STYLE:

Rose Boreal: This sustainable active wear company based in Quebec pays homage to the natural beauty that surrounds us every day. The line of cosy and comfortable garments is eco-responsible and long-lasting for those on the go and those of us who want to cocoon by the fireplace.  The brand prioritizes eco-conscious materials and ethical practices throughout its supply chain. We love their well-made line designed for life.

Espe (vegan) affordable designer bags: This female-owned Toronto-based company designs a stylish line of affordable handbags and accessories for both men and women. All are made with love, not animals and cruelty-free with materials that are ethically sourced and responsibly made. Premium PU vegan leather is used proving that vegan alternatives can be just as good, if not better.

Benjamin Gordon: Stylish, functional, and premium vegan is what this line of men’s bags and accessories is all about. Benjamin Gordon offers more options for men with utility driven designs made for daily use. Designed by Ben Pollex right here in Toronto.

Vessi Shoes: This company based out of Vancouver was out on a mission to create a shoe line that is both stylish and practical even in the rain. And they know rain! Their belief is that a rainy day shouldn’t stop us from getting outside. They’ve successfully created a  100% waterproof shoe with a patented knit material with an extra layer that keeps the foot dry while allowing sweat and heat to escape. The line now has several styles for men, women, and kids.

Jenny Greco Jewellery: Is a silversmith and goldsmith with over two decades of experience in the jewellery industry. She is known for her bold, modern, and contemporary designs. Located in the Distillery District in Toronto her studio showcases an impressive collection that features a blend of organic elements with cutting-edge design. Each piece is meticulously created by Jenny at every step of the process. Unique and truly one of a kind statement pieces makes this perfect for an outstanding person on your list.

Bondon Sauna Hats: Toronto stylist Alanna Davey has started a banya hat company. The hat is a woollen hat worn in the banya (sauna) to help regulate body temperature and its history traces back centuries to Central Europe. Each Bondon hat is hand fulled premium natural fibres (including virgin lambswool, merino, cashmere, alpaca, camel, and llama) and styles range from the traditional bucket to a minimalist baseball cap. The secret to a banya hat is that while it insulates outdoors, it wicks moisture away indoors. Seamless, Bondon remains bacteria-free — guaranteed.

Anne Sportun Fine Jewellery: Toronto-based jewellery designer has staying power for good reason, she’s been a go-to for unique and timeless pieces for bridal, special occasions and every day. In fact, my first piece of designer jewellery was way back when she had a shop in Mirvish Village. Today, her pieces continue to be sought after at her newly redesigned storefront on Queen Street West. Alongside her co-owner and daughter Haley, they continue to bring inspiring organic shaped pieces to customers.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS:

Plantd Life: Plant designer Tara Soloway grew her business organically. As a personal and business plant consultant, Tara believes that plants are vital to a healthy home and workplace. Plants inspire creativity and joy in every day. A gift of consultation or even a beautiful healthy plant is a thoughtful idea this holiday season.

Mobility House: your one stop clinic to help with flexibility, stretching, massage, and mobility. Their experts are with you every step of the way to ensure a seamless wellness journey. Located across from The Well, it’s ideal for many office workers and condo dwellers downtown.

Rumble Boxing: This is workout is a real hit! For something fun and energetic,  a gift card to this boxing studio the gift you didn’t expect to love to give or receive. Each classic heavy bag class offers a sweat sesh for those who like to switch things up. It’s fight club meets nightclub where everyone punches to the beat of the music in a dark room complete with flashing lights all led by professionally trained boxers and fitness motivators. Located in Yorkville as well as Midtown.

Othership: your wellness journey begins as soon as you step into the soothing space. Join in a guided breathwork session and embark on an experience that helps to regulate your nervous system, calm your mind, energize your soul, and feel part of a great community full of open hearts and minds. Through playful, powerful and curated breathwork content, Othership’s vision is to help people regulate their nervous system, feel happier and find greater meaning and connection in their lives. Take a friend and breathe. Locations in Yorkville and Adelaide St West.

THEATRE EXPERIENCE FOR THE HOLIDAYS:

Come From Away: This is one heartfelt and uplifting musical that everyone should see. This story is based on the true-life stories of what unfolded in Gander, Newfoundland during the tragic events of 9/11. The world felt like it stood suddenly grounded to halt and international planes were directed to land in this sleepy East Coast town and the local residences pulled together to offer shelter, food, and water to the tired and worried travellers. This is about faith in humanity and connections that will give you all the warmth and fuzzies. Tickets at Mirvish.com

The Nutcracker with the National Ballet of Canada: This classical ballet by Pyotr Tchaikovsky is a holiday tradition and a visually stunning spectacle for all ages. The adventure begins at a Christmas Eve party in a 19th-century barn and introduces siblings Marie and Misha to delights beyond their wildest dreams, from magical creatures to savoury treats and the glittering land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Watch for the Cannon Dolls –often well-known faces! This year will include Olympians including Gold Medalist, Summer MacIntosh on December 20. Past Cannon Dolls included Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, Kyle Lowry, Tessa Virtue, Chris Hadfield, Rick Mercer, Sara Gadon and many more! Tickets at National.Ballet.ca

Wizard of OZ: The Toto-ly Awesome Family Musical (panto production): Canadian Stage Production at the Winter Garden and Elgin Theatre. This hilarious family production of a timeless children’s story is not what you would expect– if you haven’t been to one before, that is! The famous Ross Petty Panto returns but now with Canadian Stage who will continue this much loved Toronto musical tradition. This isn’t Kansas, nope.  Audiences of all ages will join Dorothy and her friends on a hilarious romp through the fantastical landscapes of TorOZto. Along the way, you’ll see astonishing sets, and spectacular costumes, and enjoy very silly parodies of hit songs by Beyoncé, Billie Eilish and more! Get ready to cheer on Team Dorothy as Plumbum, the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow help to quash the mission of Wicked Witch of the West End and find their way to the CN Power to discover the identity of the Wizard of TorOzto. (Hint: she loves a bike lane!). By the way, kids get to boo and cheer and just be kids! Parents will love this one too! Tickets at CanadianStage.com

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: Young People’s Theatre. Join Charlie Bucket on this delectable adventure into Willy Wonka’s world famous chocolate factory! A world of pure imagination awaits as Charlie, Grandpa Joe and four golden ticket-winners embark on a journey brimming with chocolate rivers, gumdrop trees and mysterious Oompa Loompas. Based on the beloved novel by Roald Dahl, now celebrating its 60th anniversary, enjoy this delightfully scrumptious musical adaptation that brings to life all of your favourite characters, songs – and confections. A gobstoppingly good time for the whole family! Tickets at YoungPeoplesTheatre.org

COOL EXPERIENCES TO WARM YOUR HEARTS:

AGO The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century  This incredible new exhibition explores the art, music, icons, style and fashion globally in what is considered one of the most profound movements of our time. Taking space on the 5th floor of the AGO, this walk through exhibit includes six themes — Language, Brand, Adornment, Tribute, Pose, and Ascension. Hip-hop culture is truly multifaceted, creative and inspiring. The exhibition is organized by the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Saint Louis Art Museum. Included amongst the international artists are Canadian features – check out the photography by Patrick Nichols titled “A Great Day in Toronto Hip Hop” which includes 103 key figures from as far back as 1976. The exhibition officially opens to the general public on January 4 but if you have an annual pass (only $40 adult annual) or membership early access is offered this December.

Casa Loma’s Holiday Lights and Christmas at the Castle: If you’re looking for something grand and spectacular to round off the holiday experience a visit to Toronto’s famous Casa Loma is a must. The Holiday Lights is a walk along the garden path and through the grounds and through the underground tunnel to the stables. Visitors of all ages will be in awe of all the twinkly lights and holiday decorations indoors and outdoors. Meet a cast of your favourite holiday characters from singing penguins, acrobats, musicians, magicians, Nutcracker soldiers, the Grinch, Mr. Scrooge, and more. Of course, visitors will find Mrs. Claus and the jolly guy in red himself!

Then, Christmas at the Castle is an enchanting way to explore the legendary Casa Loma indoors with 20 beautifully decorated trees created by designers and artists. Find them in the various hallways and private rooms of what was once the home to Sir Henry Pellatt. As you wander through at your leisure, you’ll be able to also see artefacts and priceless works of art and learn about the history of this famed heritage site.

Both events are ticketed. Coming up are also the famous Casa Loma Concert series from Rock Symphonies to Broadway and Opera hits, to classical music. Also spotted are festive hands-on workshops like Wreath Making. Make a night out of the experience and book into BlueBlood Steakhouse for an unforgettable fine dining experience.

Arcadia Earth at The Well: This immersive experience through planet Earth is worth exploring for all ages. Arcadia Earth is a multi-sensory journey that combines creative art installations and technology to inspire visitors to take action towards a more sustainable future. This immersive experience showcases the beauty of our planet and the impact of human actions on the environment. The mission of this experience is to inspire visitors to be part of the solution for creating a better world. Plus, if you haven’t been to “The Well” yet – definitely go! This is the most buzzed about area in the core of the city now. Round out the visit with lunch or dinner at places including Mandy’s Salads or the inspiring food court (not your typical food court) and set aside time to visit the shops and spaces.

The post Best Canadian Gifts & Experiences for this Holiday Season appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

We packed our weekend bags for our urban getaway. We planned everything to be within walking distance or public transit accessible. We had fun rediscovering and exploring what our city has to offer. It wasn’t just the perfect rest & recharge but since we gravitate to experiences, this also inspired us to make this an annual weekend getaway here are some suggestions…

STAY

When I thought about places to stay for us, I wanted more than just a clean and safe place to unpack our bags and sleep. Accommodations are very much part of the whole travel experience- whether it’s away or here in the city.  We tend to look for places where we  look forward to returning to as much as exploring when we’re out. The Soho Hotel & Residence (318 Wellington Street West) in Toronto is ideally situated in the city’s entertainment district and within walking distance to many great attractions and restaurants.

Recently the hotel unveiled its multi-million dollar renovations and updates to amenities by Gluckstein Design to the 89 rooms just in time for the holiday season. Luxurious Italian marble bathrooms, with heated floors and Canadian maple wood are found throughout. Rooms and suites are noticeably more spacious than average. Back when the hotel first opened 18 years ago, rooms were designed with more space in mind and that square footage hasn’t changed.

We also learned each room here is equipped with its own HVAC system — something the hotel had implemented when it was originally designed and well before this pandemic. Knowing that each room has its own air circulating, and not from the rest of the hotel, is something many travellers today may be interested in. It was fun to also see a few different rooms and suites throughout the property including the Soho Suite — a popular one amongst visiting celebrities.

What we are surprised to discover was the incredible contemporary art collection at this property in the lobby, common areas, and individual suites. It starts with Dale Chihuly’s stunning glass work, Persian Ceiling, at the entrance way to the Soho. Once you check in you’ll meet the eyes of Steve Jobs in the iconic portrait by Albert Watson. You’ll also find a great range of contemporary Canadian artists — worth taking time to explore!

If you’re interested working out, the hotel has also renovated their fitness centre on the second floor. You may even want to book in a personal training session with Dalton Brown (certified) …pssst, he’s worked with many celebrities. A heated salt-water pool and jacuzzi is also accessible on this floor to guests. Make sure you book your time to visit as we all adhere to the city’s health and safety pandemic protocols, there are limits to the number of guests in the fitness areas. Which, in our case, was welcoming!

What else you should know about this property? There’s an app for that! No, really. But hey, in addition to accessing property information, make specific requests, you can also use the app to check in and have room access remotely via your mobile device for a contactless experience.

WHERE TO EAT

Hotel restaurants in this city have impressive offerings and that goes the same here with Moretti’s Italian Restaurant. The popular Montreal-originated restaurant is worth visiting and you won’t even need a coat! I’ve eaten here several times prior to this stay and the dishes are deeply satisfying. Cocktails, pizzas, pastas, and more. Try their Moretti Salad and their Chitarra All’Aragosta (lobster!) pasta dishes. Whoa!

For a quick  bite, Moretti’s Caffe is an Italian caffe bar offering salads, paninis, pastries and that perfect cup of coffee or espresso-based beverages any time of day. Great if you’re in a hurry and want something fresh and tasty!

If you’re looking for casual and relaxed dining, Wahlburgers is literally around the corner and the vibe is great. Friendly, easy going staff and stellar line up on the menu. Try the Thanksgiving Turkey Burger with all the festive trimmings (loaded with stuffing, cranberry sauce, and sweet potato mash) — a personal favourite! Make sure you order a side of tater tots.

If you’re needing a slice of paradise, then Chef Nuit Regular’s SELVA Resto & Bar is worth a visit and within walking distance. The space is bold and colourful. The food is South American meets Thai. Fresh with lots of gluten-free, keto friendly options on the menu that excite. Chef Nuit’s other popular restaurant PAI Northern Thai is also within walking distance where you can often find me inhaling an order of her Thai Chicken Wings and slurping her Khao Soi curry noodle bowl.

WHAT TO SEE & DO

During the holiday season, The Nutcracker with the National Ballet of Canada at the Four Seasons Performing Arts Centre is a tradition for many. This particular production is considered one of the best in the world and an easy 15 minute walk from the hotel.

TIFF Bell Lightbox always has incredible films that you may not necessarily find in the bigger theatres. In December, filmmaker Guillermo del Toro presents his personal selection of Film Noirs from 20th Century Studios. The gift shop is a great stop if you’re looking to pick up more unique gifts.

The Princess of Wales Theatre is nearby and in-person productions are back. Mirvish Productions always has  great slate of shows on stage. Coming up is the musical Jesus Christ Superstar. A block away at the Royal Alexandra Theatre is where the popular Come From Away will return to the stage mid-December  — a not-to-be-missed production that is enduring and truly restores the faith in humanity. Check Mirvish.com for details on what’s on stage.

Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) major exhibition Picasso: The Blue Period continues through the holiday season until January 16, 2022. It is the first exhibition in Canada to focus on the early works of the modernist master Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973).

An easy ride on the King Streetcar heading eastbound will take you to the Distillery District with its winter market now up and running. The decorated massive tree and cobblestone walkways gives a victorian era feel to the holidays. Warm yourself up with hot cocoa and treats at the various cafes and restaurants along the walk.

If there’s anywhere in the city that gives you that feeling of being in another part of the world, it’s Kensington Market. Explore the sights, sounds and taste of many nations in this amazing neighbourhood. Go hungry. There’s lots to eat around here. Jumbo Empanadas, Pancho’s Churros, Patty King,  are just a few to fill your bellies. Check out the shops too.

Looking for artisanal items? The One of a Kind Show happens late November, early December at the Enercare Centre (CNE Grounds).  This year over 400 Canadian artisans are featured with everything from unique food items, jewellery, apparel and more.

REST, RESTORE & RECHARGE

We woke up early Saturday morning to sneak in time at the hotel’s heated indoor pool and jacuzzi before heading out. But also located nearby is one of my favourite spots, Hoame Meditation Studio. Here you can take in a restorative meditation session, rest in the salt cave, take in a sound bath and more.

WHERE TO WANDER DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON

Wander south past the Skydome (Rogers Centre) and stop to check out the SteamWhistle brewery and the CP locomotives out on display at the foot of the CN Tower. Keep going and you’ll find yourself at Harbourfront.

CNE grounds is where you’ll find the Polar  Winter Festival happening (tickets available online). Thousands (if not millions) of twinkly holiday lights and many displays bring the magic of the season.

Financial District and its public spaces are brimming with festive lights and larger than life trees. Check out Brookfield Place for its always breathtaking soaring high displays.

The post New Holiday Traditions: A Girls’ weekend getaway at the Soho Hotel in Toronto appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

The Illusionists – Magic of the Holidays: Meridian Hall (formerly Sony Centre) until January 5, 2020. This mind-bending phenomenal show that leaves audiences of all ages in awe returns with world-renowned performers. Experts in the sleight of hand, escape artists, and mind readers leave you at the edge of your seat. Read our previous review here.

Ross Petty’s Lil’ Red Robin Hood: Winter Garden Theatre until January 4, 2020. What happens when you take a classic tale, or two, and mash it up and make it relatable to today’s multi-generational audience? Ross Petty Productions, known for its “Panto” style slapstick musical delivers another great year of zany zingers with a stellar cast of characters. Watch for half-price tickets for kids. Read our review here.

Bend It Like Beckham The Musical: Bluma Appel Theatre, St. Lawrence Centre until January 5, 2020. Based on the highly successful movie of the same name, this high energy musical brings laughter, joy, and understanding with a message that empowers girls, and boys, while navigating through family and cultural expectations. Read our review here.

Come From Away: Recently returned to the production’s original home at Royal Alexandra Theatre. This feel-good musical is based on genuine human kindness and generousity and true story of what happened when thousands of travellers were stranded in Gander, Newfoundland as a result of 9/11. Read our interview with one of the actual travellers  Kevin Tuerff here.

The Nutcracker with the National Ballet of Canada: at the Four Seasons Performing Arts Centre until January 4, 2020. A holiday tradition and one of the world’s best productions delights families year after year. Over 200 performers bring the fabled visions of sugar plum fairies, mischevious mice and nutcrackers to life. Each production features Canada’s most highly regarded artists as well as celebrity “Cannon Dolls” — recently, Toronto Raptor Kyle Lowry took to the stage.

Dr. Seuss Experience: Square One Mississauga. The wonderful world of some of the most cherished children’s books comes to life in this large scale experience with a series of story themed rooms to visit. Make sure your phone battery is well charged up. Due to popular demand, the exhibition has now been extended to March 20, 2020. Read our review here.

The post Family friendly shows you should catch over the holidays appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

In 1993 she took an opportunity to move to Toronto, Canada, where she began a new life with her family. Ms. Stepanova began to transition into teaching and choreography. Having taught both in teaching courses and given numerous master classes at Universities and Colleges throughout North America, she quickly established a reputation as a gifted teacher and choreographer. In 2004, she opened her own studio in Thornhill, Stepanova Ballet Academy, and would bring her incredible wealth of International experience to share with her students. In 2007 she started Toronto International Ballet Theatre, with the vision of bringing together young talented dancers and international stars, to perform in professional productions. She seeks to attract and expose our diverse community to the wonder and value of the art form of dance.

In 2012, Tatiana was recognized by the government of Canada with the Queens Diamond Jubilee award, which is handed out to individuals who provided an outstanding contribution to Arts and Culture in Canada. Tatiana continues to work tirelessly to provide the best education to her dancers in the world of classical ballet. Her productions have graced some of the biggest stages in Toronto including the Sony Centre, and continue to provide opportunities for young dancers to showcase their skills and progress in their pursuit of a career in dance. Today she continues to work tirelessly to enrich her community with the wonders and beauty of classical ballet.

What ‘hood are you in?
I live in Thornhill.

What do you do? 
I am a teacher, choreographer and director of two ballet companies.

What are you currently working on?
I am preparing for the 11th annual production of the Nutcracker at the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto.

Where can we find your work?
The Nutcracker is playing on Saturday December 22 at the Sony Centre.

The post “A Day in the Life” with choreographer Tatiana Stepanova  appeared first on Toronto Guardian.