prairie girl musings

Author: prairiegirlmusings

Last Minute Stocking Stuffer Ideas!

Is anyone else struggling with holiday shopping this year? With so many options in Toronto, I’m finding it challenging to decide where to focus my attention. If you’re anything like me, you want creative gift ideas that don’t break the bank. To help alleviate some of your shopping woes (holiday shopping should be fun, not stressful), I’ve compiled a list of stocking stuffers for everyone on your list.

The Sweet Tooth
One of my main priorities this year has been shopping locally. Toronto is filled with so many local businesses, creators, and makers, so why not support them whenever possible? Sloane Tea is one of my favourite companies. I mean, look at that packaging! Although I’m not a massive tea drinker, lately I’ve been finding myself reaching for a cup of Heavenly Cream instead of my regular afternoon coffee. Bobbette & Belle is another Toronto spot that offers plenty of inspiration for stocking stuffers. The Fleur de Sel caramel corn would fit nicely into a small stocking, and is sure to satisfy even the biggest of cravings. Finally, top it off with a beautifully wrapped box of Ferrero Rocher chocolates. I honestly don’t know anyone who doesn’t love these delicious treats.

The Hardworker
Bath bombs and bubble bars make the perfect gift for that hardworking friend on your list. Baths and relaxation go hand-in-hand, so gifting someone this comforting bubble bar from Lush will encourage them to take a break this holiday season. Rose Jam shower gel is back for a limited time, and it smells divine! It’s touted by YouTubers everywhere, so grab it before it sells out! I’m also a fan of Smith’s Strawberry and Rosebud Lip Balms, particularly during the cold, dry months.

The Athlete
While I simply cannot endorse the Toronto Maple Leafs or support purchasing their apparel, Toronto does have a winning team. The Raptors! If you’re looking for something to get the athlete in your life, what about a Raptors hat?

The Urban Explorer
I wrote about Toronto’s new SPACING store a few posts back, and I often find myself returning there for various gifts. I’m especially fond of the Toronto Transit Commission fridge magnets, which would fit perfectly in a stocking! These Smitten Kitten luggage tags (you can collect several Canadian airport codes, including Regina) are available at various independent boutiques, but I picked this one up at The Drake General Store. Books always make lovely presents as far as I’m concerned, and this small paperback is ideal for the traveller. Written by Alain de Botton, A Week At The Airport explores the “non-place” where the author became a writer-in-residence. I want to keep this one for myself!

The Local Lover
Fortunately, Canadian made products aren’t hard to come by in Toronto. Worn Journal released it’s final issue, so now is the perfect time to grab a copy for someone special. Check out this list for a retailer near you. I’ve received so many comments on my matchbook from Likely General. It’s a cute stocking stuffer for anyone who loves lighting candles. One of my favourite West End shops is BYOB Cocktail Emporium. The name says it all: bitters, cocktail mixes, glasses, coasters, books, they really have it all! This Ban.do keychain is a darling little gift for anyone on your list. Bicyclette Boutique is the sweetest shop near Trinity Bellwoods Park, and they have a great assortment of Ban.do products, including agendas, mobile phone cases, and hair accessories!

December 18, 2014
Unicorn Dreams!

Happy Sunday, I hope you’re having a fantastic weekend!

I have no qualms about my unicorn piñata.

In anticipation of my 26th birthday, I decided to plan a little get together with some of my friends. Our apartment building has a party room, which was ideal for the 3o or so guests that came over. (Thank you to everyone who took time out of their schedules to stop by!) We had a wonderful evening, complete with a unicorn piñata and scrumptious vanilla bean cake from Bake Shoppe, which Natalie graciously supplied. The company was absolutely amazing, and I feel so fortunate to have such lovely people in my life!

Despite this year’s surprisingly seamless soirée, I’ve always felt a little conflicted about birthdays. While I enjoy anything celebratory, my December birthday has often proved problematic. December 17 is so darn close to the holidays. Office parties and family are a priority. Spare time is spent shopping, baking, and planning for any of the sixteen events happening that very moment. It’s FRIGID outside for those of us inhabiting the Northern Hemisphere. Roads are slippery, transportation takes longer regardless of the method, and additional layers must be added to every outfit. Furthermore, hibernation is a tactic employed by many to cope with these dropping temperatures. All valid excuses, I must say.

So as much as I love confetti, sprinkles, and cake, I do occasionally resent the conditions surrounding my birthday. Unsurprisingly, my best birthdays were spent in Hawaii and New Zealand, where the days were long and the heat was plentiful.

Angelica, the unicorn, didn’t survive the night.

Enough whining though, I had a fabulous time on Friday and I’m now one year closer to THIRTY. Or as my friend Jess would say, “thirty, flirty, and thriving,” which I think is actually a “30 Going on 13” quote…?! As far as we’re concerned, thirty is when we’ll have our lives sorted out and be super confident, kick ass women. I’ll drink to that!

Is anyone else obsessed with birthday cake?

Birthday cake ice cream (not to be confused with ice cream cake) is my FAVOURITE. What’s better than delicious vanilla ice cream laced with cake and sprinkles? Nothing as far as I’m concerned. This cake from Bake Shoppe was incredible, vanilla bean and not too sweet. I’m still having dreams about it.

How do you feel about birthdays? Do you like celebrating or do you secretly wish you could avoid yours altogether? Let me know in the comments below!

Until next time,
Vanessa

December 15, 2014
Toronto Coffee Shop Guide

“What?! You’re writing a blog post about your favourite coffee shops? That’s so unlike you…I thought you loved tea,” my friend Jake sarcastically quipped.

Hardy har har. If you know me at all, you know I love caffeine.

My barista/coffee shop owner cousin convinced me to boycott Starbucks when I was 15 (not that I was a serious coffee drinker back then). But my obsession has certainly been fuelled living in Toronto as there are so many great independent coffee shops here. These are some of my favourites (arranged by neighbourhood).

Queen West/Entertainment District/Chinatown
This is where I live, and while the location is prime for getting anywhere easily and efficiently, there’s a dearth of local gems (in comparison to our Western and Eastern counterparts).

Sense Appeal

Little Nicky’s: Come for the coffee, stay for the mini donuts. They are unbelievable.

Dark Horse Spadina: Arguably one of the most aesthetically-pleasing cafés in Toronto.

Sense Appeal Coffee Roasters: I’ve yet to try their Turkish latte, but I’ve heard it’s dreamy.

Early Bird Espresso Bar: The best latte art I’ve seen in Toronto and they cater to the laptop carting crew. As a remote employee, I appreciate their hospitality and their stash of Mast Brothers chocolate.

Kensington Market/College & Harbord Street
Fika: An excellent Swedish café and restaurant. They serve great open-faced sandwiches and delicious brunch on the weekends. Also, I constantly rave about their iced coffee with cardamon and fresh mint.

Voodoo Child: One of my absolute favourite Toronto coffee shops. A great place to settle in and do some work or meet up with a friend. The coffee is top notch (one of their baristas, Bruce Ly was named the 2nd best latte artist in Canada, 8th in the world!) and the service is super personable.

Café Pamenar: This spot is always busy and rightly so. The wifi signal and coffee is strong, and like many Toronto coffee shops, Pamenar transforms into a watering hole during the after hours.

Sam James Coffee Bar: There’s not much that can be written about Sam James that hasn’t already been said. He’s a coffee god in Toronto and has opened four cafés downtown. I finally ventured to the original Sam James location on Harbord this past weekend, and oh mon dieu! C’est superbe! It’s worth the trek, which isn’t really even a trek for me because I live like 25 minutes away (by foot). Do yourself a favour, and go on Thursday or the weekend and treat yourself to a Springfield donut. Not only do they feature rainbow sprinkles, they are baked fresh at local Beast restaurant. They pair perfectly with a cappuccino, which in my opinion are the best in the city.

West Queen West/Ossington/Parkdale
RSquared: I come here to write every now and then. The baristas are really approachable and they have healthy lunch options, which is always great for those who plan to spend a couple hours here working.

Sud Forno: While the coffee is simple, Italian-style (less elaborate than I’m used to) the fresh pizza and baked goods are worth writing home about at this Terroni-owned café.

Nadège Patisserie: Just go, you can thank me later.

Sam James Oz: The newest location is the one I frequent the most, right on the corner of Queen and Ossington.

Crafted Coffee: By the same folks who run Te Aro in the East End. These places always remind me of New Zealand (Land of the Long White Cloud and the impeccable flat white).

Capital Espresso: Parkdale’s favourite coffee shop, I’ve yet to go!

Dundas West/Little Portugal
Ella’s Uncle: cash only, this neighbourhood gem is a favourite among those waiting to grab a bite at nearby Saving Grace. Their baked goods are also hard to resist! I also love the name.

I’ve heard good things about Tampered Press, but haven’t ventured in yet. It’s on my list.

College West/Little Italy
Empire Espresso: the vibrant colours here help me forget Toronto’s plummeting temperatures.

The Brockton Haunt: A great space with the best light and best s’mookies (s’more cookies, what?!)

Bloor West/High Park/The Junction
Northwood: Close to Christie Station, Northwood is spacious and serves amazing coffee and booze.

The Good Neighbour: Gorgeous local spot in an area without a lot of coffee shops.

Propeller Coffee Co.

Café Novo: Right by High Park station this is another great spot for writing or working.

Propeller Coffee: Lots of space for you to spread out and stay awhile. The coffee is, as expected, delicious. What more can I say?

Wallace Espresso: Another favourite in the Junction Triangle, it’s more of a grab-and-go option

Kaffebar: A new Norwegian-style café with goodies baked in house.

Full Stop: Plenty of space and lots of healthy meal options, so settle in.

Financial District
This area isn’t a ‘coffee destination’ per say, but there a few cafés worth checking out!

Dineen: Situated in the most beautiful historic building, the tile floors at Dineen are likely the most instagrammed in Toronto. The patio is where you need to be in the summertime.
Fahrenheit: I used to go here all the time when I was interning at St. Joseph Media, but unfortunately haven’t really been back since. All the baristas make an effort to learn your name and always ask you how your day is going. It’s quite refreshing, actually.

Rooster Coffee

Corktown
Tandem Coffee: New kid on the block, Tandem is doing everything right. Their cat cookies are the cutest and the owners are so sweet and kind.

Rooster Coffee: The original location on Broadview Avenue is favoured by many, this is a good option if you don’t feel like venturing as far east, but still crave amazing coffee.

Distillery District
Balzac’s: In all honesty, I’m not the biggest fan of Balzac’s coffee, I find it a little too bitter for my liking. But I can’t help but stop by this coffee shop whenever I’m in the Distillery District as the interior is STUNNING.

Leslieville

Bobbette & Belle

Mercury Espresso Bar: No-nonsense, good coffee and yummy sandwiches (and I selfishly appreciate the lack of strollers as compared to nearby Te Aro)

Te Aro: Great, but even better in the summer when the front patio is open. I try to stop in every time I have a meeting in Leslieville.

Bobbette & Belle: More of a patisserie, Bobbette & Belle specializes in delicious macarons, cookies, and bars. They have Sloane Tea on offer as well, which is simply delightful!

Rooster Coffee House: technically not Leslieville, but close enough. I’m in love with this café, which overlooks the city and offers an amazing view of the skyline.

Rosedale/Summerhill
Boxcar Social: Another excellently titled coffee shop. It’s worth venturing north for this stunning two-level café-cum-bar. Take my word for it.

White Squirrel: Trinity Bellwoods’ own White Squirrel has expanded north to Rosedale, and teamed up with Freshii. This location caters to the more corporate crowd, but seems to be doing really well.

Well, those are my favourites. The next time someone asks me which Toronto cafés are my favourite, I’ll refer them to this post. Please let me know in the comments below if you’d like me to do a food and restaurant guide!

December 11, 2014
#PressDays at Lotus Leaf

Hey friends!

I’m sorry for the silence on my end, full-time work and (part-time) networking/blogging have taken up a large chunk of my time. Rest assured, there are lots of exciting posts and projects in the works!

I had the opportunity to attend Press Days hosted by Lotus Leaf Communications on Wednesday. It was my first time visiting Lotus Leaf’s office space in trendy King West, and I was thrilled to see the latest collections from the brands they represent. I fell in love with this neon sign, Work. Play. Create, that adorns their Dr. Martens room. I even took home two new pairs of Dr. Martens!

I enjoyed taking a look at the new Manitobah Mukluks collection. As an Aboriginal-owned company, Manitobah strives to make a significant difference in their communities by employing young Aboriginals and collaborating with Aboriginal artisans and organizations.

It’s all in the details
Lotus Leaf’s colour scheme is pink and white, so much fun! They incorporated these colours into their treat bar, photobooth, and office furnishings. Needless to say, I was swooning.
Delicious treats that were almost too pretty to eat!

Manicures with varnish by Vancouver’s own, Lacc Beauty were certainly a highlight of the event! Lacc polish is vegan and chemical-free, making it less drying. The holiday collection is in one word, perfect. I’m already looking forward to wearing the fuchsia colour for New Year’s Eve.

The photobooth they set up was my favourite part: unsurprisingly, Jessica and I ended up wearing the same outfit.

November 29, 2014
For the love of Toronto

Living in Toronto and learning the intricacies of its urban layout has been thrilling for both Nick and I. He found his calling in the transit sector, increasing his already heightened interest in geography, design, and planning. I’ve always been fascinated by urban geography, and even enrolled in a Cities and Urbanism course at university. Comprehending the issues that surround cities is central to understanding modern human societies. Needless to say, we were both thrilled to hear SPACING Magazine was opening their very own shop, dedicated to all things Toronto.

While Toronto has an excellent array of general stores including The Drake General Store, Likely General, and North Standard Trading Post, it was missing a store committed to the fascinating urban fabric of our city. “Canadian Urbanism Uncovered” is SPACING’s motto and the shop is educational and well-laid out (so to speak). T-shirts emblazoned with “What Would Jane Jacobs Do?” sit alongside neighbourhood maps (and toques by Tuck Shop Trading Co.) There are prints by local artists and cycling accessories, encouraging consumers to support local makers and more environmental forms of transport.

The SPACING store is located at 401 Richmond Street West, in Toronto’s Entertainment District.

November 22, 2014
Weekly Favourites

It’s hard to believe that we’re already halfway through November. My cracked lips and all-encompassing knit turtleneck are constant reminders of the rapidly declining temperatures here in Canada. And it’s only one month until my 26th birthday. Does this mean my quarter-life crisis needs to end now? While I ponder that ever-present question, here are a few of my weekly favourites:

Me & Mine

I finally ventured to the beautifully simple brunch mecca, Me & Mine. I took myself on a date and sat right by the window. With the sun streaming in, it almost felt like early autumn. I fell in love with the minimalistic decor and delicious, unfussy food. The butter was laced with beets, which tasted (and looked) incredible! I know I’ll be back.

New friends

Instagram has become much more than a social platform for me; it’s allowed me to connect with likeminded individuals throughout Toronto. As a new(ish) Torontonian, it’s unbelievable how this metropolis has opened up to me and is beginning to feel like home.

Studio Mucci

All I want for my birthday is this tassel garland from Studio Mucci. I can already imagine decorating my little apartment with this dreamy garland; perfect for hosting parties and spicing up my coffice.

Axe necklace by Elaine Ho

I purchased this axe necklace from Canadian boutique, Victoire a few months ago, and I’m obsessed. Elaine Ho is a brilliant Montreal-based designer and the axe is a conversation piece that’s subtle enough to wear everyday.

What have you been loving this week?

November 15, 2014
A Whimsical Winter Wonderland

It’s no secret that I have a crush on Desmond & Beatrice.

So, you can imagine my excitement upon receiving an invite to their holiday soirée! Previewing their delicious winter menu along with a hot cocoa bar, the evening was simply magical!

It was my first time visiting 2nd Floor Events even though Nyeus Inc. (where I work) designed and developed their website. I was blown away by the beautiful space, and Desmond & Beatrice did an outstanding job of adding their own whimsical touches. We were treated to decadent seasonal treats; gingerbread cookies, s’more bars, red velvet cupcakes, oh my! There was even a photo booth with gorgeous crowns made by Lady Hayes and stunning tassel backdrop created by Studio Mucci! Nail and beauty zones were especially appreciated, where bloggers had their nails embellished by Nail Kandy and makeup touched up by Karen of Enamorado Syndrome.

Speaking of the treats: run, don’t walk! These snowflake gingerbread cookies are TO DIE FOR. Luckily, there was an abundance of delicious treats, and Amanda generously suggested we take a few home with us to devour throughout the week. I’m chomping on one as we speak! Nom!

It was the perfect girls night out, and I met so many writers, bloggers, and local business owners I admire.

I’m sure you’ve read Alyssa’s blog, Random Acts of Pastel. If not, you’re seriously missing out. Also, take a look at Brianne Burnell‘s website, her illustrations and zines are out of this world cool.

Thanks for a fabulous evening I won’t soon forget, D&B!

November 11, 2014
The Windy City

Chicago, oh Chicago! Where do I begin?

I returned to the Windy City this past weekend, and what an adventure it was!

My parents met Nick’s parents for the very first time. (We’ve been dating for over five years!) They spent the previous week in Toronto, and we chose Chicago as the neutral grounds for our ‘Meet the Parents’ trip. The fact that the New Zealand All Blacks were playing the USA Eagles, drawing large crowds from both New Zealand and all over America, only reaffirmed this decision.

Despite the initial nerves, everyone got along swimmingly and we managed to fit in quite a lot of sightseeing in between the rugby watching/celebrating. If you’ve never watched a rugby game before (my parents’ hadn’t) seeing the All Blacks is akin to seeing the Rolling Stones live in concert. They are mesmerizing on the field, and you too will be a rugby convert.

I was pretty set on hitting up a few of my favourite Chicago spots in between all the rugby action. Although I missed out on a few spots, C.C. Ferns, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream, and The Bongo Room, to name a few, I’d highly recommend the following:

Heritage Bicycles
This bicycle shop and café is an excellent way to kill two birds with one stone. I stopped here to ogle the bicycles and sample the delicious coffee, and wasn’t disappointed!

Stan’s Donuts
Cake-style donuts made fresh to order in an assortment of flavours. I sampled old-fashioned pistachio and it was incredible!

Big Star
I visited Big Star on my most recent trip to Chicago and ordered from the takeout window as I was alone and didn’t have reservations. What a wonderful decision that way, these are the best tacos I’ve ever eaten!

Avec Restaurant
This tapas restaurant is probably the best I’ve ever been to. Everything on the menu is amazing! And all the servers were dressed up as their boss from Halloween (I only know because I inquired.)

Sprinkles Cupcake ATM (no shame!)

Intelligentsia Coffee (I was able to take home some of my favourite Black Cat espresso beans!)

Millennium Park & The Art Institute of Chicago:

We also spent a great deal of time perusing the beautiful architecture Chicago has on offer. I’m ever amazed by this city’s skyline.

Deep dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s is also a winner in my books!

Thanks for reading, let me know your favourite Chicago spots!

November 10, 2014
Minneapolis Inspiration

My sister, Natalie and I are roadtrippin’ to Minneapolis this weekend.

I’m well aware that driving from Toronto to Minneapolis is no small feat, but we’re meeting our mother halfway to exchange vehicles. Such is the life of a dealership family.

With two nights in Minneapolis, I’ve decided to compile an inspiration board of places I’d like to visit whilst in Minnesota. When I was attending university in North Dakota, Minnesota was simply a train ride away. The last few times I visited Minneapolis were for dance conventions and performances, (with Studio X) and with my two friends, Jill and Jayden when we attended the Minnesota State Fair.

This trip will be all about experiencing the best Minneapolis has to offer.

The Bachelor Farmer
Location: 50 2nd Ave. N, Minneapolis, MN.

The Nordic-style restaurant is housed in an old warehouse, and much of its menu is sourced from its very own rooftop garden.

Photo by Ashley Camper

Five Watt Coffee
Location: 3745 Nicollet Ave S., Minneapolis, MN. 55409

With “the best wifi in town,” newly-opened Five Watt acts a community hub. It’s a wonderful place to completely disconnect with a delicious pick-me-up or to tackle that pile of work.

Photos by Julio Rivera

Bogart’s Doughnut Co.
Location: 904 West 36th Street, Minneapolis, MN. 55408

At Bogart’s, you’ll find “the first-name greetings of a small town shop, sprinkled with a modern, on-the-go attitude.” Be sure to check their hours, as they close by midday most days.

The Foundry Home Goods
Location: 125 N. 1st Street, Minneapolis, MN. 55401

The Foundry sources locally and high quality made goods, and functions under the philosophy of a non-disposable lifestyle; consuming less but better.

Trylon Microcinema
Location: 3258 Minnehaha Ave. Minneapolis, MN.

Hunt & Gather
Location: 4944 Xerxes S, Minneapolis, MN.

Walker Art Centre
Location: 1750 Hennepin Ave. Minneapolis, MN.

Pumphouse Creamery
Location: 4754 Chicago Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN.

Photo via Brit & Co.

November 6, 2014
Fall Faves with D&B

Happy Tuesday, everyone!

I’m excited to announce that I’ll be collaborating with Desmond & Beatrice in the coming months. I’m smitten with their bakeshop, and was thrilled when Amanda suggested working together.

You’ve probably already gathered that I’m obsessed with exploring the sheer volume of independent cafés and local boutiques here in Toronto. This project allows me to do just that, and I couldn’t be more excited!

Be sure to check out our very first post on the D&B blog where we talk about our fall favourites.

Bud’s Coffee Bar is is a dreamy new spot in The Beaches.

I’ve been wearing this Toronto-made toque by Muttonhead non-stop!

What are your fall favourites?

November 4, 2014