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PUT A LITTLE LOVE IN YOUR HOME
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live remarkably.
we start with location.
We let the land decide what our communities should look like. We create simple yet remarkable amenities to bring families together. That sense of place helps to determine the design and character of each community’s Master Plan.
Ask yourself if you’re looking for a place to live – or a place to Live Remarkably.
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Community Trails at Craighurst Crossing
Proudly Celebrating 20 Years in Oakville.
Beauty You Wear. Meaning You Hold. Promise We Keep. In every brilliant detail lies a story. More than jewellery, we create lasting symbols of love, trust, and devotion. Crafted with integrity and inspired by moments that endure, our curated offerings transcend trends to become part of your legacy. Because every promise deserves to be kept beautifully.
Cropped Leopard Print Jacket from Joelle's
Ontario’s Premier Medical House Call Company
Proudly Canadian-owned and operated, Doctors House Call Service delivers high-calibre care to clients who demand discretion, efficiency, and excellence.
OUR SERVICES – OFFERED IN YOUR HOME, OFFICE, COTTAGE, AND HOTEL SUITE:
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Warmth, Style & Community Spirit
ur November/December issue of Best Side Magazine invites you to slow down, gather, and celebrate the moments that bring us together. From the artistry of setting a beautiful holiday table, to inspired builder features and stories that spark gratitude and creativity, this issue is filled with warmth, style, and community spirit.
We’re especially thrilled to welcome our Guest Editor, Roger Mooking — celebrated chef, artist, and storyteller — who brings his global perspective and creative energy to these pages. His partnership with Grey County’s Gather campaign adds an authentic note of connection to place, people, and purpose.
Inside, you’ll find features that celebrate the season — from the Niagara Icewine Festival and its creative recipes to our Wild at Heart fashion feature that lets style roam free. It’s an issue that reflects what we love most about this time of year: artistry, collaboration, and the joy of coming together.
Here’s to a bright year ahead — and to always finding your best side.
The Best Side Team
SCAN HERE TO FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @BestSideMag
Co-Founders
SUE BARTHOLOMEW
LAUREN LOWE
Creative Director
KELSEY ADDISON
Graphic Designer
CATHRYN HAYNES
Contributors
LINDA BARNARD
MACKENZIE BEST
MARTHA UNIACKE BREEN
GREGORY FAST
JACKIE GLASS
ROGER MOOKING
SIMONE JENNIFER SMITH
Photographers
BERMUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY
RYAN EMBERLEY
HELICOPIX INC.
JENNA KITCHINGS
JASON HARTOG PHOTOGRAPHY
LISA MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY
KIRSTEN SCHOLLIG OF TOWN + COUNTY COLLECTIVE
Sales Team SUE BARTHOLOMEW RAY SPEERS
SUE BARTHOLOMEW Co-Founder / Sales Director
LAUREN LOWE Co-Founder / Publisher
KELSEY ADDISON Creative Director
ROGER MOOKING Guest Editor
JACKIE GLASS Interior Design GREGORY FAST Hosting / Entertaining
Photo Courtesy of Art Gallery of Hamilton
ONLY LOVE Beyond This Point
This issue, Best Side Magazine is thrilled to welcome chef, musician, artist, and storyteller Roger Mooking as our Guest Editor. A true creative visionary, Roger infuses every page with imagination, warmth, and infectious energy—crafting a world where food, music, art, and culture intersect. While celebrating his role as Culinary Ambassador for Grey County, where he is the Culinary and Programming Director of Rocklands Market, he frames these experiences in a broader, global perspective, inviting readers to explore creativity in all its forms.
Roger transforms stories and encounters into interactive and immersive experiences, from artisanal creations at Infinite Glassworks to the heartwarming work at Hope Haven. He also celebrates globally recognized talent Kareem-Anthony Ferreira, and curates recipes for a beer pairing in his collaboration with Lovebird Beer. Every feature is part of a larger narrative: a world built on curiosity, connection, and creativity.
A globally trained chef and master storyteller, Roger blends artistry, humour, and insight across mediums. For him, food, music, art, and culture are not ends—they are tools for connection, play, and discovery. Every dish, song, or canvas is part of a story meant to be shared.
Roger’s philosophy is simple, yet all-encompassing: love, connecting people, curiosity, and joy. Every choice, every adventure, every story is filtered through this lens. From the first page to the last, he reminds us that the most vibrant experiences are the ones we share. As his signature slogan says: Love Only Beyond This Point.
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BENJAMIN MOORE’S COLOUR OF THE YEAR
Benjamin Moore’s highly anticipated Colour of the Year is Silhouette AF-655. A sultry espresso with notes of charcoal and plum, it’s as sophisticated and versatile as a little black dress. BenjaminMoore.ca
KRAVET X STANTON AT SPEERS ROAD BROADLOOM
THE ST. ANDREW’S CHRISTMAS HOUSE TOUR
A beloved Oakville tradition returns December 5 & 6. Tour architecturally unique homes, each decorated for the season by talented local designers. Get inspired, gather your friends, and kick off the holidays in style. Tickets go on sale Tuesday, November 4 at 10 AM. StAndrewsHouseTour.ca
Speers Road Broadloom introduces the Kravet x Stanton collection, an inspired collaboration uniting two design icons. Drawing from Kravet’s renowned textile archive, Stanton reimagines patterns into luxurious flooring, creating carpets that bring warmth, elegance, and timeless character to any home. SpeersRoadBroadloom.com
VITRUVI: NATURALLY CANADIAN AIR CARE
AQUALUNA WINS BEST OF REGION AT 2025 SBID AWARDS
Aqualuna at Bayside Toronto, developed by Tridel with interiors by II BY IV DESIGN, has been named Best of Region in the Show Flats & Developments category at the 2025 SBID Awards. The project’s serene, sculptural interiors embody refined luxury and set a new standard for waterfront living in Toronto. Tridel.com/Aqualuna
A family-founded, womenrun brand redefining home scenting and air care, Vitruvi crafts natural, design-forward products — from essential oil diffusers to air purifiers — that elevate your space and well-being. Clean, safe, and beautifully made in Canada, for the way you live and breathe. Vitruvi.com
A thoughtful heritage restoration by Rock Cliff Custom Homes blends Old Oakville charm with contemporary elegance. Holiday Decor by FOR Living Oakville
There’s a certain poetry in restoring a heritage home— the balance between honouring the past and reimagining the future.
For Oakville-based Rock Cliff Custom Homes, that poetry came vividly to life in their latest project: the transformation of a century-old residence in Old Oakville’s Heritage District.
“The homeowners were immediately drawn to the charm of Old Oakville,” says Ali Rockliffe, who co-owns Rock Cliff Custom Homes with her husband, Roman. “They loved being close to downtown, surrounded by mature trees and heritage architecture. From the start, they wanted a home with history and character—something with soul rather than a brand-new, open-concept space.”
storey glass breezeway—the architectural bridge between past and present.
“I’ve never worked on a home where the character of the house and the personalities of the homeowners aligned so perfectly,” Ali recalls. “It truly felt like the home was meant for them.”
PRESERVING THE PAST, LAYER BY LAYER
Rock Cliff Custom Homes is no stranger to the challenges of heritage projects. Having completed multiple restorations in the Old Oakville Heritage District, the team has developed a deep respect for the area’s architectural legacy and the high standards set by the local Heritage Society.
“In my opinion, Old Oakville is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved neighbourhoods in the region,” says Ali. “The Heritage Society and Historical Committee do an outstanding job of ensuring every restoration honours the character of the area. We appreciate that level of oversight because it raises the quality of every project.”
That attention to detail began with the home’s original exterior. One of the major requirements was preserving and restoring the lime-based stucco using traditional methods—a meticulous threecoat system of scratch, brown, and finishing layers, all textured to replicate the original look. “Even the pebble finish had to match perfectly,” Ali explains. “It was painstaking work, but the result is beautifully authentic.”
“Old Oakville is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved neighbourhoods in the region. The Heritage Society and Historical Committee do an outstanding job of ensuring every restoration honours the character of the area.”
The family of five, with three high-schoolaged children, saw potential where others might have seen limitations. Though the original house was not large enough for their lifestyle, they envisioned a respectful expansion that would preserve its essence while introducing modern comfort. Their plan included a new garage and loft, a functional lower level, and a striking two-
Inside, the philosophy was simple: preserve and restore before replacing. Wherever possible, the team retained the original hardwood floors, fireplaces, trim, and mouldings. When pieces couldn’t be salvaged, they were recreated to match exactly. The home’s distinctive electrical push-button faceplates were also carefully preserved as subtle nods to the past, while
all of the wiring and systems behind them were completely modernized for safety and efficiency.
THE ART OF BLENDING OLD & NEW
The magic of this project lies in how seamlessly the restored heritage home flows into its new additions. The centrepiece, a two-storey glass breezeway, was the homeowner’s idea— an inspired architectural statement that physically and symbolically connects eras.
“The breezeway is fully glazed, so you can see the original home on one side and the new structure on the other,” Ali explains. “It allows the old and new spaces to speak to each other while maintaining their own distinct identities.”
The addition also includes a new garage with a loft above, accessible by a sculptural monorail staircase crafted from white oak. A bold, historically inspired light fixture descends through the open space, creating a visual link between the traditional and contemporary elements.
Another transformation took place in the home’s former sunroom. Once narrow and underused, it was extended several feet to become a bright, window-lined family room—a space that feels inviting, functional, and in keeping with the home’s character. Beneath the new structure, a modern basement was added, a rare and welcome upgrade for a heritage property originally built on a shallow rubble foundation.
Roman & Ali Rockliffe
CRAFTSMANSHIP & COLLABORATION
While heritage restorations come with layers of regulation and complexity, Rock Cliff Custom Homes approaches each one as a collaboration rather than a constraint. “Any home designated as heritage requires close coordination with the Heritage Society and local council,” Ali notes. “From the permitting stage to site inspections, there’s constant dialogue. But we really embrace that partnership. We’re all working toward the same goal— preserving these homes for generations to come.”
The process is often lengthy, but for Rock Cliff, the extra time is an investment in authenticity. “Every decision takes careful thought,” Ali says. “You’re not just building; you’re stewarding a piece of history.”
That philosophy extends to the craftsmanship itself. Wherever possible, original materials were repaired or reused, and any new elements were meticulously sourced to match in tone and texture. “We restored the original stucco, maintained portions of the brickwork, and recreated damaged areas with perfectly matched materials,” says Ali. “Even small things, like
“Restoring an old home is a meticulous and rewarding process. Every stage brings opportunities to uncover craftsmanship and details that tell the
and rewards.
“Restoring an old home is a meticulous and rewarding process,” says Ali. “Every stage brings opportunities to uncover craftsmanship and details that tell the home’s story. It takes creativity and care to integrate modern function while maintaining the integrity of the original design—but that’s what makes the work so fulfilling.”
Co-owner Rock Cliff Custom Homes
is one of the reasons homeowners choose to work with us,” Ali reflects.
In the end, the measure of success was not just in the details restored or the additions built, but in the joy of the family who calls it home.
“What I’m most proud of is how happy the homeowners are,” Ali says warmly. “They had such a clear vision from the beginning, and I truly feel we captured it perfectly. This wasn’t just about restoring a property; it was about creating a home that reflects their personality and lifestyle.”
she continues. “It’s anything but simple, yet that’s exactly what makes it special.”
For Rock Cliff Custom Homes, that challenge is part of their signature—a willingness to take on complex, character-filled projects that require both craftsmanship and care. “I think our experience with these types of homes, and our appreciation for their nuances,
Today, the home stands as a testament to what’s possible when history and innovation meet with equal respect. Through thoughtful design, expert craftsmanship, and a shared appreciation for heritage, Rock Cliff Custom Homes has given new life to an Old Oakville treasure—one that will continue to tell its story for generations to come.
RockCliffHomes.ca
Sales Representative, The Golfi Team
Phil Golfi, 32, brings a modern lens to legacy. Raised in a prominent real estate family, he has spent the past decade honing his craft and now represents some of the region’s most coveted properties— o ering discerning clients a youthful edge on the billion-dollar real estate team shaping the future of elite living.
Photo
Photos: Jason Hartog Photography
CHIC, MODERN alluring,
A Sophisticated Small-Space Transformation by Alison Knapp Interior Design
From the outside, this home appears modest and unassuming. But step through the front door, and that impression instantly fades. Within moments, you’re met with a space that feels unexpectedly expansive, sophisticated, and full of personality. Designed by Alison Knapp Interior Design, this project proves that smallscale living can still deliver a big design impact.
For designer Alison Knapp, the goal was to create a home that was both modern and inviting. “The clients wanted an interior that was sophisticated, welcoming, and ‘modern with a moody edge,’” she says. “They welcomed a more unique colour scheme, and were not afraid to use a generous amount of black given the smaller size of the home.” The result is a bold yet balanced interior—modern, tactile, and beautifully cohesive.
“My first role as a designer is to listen and learn about how people live in their homes. Kids and pets need to be part of the design. It’s always mandated that the interior should look like the day it was installed for years to come.”
Texture plays a leading role throughout. Drawing on earthy greens, deep blacks, and warm nude tones, the palette moves naturally from room to room, creating a sense of flow and calm. “Our client loved texture in all materials,” Knapp explains. “We took inspiration from the kitchen backsplash as well as some key fabrics that were selected early on in
the project.” The result is a home that feels grounded and refined, layered with warmth and depth.
While the visual harmony is undeniable, the project’s success lies equally in its functionality. “My first role as a designer is to listen and learn about how people live in their homes,” Knapp says. “Kids and pets need to be part of the design. It’s always mandated that the interior should look like the day it was installed for years to come.”
That thoughtful approach was key to reimagining the layout, which originally lacked a proper entryway. “From the front door, you walked straight into the kitchen,” says Knapp. “Although small, we created an entry to the home with some beautiful but functional storage. The kitchen, powder room, and eating area were completely relocated.” The transformation—executed in collaboration with Grand Construction— shows how careful planning and craftsmanship can make even the most compact home feel open and elevated.
The biggest challenge, Knapp notes, was the limited footprint. “In the beginning, there was talk of adding another floor to the house,” she says. “But after carefully
“From the front door, you walked straight into the kitchen. Although small, we created an entry to the home with some beautiful but functional storage. The kitchen, powder room, and eating area were completely relocated.”
developing a floor plan that worked, we were able to avoid that undertaking and the cost for the client. Every inch of a small home has to be considered and used to the best of its capabilities.”
The reimagined layout now feels effortless. Each room connects seamlessly to the next, unified through materiality and light. The living area is anchored by warm neutrals, sculptural lighting, and modern black accents. The powder room, with its deep-toned tile and stone vanity, proves that small spaces can still make a dramatic statement.
For Knapp, the most rewarding part of the process is when a home becomes a true reflection of its owner. “When the client arrived at our office for one of our presentations, she was wearing an outfit that undeniably co-ordinated with the interior selections we had made,” Knapp recalls with a laugh. “It was uncanny— we even took a photo of her in front of the presentation board.” It’s a moment that perfectly captures Knapp’s design philosophy: a home should be a mirror of the people who live in it.
Equally important is collaboration. “First, respect each trade and listen to their expertise,” she says. “Our drawings are extremely detailed and leave little to question. We also meet regularly onsite to ensure that the work is being executed the way it was planned.”
When asked to describe the home’s style in three words, Knapp doesn’t hesitate: Chic, alluring, modern. From the outside, the home still appears modest, but once inside, “you know you’re in for a treat,” she says. “A walk through the home is like an adventure—no doubt a surprise to any visitor.”
Looking ahead, Knapp is inspired by the renewed embrace of colour in design. “I’m thrilled that we’re using colour again,” she says. “We’re steering clients away from grey and greige interiors and embracing all the amazing colours out there.”
Ultimately, this project is a testament to Knapp’s ability to turn a modest space into a luxurious, livable home—proof that true sophistication isn’t measured in square footage, but in vision, artistry, and heart.
KnappInteriorDesign.com
MINEOLA
Sanctuary by the Shore
Experience the essence of refined lakeside living at 8 Chartwell Road, a masterfully designed waterfront residence where timeless sophistication meets modern comfort. Panoramic views of Lake Ontario and the city skyline frame each moment, creating a backdrop of pure serenity. The open-concept main level showcases a striking marble island at the heart of a chef-inspired kitchen, complemented by a discreet butler’s pantry and vaulted ceilings that enhance the sense of space and light.
The adjoining family room offers a relaxed setting for everyday living, while separate living and dining rooms—each with captivating lake views—create the perfect backdrop for elegant entertaining. A beautifully appointed main-level bedroom with a spa-inspired ensuite provides comfort and convenience for guests or family. Upstairs, three additional
bedrooms each feature private ensuites, including the primary retreat—complete with gas fireplace, balcony, and a luxurious bathroom boasting a soaking tub with lake views. The lower level extends the home’s versatility with two additional ensuite bedrooms, ideal for multi-generational living or hosting with ease.
Outdoors, a resort-style haven awaits, featuring a saltwater pool, built-in barbecue, covered patio, and firepit for effortless entertaining. Just moments from downtown Oakville’s boutique charm and top-tier schools, this extraordinary home redefines luxury waterfront living.
Listed at $9,748,000
Kimberly & Michael Phinney, Sales Representatives & Emily Phinney, Broker Royal LePage Real Estate Services Phinney Real Estate, Brokerage 905-466-8888 | PhinneyRealEstate.com
Poised on one of South-East Oakville’s most prestigious waterfront lots, 6 Ennisclare Drive West embodies the essence of timeless sophistication. Designed by renowned architect Gren Weis, this French chateau-style estate blends classical elegance with modern refinement, offering sweeping views of Lake Ontario and an unrivalled sense of privacy and tranquility.
From its stately façade to its richly detailed interiors, every element of this home reflects exceptional craftsmanship. Intricate millwork, radiant heated floors, and curated designer lighting enhance the home’s graceful proportions, while expansive principal rooms frame the water, creating a stunning backdrop for both grand entertaining and intimate family living.
The main level showcases a magnificent living room with French doors opening to the lake breeze, a sun-filled solarium, formal dining room, and a gourmet kitchen with professional appliances, prep kitchen, and adjoining family room. Upstairs, the primary suite overlooks the water and offers a spa-inspired ensuite plus a dressing room. The lower level enhances the home’s livability with full-size windows, a recreation room with wet bar, fitness studio, and guest suite.
With riparian rights, manicured gardens, and direct shoreline access, this exceptional estate embodies the pinnacle of South-East Oakville waterfront living.
Listed at $15,000,000
Debbie Gonin Braun & Christopher Braun, Sales Representatives
Royal LePage Real Estate Services
Phinney Real Estate, Brokerage 905-466-8888 | PhinneyRealEstate.com
Timeless
CRESMARK DESIGN BUILD:
Farmhouse A Modern Story
Blending timeless design with a contemporary edge, Cresmark Design Build has become one of the GTA’s most trusted boutique builders. Known for creating homes that feel as inviting as they are striking, the Oakville-based firm is led by siblings Nick and Lisa Maida – brother-sister team with over 30 years’ experience in design and construction – it’s in their DNA.
Cresmark is the third generation of a family tradition in home building. Growing up surrounded by the business, Nick and Lisa developed a deep respect for craftsmanship and design early on. Today, they’ve taken that legacy and reimagined it for a new generation of homeowners – combining architectural vision, technical know-how, and interior design under one roof.
As Lisa points out, “With both of us involved right from the start, every detail – from the overall layout to the smallest details, comes together seamlessly.” By working with a single, integrated team, clients avoid the headaches of coordinating
result is a transparent process where accountability is clear, and confidence comes naturally. We handle everything.”
The Cresmark difference lies in their detailed design-build process. By uniting design and construction under one roof, clients benefit from a streamlined journey: one team, one vision, and a seamless progression from concept to completion. It’s an approach designed for busy professionals, families on the move, or anyone who values a stress-free experience, delivering confidence and peace of mind every step of the way and results that truly impress.
The Cresmark difference lies in their detailed design-build process. By uniting design and construction under one roof, clients benefit from a streamlined journey.
BRINGING YOUR DREAM HOME TO LIFE, NO MATTER THE DISTANCE
One of Cresmark’s most recently completed projects began with a phone call from afar. A couple from Calgary, preparing to retire and relocate to the Oakville-Burlington area to be closer to their children, discovered Cresmark through their excellent online reviews and stunning portfolio. Though they hadn’t even purchased land, they knew after speaking with Nick and Lisa that Cresmark was the company they wanted to build their final home.
In Nick’s words, “The entire process had to be managed remotely – through telephone calls, emails, and virtual meetings. They trusted us completely, which was the key to success of this custom build.
“The couple’s wish list was heartfelt and personal: a bungalow with a main-floor primary suite, a loft for family visits, a
garden-ready backyard with a covered patio, and – most importantly for him –a basement tall enough to fit his prized golf simulator.”
FINDING THE PERFECT LOT
Nick, with the help of a trusted local agent, found just the right property: a leafy Burlington lot, 60' by 120' feet, in an established neighbourhood where older bungalows were gradually being replaced with custom homes. Its mature trees and proximity to the lake, shops, and restaurants made it an ideal setting for the couple’s new life.
THE MODERN FARMHOUSE VISION
For the design, Cresmark proposed a Modern Farmhouse style. The look combined steep rooflines, dormers, and porches with clean white board-and-batten siding, stone accents, bold black trim, and thoughtfully designed interiors. The result would be a home that felt timeless yet fresh, with a sense of easy elegance.
Inside, a vaulted ceiling soars over the open kitchen and family room, creating a sense of volume and light. The kitchen balances warmth and sophistication with dark-stained maple cabinetry in a Shaker style, paired with bronze hardware and Hanstone quartz counters with a matching slab backsplash. The open-concept kitchen and family room, extending across the entire rear of the home, combines everyday functionality with inviting charm. Black-framed interior windows, an unconventional choice, add drama and modernity, echoed by the beautiful wrought-iron handrail and wood staircase leading to the loft. Upstairs, guests are greeted with two light-filled bedrooms boasting vaulted ceilings, along with a luxurious main bathroom complete with matching vanities, a deep soaker tub, and a generous enclosed shower.
THOUGHTFUL DESIGN, EVERY CORNER
The family room glows with natural light, anchored by a stone fireplace with a custom solid oak mantel. A delicate gold-toned chandelier adds refinement, while built-in shelving brings both character and practicality.
Every secondary space was treated with equal care. In the powder room, a bleached-oak vanity from Pottery Barn
“We love when clients walk in, smile, and say, ‘This feels like us,' That’s when we know we’ve done our job.”
pairs with cheerful starburst wallpaper and a statement oversized ceiling pendant. The ensuite balances elegance with function: dual vanities, porcelain tile mimicking marble, and vertically stacked subway tiles that add visual height and brightness.
The result is a home that feels larger than its footprint, brimming with warmth, sunlight, and character.
THE CRESMARK DIFFERENCE
For Nick and Lisa, this project was more than a beautiful house. It was an example of Cresmark’s unique approach. Building entirely for out-of-town clients required communication, trust, and precision. But it also highlighted what Cresmark does best: listening to clients’ needs and translating them into spaces that reflect their lifestyle. “Our clients want more than a house,” Nick says. “They want a home tailored to their lifestyle – whether that’s entertaining, gardening, or golfing. We make it a priority
reimagining a dated family home or adding thoughtful modern additions, Nick and Lisa bring the same design-build philosophy to transform existing spaces.
Lisa adds, “What excites me is the chance to blend beauty with function. A kitchen should be as practical as it is stunning. A bathroom should feel like a retreat but also work for everyday life.”
A PERSONAL TOUCH
As a boutique firm, Cresmark is intentionally selective with its projects. “We’re not trying to be the biggest builder,” Nick emphasizes. “We want to stay personal. When you hire us, you’re working directly with us, not passed off to layers of managers.”
Clients value this personal approach, which is reflected in Cresmark’s trusted reputation, steady referrals, and loyal repeat business. “Nick and Lisa went above and beyond throughout the entire process, which was very well organized,” say the clients for this home. “Unlike the TV shows, there was no drama, no stress, and we ended up with a stunning home. I would absolutely recommend Nick and Lisa. This is a great customer-focused company, excellent at building stunning custom homes. They checked all the boxes. They are the first I
BEYOND ONE PROJECT
While this Burlington Modern Farmhouse is a standout, it’s just one example of Cresmark’s range. From sleek contemporary builds in Toronto to traditional custom homes in Oakville, Cresmark tailors each project to its clients’ lifestyle. Renovations, too, are a cornerstone of the business. Whether
LOOKING AHEAD
For Nick and Lisa, Cresmark is both a continuation of family tradition, and a new chapter defined by innovation and design. Their goal remains for families that feel timeless,
“We love when clients walk in, smile, and say, ‘This feels like us,’” Lisa reflects. “That’s
Nick agrees. “At the end of the day, we’re building more than houses. We’re building relationships and places for people’s lives, memories, and families. That’s what Cresmark is all about.”
For more information, visit Cresmark.ca
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EMERGING TR EN DS 2026
MEET THE DESIGNER
JACKIE GLASS President, Principal Designer jackieglass.ca
The direction in design for the coming year looks to be more muted, elegant, quieter than last year, and deeply personal.
It’s that time of year when we start to look ahead to the emerging trends for the coming year. As a trend spotter in design, I always find it fascinating to observe certain styles gaining prominence over others. What excites me most about this process is not just predicting what’s coming, but understanding why people are drawn to particular looks at this moment. Often, these shifts reflect larger lifestyle changes, cultural influences, or a collective desire to feel more grounded in our homes.
Here are some emerging and surprising design trends you might see in 2026.
1. THE ALL-WHITE KITCHEN (AND ITS DECLINE)
This one might surprise many – myself included – as all-white kitchens have been globally loved for decades. For years, the bright, crisp, timeless look of white cabinetry paired with marble countertops has been considered the gold standard. However, there is now a definite move towards kitchens that feel more organic and rooted in nature. We’re seeing a strong embrace of wood kitchens, especially those showcasing interesting wood grains in medium and white oak. The beauty lies in their warmth, character, and the subtle variations each piece of wood brings. While mixing woods with whites will remain popular for some, more homeowners are leaning into the all-wood aesthetic, creating spaces that feel rich, welcoming, and connected to the natural world.
2. DIRTY NEUTRALS
While I still appreciate a good cream or classic white in furniture fabrics, the emerging colour trend is shifting toward what designers are calling “dirty neutrals.” These are not harsh or drab tones, but warmer, earthier versions of colours we already know. Think of soft sage green, warm tan, weathered clay, or rich chocolate brown. Even traditionally brighter colours are being reimagined in muted, greyed-out variations: roses with a touch of ash, plums that feel more like dried fruit than jewel tones. These grounded colours serve as excellent bases for layering other textures and accents. Personally, I love using them in smaller rooms like powder rooms, where the concentrated impact of these tones creates a cocoon-like effect. It’s dramatic without being overpowering.
3. BIOPHILIC & TEXTURAL DESIGN
This trend has been steadily gaining momentum, and it continues to evolve in fresh and inspiring ways. Biophilic design is all about weaving nature into our living spaces, whether through materials like stone and wood, or by incorporating plants and greenery.
But in 2026, texture takes centre stage. Fabrics such as bouclé, linen, and woven textiles are increasingly used to add depth and warmth to interiors. Textural layers invite touch and make a home feel lived-in and welcoming. This naturally ties into eco-luxury, where sustainability meets high-quality aesthetics. Low-VOC finishes, reclaimed wood, and responsibly sourced materials are all part of this growing conversation.
As someone who loves foraging, I find joy in filling vases and vessels with seasonal clippings: branches with leaves, dried grasses, or even simple
4. ECO-LUXURY
The embrace of natural elements naturally leads into a wider focus on sustainability. Eco-luxury emphasizes materials and finishes that are not only beautiful, but also mindful of their impact on the environment. Reclaimed wood, recycled metals, and fabrics made from natural fibres are being used in increasingly creative ways. These products don’t feel like compromises; they deliver the look and feel of high-quality goods while aligning with values of environmental responsibility.
I believe eco-luxury isn’t just a passing trend, but a long-term movement. As more homeowners seek meaning and purpose in their design choices, this approach will only grow stronger.
5. STATEMENT PIECES & SCULPTURAL FORMS
We’ve been observing this trend for a while, and it shows no sign of slowing down. Furniture and decor are becoming more sculptural, transforming everyday items into art pieces. Curved sofas, fluted cabinetry, and organically shaped tables or lighting fixtures add visual drama while still being functional. Fluted details, in particular, are rooted in Art Deco but have been reinterpreted for contemporary living. These statement pieces provide a sense of individuality, ensuring that even minimal interiors have a strong point of interest.
6. MULTI-PURPOSE SPACES
The days of a single room serving only one purpose are largely behind us. With the rise in small-space living and flexible lifestyles, rooms are increasingly being designed to serve multiple functions. Guest rooms double as offices, media rooms convert into workout spaces, and even dining areas are being designed with adaptable layouts for entertaining, working, or lounging. Clever design choices – like built-in storage, folding desks, and modular furniture – make these shifts seamless. It’s a trend born out of necessity, but embraced for its practicality and creativity.
7. QUIET LUXURY
I’ve long admired this ethos in fashion, and I’m delighted to see it emerge in home design. Quiet luxury is not about flash or ostentation; it’s about restraint, refinement, and thoughtful quality. Spaces designed with this approach feel calm and timeless, often showcasing natural materials, custom craftsmanship, and pieces chosen with care rather than impulse. There’s something powerful about interiors that whisper rather than shout, where elegance is found in the details rather than in showy displays.
8. WARM MINIMALISM
Finally, we’re seeing a clear movement toward what I call “warm minimalism.” This is minimalism reimagined: less about stark, white empty spaces, and more about carefully curated environments softened by natural textures and rounded forms. Warm minimalism favours cozy materials like wool, wood, and stone, and embraces light in a way that makes rooms feel open yet inviting. It’s a design philosophy that values less clutter but more soul. It dovetails beautifully with the quiet luxury ethos – both prioritize quality, thoughtfulness, and timeless appeal.
These trends reveal a direction in design that is deeply personal, sustainable, and connected to the natural world. They show a collective desire for homes that not only look beautiful but also feel meaningful.
Taken together, these trends reveal a direction in design that is deeply personal, sustainable, and connected to the natural world. They show a collective desire for homes that not only look beautiful but also feel meaningful; spaces that nurture us, reflect who we are, and align with the values we carry into the future. As we step into 2026, the emphasis is clear: design is becoming less about following rigid rules and more about creating homes that feel authentic, layered, and full of life.
Our Passion, Your Home.
DISCOVER 5 DISTINCT COMMUNITIES BY ROSEHAVEN
HOMES
For more than 30 years, Rosehaven Homes has crafted places where design, quality, and everyday ease come together. From North Oakville to Innisfil, Caledon to Hamilton—and now Brampton—these communities showcase thoughtful architecture, walkable locations, and the details that make a house feel like home.
1) Ivy
Rouge Classic Elegance in Oakville
At Sixth Line & Burnhamthorpe, Ivy Rouge offers Singles, Semis, and Freehold Towns starting from the $1 millions. Now in its third phase, timeless exteriors and superior craftsmanship meet a lifestyle surrounded by top-rated schools, major retail, trails, parks, and golf. It’s luxury and convenience in North Oakville.
Five minutes from Lake Simcoe, Simcoe Woods features 20’ Freehold Towns and 33’/39’ Singles starting from the $700s. Enjoy greenspaces, walking trails,
and many local amenities, with swift connections via Highway 400 and the planned Innisfil GO.
Just north of Brampton, The Mayfield Collection presents spacious Singles on generous lots from the $1.3 millions. Expect open-concept layouts, designer kitchens, and elevated finishes along tree-lined boulevards. Nearby schools, shopping, and commuter routes bring urban convenience to scenic countryside.
The Rebecca delivers modern condo living with suites starting from the $400s. Smart layouts, stylish interiors, a fitness centre, and rooftop terrace complement a walkable address close to cafés, galleries, and transit. Limitedtime incentives available.
Presentation Centre: 212 King William St, Hamilton | (905) 529-8383 rebeccacondos@rosehavenhomes.com
5) Urban Towndominiums Move-In Ready
in Brampton
A fresh take on urban ease: two- and three-bedroom Towndominiums starting from the $500s, with 12 months of free maintenance, five appliances, a dedicated parking spot, and roller blinds already installed—plus no development charges. Minutes to Mount Pleasant, parks, schools, and transit, these suites are made for right-now living.
Every Rosehaven community begins with a simple promise: thoughtful planning, enduring construction, and customer care that extends well beyond move-in. Streetscapes are carefully curated, interiors designed for everyday elegance, and materials selected for lasting beauty and performance. It’s a difference you’ll feel from the very first day — and appreciate even more with time. Visit today and discover how smart design elevates everyday living. RosehavenHomes.com
Simcoe Woods Model Home
Ivy Rouge - Raymar El. A
Nature’s Calm. Oakville’s Finest.
IN NORTH OAKVILLE STARTING FROM THE $1 MILLIONS
Holiday Home Highlights
FESTIVE DÉCOR TO BRING WARMTH AND CHEER TO EVERY
Pine Garland. Its lush, lifelike branches drape beautifully along mantels, staircases, or windowsills—adding a touch of festive warmth that lasts all season long. For-Living.ca
3) Board to Impress
Locally made from solid black walnut, these Joshua Creek Furniture charcuterie boards bring natural beauty to every gathering. Available in a variety of sizes, they make the perfect gift for the holiday host. JoshuaCreekFurniture.com
4) Tree-mendous Cheer
Add festive flair with this 18” embroidered cotton pillow. A geometric, brightly coloured Christmas tree pops on any sofa, chair, or bed, bringing a modern, playful twist to your holiday décor. CentroGarden.com
5) Chill in Style
Keep the celebration flowing with this elegant Polish glass ice bucket. Large enough to hold multiple bottles, it features clean lines and cut side handles—perfect for effortless entertaining all season long. AndersonsInteriors.ca
6) Golden Roots
Inspired by organic tree knots, the Elder Lounge Chair blends nature and artistry. Hand-forged in iron with a radiant gold leaf finish, this sculptural piece brings a touch of warmth and festive glamour to the holiday season. AndersonsInteriors.ca
7) Spirits & Soundtracks
A Booze & Vinyl Christmas brings festive cheer to your coffee table. Featuring 40 classic holiday albums paired with perfectly matched cocktails and seasonal bites, this book makes it easy to sip, spin, and celebrate in style. CentroGarden.com
8) Sustainable Sparkle
Add eco-friendly elegance to your holiday décor with this set of five Handmade Recycled Paper Honeycomb Trees. Finished with gold glitter and available in brown, grey, or cream, they fold open to create festive charm that’s both chic and sustainable. For-Living.ca
ADVANCING HOME SECURITY
For years, home security was something you thought about only after an incident.
Q
What inspired the creation of Canada First, and what sets your approach apart?
A Canada First was founded on a simple but urgent truth: Canadian homeowners deserve better protection. With crime rates on the rise and traditional alarm systems offering limited deterrence, we wanted to deliver something more comprehensive. Our model combines physical fortification, smart technology, and education — creating customized, layered defence systems designed to government-level standards. We don’t just sell equipment; we create complete solutions tailored to each home.
Q Your company has grown quickly in Oakville and surrounding areas. What’s driving that momentum?
AAwareness and results. Homeowners in Oakville, Burlington, and Mississauga are seeing more break-ins and are looking for preventive solutions rather than reactive ones. Once clients experience our audit process and the peace of mind that follows, they tell their neighbours. People are moving beyond basic alarm systems toward true fortification — and that shift is fuelling our growth.
Q How is the conversation around home safety evolving in Canada?
A For years, home security was something you thought about only after an incident. That mindset is changing fast. Canadians now see safety as a proactive investment — like insurance. The question has become, “What level of security fits my family?” rather than “Do I need security at all?”
Q What are some of the most effective fortification measures for homeowners to consider?
A
The key is layered protection. Start with reinforced doors, impactresistant windows, and smart locks, then add cameras, lighting, and sensors in strategic zones. Our Safe Home 360™ Defence Audit identifies each home’s unique weak points, which often makes the biggest difference once corrected.
Q Education is a big part of your mission. Why is that so important?
ATechnology only works if families know how to use it effectively. We take time to teach homeowners how to operate their systems, recognize vulnerabilities, and practice smart safety habits. Empowering families with knowledge turns passive security into active prevention — and that confidence is invaluable.
Q How would you describe the current climate of security awareness in Canada?
ACanadians are more alert than ever. They’re seeing stories of thefts and break-ins in their own communities. But this isn’t about fear — it’s about taking responsibility. Fortification gives homeowners control instead of leaving safety to chance.
Q What’s your vision for Canada First in the years ahead?
A Our goal is national: safer homes, stronger neighbourhoods, and a culture of prevention. By fortifying homes, educating families, and building partnerships in every community, we believe we can make a real impact — one home at a time. Ultimately, we want Canada to be the safest country in the world to call home.
Your definition of wealth is personal to you. We’ll help bring it to life.
KOPAS ADVISORY GROUP OF RBC DOMINION SECURITIES
What does wealth mean to you?
Understanding your family’s wealth is the first step to protecting it. With the right strategies and our guidance, you can safeguard what you’ve built, take advantage of opportunities, and prepare for the future.
Wealth is more than a number. It can mean feeling secure, enjoying the freedom to travel, or supporting the people you love. Whatever it means to you, it’s important to protect it.
Susan Kopas and her extended team of RBC specialists will help you reduce taxes, plan for retirement, maximize your estate, and build lasting financial security with the following six strategies:
1. Consolidation of assets
2. Risk management
3. Family income splitting
4. Business succession planning
5. Generational wealth transfer
6. Investment protection
LOVE THE WAY YOU FEEL
From lingerie to swimwear, My Top Drawer combines luxury design with expert fitting for every body. Inclusive sizing and personalized care ensure comfort that feels as beautiful as it looks.
SONA COSMETICS
LAUNCHES IN CANADA
Canadian-born and women-owned,
DINAH LUXTON X ANDREWS OAKVILLE
Toronto designer Dinah Luxton joins Andrews owner Darren Mason to debut her new luxury outerwear collection. Discover timeless craftsmanship and elevated design as the celebrated Canadian brand showcases its latest pieces at Andrews in Oakville.
EMBER WELLNESS: SKINCARE, SIMPLIFIED
Toronto-based Ember Wellness offers a clean, design-led collection of vegan, cruelty-free, and hypoallergenic skincare.
Founded by Amanda Schuler, the line takes a forward-tobasics approach with minimal, intentional ingredients and no fillers—honouring the skin’s natural barrier while delivering everyday luxury for every skin type and age. EmberWellness.ca
Daniel Craig Hair Salon, at 84 Reynolds Street, brings a new standard of luxury hair care to Oakville. From expert cuts and colour to balayage, every service is delivered in a sophisticated yet welcoming space, complete with a complimentary drinks menu and a focus on relaxation, comfort,
@
HEART Jungle Luxe
Step into the untamed side of style with this season’s must-have animal print and faux fur. From bold leopard spots to soft textures, these luxe layers bring a hint of jungle adventure to city streets. Paired with earthy tones and
Above: Loriblu Sling Back in Satin Leopard Print (Matching Bag Available) Firenze Shoes • 142 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville • FirenzeShoes.ca.
Right: Wolford Patterned Tights & Sheer Long-Sleeve Bodysuit Brava Boutique • 25 King St W, Toronto • BravaBoutique.com
Top Left: Hortensia Bag Mini by Wandler in Brown Andrews Co • 283 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville • AndrewsCo.com
Middle: Femilet Daisy Long Sleeve & Pant Pajama Set Inside Story Lingerie & Swim • 334 Church St, Oakville • InsideStory.ca
Bottom Right: Mott Boot by rag & bone Andrews Co • 283 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville • AndrewsCo.com
Top Left: Adalyn Faux Fur Jacket Joelle's By Ally • 481 John St, Burlington Joelles.com
Bottom Left: Carter Loafer by rag & bone Andrews Co • 283 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville AndrewsCo.com
Below: Shan One-Piece Swimsuit in Leopard Print • Inside Story Lingerie & Swim
Oakville
Top Left: Marie Jo Tom Fauve Bra & Thong My Top Drawer • 2301 Appleby Ln, Burlington • MyTopDrawer.com
Top Right:
Leopard Belt by BRAVE
By Ally • 481 John St, Burlington • Joelles.com
Middle: Gaynor of Italy Wool & Silk Animal Print Scarf Barrington's • 209 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville • Barringtons.ca
• 283 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville • AndrewsCo.com
Zya
Joelle's
Bottom Right: Faux Fur Cape by Giovanni Andrews Co
merry myths tour
Let’s Build Better Mental Health Care
There is a critical need to redevelop and expand the Mental Health & Addictions Unit at Joseph Brant Hospital.
Demand for care is growing exponentially each year, and the time to transform care for Burlington and surrounding communities is now.
We need a modern and therapeutic space that supports our team in providing timely and high-quality mental health and addictions care for those who need it most.
But we cannot do it alone.
To learn more about this life-changing project and how you can help, visit forallminds.ca.
ESTES PARK FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Starting November 22, this charming Colorado mountain town transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland filled with twinkling lights, festive events, and alpine charm. From the free nightly light show in Bond Park to the Catch the Glow Parade and holiday adventure fest, the celebration continues all season long. VisitEstesPark.com
THE HIGHACRE: BOUTIQUE INN & PRIVATE SPA RETREAT
Discover The HighAcre in Dundas, where luxury, wellness, and rejuvenation meet. Each of the four suites features a private spa with a steam room, sauna, soaker tub, king bed, and fireplace—all within a beautifully restored 1867 farmhouse designed for rest and renewal. TheHighAcre.com
ZIPPO: HEATBANK® 9S RECHARGEABLE HAND WARMER
Stay warm and connected wherever you go. The Zippo HeatBank® 9s doubles as a rechargeable hand warmer and portable power bank — perfect for outdoor adventures or chilly commutes. Compact, reliable, and built for comfort from the office to the outdoors. Sail.ca
GUERLAIN SPA TORONTO NAMED CANADA’S BEST HOTEL SPA
For the second consecutive year, Guerlain Spa at Hotel X Toronto has been named Canada’s Best Hotel Spa by the World Spa Awards, recognizing excellence in global wellness tourism. A serene retreat overlooking Lake Ontario, the spa blends French elegance with modern well-being, offering exclusive Guerlain treatments that rejuvenate both body and mind. HotelXToronto.com
NIAGARA ICEWINE FESTIVAL CELEBRATIONS
This January, Niagara transforms into a snowy paradise for the annual Icewine Festival. Enjoy three weekends of world-class wine, gourmet food, and festive events — from the elegant Cool As Ice Gala to lively street celebrations across wine country. NiagaraWineFestival.com
A QUICK GETAWAY WITH LASTING APPEAL
It’s not the Caribbean. This mid-Atlantic island charms with pink-sand beaches and warm welcomes
Photo Courtesy of Bermuda Tourism Authority
Best Side travel writer Linda Barnard is an award-winning journalist based in Victoria, British Columbia. She's a former Toronto Star staff writer, National Newspaper Awards recipient and a passionate traveller who hopes her stories inspire your next trip. Follow Linda on Instagram @BarnardWrites
Imagine an island with pale-pink beaches and turquoise water, where the limestone houses come in every colour of the rainbow, the sunsets look like cotton candy and the songs of tiny whistling frogs lull you to sleep.
With direct under-three-hour flights from Toronto via BermudAir and Air Canada, you can be in sub-tropical Bermuda in less time than it takes to drive to Muskoka.
Left: Find your own secluded pink-sand cove along Bermuda’s coast.
The 55-square-kilometre, fishhook-shaped string of seven main islands linked by bridges isn’t in the Caribbean. It’s in the mid-Atlantic, off the coast of North Carolina.
Settled in 1609 by English sailors who were shipwrecked off what was then an uninhabited paradise, Bermuda wears its heritage proudly as the world’s oldest British Overseas Territory. It could also win
from coral and mint green to yellow and aqua. They’re most often worn by men and paired with a cotton shirt, smart tie and knee socks for work. Add a linen-blend jacket in a contrasting colour, and it’s called the Bermuda Suit.
Pick up a pair of these wearable souvenirs at TABS stores in Hamilton, the Royal Naval Dockyard and The English Sports Shop in Hamilton and St. George’s, which says it’s been the original home of Bermuda shorts for more than 100 years. Singleton says although smitten visitors often return to Bermuda, it remains a “best-kept secret” to many travellers.
Bermuda playtime could mean exploring narrow lanes lined with colourful cottages and the lush hidden gardens of the historic town of St. George’s Town.
“For me, Bermuda is like a giant playground,” she says. Bermuda playtime could mean exploring narrow lanes lined with colourful cottages and the lush hidden gardens of the historic town of St. George’s Town. Look for one of the island’s romantic, Asian-inspired moongates for a photo.
the shorts come in a rainbow of shades,
Founded in 1612, the former capital (it’s now called Hamilton) is the earliest English colonial town settled in the New World, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Top: Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa in Sandys Parish has vibrant pink cottage-style rooms and Jazz Age elegance. Bottom: Colourfully costumed Bermuda Gombey dancers are a symbol of the island’s diverse culture.
Photo Courtesy of Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa
Photo
I met Alison Outerbridge of The St. George’s Foundation for an hour-long tour of the town. She explained how the white stepped roofs keep houses cool and catch rain for basement cisterns. Historic St. Peter’s Church is the oldest Anglican church outside the British Isles. It has a remarkable history and a beautiful Bermuda cedar roof.
I nominate the fantastically sloppy fish sandwich for Bermuda’s national sarnie. Beloved by locals, it has generous slabs of crispy fried wahoo, rockfish or turbot layered with tomatoes, lettuce, coleslaw, hot sauce and splats of tartar sauce, between thick slices of raisin bread. Yup, raisin bread. And it works. We got ours at takeout joint Mamma Mia in Hamilton Parrish and devoured them at a picnic table beside the aquamarine water at Flatt’s Village.
With more than 30 beaches, it’s impossible to resist Bermuda’s crystalline water. Shallow entries make getting into the warm water easy. Horseshoe Bay on the south coast is the most famous beach on
the island, with a long curve of pink-tinged sand. Warwick Long Bay gets the nod from locals as a top beach. I loved Tobacco Bay, a small crescent beach a 15-minute walk from St. George’s. It has a casual waterside restaurant with beach chairs and snorkel gear for rent.
Bermuda is a diver’s paradise, with more than 300 shipwrecks (and counting) to explore. Sam Bennett of EcoDive Bermuda said snorkellers can watch sea life just a short swim from shore, including plenty of vibrant parrotfish. Bermuda has a healthy population of the reef-nibbling sea creatures. They’re credited with creating the pale-rose beaches that led a mania for all things pink on the island, by pooping out the remains of their colourful coral meals as fine sand.
Bermuda is a four-seasons getaway, with average daytime temperatures around 21C in winter, though it gets hot here in high season from May to mid-October. Cool off in one of Bermuda’s famous caves. A jump into the clear, cool water in Cathedral Cave at the Grotto Bay Beach Hotel felt lifechanging. I followed that up with a massage on a floating platform in Prospero’s Cave, the site of the hotel’s Natura Spa.
Even if there are no rental cars on the island, getting around Bermuda is easy.
Top: Take a cycle tour to explore Bermuda’s vibrant charms. Middle: The Natura Spa at the Grotto Bay Beach Resort is located in Prospero’s Cave, where massages are done on private floating pavilions. Bottom: Hit the shops along colourful Front Street in the capital city of Hamilton.
Photo Courtesy of Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa
Photo Courtesy of Bermuda Tourism Authority
Photo Courtesy of Bermuda Tourism Authority
Two-seat electric-powered rental microcars are popular. Taxis are plentiful and there are local buses. Just don’t be in a hurry; traffic is often backed up on the island’s three main roads. But the scenery makes that a minor problem.
If two wheels appeal, try a cycle tour along part of the 35-km, ocean-hugging Railway Trail with Pedego Electric Bikes Bermuda.
Afterwards, relax with a lunch of grilled local fish on the harbour-facing patio at Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio. Toast the day with the national drink, a boozy Rum Swizzle.
Take a glass-bottom boat tour from the busy Royal Naval Dockyard complex to see fish, coral and the wreck of the HMS Vixen. The ship was deliberately scuttled in the 19th century to create a barrier to intruders, and her bow still pokes up from the water.
We had a glimpse of Bermuda’s famously vivid coral from the boat but were able to see so much more by snorkelling near it, especially the incredible, violet-coloured sea fans. The soft corals, some the size of office chairs, enthralled us when we joined a Coral Garden Workshop led by marine biologist Dr. Samia Sarkis of the Living Reefs Foundation. It’s offered through Rosewood Bermuda luxury resort.
Visitors can put on snorkel gear and dive in to learn about Sarkis’s project growing corals that will help restore reefs and protect weather-vulnerable structures, like the Bermuda Causeway linking Hamilton Parish and Bermuda International Airport. Sarkis grows baby coral on tiles affixed to a handful of rebar pyramids on the ocean floor. Once the corals are big enough, they’re cemented onto reefs or rocks.
“We had ghosts coming out of that bottle,” Ramsay-Brackstone said of the glass flagon of London-made perfume that inspired the fragrance.
They say everyone in Bermuda has a story to tell, and RamsayBrackstone is no exception. She’s the Honourary Consul of Canada, appointed to help Canadians in Bermuda with problems like lost passports, even if they dropped into the Bermuda Triangle.
Put on snorkel gear and dive in for a Coral Garden Workshop to learn about growing corals that will help restore reefs.
Back on land, try some of Bermuda’s signature scents at 100-yearold Lili Bermuda perfumery, in a 1730s stone cottage known as Stewart Hall in St. George. Canadian owner and perfumer Isabelle Ramsay-Brackstone can thank a shipwreck for one of her latest fragrances, which she blends to tell stories of Bermuda. Mary Celestia is based on a bottle of perfume recovered from the 1864 wreck of the American Civil War blockade runner of the same name near Horseshoe Bay.
Bermuda embraces the fact-or-fiction tales of this area of the North Atlantic, where planes and ships have disappeared without a trace. We spotted triangles everywhere, from earrings at “Bohemian bungalow” 1609 Design Boutique in Hamilton, to the red triangle on each pair of TABS Bermuda shorts and triangular details on buildings and houses.
Bermuda’s other signature is the colour pink. Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa in Sandys Parish pairs the Gatsby-era elegance from its 1923 opening with
modern flair in vibrant pink cottage-style rooms and suites. Known as the Pink Palace, The Fairmont Hamilton Princess Bermuda has a staggering amount of contemporary art throughout the hotel, including a Picasso, Warhol and Banksy.
WHERE TO EAT
Bermuda is for food lovers, with an emphasis on local seafood like fish and spiny lobster, flamboyant cocktails and good service.
The elegant Waterlot was built in 1670 and was the home of the Darrell family for 300 years. It’s known for steaks, tableside Caesar salad and flambéed Bananas Foster.
Breezes at Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa has outdoor dining and spectacular sunset views. Fairmont Hamilton Princess Bermuda in Hamilton hosts weekly upscale beach barbecues during high season at its Hamilton Princess Beach Club.
Linda Barnard was a guest of the Bermuda Tourism Authority, which did not preview this story.
From a leisurely swim to shipwreck diving and snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, Bermuda’s warm, turquoise waters have something to entice everyone.
Photo Courtesy of Bermuda Tourism Authority
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PENNY’S MOTEL:
Winter’s Escape warmest
By Sue Bartholomew • Photography by Jenna Kitchings
Summer may steal the spotlight at Penny’s Motel, but winter is when the real magic begins. Guests don’t mourn the end of long, sun-drenched days — they embrace the season the moment the first flurries dance over Georgian Bay and the ski hills catch their first dusting of white. That’s when Penny’s transforms into its coziest, most adventurous self.
Just minutes from the slopes of Blue Mountain, nestled between apple orchards and the Niagara Escarpment and surrounded by the charm of Thornbury, Penny’s becomes the ultimate basecamp for snowy getaways. Think après-ski saunas, steaming mugs of something warm, freshly shucked oysters, and cozy nights by the fire under star-filled winter skies. Whether you’re carving first tracks on the hill, snowshoeing through quiet trails, or simply watching snowflakes fall outside your suite, winter at Penny’s isn’t just beautiful — it’s pure fun.
This season, guests are invited to embrace the cold, bundle up, and lean into everything the region has to offer. And Penny’s makes sure there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy it.
Just minutes from the slopes of Blue Mountain, nestled between apple orchards and the Niagara Escarpment, and surrounded by the charm of Thornbury, Penny’s becomes the ultimate basecamp for snowy getaways.
and modern comfort. Owner John Belknap, who spent time in the area as a ski instructor and vacationer, was drawn to the motel’s “bones” — its vintage 1970s architecture and that wonderfully nostalgic roadside sign proudly advertising “Colour TV.” Instead of erasing the past, Belknap chose to preserve it, weaving in the motel’s heritage while reimagining it for a new generation of travelers.
From Roadside Motel to Boutique Destination
Once a tired mid-century motor lodge, Penny’s has been lovingly revived into a 13-room boutique retreat that captures the best of both worlds: retro charm
The goal was never just to renovate, but to transform the property into a destination. Today, Penny’s is more than a place to stay — it’s somewhere you want to linger. With its mix of gathering spaces, from firepits to bocce courts to communal patios, the property invites guests to connect, unwind, and embrace both relaxation and adventure.
Owner John Belknap
The Rooms: Retro Roots, Modern Comfort
Inside, the rooms feel both stylish and deeply comfortable. The smallest — outfitted with a single queen bed — are snug sanctuaries for solo travellers or couples looking for an intimate basecamp. For families or friend groups, the king suites and doublequeen rooms offer extra space to sprawl.
Design cues nod to the motel’s 1970s roots, but comforts are distinctly modern: walk-in rain showers, heated bathroom floors, Malin + Goetz toiletries, and Nespresso coffee machines that provide a jolt of fuel for early mornings in this quiet lakeside town. Smart TVs make it easy to stream your favourite series after a day outdoors, while warm, layered textures and earthy tones echo the natural surroundings of Georgian Bay and the escarpment.
At Penny’s, the après scene is not just an afterthought — it’s a highlight. The winter menu offers a refined yet approachable spread: warm pretzels, mac and cheese, brisket sliders, lobster rolls, pizzas, and charcuterie boards.
Après, Penny’s Style
At Penny’s, the après scene is not just an afterthought — it’s a highlight. The winter menu offers a refined yet approachable spread: warm pretzels, mac and cheese, brisket sliders, lobster rolls, pizzas, and charcuterie boards (or as the team calls them, “share-cuterie”). Under twinkling lights, the covered patio seats about 50 guests, making it an ideal spot for gathering after a day on the slopes.
Then there’s the Après Hut — a cozy outdoor nook that feels tailor-made for winter nights. And, of course, oysters are the star attraction. Belknap also owns Toronto’s beloved John & Sons Oyster House, so it’s no surprise that Penny’s bar menu features a strong oyster program, complemented by shareable plates, light mains, and desserts. Together, the offerings create a space that feels equal parts ski lodge, wine bar, and lively social hub.
Inspired by Nature, Grounded in Community
The surrounding landscape played a central role in shaping Penny’s identity. From the escarpment cliffs to the winding Beaver River and the endless horizon of Georgian Bay, the region’s natural palette inspired the design and atmosphere. Earthy colours, organic textures, and outdoor-oriented amenities all reflect the outdoors, encouraging guests to fully immerse themselves in the setting.
Firepits, cozy blankets, and outdoor seating make it easy to spend as much time outside as possible — even in the colder months. The aesthetic embraces pastel touches balanced against deep earthy tones.
But it isn’t just design or scenery that sets Penny’s apart — it’s the connection to community. Belknap and his family had deep ties to Thornbury long before the motel. They skied here, vacationed here, and even married here. For Belknap, creating Penny’s was about more than business; it was about investing in a lifestyle destination rooted in a place that already held personal meaning.
Firepits, cozy blankets, and outdoor seating make it easy to spend as much time outside as possible — even in the colder months. The aesthetic embraces pastel touches balanced against deep earthy tones.
The Penny Effect
There’s something about Penny’s that feels instantly nostalgic, yet refreshingly current. Maybe it’s the mix of its preserved retro bones with its boutique sensibility. Maybe it’s the way the property captures the essence of both adventure and ease. Or maybe it’s simply the fact that Penny’s offers what so many of us crave in winter: warmth, comfort, good food, and a sense of community.
Whatever it is, Penny’s Motel has become more than a place to stay in Thornbury. It’s a gathering point, a design-driven retreat, and a celebration of all the small luxuries that make winter not just bearable, but beautiful.
So this season, let the snow fall and the bay freeze over. At Penny’s, the cold isn’t something to escape — it’s something to savour.
PennysMotel.ca
THE MOONSHINE CAFÉ MOVES TO A NEW HOME
Oakville’s beloved live music venue has a new address — now at 568 Kerr Street. With improved parking, easier transit access, and the same intimate, musician-first atmosphere, The Moonshine Café continues its legacy under new owner Mike Wharton, ensuring the spirit of live music thrives nightly. TheMoonshineCafe.com
ROASTA CAFÉ & EATERY OPENS IN BURLINGTON
Now open on Appleby Line, Roasta Café & Eatery invites guests to gather, sip, and belong. Enjoy freshly brewed coffees, delicious meals, and warm hospitality in a space designed to bring people together through flavour, comfort, and community. Roasta.com
RESERVA BY NONNO’S: PRIVATE ITALIAN DINING AT HOME
Transform your home into an intimate Italian dining experience with Reserva by Nonno’s. Each menu is thoughtfully curated to your occasion — from birthdays to elegant dinners with friends. Enjoy rustic favourites and modern Italian creations, all crafted and prepared in your own kitchen. @NonnosPesto
BARREL HEART BREWING EARNS MICHELIN RECOGNITION
Dundas-based Barrel Heart Brewing has received a 2025 Bib Gourmand from the Michelin Guide, celebrating exceptional food and value. Led by Chef Mitchell Gatschuff, Barrel Heart’s kitchen pairs elevated, flavourful dishes with its signature craft brews for an unforgettable dining experience. BarrelHeart.com
SØBR MARKET EXPANDS TO BURLINGTON
Søbr Market has opened a new location at 396 Martha Street, bringing the widest selection of premium alcohol-free beverages to the community. Dedicated to elevating social experiences without compromise, Søbr offers a welcoming space to explore alternatives that keep connection and celebration at the heart of every moment. TheSobrMarket.com
ICEWINE unexpected
Forget what you think you know about Icewine. Too often, this golden elixir is reserved for the end of a meal—delicate, sweet, and saved for dessert. But Canada’s most luxurious liquid has a wild side. It can handle heat. It can play with savoury. It can even hold its own next to your favourite takeout guilty pleasure.
Icewine Unexpected is your invitation to break the rules. In this guide, we explore how the concentrated sweetness, rich acidity, and velvety
texture of Icewine make it the ultimate companion to bold flavours— from Thai curry and spicy fried chicken to salty fries and lively carnitas. You’ll also discover new ways to bring Icewine into your kitchen, transforming it from a special occasion pour into a secret ingredient that elevates every dish.
This is not your grandmother’s dessert wine. This is Canada’s liquid gold—cool, complex, and unapologetically versatile. Get ready to sip, stir, and savour Icewine in ways you never imagined.
Icewine Butter Chicken
A favourite Icewine harvest staff meal for good reason. The sauce is silky, the spices are warming, and the splash of Icewine adds a bright, unexpected lift—a little sweet, a little tangy, and exactly what you want after a long day in Niagara’s vineyards.
INGREDIENTS
Chicken Marinade:
● 2 lbs boneless and skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1” pieces
● ½ cup unsweetened plain yogurt
● 1 ½ tbsp minced garlic
● 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
● 2 tsp garam masala
● 1 tsp turmeric
● 1 tsp ground cumin
● 1 tsp black pepper
● 1 tsp sea salt
Butter Sauce:
● 2 tbsp vegetable oil
● 2 tbsp ghee
● 1 large onion, chopped
● 1 ½ tbsp minced garlic
● 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
● 1 ½ tsp ground cumin
● 1 ½ tsp garam masala
● 1 tsp ground coriander
● ½ cup Icewine (Riesling, Gewurztraminer or Vidal Icewine)
● 14 oz canned tomatoes, crushed or chopped
● 1 tsp red chili powder
● Salt to taste
● 1 cup coconut crème
● 1 cup cashews, chopped, for garnish
● Cilantro or parsley, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
1. In a bowl, combine chicken with all of the ingredients for the chicken marinade; let marinate for 30 minutes to an hour (or overnight).
2. Heat oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. When sizzling, add chicken pieces in batches and fry until browned, approx. 3 minutes per side. Set aside and keep warm.
3. Heat butter or ghee in the same pan. Fry the onions, stirring, until translucent.
4. Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, then add spices. Cook for about 20 seconds until fragrant, while stirring occasionally.
5. Add Icewine and deglaze pan, stirring and scraping up any browned bits stuck on the bottom of the pan.
6. Add crushed tomatoes and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until sauce thickens and becomes a deeper colour.
7. Remove from heat, scoop mixture into a blender and blend until smooth. Add water, 1 tbsp at a time, if required to blend.
8. Pour the puréed sauce back into the pan. Stir in the coconut crème. Add the chicken with juices back into the pan and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thick and bubbling.
9. Garnish with chopped cashews and cilantro (or parsley) and serve with basmati or jasmine rice and naan.
ICEWINE 101
Niagara leads the world in Icewine—both in volume and in imagination—but three styles continue to steal the spotlight (and many international awards):
Vidal Icewine – Lush and tropical with hints of honey and caramel, this golden classic is rich, smooth, and endlessly indulgent. It shines alongside bold, fatty flavours—think salty cheeses, spiced nuts, crème brûlée, fried chicken, or spicy Thai curry.
Riesling Icewine – Bright, zesty, and full of energy. Notes of citrus and green apple keep it crisp and balanced, making it the perfect match for punchy flavours like blue cheese, citrus desserts, pad Thai, ceviche, or goat cheese tartlets.
Cabernet Franc Icewine – Bursting with berry and floral aromatics, this ruby-hued style is both elegant and expressive. It loves rich, layered dishes— dark chocolate, game meats, hearty stews, or smoky BBQ ribs.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Niagara Grape & Wine Festival House Sommelier shares these fun Icewine facts:
All Icewine is Local – Ontario is one of the few grape-growing regions in the world cold enough to produce Icewine every year. Hot summers, dry falls, and crisp winters make it uniquely Niagara.
Dinner Party Flex – True Icewine is made from grapes that freeze naturally on the vine at –8°C or colder before being hand-picked and pressed. No shortcuts here.
It’s All About Balance – The best Icewines walk a fine line between sweet and tart, rich and refreshing—perfect harmony in a glass.
Skip Dessert, Sip This – After a big meal, treat Icewine like a digestif. A short pour in a white wine glass rivals Port, Sherry, or Amaro.
The Gift That Lasts – Thanks to high sugar and acidity, Icewine ages beautifully for decades—and stays fresh in the fridge for up to a month after opening.
Not Just for Dessert – Forget saving it for the finale. Icewine plays beautifully with spicy, salty, and savoury dishes, too.
No Substitutes Allowed –Real Icewine can only come from naturally frozen grapes. The term “Icewine” is a protected Canadian trademark—accept no imitations.
Icewine Caramelized Onion Soup
There’s more than one way to caramelize an onion, but we swear by the “slow and low” method—it coaxes out every bit of rich, golden flavour and gives you just enough time to pour yourself a little Icewine while you wait.
INGREDIENTS
● 4 tbsp butter
● 4 Vidalia or Spanish Onions, sliced thinly
● 1 clove garlic, minced
● ½ cup Vidal Icewine
● 4 cups beef stock
● 2 cups chicken stock
● 8 sprigs of fresh thyme, plus more for serving
● Salt and pepper to taste
● Baguette or crusty bread
● 1 cup shredded Jarlsberg cheese
DIRECTIONS
1. In a large, heavy bottomed pot melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden brown, 45 to 60 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook, stirring, until incorporated, 1 to 2 minutes; season with salt. Add Icewine, bring to a simmer, and cook, stirring occasionally, until evaporated, 1 to 2 minutes.
3. Add beef stock, chicken stock, and thyme and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until liquid is slightly reduced and flavours have melded, about 15 minutes. Remove thyme; season with salt and pepper.*
4. Heat broiler to high. Ladle soups into ovenproof ramekins or bowls. Top each with 2 baguette slices, and cover with shredded cheese. Place under broiler and cook, watching closely, until cheese is bubbling and golden, 1 to 2 minutes.
5. Remove with oven mitts and place on small plate to serve. Top with chopped fresh thyme.
*MAKE-AHEAD: Store soup in jars or airtight container in the refrigerator (or freeze for up to 3 months). Before serving, bring soup to temperature before ladling into ramekins and topping with bread, cheese and broiling.
SWEET MOVES
You’ve been gifted a bottle of Icewine—liquid gold in a glass, just waiting for a little creativity. Feeling adventurous? Try swapping it in for honey, maple syrup, or to add a splash of vibrant sweetness to your favourite recipes. It’s your secret weapon for turning simple dishes into something worth toasting.
1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Line a 12 x 17-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Heat butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and Icewine in a large pot over medium heat. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and leave untouched for 5 minutes.
3. Remove caramel from heat. Stir in baking soda. Mixture will foam.
Icewine Caramel Corn MORE ICEWINE SWAPS
● Add a splash of Cabernet Icewine to hot chocolate for a subtle berry-sweet twist
● Swap Icewine for red wine in coq au vin for a smoother, honeyed finish
4. Sprinkle salt over popcorn. Pour caramel mixture over popcorn and mix until all popcorn is coated.
5. Spread caramel corn on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
● Finish pan-roasted mushrooms with a drizzle of Icewine for instant depth
● Deglaze your pan after sautéing aromatics to layer in flavour for soups,
6. Remove from oven, cool and serve. Best when eaten the first day but will keep for up to a week in an airtight container.
stews, and sauces
● Reduce Icewine into a glaze and brush over roasted root vegetables for a golden, caramel edge
make it an evening to remember.
VINTAGE, But Elevated
A classic holiday cocktail party that feels modern, nostalgic and memorable
The holidays have always been a season of tradition, memory, and a little magic. Each year, we open boxes of ornaments and linens that carry family history, set the table with dishes that have seen generations of gatherings, and instinctively crave those familiar colours of deep red, forest green, and warm candlelight.
Photography by Lisa Marie Photography
But this year, I’m taking that nostalgia and reimagining it for a holiday cocktail party that feels chic, playful, and elevated – a space where heirloom pieces meet bold new accents, and where guests sip punch in jewel-cut glasses while grazing on perfectly sized small plates.
The beauty of entertaining in 2025 is that it doesn’t have to be overly polished or rigid. Guests appreciate a little looseness, a little creativity, and a lot of heart. This season, the goal is to host in a way that feels collected rather than curated, blending vintage and modern for a party that’s equal parts stylish and memorable.
Setting the Scene: Classic Colours,
Reimagined
For décor, I’m leaning unapologetically into holiday classics. Red is non-negotiable, but instead of pairing it with shiny gold or stark silver, I’m grounding it with deep greens, touches of bronze, and layers of natural textures. Think bowls of pomegranates, clusters of vintage glass ornaments, and cut crystal that sparkles in the candlelight.
On the table, I love mixing modern pieces with nostalgic ones: a lace linen from your grandmother, layered under matte stoneware; mid-century candlesticks arranged at different heights down the centre of a buffet; vintage ornaments tucked into garlands or set at each place as a name card holder. This isn’t about perfection; it’s about creating an atmosphere that feels warm, personal, and a little unexpected.
Red is non-negotiable, but instead of pairing it with shiny gold or stark silver, I’m grounding it with deep greens, touches of bronze, and layers of natural textures.
I’ve been using a mix of jewel-toned glassware that feels like a modern heirloom, with red and green cuts of crystal that shimmer in candlelight. They tie beautifully into the nostalgic theme, but their bold colour palette makes them feel youthful and fresh.
The Resurgence of the Punch Bowl
Every great party needs a focal point, and this season it’s the return of the punch bowl. Forget the sherbet-and-soda concoctions of decades past; today’s punch is refined, batch-made, and designed to make a statement.
The beauty of a punch bowl is twofold: it’s functional and it’s a showpiece. It saves the host from shaking cocktails all night, and it invites guests to gather around, ladling out their own glass. Styled well, it becomes the bar centrepiece, surrounded by gleaming glassware and garnished with floating fruit and herbs.
I recommend serving punch in vintage silver or cut-crystal punch bowls. Pair it with your jeweltoned goblets or a mix of coupe glasses for that collected feel.
Holiday Spark Punch
This punch is festive, jewel-toned, and free of the “toxic sodas” that weighed down old-school versions. It’s bright, slightly tart, and endlessly drinkable, perfect for keeping guests refreshed through the night.
● 2 cups 100% cranberry juice
● 2 cups pomegranate juice
● 1 cup orange liqueur (or omit for zero-proof)
● 1 bottle dry sparkling wine (or sparkling water for mocktail)
Combine juices and liqueur in the punch bowl. Just before serving, add sparkling wine and kombucha. Garnish generously with fruit and herbs. Serve over ice in crystal goblets.
Rethinking the Holiday Cocktail Party
Instead of a formal sit-down dinner, I’m embracing the cocktail party as the ultimate holiday format. It encourages mingling, keeps the mood light, and allows you to showcase creativity without being locked into a four-course meal.
The key is offering food that’s easy to grab, not overwhelming. I’ve moved away from sprawling grazing boards in favour of mini grab-and-go plates. They’re elevated, tidy, and ensure every guest feels looked after without hovering at one table.
Mini Seafood Towers
Reimagine the grandeur of a seafood tower, but in individual portions.
● Layer small pedestal dishes or coupe glasses with crushed ice.
● Top with oysters, chilled shrimp, maybe a lobster claw and a lemon wedge.
● Serve with classic mignonette or cocktail sauce.
These mini towers feel indulgent but approachable, a nod to luxury without the intimidation factor.
Something fresh that guests can grab goes a long way. I’ve dressed mini Cobb salads in wooden bowls.
● Iceberg lettuce
● Sliced egg
● Bacon or crispy prosciutto
● Blue cheese
● Top with a tangy Dijon-honey vinaigrette.
They’re bite-sized, festive, and pair beautifully with a glass of wine or sparkling punch.
The trick with cocktail-party menus is balance. Don’t skip on the light and refreshing items; you don’t want your guests to fill up on heavy oven appetizers.
Petit Salads
Making Nostalgia Feel Modern
The secret to styling a holiday party that feels both nostalgic and modern is contrast. Don’t aim for a perfectly matched set; instead, layer in pieces that tell different stories. A few ways to achieve this:
● Mix old and new: Pair vintage china with sleek matteblack flatware.
● Reimagine ornaments: Scatter them in bowls, tie them into napkin rings, or hang them on the backs of chairs with ribbon.
● Play with scale: Oversized candlesticks mixed with tiny votives create depth and dimension.
● Lean into imperfection: Allow some mismatched glassware or slightly asymmetrical garlands; this keeps things from feeling too staged.
The holidays are about memory and connection, and décor is one of the most powerful tools for evoking both. By bringing vintage pieces into the mix, you’re inviting stories to surface: “These were my grandmother’s glasses,” or “We used these ornaments on the tree when I was a kid.” Guests instantly feel part of something more meaningful.
At the end of the day, the most memorable holiday gatherings aren’t the ones that feel flawless; they’re the ones that feel heartfelt.
At the end of the day, the most memorable holiday gatherings aren’t the ones that feel flawless; they’re the ones that feel heartfelt. A cocktail party with glistening glassware, nostalgic ornaments, glowing candles, and a punch bowl at the centre isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an atmosphere where people connect, laugh, and linger.
This year, I’m embracing nostalgia, and letting vintage charm guide the design. With a few thoughtful touches and a punch bowl full of sparkle, you’ll have a holiday celebration that feels timeless, chic, and unforgettable.
HARMONY WITH ROGER MOOKING FLAVOURS IN
GUEST EDITOR
Roger Mooking RogerMooking.com
This issue, Best Side Magazine welcomes acclaimed chef, musician, and artist Roger Mooking as our guest editor. Known for his bold approach to culinary traditions and his ability to transform global influences into unforgettable dishes, Roger shares three recipes designed to inspire both comfort and celebration. From the indulgent crunch of Cod Cakes with Garlic Cilantro Mayo, to the rich warmth of Steamed Sweet Potato Mash, to the showstopping Striploin Platter with Rum Demi, each dish is paired with a curated beer that enhances the experience. The pairings are part of Love Triangle—a creative collaboration of beer, music, and art with Lovebird Beer and Roger Mooking—making this feature a true symphony of flavour and craft.
Photos by Kirsten of Town + County Collective
STRIPLOIN PLATTER
WITH RUM DEMI, CILANTRO, SHALLOTS & SCOTCHIES
Serves 6
STRIPLOIN
● 4 x 8 oz striploins
● Kosher or sea salt
● Freshly cracked black pepper
Method
1. Heat a cast iron pan over high heat. Season steaks generously.
2. Sear both sides until deeply browned. Cook to desired doneness. Rest on a wire rack before slicing and fanning on a platter.
RUM DEMI-GLACE
● 2 cups demi-glace
● ¼ cup Appleton rum
● 4 oz cold cubed butter
● Salt to taste
Simmer demi-glace with rum until reduced to original volume. Off heat, whisk in cold butter until glossy and emulsified. Season and serve in a sauce boat.
SCOTCHIES & GINGER
● 2 tbsp finely chopped Scotch bonnet peppers
● 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
● 1 tsp grated fresh garlic
● ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
Mix and let rest for 24 hours before serving.
ACCOMPANIMENTS
● Finely chopped cilantro
● Finely chopped shallots
● Rum demi-glace
● Scotchies & ginger
Service: Arrange striploin slices on a platter with accompaniments served tableside.
COD CAKES & CRISPY
DOUBLE SMOKED BACON
WITH GARLIC CILANTRO MAYO
Serves 8
COD CAKES
● 1 lb dried salt cod
● 1 lb russet potatoes, peeled and diced
● 2 cups finely diced white onion
● 1 tbsp olive oil
● ½ cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
● 1 red Thai chili, finely chopped
● Olive oil for sautéing
● 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Method
1. Rinse salt cod thoroughly to remove surface salt. Place in a bowl, cover with cold water, and refrigerate for 12 hours. Drain, refresh with new cold water, and refrigerate for another 12 hours.
2. Drain and squeeze excess water from the cod. Place in a pot of fresh water and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily. Cool, then flake by hand into fine pieces with some small chunks.
3. Boil potatoes until tender. Drain, allow to dry and cool, then roughly mash by hand.
4. Sweat onions in olive oil until translucent (do not brown). Cool.
5. In a large bowl, combine cod, potatoes, onions, parsley, and chili. Mix gently, keeping texture. Form into 8 pucks. Refrigerate overnight.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F. Press both sides of each cake into panko to coat. Pan-sear with olive oil until golden on both sides, then finish in the oven for 10 minutes, until heated through.
CRISPY BACON
● 4 strips thick-cut double smoked bacon
Bake at 350°F on a parchment-lined tray for 12 minutes, until crisp. Drain and cool.
GARLIC CILANTRO MAYO
● 1 cup mayonnaise
● 2 tsp grated garlic
● ¾ cup finely chopped cilantro
● 1 tbsp lime juice
● Salt & pepper for seasoning
Mix all ingredients. Serve alongside cod cakes and bacon.
BEER PAIRING GOLDEN CHILD
A crisp lagered ale with prairie malt and citruspine hops.
WITH ALLSPICE, BROWN BUTTER & SESAME
Serves 6
SWEET POTATO MASH
● 4 lbs sweet potatoes, skin on
● ½ cup brown sugar
Steam sweet potatoes, skin on, for 1 hour or until tender. Cool until manageable, peel, and mash with sugar, allspice, and
medium brown and nutty. Keep warm.
ASSEMBLY
● Sliced green onions, soaked in ice water
● Black sesame seeds
Spread sweet potato mash on a platter, creating a well in the centre. Pour brown butter into the “donut hole.” Garnish with sesame seeds and drained green onions. Serve hot.
A Dickens Of A Christmas In Downtown Dundas
APPLEBY COLLEGE GALA 2026
Mark your calendar for April 25, 2026, as Appleby College hosts its enchanting In the Night Garden Gala. Enjoy gourmet dining, signature cocktails, and live entertainment while supporting the school. Featuring live and silent auctions with exclusive experiences, luxury items, and dream getaways. Appleby.on.ca/Gala
THE EL MOCAMBO ENTERS A NEW ERA OF OWNERSHIP
Toronto’s iconic El Mocambo has new owners—Oakville couple Cyrus and Shilpa Madon. Longtime music lovers, they’ve revived the legendary venue, preserving a vital piece of the city’s cultural history and keeping live music alive for future generations. For bookings, email PrivateEvents@ ElMocambo.com
FLEURS DE VILLES NOËL RETURNS TO BLOOR-YORKVILLE
From December 3–7, 2025, experience the magic of the 4th annual Fleurs de Villes NOËL floral trail. Featuring over 25 breathtaking fresh floral installations, floral mannequins, carollers, workshops, and a Saturday flower market, this free self-guided tour transforms Bloor-Yorkville into a festive floral wonderland. FleursDeVilles.com
16 YEARS OF CREATIVITY & COMMUNITY
ArtHouse proudly celebrates 16 years of inspiring young minds through the arts. Their inclusive programs ignite curiosity, confidence, and resilience in children and youth ages 7–17, ensuring every child has access to creative expression and the joy of the arts. ArtHouseHalton.com
WINTER WONDERS RETURNS TO THE RBG
From November 27 to January 4, Royal Botanical Gardens’ Hendrie Park transforms into a glowing winter wonderland. Enjoy dazzling light displays, festive music, warm treats, and new interactive art installations by Canadian artists. RBG.ca
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT IN DOWNTOWN OAKVILLE
Kick off the holiday season at Oakville’s Towne Square on Friday, November 14 from 5–9 PM. Enjoy the annual tree lighting, festive cheer, and the beloved Sugar Plums, plus ongoing holiday activities every Saturday—carollers, carriage rides, photos with Santa, hot cocoa, and more! OakvilleDowntown.com
KareemFerreira: The Art of Belonging
“I am connected to my work. I would rather my work go to someone who truly appreciates the work, rather than someone who is purchasing it for personal gain.”
GUEST EDITOR
Roger Mooking
RogerMooking.com
Beneath the hush of Hamilton’s skyline, a studio breathes with a rhythm all its own. Sunlight spills through the corner windows, stretching the room wide. Canvases lean against the walls like conversations paused mid-sentence…
Kareem-Anthony Ferreira is a Hamilton-raised Trinidadian contemporary artist whose pieces are sought by collectors from LeBron James to Lizzo, and has been featured in New American Painting Magazine. He is a thoughtfully reluctant star, celebrated for celebrating cherished family photographs reborn through paint, paper, textiles, and pure mastery on unstretched canvas.
“Family celebrations... communities are a reflection of the people that make them up,” Ferreira reflects, his voice carrying the weight of inherited experience. “Nostalgia, connection to both places: they have shaped me into who I am.”
Kareem's work on display at the Art Gallery of Hamilton
Kareem–Anthony Ferreira, With Mom’s Help, 2023, Acrylic and mixed media on canvas, 46 in x 36 in.
He approaches his canvas as a storyteller with a brush. His process begins with a question: What stories hide beneath the surface? Like a master hip-hop producer sampling beats, he layers materials: Caribbean flora, patterned textiles, fragments of moments, building a visual tapestry that speaks to the depth of simply existing. Each layer represents a moment in time, a memory, or a piece of history that might otherwise fade away.
The studio itself is a testament to intentionality. Chosen for what he holds most sacred, his daily life with family and friends. “If I am feeling creative, I can come here,” he explains, knowing that where he is coming from is always in the lead.
Sade often provides the soundtrack, a sonic embrace for the explorative process. “I don’t like to force my art,” he admits. “I take breaks.” This measured approach, honed during his MFA at the University of Arizona, yields large-scale compositions where generations merge, timelines blur, and memory itself becomes a tangible, textured landscape.
His father, Roger Ferreira, saw what others missed. While others may have overlooked the quiet intensity in Kareem’s eyes, Roger recognized a creative fire that couldn’t be taught. With an exceptional measure of trust, he often enlisted a young Kareem
to paint elements of his murals. Even in middle school, under the tutelage of a feared yet revered art teacher, the value of Kareem’s vision was affirmed when his father famously retrieved a prized piece the teacher wished to keep. What began as a father’s faith in his son’s brushstrokes evolved into a lifelong pursuit of emotional truth, one that now pulses through every
The result is art that transcends decoration. Pieces like “Day at the Beach” or “Kids with Hair Curlers” are portals that explore: assimilation, nostalgia, and the intricate dance of cross-cultural memory. Ferreira acknowledges the subjectivity inherent in this process: “Even when I recreate images, I remember it one way, but when my parents see it, or family members, they note inaccuracies.” For Kareem, it is his interpretation, the emotional truth of the moment that evokes the cherished response, “Oh, I remember that.”
Ferreira’s work is a celebration of history, of the choices his parents made, and of the enduring desire to experience the profound feelings of home, wherever that home may reside. His paintings transform into spaces where our own stories can reside. When you stand before his work, something unexpected happens. Kareem's gift is to create visual meeting grounds where strangers can recognize themselves in each other's stories. His canvases hold history, yes, but they also hold possibility.
In a world that often tries to sort us into separate boxes, Kareem's art does the opposite. It gently insists that we are all part of the same unfolding story, connected by threads of shared humanity that stretch across time and circumstance. Kareem paints invitations to look closer, to remember, and most importantly, to belong.
@KareemAnthony.Artist
Kareem–Anthony Ferreira, Parish, Mother of the Year, 2024, Acrylic and mixed media on linen, 72 x 96 in.
Kareem–Anthony Ferreira, By the Beach in Tobago, 2024, Acrylic and mixed media on linen, 72 x 96 in.
Jann Arden Christmas November 21-23, 2025
KUNE World Orchestra
December 3, 2025
The Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show December 6, 2025
December 31, 2025
Spend the holidays with us! Go to oakvillecentre.ca to see the full line up of our amazing 25-26 Season performers. Don’t miss out! Our season runs until the end of May 2026.
Michael Harrison: Ventastic
Colin James Trio December 4 & 5, 2025
ART
The UNEXPECTED the Shaping of
UNEXPECTED T
here’s something deeply fascinating about watching people who have mastered their craft. Whether it’s chefs, blacksmiths, or in this case, glassblowers — I’m always captivated by the tools and techniques that help them create beauty from raw materials. On our visit to Infinite Glassworks in Markdale, I had the chance to dive into that world, and it was an experience that felt equal parts science, art, and magic.
I love learning new ways to make things, especially when those ways are tactile, unpredictable, and full of character. Walking into the glassblowing studio felt like stepping into a different universe, filled with heat, motion, and precision. I was surrounded by a fascinating assortment of tools, each designed to do one very specific job. Some were elegant, some were surprisingly rudimentary, like wet newspaper used to shape molten glass, but all had a clear purpose. As someone who’s always been enamoured by the details of process, I find it mesmerizing.
The studio itself had its own kind of life to it. Chickens were roaming freely outside the workshop, and spotting them between turns at the furnace somehow made the whole day even more memorable. The air was warm and alive with movement — rotating rods, glowing embers, dripping glass. Watching that molten material cling to the pipe, almost like honey or melted sugar, was hypnotic. It took a steady rhythm of movement, a dance of sorts, to coax the shape you wanted into being. The glass looked as though it might just
I love learning NEW WAYS to make things
— especially when those ways are tactile, unpredictable, and full of character.
scissors felt almost absurd until I saw it done — and yet, it worked perfectly. The material behaves in ways that defy logic while still following a rhythm all its own.
The final reveal is the most magical part of all. Even the most experienced glassblowers can’t predict exactly what their creation will look like once it cools to room temperature. There’s an element of mystery in that moment — a small, quiet reveal of what time and temperature have conspired to create.
By the end of the day, I was both humbled and exhilarated. What I created wasn’t just a glass vase — it was a piece shaped by patience, heat, and a little bit of wonder. Infinite Glassworks reminded me that art, in any form, is about curiosity and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. That lesson, and the finished piece I brought home as an anniversary gift for my wife, will stay with me — a reminder of how something beautiful can emerge from fire, time, and intention.
InfiniteGlassworks.com
Grey is not Grey
DISCOVER GREY COUNTY’S MUST-VISIT SPOTS
Infinite Glassworks
The Lowrider 2.0 Cup is handcrafted one at a time by Kate Civiero using traditional glassblowing techniques. This durable glass is perfect for cocktails, water, or wine. Mix and match to create a personalized, one-of-a-kind collection. InfiniteGlassworks.com
Sugar Dust Baking
Indulge in artisan sweet treats and savoury snacks from this female-owned bakery. From scratch and small-batch, favourites include gooey cinnamon buns with warm spices, golden brown sugar, and cream cheese icing— perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. SugarDustBakingOS.ca
Georgian Bay Spirit Co.
The Distillery Negroni blends premium Canadian gin, sweet vermouth, and herbal bitters for a perfectly balanced, ready-toserve cocktail. Just chill, pour, and enjoy—available at the Collingwood distillery or your local LCBO. GeorgianBaySpiritCo.com
Tanya Zaryski’s hand-painted ceramics capture the spirit of Georgian Bay through delicate depictions of local flora and fauna. Each piece is a unique blend of artistry and function—beautiful enough for display, yet durable for everyday use or special gatherings. CuisineThornbury.ca
Hand-printed and full of charm, these recycled paper decorations from East End Press add an artisanal touch to your holiday décor. Each piece unfolds into a unique design, ready to hang or display for a sustainable, stylish celebration.
Because good taste doesn’t stop at coffee. Discover a perfect blend of local wines, craft beers, artisanal sodas, and vintage threads. From pre-mixed cocktails to unique gifts, Savvy Co. is your goto for local flavour and holiday cheer. TheSavvyCo.com
Cuisine Thornbury
Savvy Co Meaford
Grey Bruce Design Shop
Add modern elegance to any space with the Cloudnola Flip Vase. With its clean lines, bright colours, and minimalist design, this small vase makes a unique and stylish holiday gift for any home or office. GBDShop.ca
Knot Audio
This isn’t just a speaker—it’s art with rhythm. Knot Audio’s Bluetoothenabled picture frame speaker lets you stream your favourite tunes while displaying interchangeable prints to match your mood. Available in Natural, White, or Black finishes for seamless style and sound. KnotAudio.com
Country Charm Mennonite Furniture
This Paris-inspired solid wood table blends timeless craftsmanship with functional design. Featuring a 42” round top and two 10” drop leaves, its Mission edge style and handcrafted detailing make it a classic piece for any dining space. CCharm.com
Danfield Antique Furnishings & Fine Art
A celebration of Canadiana—art, antiques, and pottery that capture the essence of Canada’s history and culture. Explore a curated collection of distinctive works that reflect the spirit, craftsmanship, and stories of our nation’s past. @Danfield_Antiques
The Woodlot
A husband-and-wife team creating handmade wooden goods, including jewellery, home accents, and buttons. Each piece is crafted from reclaimed and naturally fallen wood, then finished with beeswax polish and Pure Tung Nut Oil for a natural, sustainable touch. TheWoodlot.ca
Minh’s Restaurant
Savour authentic Vietnamese flavours at Minh’s Restaurant, a local favourite. The menu features classics like Shrimp Pad Thai and Pho Bo Vien, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Minhs-Collingwood.com
Roger Mooking
RogerMooking.com
As Culinary Ambassador for Grey County, Roger Mooking leads the region’s GATHER campaign, celebrating the people, places, and creative spirit that define this vibrant destination.
Through food, art, and shared experiences, he invites us all to gather— around a table, a story, and a sense of community that reaches far beyond the county lines.
collect from different places, sources, or people.
DON’T LET YOUR GAME HIBERNATE. OWN THE OFF-SEASON. DOMINATE THE NEXT.
Winter isn’t the end of your golf season - it’s your secret weapon. While everyone else hangs up their clubs, you’ll be sharpening your swing, mastering your tempo, and building confidence that explodes onto the course come spring. At Midtown Golf, we turn cold months into clutch moments.
WHY WINTER TRAINING WINS:
Build consistency that lasts all season long | Fix your flaws before they follow you to the tee box Stay sharp, strong, and ready to perform
YOUR ADVANTAGE STARTS HERE:
Five state-of-the-art Full Swing simulators | Advanced video analysis & coaching from top professionals Lounge, bar, and community vibe that keeps you coming back
“I didn’t just keep my swing — I leveled up. By spring, I was untouchable.”
THIS WINTER, DON’T WAIT FOR THE SEASON — CREATE IT.
Train smarter. Play better. Dominate spring. Book your winter program now at midtowngolf.ca
JOIN US AND BE PART OF OUR VIBRANT WOMEN’S GOLF COMMUNITY IN OAKVILLE, WHERE WE ENJOY YEAR-ROUND GOLF, SOCIALIZING, AND FUN!
Community. Coaching. Connection. Fun!
More than 100 Oakville women come together to keep their swings sharp and their friendships strong. Stay active, improve your game, and keep the good times rolling all winter long.
• Play in women-only indoor leagues so you “keep swinging” all winter
• Learn and practice with top coaches so that your game is better in the spring than it was in the fall
• Attend fun social events: Trivia nights, League dinners, Movie nights, All Women ProAm and so much more
• New to golf? Our “Zero to Golf” program is perfect for beginners so you can be ready to play outdoors in our leagues next summer!
• Already a golfer looking to improve? Our “Take your Game to the next Level” personalized program is the best way to Don’t let your summer progress fade – use the off-season to fix what you can’t in mid-season.
• Chapter, regional and national tournaments.
• Women’s Match Play Ladder
• And so much more!
“T he women I’ve met through the LPGA Amateurs are not just women to golf with - they have become friends.”
There’s a language between humans and horses that doesn’t need words. It’s felt through breath, through patience, through trust.”
THE HEALING POWER OF HORSES
GUEST EDITOR
Mrhythm between human and horse.
In the rolling stillness of Grey County’s Beaver Valley, there’s a place where healing comes quietly. A place where movement and emotion intertwine, and the connection between people and horses becomes something beautifully transformative.
Hope Haven rises quietly against the horizon. It is a sanctuary where healing comes not from medicine, but from movement. Inside its stables, something almost sacred unfolds: the meeting of people and horses, bound by unspoken understanding.
Places like Hope Haven hold a special kind of wonder. I have always been drawn to the tools and rituals that define a craft—the brushes and bridles, the polished saddles and hoof paste—each one with its own purpose and poetry. Cleaning a horse’s hoof that day reminded
Roger Mooking & Robyn Allen (Hope Haven Executive Director)
Hope Haven is a non-profit therapeutic riding centre dedicated to supporting individuals of all ages with disabilities and unique needs through equine-assisted services.
Hope Haven goes far beyond care and grooming. It is a non-profit therapeutic riding centre dedicated to supporting individuals of all ages with disabilities and unique needs through equine-assisted services. But when you step into that space, you quickly realize it is more than therapy. It is connection. It is spirit.
Horses have a knowing about them, an intuition that humbles you. They seem to recognize people for who they are beneath the surface—their emotions, their hesitations, their hopes. Their patience is not taught; it is innate. Robyn Allen, who leads the centre with both knowledge and
grace, explained to us how the simple act of riding replicates human pelvic motion, engaging the body in ways that promote balance, strength, and healing. But there is also an emotional current here, something that science alone cannot measure.
When Lauren from Best Side joined me that day, I could see how deeply it touched her. She spoke about growing up around horses, how the scent of hoof paste and the warmth of their breath brought her right back to childhood. Watching her reconnect with those memories was its own kind of therapy, a full-circle moment where nostalgia met purpose.
Each horse at Hope Haven tells a story: different breeds, different traits, each cared for with a devotion that honours tradition. To groom them, to feel the texture of their coats, to look into their eyes, is to understand, even for a moment, what it means to be both grounded and free.
There is an old saying that the outside of a horse is good for the inside of a person. Standing there, brush in hand, I understood exactly what that meant.
Hope Haven is more than a place; it is a reminder that healing can come through rhythm, through touch, and through shared breath between beings who simply understand. The people who help here do not just guide therapy sessions—they facilitate transformation. Genuine, humble, and deeply connected to the mission, they have built something extraordinary: a space where empathy leads, and every person and horse belongs.
This holiday season,
Downtown Burlington will transform into a twinkling winter village as The Burlington Christmas Market makes its much-anticipated debut. For two festive weeks, the city’s core will come alive with the sights, sounds, and scents of the holidays, from the aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts to the glow of string lights illuminating every corner.
Guests can wander through more than thirty artisan vendors offering handcrafted goods, seasonal décor, and one-of-akind gifts, while local food favourites and a fully licensed area invite visitors to sip, savour, and stay awhile. The main stage will host a lineup of live music and seasonal entertainment, creating the perfect soundtrack to an evening spent shopping, celebrating, and reconnecting with the spirit of the season.
The Burlington Christmas Market is all about community, a joyful gathering that celebrates local makers, musicians, and the city itself. Whether you’re strolling with family, meeting friends for a festive drink, or discovering new holiday traditions, this event promises to become a cherished part of Burlington’s winter calendar.
Eat. Shop. Sip. Celebrate.
Experience the magic of the holidays, right here in downtown Burlington.
2030 Caroline St, Burlington
With a signature style that blends timeless glamour with modern intimacy, Ryan Emberley has become one of Canada’s most sought-after celebrity and event photographers. Based in Toronto but with a global footprint, Emberley is a fixture on the red carpets of TIFF, Cannes, and Venice, where his lens captures not just moments, but moods.
Over the past decade, Emberley has quietly reshaped the art of event photography—shifting from the flashbulb chaos of paparazzi shots to thoughtful, curated portraits that feel both spontaneous and cinematic. His work has been featured in Vogue, W Magazine, TIME, and The Wall Street Journal.
A former journalist, Emberley brings a storyteller’s sensibility to his photography, allowing him to intuitively read a room, anticipate emotion, and translate energy into frame. Whether he’s documenting a high-society gala, an A-list film premiere, or an intimate editorial shoot, Emberley’s images never just show up—they stay with you.
As a creative force behind the camera and a trusted name among celebrities and brands alike, Ryan Emberley isn’t just capturing culture—he’s curating it.
socializing:
Toronto International Film Festival | Photos By Ryan Emberley: Left to Right: Guillermo del Toro (Frankenstein) | Elle Fanning & Joachim Trier (Sentimental Value) | Cameron Bailey (CEO, TIFF) & Brian Cox (Glenrothan) | Channing Tatum & Kirsten Dunst (Roofman) | Channing Tatum (Roofman) | Sam Worthington & David Mackenzie (Fuze) | Juno Temple (Roofman) | Oscar Isaac (Frankenstein) | Derek Cianfrance, Kirsten Dunst & Channing Tatum (Roofman) | Stellan Skarsgård (Sentimental Value) | Leo Woodall & Dustin Hoffman (Tuner)
Rick Campanelli on the Red Carpet as a host for Rogers “Beyond the Seat” Segment During TIFF 2025. American Actor Dustin Hoffman | Irish Actor Paul Mescal | Director of Hamnet Chloé Zhao
Community Art Project “Art in my Garden.” Lead Sponsorship by Niblock Avis Real Estate, Proscape Land Design, Chervin Kitchens & Pine Glen Homes. Left to Right: The Pine Glen Homes Team; Jordan Miandro, Gloria Figueiredo, Justin Pelliccoitta & Jenna DeJulio | Marine Biologist & Abstract Artist Andrea Seibt | Patrick Williams & Artist Rachel Williams | Mosaics by Elana Martoglio | Batik on Silk Artist Ani Harytyunyan | The Quick Stitch Artist Kathy Mundy
Joseph Tassoni Immersive Fashion Show - The Interspective of Style & Tech at Arcadia Earth Toronto. Left to Right: Canadian Fashion Designer Joseph Tassoni & Jean Philip (Le Germain Hotels) | Verace Oakville’s Michele Maffei & Daniel Bonevski | New 2026 Collection | Sue Kopas (RBC Dominion Securities), Marisa Rocco, Sandra Paladino, Rina Dirisio, Lauren Racioppo, Sivlie Zargarian & Josie Attardo | Photo Credit: George Pimentel
La Dolce Vita at Ritornio - A special evening in support of Cancer Care at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital. Left to Right: Julia Hanna and her family, Nonna Jenny, Julia Hanna, Laura Fantauzzi & father Nonno Erminio | Lou & Liz Donato, Brian Hanna, Anne Mulvale & Lyndon Fournier | Sabrina Guglietti, Nonna Jenny, Riccardo Guglietti, Julia Hanna, Giulio Grossi & Nonno Erminio, Back: Silvio Guglietti & Brian Hanna | Dr Santina Andrighetti, Dr Alexandra Ginty, Julia Hanna, Dr Lauren Willoughby & Melissa Farrell (CEO of Halton Healthcare)
&
and a Pioneer of Landscape Ontario, as the 2025 Distinguished Person of the Year.
Kerr Fest Oakville. Founding Members of Canadian New Wave Band the Spoons; Gord Deppe & Sandy Horne | Noel & Heather from Boffo’s Fine Foods on Kerr Street, a favourite at Kerr Fest | Canadian Rock Musicians Andy Curran & Kim Mitchell backstage
100th Anniversary Show Opening for Beckett Fine Art on Locke Street in Hamilton. Left to Right: Mayor of Hamilton
Joseph Brant’s HorsePower 4 Hospital Event. Left to Right: Vince Molinaro (Molinaro Group & Paradigm Condominiums), Angelo Paletta (TNG Exotics
Limited Editions) & Eric Vandewall (President & CEO, Joseph Brant Hospital)
The Aldershot BIA joined the Burlington Chamber of Commerce in celebrating Bill Deluca, Co-Founder of Aldershot Landscape Contractors
Left to Right: Melanie Bianco, Calvin Galbraith,
Zenbar Healing Studio Laser Launch Party Event. Owner Heather Buckle with her management team at Zenbar with Cynosure Lutronic Reps.
Oakville Galleries “The PARTY EH!” Event. Left to Right: Executive Director Seamus Kealy with board members; Martha P Campbell, Anne Aziz, Dustin Brown, Catherine Bobesich, Dr. Carlyle Farrell, Tania Buckrell Pos, Ali Adil Khan & Jodi French | Chair Dr. Carlyle Farrell, renowned Japanese-Canadian Artist Naoko Matsubara & Executive Director Seamus Kealy | Charitable & Benefit Event Auctioneer Don Stewart | Mike Baylis (Baylis Medical), Lauren Purkis (Caulfeild Apparel) & Anna Fargo (Orvosi Medical) | Sam Polley & The Old Tomorrow Band & Christie Henderson (Henderson Partners LLP)
Chuckles for Charity 2025 Presented by Start2Finish. Left to Right: Brian Warren (Social Entrepreneur, Founder of Start2Finish) | Emily Cho, Devanie Gosine, Andrew Kim, Anita Wong & Stephanie Huang | Marian Markakis, Leanna Dean, Lisa Guglietti, Susannah Staios, Donna Novakovic, Martha Burnham & Lisa D’Alessandro (front) | Jonathan Cardie, Eric Anderson & Emma Miron | Shevawn Adams, Karen Warankie, Chris French & Jennifer French | Stephen Sullivan & Curtis Lue
Love & Emotion. Wrapped in Every Gift.
Discover our extraordinary jewellery collections of fine jewellery from around the world and precision timepieces from the finest watchmakers. This season, gift with confidence and allow your gesture to speak volumes.
