of Old Montréal. The Metro station is a few metres away. Warm up in your room’s deep soaker tub with free scented bath salts.

Linda Barnard was a guest of Tourisme Montréal which did not preview this story. Learn more at: MTL.org/en bestsidemagazine.com

Getting outside like a Montréaler for winter cocktail hour. (Photo: Daph & Nico - Tourisme Montréal)

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SOUP BOWL

Thursday, December 10, 2026 Lunch & Dinner Seatings Available 12-2pm | 6-8pm Enjoy a festive gathering celebrating both culinary and ceramic art while supporting the AGB’s mission. Choose a handcrafted bowl to take home, then settle in for a beautiful meal featuring local restaurants. Tickets on sale now

Art Gallery of Burlington | 1333 Lakeshore Rd. | agb.life/soupbowl2026

your legacy be?

What will

Leaving a legacy gift means ongoing support for our hospital—helping it plan confidently for the future and respond to the changing needs of our community. From updating vital equipment to enhancing specialized care, legacy giving ensures quality care is here for all of us, today and tomorrow. Doug & Jodi Harrison Legacy Donors

Learn more about legacy giving at jbhfoundation.ca/legacy or scan here. If you’d like to talk to someone about supporting the Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation in your estate, please call Emma at 905-632-3737 ext. 5542.

Autumn Retreat Discovering Leeward House in Thornbury By Sue Bartholomew he Blue Mountains are a destination for every season; with its celebrated four-season appeal, the region offers something special year-round. For me, autumn felt like the perfect time to discover the newly opened Leeward House in Thornbury. My drive to this charming boutique retreat was a beautiful introduction to autumn in Georgian Bay. The countryside was full of autumn colour, with sugar maples turning red and orange and the birch, beech and oak trees adding shades of gold and russet. Opened in the summer of 2026, Leeward House is 80 | November • December 2026

experiencing its first autumn season, and the timing feels especially fitting. With its thoughtful design and inviting outdoor spaces, the property offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the surrounding landscape as the seasons change. The outdoor courtyard features a heated swimming pool, available year-round and reserved exclusively for registered guests. In warmer weather, it offers a lovely place to swim and unwind beneath the umbrellas. As temperatures drop, the warm water creates a special contrast with the crisp Georgian Bay air. Poolside loungers, complimentary towels, and umbrellas add thoughtful touches, while the nearby hot tub, sauna, and cold plunge form part of Leeward House’s Nordic bestsidemagazine.com

Experience the Charm of Georgian Bay’s Premier Boutique Retreat.

Leeward House Porch and Firepit (Photo: Daniel Neuhaus)

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with good company and the relaxed atmosphere, it was easy to settle in and enjoy the evening. Later, guests gathered around the wood-burning bonfire, where s’mores and a clear view of the night sky created a simple pleasure at the end of the day. For owner John Paul (JP) Adamo, Leeward House represents both a new chapter and a continuation of his family’s hospitality legacy. Having grown up connected to the Adamo family’s work at Hockley Valley Resort, JP understands the importance of creating memorable guest experiences. With Leeward House, he has taken that experience in a more intimate direction, creating a thoughtfully designed boutique retreat that combines personal hospitality, considered interiors and a strong connection to its surroundings. His vision also invites guests to discover Thornbury’s independent shops and restaurants, and the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains region. Guests planning a winter getaway can look forward to a memorable stay, enjoying the season's beauty from the comfort of their beautifully appointed room or out in the fresh air. Imagine a warm swim in the heated pool, a relaxing soak in the hot tub, then an evening gathered around the fire, sharing stories as the winter night settles in. For skiers, Leeward House is an exciting addition to the Blue Mountains region, offering a stylish and welcoming retreat after a day on the slopes. Learn more at LeewardHouse.com Top: (Photo: Daniel Neuhaus) | Bottom: (Photo: Daniel Neuhaus)

circuit—an inviting ritual of warmth, cold, and relaxation in every season. On my first night, under a crisp, starlit sky, I enjoyed a quiet evening luxuriating in the hot tub. I indulged in my Nordic circuit with a warm visit to the beautiful sauna overlooking the garden and a cold plunge that complemented and nourished my soul. After my outdoor indulgences, I retreated to a beautifully appointed room with the added pleasure of a private outdoor deck. Both room types include Italian linens, goose-down duvets, organic Canadian-made mattresses, heated bathroom floors, Le Labo bath products, bathrobes, Dyson hair dryers, Smart TVs, Marshall audio systems, in-room coffee and tea, and curated mini-bars with snacks. Leeward House doesn't have a full-service restaurant, but its Lobby Bar offers bespoke cocktails, independent wines, local ciders, craft beers, and a curated selection of light snacks. The Inn was so inviting that I didn’t want to leave the property for dinner. Instead, I joined fellow guests on the wraparound veranda for an evening cocktail, with crudités, dips, and a salumi plate. The wine list was impressive, and 82 | November • December 2026

"With good company and the relaxed atmosphere, it was easy to settle in and enjoy the evening." bestsidemagazine.com

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A CHRISTMAS STAY AT

The Scotsman A festive escape filled with historic charm, holiday magic and memorable moments in Niagara-on-the-Lake. By Kirsten Gordon

iagara-on-the-Lake felt particularly magical at Christmas. Twinkling lights filled the town, and beautifully decorated homes and storefronts made it feel like stepping into a classic Christmas story. It was the perfect setting for our return to The Scotsman Hotel, where we settled in for a festive two-night stay. The Scotsman's warmth and character made us feel at home immediately. Set in the heart of Old Town, the boutique hotel offered an intimate experience that felt especially inviting in winter. Much of that Christmas magic came from Brenda McArthur, whose love of the season wove through both her home and The Scotsman. For Brenda, Christmas was a true labour of love and a wonderful way of giving back. As part of her annual tradition, she transformed her beautiful historic home in Niagara-on-the-Lake into a magical Christmas wonderland, filled with beautiful decorations, candlelight and the spirit of the season. Her passion for Christmas extended to The Scotsman Hotel, which she also decorated for the holidays, creating a warm and welcoming experience for guests. Brenda generously opened her home through the Niagaraon-the-Lake Rotary Holiday House Tour, helping raise funds for important community causes. Her love of Christmas bestsidemagazine.com

THE SCOTSMAN'S warmth and character made us feel at home immediately. was evident in every detail, but her generosity and joy in sharing it with others made the tradition so special. The Christmas Market added another layer of festive spirit, bringing together the sights, sounds and traditions that made this time of year so special. Dinner at Revé was another highlight of our stay. Located on Mary Street in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Revé brought a fresh perspective to the town’s dining scene, with Chef Adriano Cappuzzello drawing on his Sicilian roots, classical European technique, and Niagara's exceptional ingredients. The restaurant’s menus changed with the seasons, and the farmers and producers they worked with added another layer to the experience as they cooked over fire. 86 | November • December 2026

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A little snow, a few twinkling lights and the anticipation of CHRISTMAS made it an ENTIRELY DIFFERENT kind of getaway.

Recently selected in the MICHELIN Guide 2026, Revé was clearly making its mark. For us, it was the perfect place to slow down, gather around the table and enjoy a memorable evening. There was also something wonderful about experiencing Niagara-on-theLake outside of the summer season. The crowds were thinner, the pace was gentler, and the town’s historic character became even more apparent. A little snow, a few twinkling lights and the anticipation of Christmas made it an entirely different kind of getaway. Our stay at The Scotsman reminded us we didn’t have to travel far to feel like we’d escaped. A beautiful historic town, a charming place to stay, a memorable dinner and two nights away were all we needed—especially with Christmas in the air. For more info, visit TheScotsmanHotel.ca bestsidemagazine.com

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AT THE EDGE OF

J A P A N

Diving, black pearls and star-filled nights in the wild Yaeyama Islands By Judy Hum

Ishigaki, Japan from the landmark beautiful Kabira Bay at dawn Photo: Sean Pavone

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ucked away in the southwest corner of Japan’s Okinawa archipelago lie the Yaeyama Islands, a collection of approximately a dozen inhabited islands and many more uninhabited ones, famed for their crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife. Visitors arrive on the gateway island of Ishigaki, the most populated in the region. It is accessible by a 3.5-hour flight from Tokyo or a one-hour flight from Taipei, while an overnight ferry offers weekly sailings from Taipei. As the plane begins its final descent into Ishigaki Airport, iridescent blue water is punctuated by lush green foliage blanketing gentle hills and mountains. The north end of the island is home to the world-renowned scuba diving site Manta Scramble. I joined an excursion with Euro Divers, whose dive shop is mere minutes by boat from the site.

UNDER THE SEA

I donned my scuba gear and backrolled off the edge of the boat into the warm Pacific waters below. A school of tiny, colourful fish filled my vision, and for a moment, I could have been swimming inside an aquarium. Pinnacles of vivid coral rose from the seabed as I followed the divemaster down to a depth of 20 metres. Tropical fish darted in and out of their coral homes. I found Nemo — more than once — during the descent. A large silhouette appeared in the distance. As it neared, I came face to face with a curious sea turtle. Then, suddenly, a shadow passed overhead. I glanced up at the underside of a manta ray. I swam up to match its depth as it glided around me in a languorous circle before disappearing into the blue.

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Black Pearls

THE BLACK PEARL

Back on land, I headed to nearby Kabira Bay. Its beautiful emerald waters hold a three-star accolade from the Michelin Green Guide for their natural beauty. Swimming is not permitted here, in part because of strong currents and also to protect colonies of black butterfly oysters. Ryukyu Pearl Co. pioneered black pearl cultivation here more than half a century ago, and Kabira Bay remains the northernmost site in the world for black pearl farming. After browsing pearl jewellery in the shop, visitors can enjoy a nourishing bowl of Okinawa soba noodles at the adjacent café, with its patio overlooking the shimmering bay. Glass-bottom boats also offer scenic cruises above more than 250 species of coral and tropical fish. Coral garden at Ishigaki Island Photo: KKKvintage

I R I O M O T E

Shallow reefs make it possible to spot sea turtles without venturing far beneath the surface.

Photo: J

A WHOLE NEW WORLD

Neighbouring Iriomote Island is the largest of the Yaeyama Islands, yet one of the least densely populated. A high-speed ferry from Ishigaki takes less than an hour. Iriomote is known for its pristine environment and the endemic Iriomote cat. To help protect this rare feline, the speed limit across the island is just 40 km/h. The leisurely pace also makes Iriomote an ideal place for visitors to become accustomed to driving on the left. Tuktuks are available to rent as well, offering a free-spirited way to explore. I joined a tour with Iriomote Osanpo Kibun to venture into the island’s untouched wilderness. The tour began with a kayak excursion through the mangrove forests. As I paddled upriver, delicate white-and-pink flowers floated past. These were sagaribana, also known as phantom flowers, which bloom from riverside trees at night and fall by dawn. The ephemeral blossoms appear for only a few weeks each summer, typically in late June and early July. A gentle hike then took me to the base of Kura Waterfall, cascading into a refreshing swimming hole. 90 | November • December 2026

udy

The calm waters surrounding Iriomote are also ideal for beginner snorkellers. Shallow reefs make it possible to spot sea turtles without venturing far beneath the surface. After sunset, Iriomote reveals another of its natural treasures. The entirety of Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park is certified as an International Dark Sky Park in recognition of efforts to preserve its starry skies. From here, 84 of the 88 official constellations and all 21 firstmagnitude stars can be seen. I sat in the darkness of my patio, basking in the gentle quiet of the night, and watched until the stars slowly faded into the light of a new day. bestsidemagazine.com

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3HR BAKERY OPENS IN BURLINGTON French-inspired 3HR Bakery has opened at Burlington Centre, specializing in freshly baked croissants, pastries and sourdough. The menu also includes sandwiches, coffee and custom celebration cakes, making it a destination for breakfast, afternoon treats, gatherings, corporate catering and special occasions. 3Heures.ca

LORE BRINGS CANADIAN CUISINE TO COLLINGWOOD LORE is a contemporary Canadian restaurant in Collingwood centred around a thoughtfully curated tasting menu inspired by land and sea. Familiar flavours and nostalgic classics are reimagined through a modern lens, celebrating Canadian ingredients while weaving together tradition, memory and creativity. LoreCollingwood.ca

BAR SU OPENS IN OAKVILLE Family-owned bar Su brings vintagemodern style and Italian-inspired cooking to Kerr Street in Oakville. Scratch-made pasta, pizza and desserts are paired with custom cocktails and a seasonal wine list. Built around family, community and generations of GTA cooking, the restaurant offers an upscale-casual setting for dinner and drinks. BarSu.ca

7 ENOTECA EARNS MICHELIN RECOGNITION For the second consecutive year, downtown Oakville’s 7 Enoteca has earned a Bib Gourmand distinction in the 2026 Michelin Guide. The award recognizes restaurants offering high-quality food at moderate prices. A Towne Square favourite since 2010, the Italian trattoria is celebrated for its wood-fired pizzas and food-friendly wine list. SevenEnoteca.com bestsidemagazine.com

PAPI CHULO’S EXPANDS TO OAKVILLE Tacos, tequila and buenos momentos have arrived in Downtown Oakville. Papi Chulo’s opened at 263 Lakeshore Road East, bringing its lively atmosphere, bold Mexicaninspired flavours and popular tacos and tequila to a new neighbourhood. It’s a fresh addition to Oakville’s dining scene. PapiChulos.ca November • December 2026 | 93

A SEASON for Company

By Gregory Fast, At-Home Entertaining Expert • Photos by Kyle Kirkwood

s the holidays approach, I always think about the people who will walk through our front door. The family we’ll gather with, the friends we’ll welcome back, and the memories we’ll create together. That anticipation is what guides me, more than any trend. When I think about decorating, I’m picturing how an evening will unfold. That feeling of stepping in from the cold, being welcomed, discovering moments of warmth as the night progresses. This year, that experience begins before anyone even steps inside. A natural greenery arch frames the entrance, and garlands draw you through the main doorways, revealing one space at a time. I’ve chosen a palette of fresh greenery, warm gold accents, and glass ornaments. During the day, the natural greens bring freshness, while metals and glass catch the daylight. As evening falls, candlelight and warm metallic tones bring a sense of occasion without ever feeling overdone.

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Cinnamon-Spiced Negroni, Two Ways Makes 1 cocktail Serve in a rocks glass

INGREDIENTS ● 1 oz gin ● ¾ oz Campari ● ¾ oz sweet vermouth (such as Martini Rosso) ● ¼ oz cinnamon simple syrup ● Orange peel and cinnamon stick, to garnish ● One large ice cube Optional: 1–1½ oz chilled Prosecco for the sparkling variation METHOD Combine gin, Campari, sweet vermouth and cinnamon syrup in a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over a large cube. Express an orange peel over the surface and garnish with the peel and a cinnamon stick. For the sparkling variation, top with chilled Prosecco and stir gently once. Cinnamon simple syrup Combine ½ cup sugar, ½ cup water and 3 cinnamon sticks in a small saucepan. Warm until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and steep for 20–30 minutes. Cool, strain and refrigerate in a clean sealed container. Make ahead to have on hand, lasts up to two weeks refrigerated This year, I also wanted one unexpected piece to set the tone. Instead of a traditional Christmas tree, I chose a potted pine with a beautiful irregular shape. It feels architectural and brings an organic presence to the room. I love a classic tree, but there’s something exciting about introducing an unexpected element that becomes a conversation piece. I look forward to putting it in the garden in the spring. I’ve always believed that scale matters. A few substantial, thoughtfully chosen pieces can have more impact than filling every corner. I like to give those details space and let the home itself shine. Ultimately, the décor is there to create a beautiful backdrop for the people we’re welcoming in. It sets the atmosphere, but it’s the conversations, the laughter, and the moments we share that truly bring the space to life. 96 | November • December 2026

A HOLIDAY WELCOME, TWO WAYS

Once guests arrive, I love having something ready to offer right away. There’s something so welcoming about being handed a beautiful cocktail and having a moment to settle in. One of my favourite hosting rituals is choosing one signature cocktail for the season. Rather than reinventing the menu each time, I find one that feels just right, perfect it, and keep it ready throughout the holidays. This year, it’s a Cinnamon-Spiced Negroni, served two ways: spirit-forward with gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and a touch of cinnamon syrup, or finished with a splash of Prosecco for something a little lighter. I love being able to offer two versions of the same cocktail. It gives guests a choice while keeping things consistent behind the scenes. bestsidemagazine.com

Alongside the cocktails, I like to have something homemade for guests. My rosemary and cranberry cashews have become a favourite. Fragrant rosemary, warm toasted cashews, a little sweetness and a hint of heat make them an inviting nibble as guests take that first sip and the evening begins. Before the season starts, I also make a point of stocking the bar with favourite spirits, mixers, wines, and entertaining essentials. That way, I’m ready for both planned gatherings and spontaneous visits.

AROUND THE TABLE

As the evening moves toward dinner, the table becomes another opportunity to make guests feel considered. I find it’s often the smallest details that leave the most lasting impression. I love bringing out pieces I’ve collected over time and mixing familiar favourites with a few seasonal touches. Place cards are always part of my table, even with close friends and family. It’s a small gesture that says, “You were considered.”

Whether you’re serving a relaxed meal from the kitchen island or presenting a plated dinner course by course, a thoughtfully set table anchors the experience. That’s where conversations unfold and new memories are made.

THE GIFT OF BEING PRESENT

For me, all of that preparation is about one thing: being present once people arrive. I want to be part of the evening, not disappearing into the kitchen. I believe the greatest luxury we can offer guests is our time and attention. There’s also one small tradition I like to include when sending out invitations. I simply let guests know that no gifts are necessary, but donations to our local food bank are welcome. It’s a way of keeping the season centred on what matters most: being together and sharing what we can. Because when the decorations come down and the last glass is cleared away, it’s the time we’ve shared that remains.

Gregory’s Rosemary Cranberry Cashews Best served warm

These roasted cashews balance savoury rosemary, sweetness from brown sugar and cranberries, and a little heat from cayenne. INGREDIENTS ● 1 pound roasted unsalted cashews ●

●

1 tablespoon (½ oz) unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary leaves

●

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

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2 teaspoons light brown sugar

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2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste

●

½ cup dried cranberries

METHOD 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Spread the cashews on a rimmed baking sheet and warm in the oven for about 5 minutes. 3. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the melted butter, rosemary, cayenne pepper, brown sugar and salt. 4. Add the warm cashews and dried cranberries to the butter mixture and toss to coat evenly. Serve while warm. bestsidemagazine.com

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THE NEXT CHAPTER OF

CENTRO

Some restaurants become part of a city's culinary history. Centro is one of them. Written by Kirsten Gordon | Photos by GTA Photography 100 | November • December 2026

Photo GTA

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The original Centro opened in 1987 under restaurateur Franco Prevedello, as Toronto's restaurant scene evolved and fine dining entered a new era.

ong before Centro on the Square opened its doors in downtown Oakville, the name had already earned a special place in Toronto's dining story. The original Centro opened in 1987 under restaurateur Franco Prevedello, as Toronto's restaurant scene evolved and fine dining entered a new era. Over the years, its kitchen became a training ground for talented chefs and front-ofthe-house talents, many of whom went on to become important names in Canadian cuisine.

At the helm of the kitchen is Executive Chef Jonathan Guay, whose culinary talents were recently recognized with a Bib Gourmand distinction at 7 Enoteca. Now bringing his expertise to Centro on the Square, Jonathan has the opportunity to shape a new culinary chapter for the restaurant. His approach centres on quality and seasonality, with dishes that showcase exceptional ingredients through thoughtful technique and creativity. The result is a style of dining that balances elevated elegance with an inviting sense of approachability.

One of them is Armando Mano, who began his Centro journey in 1987. Years later, he became the restaurant's owner, carrying forward the philosophy that defined Centro from the beginning: exceptional ingredients, attention to detail, impeccable standards, and, perhaps most importantly, genuine hospitality.

The menu is globally inspired by local organic and international flavours, bringing together seafood, handmade pasta, premium cuts and seasonal local ingredients. The menu emphasizes letting quality ingredients speak for themselves, while thoughtful technique and presentation elevate the experience.

That legacy now has a new home.

For seafood lovers, the menu offers everything from oysters and delicate crudo to beautifully prepared new fish dishes/seafood dishes. Handmade pasta brings another level of comfort and refinement, while premium steaks and other substantial mains give the menu plenty of range. One of the dishes already becoming a signature is the lobster pasta, combining handmade pasta with

Centro on the Square has arrived in the heart of downtown Oakville, overlooking Towne Square at 210 Lakeshore Road East. The setting feels perfectly suited to the restaurant's next chapter — elegant, sophisticated and designed for lingering evenings over good food, wine and conversation. bestsidemagazine.com

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Centro has come to Oakville not simply to revisit its history, but to create a new one.

lobster and Calabrian chilli. And then there is the wine. Manuel Gonzalez sommelier and GM of Centro, has curated an extensive wine list. Centro's wine program is an important part of the experience, with an extensive international selection of more than 300 labels and knowledgeable sommeliers available to help guide guests through the list. The cocktail program is equally considered, with original cocktails designed to complement the food and create a sense of occasion from the moment you arrive. 102 | November • December 2026

But perhaps what feels most interesting about Centro on the Square is that it isn't simply about recreating what came before. It is about taking the spirit of an established Toronto restaurant and allowing it to evolve for a new community.

may have a beginning, but the best ones are really about evolution — about people, ideas and traditions being passed from one generation to the next.

Oakville has developed its own sophisticated dining culture, with residents who appreciate exceptional food, thoughtful service and beautiful surroundings. Centro seems to understand that audience while remaining connected to the principles that made the name meaningful in the first place.

From its beginnings in Toronto in 1987 to this new chapter on Oakville's historic Lakeshore Road, Centro carries with it a remarkable piece of the city's culinary past while looking firmly toward the future.

The restaurant's interior reflects that philosophy. Warm lighting, polished details and large windows overlooking the square create an atmosphere that feels elegant without being overly formal. It is a place designed equally for a special celebration, an intimate dinner or simply an evening when you want to dress up a little and enjoy being out. (There are two private dining rooms.)

Centro has come to Oakville not simply to revisit its history, but to create a new one.

There is something fitting about Centro finding its way to Oakville. Restaurants

For more info, visit CentroOnTheSquare.ca

And perhaps that is the most exciting part.

“Franco Prevedello’s vision, passion and lasting contribution to Toronto’s dining scene helped shape the legacy of Centro, and it is an honour to carry that legacy forward into this exciting new chapter in Oakville.” — Armando Mano

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An Exceptional Dining Experience Reserve Your Table 905 . 844. 1 286 centroonthesquare.ca 210 Lakeshore Rd. E. | Oakville

Discover Centro on the Square, where culinary excellence meets timeless elegance in the heart of Downtown Oakville. Savour thoughtfully crafted seasonal cuisine, curated wines and handcrafted cocktails, complemented by warm, attentive service. An inviting destination for intimate evenings, special celebrations and the simple pleasure of dining exceptionally well.

ALL CANADIAN. ALL ART. ALL HEART.

Thoughtfully selected art, ceramics, and jewellery from Canadian artists & makers.

Morgan Jones The Last Stop

Hillborn Pottery

Discover Something Special this Holiday Season!

Biko

Jennifer Graham

Every purchase supports Canadian Artists and the Art Gallery of Burlington 1333 Lakeshore Rd. | Tuesday - Sunday 10 am - 5pm | agb.life/shop | @shop_artgallburl

LIFESTYLE WINTER WONDERS AT RBG November 26th to January 3rd, Hendrie Park transforms into a winter wonderland for Royal Botanical Gardens’ Winter Wonders. Wander illuminated pathways featuring dazzling lights, festive art installations and seasonal displays, accompanied by holiday music and warm treats along the way. RBG.ca/WinterWonders

LEAVE A LASTING LEGACY Leaving a legacy gift in your will is a thoughtful, generous, and typically tax-effective way to support your community hospital. Including a gift to the JBH Foundation in your estate plans is a wonderful way to leave an enduring legacy within your community. JBHFoundation.ca/Legacy

OUR LADY PEACE DOCUMENTARY DEBUTS AT TIFF

Gail follows a devoted Our Lady Peace superfan on the band’s 30th anniversary Canadian tour, from VIP meet-and-greets in Saskatoon to the final stop in Halifax. Directed by Michael Maxxis, the documentary features an original score by Lesley Barber and orchestral arrangements by Eric Rosse. TIFF.net

A MERRY & BRIGHT CHRISTMAS TOUR

LOCAL LOVE CHRISTMAS MARKET

Step into a holiday wonderland at Niagara-on-the-Lake’s historic McArthur Estate on December 4th or 5th. Explore the beautifully decorated 1829 Georgian home and enchanting 10-acre grounds, with festive décor, carollers, live music, Santa, the Grinch, holiday treats and a Christmas Market filled with seasonal treasures and décor. HolidayHouseTourNOTL.ca

Shop local this holiday season at the Local Love Christmas Market, celebrating Canadian small businesses and the artisans behind them. Discover meaningful handmade gifts and connect with local makers at Verace Italian Restaurant on November 25th or Tabule Middle Eastern Cuisine on December 1st. @TheLocalLoveMarket

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A Sunday Morning

Journey Through Fall THE GRAND TOURING AUTOMOBILES OAKVILLE RALLY A celebration of exceptional automobiles, beautiful countryside and the pleasure of the open road. By Sue Bartholomew and Lauren Lowe

Vanquish Volante and Lamborghini Temerario, each bringing its own character to the rally. Celebrity Chef Claudio Aprile joined us behind the wheel of the 2026 Aston Martin DBX S Superleggera, sharing his enthusiasm for the car: “Every detail was considered. The power was insanely outrageous yet refined. Every line led to another discovery. Love this car!” Seeing these remarkable machines together was impressive; each represented a distinctive interpretation of automotive design, engineering, and performance. Engines started, drivers settled behind the wheel, and our procession set off, creating a memorable cavalcade of extraordinary automobiles. As we made our way along Cedar Springs Road in Burlington, the urban landscape gradually gave way to winding country roads, mature trees and the quiet charm of rural living. As we passed Hidden Lake Golf & Country Club, we were reminded of how much natural beauty lies within easy reach of our own communities.

SEEING THESE REMARKABLE MACHINES TOGETHER WAS IMPRESSIVE; EACH REPRESENTED A DISTINCTIVE INTERPRETATION OF AUTOMOTIVE Grand Touring Automobiles Oakville

here is something undeniably special about a Sunday drive in autumn. The roads grow quieter, the countryside takes on richer colours, and the journey itself becomes as memorable as the destination. Add an impressive collection of luxury automobiles, wonderful company and a beautiful lunch, and you have the makings of a rather special day. The Grand Touring Rally began with a warm welcome at the Oakville Grand Touring Automobiles Oakviille dealership, where guests gathered to mingle over a lovely breakfast. Pecan Pie Lattes, organic apple cider, pastries, fresh fruit, and an incredible selection of cheese from Tony Cheese, a specialty cheese company, set the morning’s tone. bestsidemagazine.com

DESIGN, ENGINEERING, AND PERFORMANCE. Best Side Magazine was honoured to serve as Grand Marshals for the rally. We had the opportunity to drive the 2026 Bentley Continental GT Speed in Moroccan Blue, a rich, sophisticated colour that beautifully accentuates the car’s elegant lines. Driving a Bentley felt particularly special; being behind the wheel of such an iconic British marque made the experience all the more meaningful. Inside, I loved the luxurious materials, elegant detailing and exceptional craftsmanship. Soon, a striking lineup of luxury vehicles was ready to depart, including the Aston Martin Valhalla, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Aston Martin

Celebrity Chef Claudio Aprile

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“A highlight of the day was being part of this collection of exquisite vehicles and seeing heads turn at every point as we travelled together through the countryside. “ The journey continued to Highway 6 South, Concession Road 4, and Millgrove Side Road, then led us along Highway 5 to Rock Chapel Road. Here, the countryside took on a different character, with the Niagara Escarpment providing a dramatic natural backdrop. The wooded landscape and rolling terrain reminded us that some of the region’s most memorable scenery lies just beyond the familiar bustle of town. From Rock Chapel Road, we continued along Sydenham Road and King Street West to our final destination, Ancaster Mill, part of Pearle Hospitality, a familyowned company whose story began

with restoring this historic property. Built in 1863, the limestone mill has been beautifully preserved and transformed into a much-loved dining destination, set beside Ancaster Creek and its

cascading waterfall. With its historic stone architecture and picturesque surroundings, it was a memorable setting to bring our rally to a close, enjoy lunch and share stories from the road.

“A HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY WAS BEING PART OF THIS COLLECTION OF EXQUISITE VEHICLES AND SEEING HEADS TURN AT EVERY POINT AS WE TRAVELLED TOGETHER THROUGH THE COUNTRYSIDE. “ MORE THAN A RALLY: WHERE PASSION MEETS PURPOSE There is something captivating about a gathering of extraordinary automobiles. The craftsmanship, engineering, and anticipation of the open road add to the appeal, but a luxury car rally is about much more than the vehicles. It brings together people who share a passion for exceptional cars, creating friendships and a sense of community. For enthusiasts, a rally offers a chance to appreciate the artistry and heritage of some of the world’s most prestigious automotive brands. For dealerships like Grand Touring Automobiles, it’s also a way to build lasting relationships with owners, business leaders and families beyond the showroom. As our afternoon at Ancaster Mill drew to a close, we realized the finest experiences aren’t about how quickly we reach our destination, but about everything we discover along the way. On this Sunday, the combination of beautiful cars, wonderful food, spectacular autumn scenery, and great company made the journey as memorable as the destination. 108 | November • December 2026

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AGAINST THE

From childhood lessons in Persian rug weaving to a studio in Campbellville, Davoud Khosravi has followed a lifelong instinct to create. By Mackenzie Best

“Body Language Series,” 18 x 6 inches, mahogany & maple

efore Davoud Khosravi began shaping wood, he learned to work with thread. As a child in Iran, his mother introduced him to Persian rug weaving, an early education in patience, pattern, and the possibilities of making something by hand. He experimented with different materials, but wood held his attention. Even popsicle sticks became the beginnings of decorative objects. Today, that childhood curiosity finds expression in sculptures, vessels and decorative tables. Working with contrasting woods, Khosravi creates pieces that bring together carefully constructed patterns and organic forms. Precision guides their making, yet the finished works convey movement: a curve that seems to stretch, a shape that appears to unfold.

ABOVE: Figurative Series,” 31 x 6 inches, walnut and mahogany. LEFT: Davoud Khosravi.

Represented by Crescent Hill Gallery, Khosravi has built his practice through years of independent exploration. His path to becoming an artist, however, included another trade. After emigrating from Iran to Canada in the early 1990s, he worked as an electrician while continuing to pursue his ambition to make art. Canada’s abundance of wood and its rich woodworking tradition encouraged him to return to the material that had fascinated him as a boy. He established his first workshop in Mississauga before moving to Campbellville several years later. There, he shares a creative setting with his wife, Anna, a painter. Their property includes his woodshop, a studio, and a gallery, bringing art-making and sharing into their daily lives. For Khosravi, developing a personal style has meant learning through doing. Without formal woodworking training, he has spent years experimenting and devising his own methods, techniques, and tools. Each new idea brings the practical challenge of figuring out how to realize it. bestsidemagazine.com

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“My organic, abstract sculptures are expressive, full of movement and emotion,” he says. “Wood is a living material and one which needs to be touched and appreciated.” That invitation to connect is central to his work. A viewer may first notice the silhouette, then discover the changing grain or the meeting of two contrasting woods. The experience can be both visual and tactile, drawing attention as much to the material as to the artist’s intervention. Looking back, Khosravi speaks of the fulfilment of finding a creative expression and pursuing an art career. His work has received various awards and entered private and corporate collections across North America and beyond. Yet he remains focused on the possibilities still ahead. He wants to keep experimenting with forms, shapes, and ideas, guided by a material he describes as alive and transformative. The curiosity that once led him to collect popsicle sticks continues in his Campbellville workshop, where each piece offers another opportunity to discover what wood can become. For Khosravi, the satisfaction lies in that continuing exchange: bringing his imagination to the material, responding to its character, and finding a form that carries a feeling beyond the workshop.

“WOOD

“Vase Series,” 16 x 11 inches, Maple, Walnut, and Bloodwood

“Finding a personal style is a complex process,” he says. “It requires passion for the medium, persistence, imagination and the ability to process your ideas and bring them to reality.”

IS A LIVING MATERIAL AND ONE WHICH NEEDS TO BE TOUCHED AND APPRECIATED.” – Davoud Khosravi

The natural world provides a continuing source of inspiration, particularly its organic shapes and forms. His choice of material brings another dimension to that exploration. Canadian maple, walnut, cherry and oak sit alongside intensely coloured woods, including purpleheart, bloodwood, padauk, wenge and zebrawood. Their differences in colour and grain become part of the composition itself. A piece begins with a sketch and a general intention: perhaps a vase, a bowl, a decorative table or a sculpture. Khosravi selects the woods, considers their contrasts and establishes the pattern and scale. These early decisions connect the overall form with the smaller details that will give it character. For his segmented pieces, he constructs rings of different sizes from individual sections of wood. These are glued together before the assembled work is turned on a lathe. Inlaying, laminating, carving, and polishing each play a role in his practice, while he shapes and sands his free-form sculptures by hand. The process demands considerable attention, but Khosravi wants the finished form to feel effortless. Cutting, joining, and shaping serve a larger purpose: allowing a solid material to suggest fluidity and emotion. 112 | November • December 2026

“Bird Series,” 20 x 9 inches, Cherry Wood and Walnut Stain20 x 9 inches, Cherry Wood and Walnut Stain

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BL A K E MOYNE S

WILD AT

HEART

White rhino family during sunset in Africa (Photo: Contributor Tomas Drahos/Shutterstock.com) Bottom Right: Blake Moynes in South Africa. (Photo: Scott Bradley)

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From Burlington’s creeks to the front lines of conservation, The SOSA founder is turning a lifelong love of wildlife into a shared purpose. By Mackenzie Best

Before there were cameras, conservation expeditions or a community called The SOSA, there was a boy searching for frogs in Burlington. At Lowville Park, Blake Moynes bypassed the playground for the creeks and swampy edges, drawn to whatever might be moving beneath the surface. His father’s love of the outdoors encouraged that curiosity. Later, a family cottage three hours north offered more territory to explore. “I don’t think it ever felt like a fascination at the time,” he says. “It just felt like where I was comfortable.”

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That early sense of belonging has become the foundation of his work: helping people feel connected to wildlife, and giving that connection somewhere meaningful to go. The turning point came years later, through a magazine photograph of Sudan, the last male northern white rhino, alongside his caretaker. Moynes had always loved rhinos, seeing something of the dinosaurs from his favourite film, Jurassic Park, in their prehistoric presence. This photograph prompted a deeper investigation into poaching, and a response he could no longer postpone. Within days, he booked a one-way ticket to South Africa. At Care for Wild, he encountered orphaned rhino calves whose mothers had been killed by poachers. Their cries for milk stayed with him. So did their personalities: curious, goofy, gentle animals whose vulnerability was impossible to reconcile with the violence that had brought them there. Even the least glamorous tasks felt purposeful. He found himself happy to get up early and clean their enclosures. “Before that I was a guy who loved animals,” he says. “After that I was a guy who had a problem he couldn’t put down.” For many readers, Moynes will be familiar from the Bachelor franchise. He remembers that chapter with gratitude, particularly for the audience it gave him. Conservation became the place he directed that attention, introducing followers to endangered species and the people working to protect them. Soon, conservation organizations were reaching out, asking him to document work that rarely found its way into public view. For roughly three years, he travelled between projects, funding flights himself and offering his platform. The experience was an education, but it also revealed the limits of working alone. Everywhere he went, the most meaningful progress depended on collaboration, community and people committed for the long haul.

Blake Moynes in Costa Rica with The Sloth Conservation Foundation and Fahlo. (Photo: Scott Bradley)

He registered SOSA Ltd. in September 2023. In 2025, he sold his house to invest more fully in its future.

116 | November • December 2026 bestsidemagazine.com

Top Left: Blake Moynes in Namibia with the Cheetah Conservation Fund and Fahlo. (Photo: Scott Bradley) | Middle: Blake Moynes in South Africa at the Zululand Rhino Orphanage. (Photo: Scott Bradley) | Top Right: Blake Moynes and Rachel Recchia in Florida with the Sea Turtle Conservancy and Fahlo. (Photo: Scott Bradley)

SOSA stands for Save Our Species Alliance. Founded by Moynes, it brings together conservation travel, storytelling and partnerships to support wildlife organizations around the world. Travellers can join small-group expeditions, meet the people protecting threatened species and experience their work firsthand. Behind the scenes, The SOSA also helps conservation teams access funding, equipment, media and new audiences—building a community whose connection to wildlife continues long after the journey home. The needs can be practical: a laptop, useful field gear, photographs an organization could never afford to commission. Sometimes, the missing resource is simply the time and capacity to tell its story. Moynes sees an opportunity to make those stories inviting. Conservation can leave people overwhelmed by loss; he wants them to discover its energy, personalities and possibilities, too. That approach carries into The SOSA’s expeditions. Travellers meet the bestsidemagazine.com

professionals behind conservation projects, learn why their work matters and gain a closer understanding of what sustaining it requires. Trips share profits directly with partner organizations, connecting the experience to support on the ground.

“THE STORY

BELONGS TO THE PEOPLE DOING

THE WORK.

I'M JUST THE ONE WITH

”

THE MEGAPHONE .

Participants become “Wild Ones,” part of a community brought together by wildlife, adventure and shared values. For someone who often felt alone in his

fascination with animals growing up, the friendships matter. “With SOSA, we introduce you to the friends you wished you had.” Choosing partners begins with being there. Moynes visits projects, works alongside their teams and asks questions about leadership, funding, local involvement and where The SOSA can be useful. He says the organization has walked away from potential partnerships after that process. Responsible storytelling follows the same principle of respect. Partner organizations approve concepts before filming, sensitive locations remain protected, and local teams lead locally run experiences. The people who devote their lives to conservation remain central to the story. “The story belongs to the people doing the work,” he says. “I’m just the one with the megaphone.” One partnership he returns to is with Zululand Conservation Trust at Manyoni November • December 2026 | 117

ANSWER THE CALL OF THE WILD

Private Game Reserve in South Africa. There, rescued Temminck’s ground pangolins receive support through a painstaking rehabilitation and release process. Moynes describes teams walking with individual animals daily, sometimes for months, until they can survive independently.

MALAWI | Lessons in the Wild September 26 - October 1, 2027 Journey into Liwonde National Park with Lessons in Conservation, a nonprofit bringing conservation education to children across Africa. Track wildlife on foot, cruise the Shire River in search of elephants, and meet the students and communities LiC works with every day. Booking is now open.

He reports that eight pups have now been born in the wild through the programme. Then there is Thor, a dog from the conservation K9 unit, who located a pangolin that had gone unseen for two years. It was alive.

Discover a different way to travel with The SOSA.

For Moynes, these are the stories that make hope tangible: patient work, dedicated people and an animal given another chance. He is equally clear that protecting wildlife depends on the people living beside it. Conservation must make sense for their communities, economically and socially, if it is to endure. That belief gives The SOSA’s work a broader purpose: helping visitors understand the relationships behind the animals they have travelled to see. An encounter becomes more meaningful when it includes the people whose knowledge, livelihoods and daily decisions help make that animal’s future possible.

ALASKA | Brown Bears & Coastal Wolves Travel from Homer into the remote Katmai wilderness for a camp-based adventure centred on brown bear viewing, coastal wolf tracking and learning about wildlife protection. The experience connects travellers with the Alaska Wildlife Alliance. 2027 pre-sale is open; departure dates have not yet been published. COSTA RICA | Wildlife & Rainforests Explore Costa Rica's Caribbean coast with The Sloth Conservation Foundation and Ecology Project International, learning how sloths are studied and protected in the wild and taking part in sea turtle conservation on the beach. 2027 pre-sale is open; departure dates have not yet been published. Find your expedition: TheSOSA.com | @The.SOSA

Blake Moynes shark diving in Florida. (Photo: Tanner Mansell)

Getting involved need not begin with a flight. Sharing a partner’s work, following its channels, donating directly or supporting The SOSA’s apparel can all provide an entry point. Creators can contribute through its Storytellers initiative; expeditions offer a deeper immersion. Looking ahead, Moynes imagines more destinations, more hosts and dependable support that allows partner organizations to plan years into the future. He also hopes conservation becomes something young people actively want to join. Perhaps his most personal measure of success brings the story home: another child in Burlington discovering this world earlier than he did, and recognizing that curiosity can become a contribution. Somewhere, there is a creek to explore, an animal to notice, a question to ask. The SOSA offers a way to follow that feeling— and people to share it with.

118 | November • December 2026 bestsidemagazine.com

For You. For Me. For All Minds. Mental health challenges affect us all. Together, we can transform care and support hope, healing, and a brighter future. Donate today at forallminds.ca.

Together

Song in

After winning two gold medals in Sweden, Burlington’s Myriad Ensemble brings its holiday performances home.

choir concert can be more than singers standing on risers. For Burlington’s Myriad Ensemble, it can mean voices rising from within the audience, performers moving through the theatre and collaborations that bring music, storytelling and movement together. With more than 80 members, the upper-voice ensemble pairs musical discipline with a willingness to experiment. Its repertoire spans centuries-old compositions, new Canadian works and familiar songs, inviting audiences

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to discover choral music through a different lens. “Myriad takes the music seriously, but not themselves,” says Founder and Artistic Director Elise Naccarato. “There is room for beauty and complexity, but also joy, humour, movement and surprise.” That approach has grown with the support of the Burlington community and the Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC). The ensemble’s mainstage debut there, Spellbound, in May 2026, marked a milestone, bringing its ideas to life through lighting, movement and unexpected collaborations.

In August, 60 Myriad singers travelled to Sweden to represent Burlington and Canada at the 2026 World Choir Games. They returned with two gold medals, earning recognition in Adult Choirs of Equal Voices and Folklore & Indigenous Music with Accompaniment. Their scores also qualified them for INTERKULTUR’s Champions Round and Grand Prix of Nations over the next five years. For Naccarato, the achievement reflected more than the performances: it represented the rehearsals, fundraising and commitment that brought the singers to the international stage. This December, Myriad brings that momentum home with two concerts at BPAC on Saturday, December 5. At 2:30 p.m., All Aboard draws on The Polar Express, combining storytelling and choral music in a holiday performance for the whole family. At 7:30 p.m., The World for Christmas moves from Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols to music from different cultures and traditions, alongside fresh interpretations of holiday favourites.

This December, Myriad brings that momentum home with two concerts at BPAC on Saturday, December 5. Together, the performances offer two ways to experience an ensemble shaped by its hometown and strengthened by its time on the world stage. Whether audiences come for a familiar Christmas story or to hear something new, Myriad invites them to share in the sense of connection that has been part of the choir from the beginning. For more info, visit BurlingtonPAC.ca bestsidemagazine.com

Myriad Ensemble

“Equality is everyone having access to an experience. Equity is everyone having the ability to enjoy it” Explore, discover and experience our community today as we work to build a more inclusive tomorrow.

A DAY OF HOPE BEGINS WITH A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP By Ken Dixon

F bestsidemagazine.com

or more than five decades, Sleeping Children Around the World has turned a simple idea into a global movement, helping children wake up better prepared to learn, grow and dream. November • December 2026 | 123

Sleeping Children Around the World (SCAW) began with Murray and Margaret Dryden, who believed every child deserved a comfortable night’s sleep. The idea was deeply personal for Murray, who had left his family farm in Manitoba during the Great Depression and experienced firsthand what it meant to go without a secure place to sleep. Years later, during a retirement trip to Pakistan, Murray encountered a child sleeping on the street. The moment stayed with him. Working with a local partner in Pune, India, he and Margaret arranged bedding for 50 children living in an orphanage. Friends soon contributed money, time and energy. In 1970, SCAW was established as a Canadian charity, operating from the Drydens’ Toronto home, which they later donated to the organization and which remains its headquarters today.

WHAT BEGAN WITH 50 BEDKITS HAS GROWN INTO MORE THAN 1.9 MILLION BEDKITS DISTRIBUTED TO CHILDREN WORLDWIDE.

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Murray and Margaret Dryden are Debbie’s grandparents. Debbie and Sieg Will-Dryden, who live in Oakville, continue the family’s longstanding connection to Sleeping Children Around the World. Debbie serves as Chair and Vice-Chair of the Board, alternating leadership with fellow volunteer Maurice Kowanetz of Burlington. Sieg is also an active volunteer, serving as a Team Leader, event organizer and member of the Finance Committee. Together, along with thousands of local and international volunteers, they carry forward the Dryden family’s commitment to the charity’s mission. What began with 50 bedkits has grown into more than 1.9 million bedkits

distributed to children worldwide. SCAW’s model is built on remarkable simplicity. A $40 donation provides one bedkit, with 100 percent of that donation going directly toward its contents. Each kit is tailored to the community receiving it and may include a mattress or sleeping mat, bedding, mosquito net, clothing and school supplies. The contents are practical, but their impact can reach well beyond the night. In communities where malaria is prevalent, for example, a World Health Organization-approved mosquito net can provide important protection. In some regions, a school uniform helps remove a barrier for children whose

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A $40 DONATION PROVIDES ONE BEDKIT, WITH 100 PERCENT OF THAT DONATION GOING DIRECTLY TOWARD ITS CONTENTS. EACH KIT IS TAILORED TO THE COMMUNITY RECEIVING IT. families cannot afford one. School supplies and other necessities also ease everyday pressures.

arriving soaked. A lunch container can help a student bring food to school and remain attentive throughout the day.

The process is intentionally local. SCAW works with established Overseas Volunteer Partners who understand the language, culture, schools and families in their communities. Together with educators and community leaders, they determine which items will be most useful, source them locally whenever possible and organize large-scale distributions, often providing bedkits to 4,000 to 7,000 children at a time.

Listening is central to SCAW’s work. Conversations with children, caregivers and teachers during distributions help refine future projects. The goal is not simply to provide a bedkit, but to ensure that what goes into it is genuinely useful, culturally appropriate and respectful of each child’s dignity.

That local knowledge is essential. A raincoat might mean a child can attend school during monsoon season without

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Distribution day is also deeply hopeful. Volunteers have heard children talk excitedly about becoming teachers, doctors and even astronauts. One mother, after hearing her child speak enthusiastically about the future,

thanked the donor who helped make that optimism possible. For families who have experienced significant hardship, a collection of simple necessities can represent comfort, care and the possibility of looking ahead. Canadian volunteers support the organization at home and travel overseas to witness distributions firsthand. Donors, meanwhile, make the bedkits possible. The Founders’ Legacy Fund funds operating expenses separately, allowing the full $40 bedkit donation to go toward its contents. Now, SCAW is looking toward another remarkable milestone: its two-millionth bedkit, currently anticipated for 2027. More than 50 years after Murray and Margaret Dryden first responded to one child in need, the organization continues to build on the same belief that inspired them: every child deserves the chance to rest comfortably and wake with hope. Because sometimes, creating a better tomorrow begins with something as simple as a good night’s sleep. For more info, visit SCAW.org

November • December 2026 | 125

Oakville Film Festival. Left to Right: Actress Watson Rose (Blindly Victorious), Victoria Nolan (Paralympian and Subject of Film) & Husband Eamonn Nolan | Model Sherlyn Rodriguez | Model Tatiana Bozovic | Writer Lisa Hagen (Dancing on the Elephant) & Actor Comedian Mary Walsh | Wendy Donnan (OFFA Executive Director) & Dylan Pun (Canadian short film winner Shrimp Fried Rice) | Judah Hernandez (former OFFA Board Member and Co-Founder) & The Naihin Twins (Football Acrobatics Artists) (Photos : MarkZelinski.com)

Rick Campanelli’s Tempted Book Tour. From Coast to Coast. Rick Campanelli joined fans coast to coast to celebrate his book, Tempted. Left to Right: Rick Campanelli, Denise Donlon and Erica Ehm at El Macombo | Rick Campanelli at Epic Books on Locke Street Hamilton | Hometown book launch and signing at Theater Aquarius Hamilton. Rick Campanelli, Doug Gilmour, Sonja Gilmour, Annette Hamm & Tim Bolen (City TV) | Anne Joyce, Sue Bartholomew & Tony Master T at El Macombo | Rick Campanelli. Book signing at Indigo Ancaster | Rick Campanelli. Indigo Toronto | Rick Campanelli outside of the El Macombo.

Knar Jewellery Event. Guests joined Natascha Rotstein, CEO and Creative Director of Dutch jewellery house TIRISI, at Knar for an evening of fine jewellery, personal style and the stories behind her designs. Left to Right: Matt Collins, Greg Ryckman and Greg Buzbuzian | Hugene Acheson and Amber Klaehn | Matt Collings with David & Yolanda | Natascha Rotstein & Vicki Brotto. 126 | November • December 2026

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socializing: showing our

Generosity Takes Flight at the Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation Breakthrough Bash. Community generosity took centre stage at Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation’s Breakthrough Bash, raising over $615,000 this year! Held at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, the evening brought supporters together to advance personalized medicine research and help researchers explore more precise approaches to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for patients across our region. hamiltonhealth.ca

BPAC WANDER. Left to Right: Jivan Sanghera, Lisa Kearns & Nick Gewarges | Lauren Lowe & Barbara Payne | Wander Acrobats | Art installation bestsidemagazine.com

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Art in My Garden Oakville. Left to Right: Matt Terry & Canadian Indigenous Artist Marvin Terry | Artist, Sue Holken | Event Sponsor and Architect Alison Strickland from Willmott & Strickland | Artist, Filmmaker, Broadcaster, and Podcaster Aiden Lee | Sponsors Eddie Jurinic & Gloria Figueiredo from Pine Glen Homes | Artist Shilpa Lalit | Sponsor George from Niblock Real Estate.

Brenda & Paul Barrington celebrate with family & friends at the 75th Anniversary Event at their shop in Downtown Oakville. Left to Right: Paul, Brooke, Carly and Brenda Barrington | Paul & Brenda Barrington with Julia Hanna | Paul & Brenda Barrington | Paul Barrington & Designer Dominic Bellissimo | Matt Colllins | Guests at Anniversary Event. 128 | November • December 2026

Blake Lennox, owner of Burrows Clothiers, hosts a series of events in celebration of their 50th Anniversary in Downtown Oakville. Left to Right: Jeff Podgurny from Burrows with guests Benji and Georgina Katz’s | Abigail Jay (Eleventy Milano), Burrows owner Blake Lennox & Tanya Kunitskaya (Eleventy) | Guests Rodney Crawford & Jeff Podgurny | Steven Cioffi (Jack Victor), Roberto Masciotra (Jack Victor), Albert Rainelli (Throat Threads Apparel) & Phillipe Binda (Throat Threads Apparel) | Tracey & Paul Neziol | Blake and Marissa Lennox | Tracey Luel, Peri Luel, Matt McAra & Raph Cundari | Models: Brett Kingswell, Phil Luzi & John Nightingale | Blake Lennox. bestsidemagazine.com

socializing: showing our

The Party: Dinner in Gairloch Gardens, 2026. (Photo: Jono & Laynie Photo + Film. Image courtesy of Oakville Galleries) On September 24, Oakville Galleries brought together an extraordinary community of supporters, sponsors and donors for The Party: Dinner in Gairloch Gardens. An inspiring evening of art, generosity and community raised an impressive $270,000 net in support of Oakville Galleries’ exhibition program and the launch of Art Sparks.

The Annual Oakville Club Tennis Champs. Left to Right: Head Tennis Professional Elias Yacoub with Holt and Marlowe Laird | Stefan Kim, Kristiana Cope, Adam Laird and Jen Bradbury | Susannah Staios & Ashley Ruta | Dave Jackson, Joel Hyatt, Johnny Tamindzic & Scott Westlake | Rosalind Ward-Smith, Carrie Jackson, Morgan Ferris and Annie Beauchemin | Vivi Smith, Des Tejanidr, Samantha Horn & Julie Rennie- Stanton | Carrie & Jake Jackson, Katherine & Todd MacGregor | Marc & Angelina Gagnon, Carolyn Marion & Ben Smith. bestsidemagazine.com

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Gairloch Gardens 1306 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville, ON L6J 1L6 Centennial Square 120 Navy Street, Oakville, ON L6J 2Z4

Aideen Barry Silent Songs Gairloch Gardens & Centennial Square October 24, 2026 – January 23, 2027 Scan the QR code to stay up to date on upcoming exhibition parallel programs

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Best Side Magazine - November/December 2026