Who can explain Love? It is many things: kindness, empathy, caring, intimacy, and 196 other kinds of love. Songs, Poetry, Novels and Movies have been written and produced, portraying Love. But whatever you make of Love, on February 14th, we want to proclaim our love with gifts, and pay homage to our lovers, friends, family and those whom we secretly admire. Still, as Gertrude Stein so aptly wrote: “There ain’t no answer; there ain’t going to be any answer: there never has been an answer; and that’s the answer.”
Maadrn Fine Jewels Inc.
I have recently discovered Maadrn Fine Jewels Inc. and admired the classic, yet innovative designs. Experience has taught me to ask a few questions before I purchase “real” jewellery, and I was intrigued to learn that “Ecoluxury” is at the core of the brand. All their jewellery is designed and made by hand right here in Toronto, using recycled gold and sterling silver rather than newly mined. Besides being bespoke, it is truly sustainable. Upcycling has become a passion of their head designer. She uses your outdated jewellery and makes you an exquisite, more valuable piece. If jewellery is on your Valentine’s Day list, a piece will make a fine gift for a loved one—and for the planet.
Barilla Canada
The Barilla Canada team knows that we all love pasta, so they’re celebrating the Season of Love with a limited-edition Love Pasta. Create some of your favourite pasta sauces and invite your friends to a buffet of Barilla heart shaped pasta. As Blondie famously sang, “Once I had a love and it was a gas, soon turned out, had a heart of pasta.” Send your recipe creations to the team by tagging @BarillaCanada and using BarillaLoveCA. They’ll love you for sharing.
Manta Sleep TrueRed Night Light
Manta Sleep TrueRed Night Light plug in, bathes your bedroom, (or any room) in the most calming, soothing hazy rose-red-light. A cut above darkness. It has a built-in sensor for automatic on/off in light or darkness and adjustable brightness for optimal bright levels. Did Manta know when they created this light—for visibility, without sleep disruption, and to avoid stumbling around in the dark, stubbing your toe, or perhaps tripping on a forgotten shoe—that this hazy glow creates a lovely romantic atmosphere?
Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old Scotch Whisky
HEARTS ON FIRE will turn a flicker to a flame. All you need to are a few key ingredients and a good friend.
• 50ml Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old
• 30ml Fresh Lemon Juice
• 15ml Raspberry Liquor
• 15ml Pomegranate Syrup
• 20ml Egg White
• Fresh Raspberry garnish
Build ingredients in a cocktail shaker without ice and dry-shake. Add ice and shake again until chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with fresh raspberries. Raise your glass: To Love.
Feltman Brothers Red Holiday Popcorn Cardigan
The Red Popcorn knit Cardigan will be the coolest thing in the classroom on Valentine’s Day. This classic style sweater, with pockets, in a comfortable to wear knit, gives your child that good feeling that comes from knowing that they look great. Red is the bold colour of the day that celebrates love and kindness.
Skrewball Whiskey
Skrewball Whiskey is a peanut butter flavoured whiskey brand. It’s a sweet, nutty whiskey with strong peanut butter notes, caramel, vanilla, and hints of oak. This Martini will add the element of surprise to your celebration, whether for two guests or ten. When you send an invitation that reads “come on over for coffee”, put some fun in it with a rich and smooth coffee-infused cocktail. It’s the perfect time to change things up a bit. If you keep on doing what you’re doing, you’re going to keep on getting what you’re getting.
Skrewball Espresso Martini
1½ oz Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey
1 oz coffee liqueur
1 oz freshly brewed espresso (or cold brew concentrate)
½ oz simple syrup
Method
1. Shake all ingredients with ice.
2. Strain into a martini glass.
3. Garnish with 3 coffee beans.
Gibson’s Finest 12-Year-Old Whisky
Gibson’s Finest is more than just a drink—it’s a reflection of Canada itself—with deep roots dating back to 1856. It is distilled right here, in Windsor, Ontario. First, hold the glass up to the light and admire its golden coppery colour, then sip and admire the complexity, character and integrity of the whisky. It is very versatile, whether served neat or in a cocktail, before, during or after a meal. On this special day, it’s appropriate to make a toast to love and kindness with Gibson’s Finest. 100% Canadian.
Alpha Skin Care
I have discovered a lovely antidote to the effects of dry overheated homes and offices. Alpha Skin Care Renewal Body Lotion is rich, thick and creamy, and loaded with healing, moisturizing ingredients, like 12% Glycolic AHA. You will notice that your dry, flakey skin, which makes its appearance every winter, disappears—immediately on application.
