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13 Things I’m Loving Right Now

1. Lorde’s alternate universe in her new Team video.

2. Thai Iced Tea and Massaman curry from Khao San Road

3. These over-the-knee socks from American Apparel.

4. Toronto’s Christmas Market in the historic Distillery District (they have samples of mulled cine and hot scotch cider!)

5. Travelling. I am planning something for 2014 already.

6. My family and having my sisters in Toronto. I feel myself becoming the boring sister, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
7. December, it’s my birthday in two weeks, Christmas in three, and I have made a serious dent in my Advent calendar.

8. Working from home, and achieving a work/life blend.

9. #GivingTuesday because everyone was posting #unselfies and donating to worthy causes like Girls’ Education.

10. Canadiana, Christmas pyjamas and ONESIES. Also, listening to Christmas carols at work. (I know, that’s technically four things)

11. The upcoming nuptials of my friends, Jill and Riley.

12. “Candles are expensive, and they don’t get you drunk.” Regardless, I’ve been burning candles like a madwoman.

13. Awaiting a visit from my Kiwi friend, Ash!

December 4, 2013
8 Holiday Party Looks

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably already started your Christmas shopping AND made a dent in your Christmas music repertoire. If there’s one thing I haven’t really thought about, it’s what to wear to the multitude of upcoming holiday fêtes. This year, I’m attending three work parties, planning a minor shindig for my 25th birthday, and attending the wedding of my dear friend, Jill on NYE. This gives me several excuses to get decked out like a disco ball, and continually refer and pin images to my Pinterest board: all that GLITTERS because I’m cool like that.

Are you wondering what to wear throughout the month of December and well into the new year? Here are my favourite options, simply click on the photos to find out where to buy them:

1. I promise I’m not sponsored by Club Monaco, although I do spend an average of 20 hours amongst these beautiful garments every week. Two of my favourite pieces for the holidays are the Hattie skirt and the Kaitlin skirt. They both are holiday essentials as far as I’m concerned. If you’re going out for a dinner, simply pair with a cable knit sweater to dress your look down.

2. You’ll wear this classic yet modern 3.1 Philip Lim dress long after the holidays are over. I like the neckline and sheer sleeves.

3. You can’t go wrong with a little bit of faux fur. Here’s an option that isn’t overwhelming but would certainly amp up your holiday outfit.

4. Add a little bit of plaid to your outfit. I’m in love with this dress by Madewell.

5. If you’re wanting something a little bit more elegant, the Mia dress from Club Monaco is absolutely stunning!

6. You really can’t go wrong with a bit of lace, especially during the holidays. Aritzia keeps it festive with this cranberry-coloured frock.

7. Okay, just one more look from Club M. The embellished Rebecca dress is flattering and just glittery enough to help you stand out.

8. Leather is still very on-trend this season, as are skater skirts. The Tartine dress by Wilfred combines these two trends, which makes for the perfect holiday get-up.

Let me know if you’d like me to do a men’s guide, I’d be all over that!

Happy holidays, friends! xoxo

November 30, 2013
Why Boston is one of the greatest American cities

As one of America’s oldest cities, Boston has certainly retained its beauty. It is the antithesis of Toronto, incredibly well-kept with no urban sprawl. It’s a compact, walkable city, with something to take in at every corner. There’s no pollution or smog, in fact, it makes Toronto look like a sewage dump. It also probably helps that their mayor doesn’t casually smoke crack. With its well-educated population, and British sensibility, I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Boston. Here are 15 reasons to visit this great American city.

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November 28, 2013
In Transit: Boston

She said, “I think I’ll go to Boston…I think I’ll start a new life, I think I’ll start it over where no one knows my name.”

“Boston” by Augustana has been one of my most-listened to songs over the past decade. The opening piano chords are instantly recognizable. And the song, as a whole, slowly escalates in intensity, which makes for an excellent lyrical or contemporary dance combination. The lyrics are some of the most beautiful I’ve ever heard, and are extremely relatable to anyone who’s ever dreamt of getting away and starting over.

I’ll soon be on my way to a city I’ve wanted to visit since I was young. This desire was amplified after meeting Nick (with his Irish roots), beginning my Boston Legal addiction, and drinking scotch. I’m glad I have waited to visit Boston as it’s a city I know I’ll appreciate tenfold now that I’m mature enough to soak in the vast history it has on offer. The home of over 50 universities, Boston is the most educated (and arguably, most picturesque) American city.

Fortunately, my friend Molly compiled a list outlining how to make the most of a weekend trip to Boston. I’ll be visiting with my boyfriend and two sisters, so I’ve drafted up a point-form itinerary of a few of the things we’d like to do:

Friday:

Sportello for dinner
Drink for a whiskey-based cocktail, and a toast to Denny Crane and Allan Shore.
Walk around Boston Common
Visit Faneuil Hall

Saturday:

Grab a cappuccino at Thinking Cup and stock up on Stumptown beans
Check out the Isabella Gardener Museum and Boston Museum of Science
Explore the Freedom Trail, starting at Boston Common (Bunker Hill, old North Church)
Walk down Boylston Street and Newbury Street and check out Back Bay
Stephanie’s on Newbury for dinner

Sunday:

Sample the sticky buns at Flour Bakery
Explore Cambridge and take a tour of Harvard University
Stop by the Coop, see the Harvard Club on Commonwealth Avenue (amazing Georgian architecture)
Have lunch at Barley’s Burgers, scenes from Good Will Hunting and The Social Network were filmed there.
Walk along the Charles River
Visit La Burdick for the best chocolates in Boston

Have you ever been to Boston? What are your must-sees?

November 22, 2013
Travel Wishlist

“If you’re twenty-five, physically fit, hungry to learn and be better, I urge you to travel – as far and wide as possible. Sleep on floors if you have to. Find out how other people live, eat, and cook. Learn from them wherever you go.”

From a very young age, my parents instilled in me a love of travel and exploration. My sisters and I were enrolled in French Immersion from age five, and spent evenings and summers learning Ukrainian. While vacations to Hawaii and Mexico are a favourite among North Americans, my parents were far more eager to take us beyond what was comfortable. My most memorable travels include visiting the remote regions of Ukraine, where we connected with our cousin, Ljuba for the very first time, exploring the sacred (and relatively tourist-free, at that time) temples in Ubud, Bali, and navigating the poverty dynamics in a nation that was re-discovering itself post-apartheid. And so, as my 25th birthday approaches, I have been pouring over travel blogs, Pinterest, and friends’ travel photos. Here are my top travel picks for 2013/2014:

1. Bolivia

A country unlike any other, Bolivia is a haven for adventurous travellers. With its arid deserts, tropical rainforests, snow-capped peaks, silver mines, and colourful inland lakes, there’s much more to this landlocked country than you’d ever expect! Not to mention, Yungas Road has been declared the world’s most dangerous road, a must for any daredevil!

2. Brazil (Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paolo)

Rio is known for its stunning architecture, abundant museums, and delicious food. I’d also like to see the massive Cristo Redentor statue in person, and visit the multitude of beaches (there are 23 just in Rio!)

I have a few friends who reside in the massive metropolis of São Paolo: my first RA at MSU is from Sãn Paolo, and four of my exchange friends are from Brazil. Latin Americans possess a loveliness and warmth that I’ve always tried to embody, the demeanour of my Brazilian friends is especially attractive to me.

3. Havana, Cuba

I’ve had a strong desire to visit Havana ever since first watching Havana Nights. I’m kidding, but I do have a soft spot for any dance film. After discussing the lively locale with one of my most well-travelled friends, I am certain Havana and I would hit it off. Katherine spent a semester in Havana during her undergraduate degree, and described it as one of the most exuberant cities she’s ever visited. Not so secretly, I plan to extensively visit all the places Ernest Hemingway frequented while he penned two of his best novels. I’d even like to spend a night in the hotel where he spent his days producing the masterpiece, For Whom the Bell Tolls.

4. Japan

There are endless reasons why Tokyo is considered the greatest city in the world. Its public transport, for one, is efficient and sophisticated and it possesses more Michelin-starred restaurants than Paris! It has taken over as the fashion capital of Asia, and the skyscrapers are remarkable! I could go on, but I’ll just say as an urbanite, Tokyo has topped my ‘must-visit’ list for awhile now. I’ve also heard wonderful things about Kyoto, Osaka, Sapporo, not to mention Mount Fuji and those cherry blossoms… Needless to say, I’ll be sure to do an extensive tour of Japan when I finally get a chance to visit!

5. Turkey

I’m aware that this may be a controversial addition to the list. As of late, many travellers have been hesitant to travel to Turkey given what’s happening across the border in Syria. While each traveller has a different level of tolerance for risk, it’s important to remember that Istanbul is a long way from Aleppo. I’ve been reading a lot about Turkey for one of my jobs, and appreciate all the work that’s being done to provide equal opportunities for Turkish women. There are many organizations dedicated to helping educate and send Turkish girls to school. The more I delve into my research, the more intrigued I become with this transcontinental country. I’ve known a few people who have studied in Istanbul, and it’s a hotbed for culture and history.

I haven’t planned any trips outside North America for 2014 yet, but I will be visiting Boston, Mont Tremblant, and New Orleans in the coming months.

Check out my Pinterest board, Travel o f t e n to see where else I’ve been (and would like to go!)

Where would you love to travel in 2014?

Need more travel inspiration? Check out National Geographic’s Tours of a Lifetime.

November 14, 2013
Balancing Two Polar-Opposite Jobs

Whenever I’m lacking motivation, I turn to my favourite source of inspiration – Pinterest. Sure, it’s visually stimulating, but I get an extra special kick out of the quotation boards.

She designed a life she loved.

Follow the call of the disco ball.

Remember why you started.

Short one-liners are sometimes all I need to remind me why I do what I do. Working from home, as a freelance writer, will certainly test one’s limits. When does the work begin and when does it end? Have you ever checked your inbox at 1am only to start preparing tweets and Facebook updates for the next day?

While I know I’m not alone here, I do know that balancing two very different jobs can be a challenge. When I have a pile of blog posts, social media updates, and newsletters to complete for my freelance job, (which, by the way, I adore!) there’s nothing I want less than to shower and put on my most fashion-forward outfit. Rushing out the door to my other job as a stylist can be daunting. After all, who really wants to leave the comfort of their apartment with its endless supply of French press coffee and atmospheric candles?

On the flip side, the constant isolation from being a freelancer can be terrifying. I’ve learnt the importance of scheduling coffee dates with friends, and in-person meetings rather than relying solely on Skype. And I know I’m lucky. I’m able to juggle a social, customer-focused job with a more internally, self-guided position. It’s just my time management skills that need a bit of fine-tuning.

What do you do for work? Are you happy in your current position?

October 29, 2013
Next Stop: Chicago

Chicago’s been on my list of must-see cities since my family visited (sans moi) a few years ago. Granted, I was living in New Zealand at the time, so passing up on a few North American trips didn’t seem like such a big deal. Nevertheless, I’m looking forward to visiting the Windy City! I’m especially excited to see Chicago’s outdoor public art, something it’s known for around the world. Chicagoans truly take pride in their city, which makes it such an amazing city to visit. My New Yorker cousin (who formerly lived in San Francisco and Toronto) said that she loves Chicago because even the homeless marvel at their city: “Would ya look at that sculpture? It’s beautiful!”

My sisters and I will arrive in Chi-Town tonight, and I’ve already drafted up a list of things for us to do. Of course, there won’t be much time for sightseeing as we’ll be in meetings all day, but a girl can dream:

1. Ukrainian Cathedrals: I can’t wait to check out the majestic domes that peek out over the treetops in the Ukrainian Village of Chicago.

2. Pilsen Murals

3. Spend an hour perusing the Randolph Street Market

4. Grab a coffee at The Wormhole on Milwaukee Avenue

5. Indulge in a slice of Chicago’s deep dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s

6. Sit down for well-crafted cocktail at The Violet Hour.

7. Warm up with a hot chocolate from Hot Chocolate.

8. Check out the Chicago skyline atop the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower).

9. Enjoy a rooftop drink at our hotel’s bar.

10. While there’s no shortage of good breakfast places in Chicago, I’ve heard that Bongo Room serves the perfect laidback morning feast.

11. Visit Tribune Campus at the Illinois Institute of Technology.

Have you ever been to Chicago? What are some must-sees and dos for a non-tourist traveller?

For frequent updates, follow my Instagram and Twitter accounts!

xoxo, Vanessa

September 27, 2013
September: As Told By Instagram

If you’re not yet following me on Instagram, please check out my account: vanessaortynsky.

Natalie and I getting ready for the ceremony!

My boyfriend, Nick and I grabbing a midday coffee following the wedding ceremony of two of our closest friends, Kirsten and Steve.

Jake and I love tapas, especially snow crab pogos!

Mary, one of my very best friends, is finally back from Kenya! We caught up over brunch at Saving Grace.

I’ve been freelancing for just under a month, and I love writing and editing from the comfort of my apartment or favourite cafe.

I’ve had a major sweet tooth as of late. This cookie inside a cookie really fit the bill.

A little bit of TIFF fun.

There’s nothing quite like flying home to Saskatchewan for the weekend. Nick and I enjoyed a few beverages in the Maple Leaf lounge prior to take-off.

Most importantly, Kirsten and Steve get married!

That’s all, folks! Have a lovely Friday, the 13th! xxx

September 13, 2013
Love Poem

When someone close to me dies, I’m shortly thereafter reminded of the circle of life.

Following my grandfather’s recent passing, I vividly recall an influx of infants and young children swarming the Toronto Pearson Airport. Again, while spending a string of days and nights at my grandmother’s house, I played with a lovely little boy who innocently reminded me that when one spectacular life ends, another begins.

The moment that touched me most profoundly occurred shortly after I arrived at my grandparents’ home. While funeral preparations were being made, I received a beautiful message from Kirsten, my close friend and bride-to-be. She asked me to read a poem at her upcoming nuptials to Steven. My eyes filled with tears and I felt a deep sense of appreciation and obligation during a time that was otherwise characterized by helplessness.

Kirsten and Steve were married on Saturday, September 7th in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. I would like to share with you the poem I read during their incredible ceremony.

I have this theory that before two people are united in marriage, they should: live together, spend some time apart, and most importantly, travel together. Steven and Kirsten truly epitomize this statement having moved all the way to New Zealand and in the process, setting the perfect example of what a relationship should be. I have known Kirsten since grade school, but witnessing her navigate the foreign land of New Zealand with Steve was an eye-opening experience. During our summer road trips, my younger sister, Natalie enderingly referred to them as mom and dad as we sat in the back of the station wagon, listening attentively to Steve’s life advice on everything from managing our finances, travelling the world on a shoestring, and deciding one’s profession. We all joked that this was their pre-marriage, trial period.

I am honoured to be here today with all of Steve and Kirsten’s cherished family members and friends. I would like to share a poem that I discovered in Wellington, where the couple resided during their overseas travels and dedicate it to their New Zealand friends and flatmates who could not join us today, but who are such a large part of their journey together:

Love Poem – Cameron Hockly

There is nothing timid or meandering about my love for you,
it does not head to the shop
for a bottle of milk and a newspaper
only to find itself in town,
browsing at umbrellas and suit jackets.
Although it does notice camellia trees,
the recently pruned climbing roses.

My love for you is not a walk in the park,
although we may, in love, walk in the park.
This love I have for you
is not off the cuff, or impromptu,
which is not to say that my love for you is rehearsal
and performance.

Nothing about it is calculated or expected,
it was not written in the sky
or the sandy fields by the beach,
if it was written anywhere,
it would be on the pathway
next to the pool,
between our bodies,
as we lie there, drying.
Dipping out fingers in the water
and leaving wet notes for each other.
Chlorine in our hair.
Skin baking on the concrete.
Almost warm enough to get back in.

September 12, 2013
She was named for the fall…

How To Relish Autumn:

1. Make mulled cider (I’m obsessed with mulled wine over the holiday season, so I’m going to attempt to make mulled cider in September)

2. Drink pumpkin ale and convince Nick to brew pumpkin beer.

3. Make pumpkin loaf, pumpkin cookies and pumpkin pancakes (I’ll leave the pumpkin pie to my mother!)

4. Go for walks around campus (I live a couple blocks away from The University of Toronto) and drink festive drinks with Jake (he’s starting his university studies this fall!)

5. Incorporate deep colours into my wardrobe. Burgundy and mustard are on-trend this fall! I’m also excited to bust out my wool scarves, knee-high boots and blood orange Liam coat!

6. Update my bedtime routine with new teas, new books and new candles. I love relaxing before bed, and fall is my favourite time of year to do so! Are Diptyque candles are a worthy investment?

6. Darker nail polish. Burgundies and plums are the perfect indication of fall’s arrival.

7. Foliage. Fall is the most beautiful time of year. I love the assortment of colours and the crunchy sound of stepping on leaves.

8. The September Issues. I love thumbing through the thicker than thick copies of Vogue and Elle, and reading Monocle’s Most Liveable Cities issue.

9. Curling up next to the fire (okay, so I don’t have a fireplace in my apartment, but when I go home for Thanksgiving, I’ll be all over that) with a copy of my favourite novel.

10. Thanksgiving. I’ll be returning home to Saskatchewan for the first Thanksgiving in awhile, and I couldn’t be happier. My family is incredibly close and spending time with them during the holidays is a priority.

September 1, 2013