The Friday Five: 5 Things on My Mind

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1. Cars. I just want to publicly acknowledge my car breaks and quick reflexes. Thanks to both of these things, I avoided a potentially major accident the other week. Oh my goodness. I am so thankful.

And on the topic of cars, I learned how to replace the bulb of my tail light. I felt like a hero. I’d like to thank a couple of YouTubers and their videos for teaching me how to do it. Easy peasy.

2. Costco. I took up a Groupon offer for a Costco membership recently. If you follow me on Instagram, you already knew that. If you’re my friend in real life, then you’ve already heard me talk about this multiple times. Now, prior to this acquisition, I had been to Costco many times with family and friends who are members, but now that I have my own card, I’m part of the club. On my last few trips, I seem to have spent more time looking at the jewelry and purses than I have at the food, and I’m sure that’s not really what I’m supposed to be doing. 🙂 The gas is so much cheaper than anywhere else, so I’ve been taking advantage of that…oh, and Nutella was on sale the other day, so of course I had to stock up for 2019! I’ll check back in a few months or a year to let you know if the membership is worth it for me.

3. Things to do instead of spending money. Post-Christmas, you may be looking to spend less money. To resist the temptation, try doing one (or more) of the things on this list. Thanks to Jen at Rambling Renovators for sharing this.

4. Gift guides. Are you still on the hunt for gifts for your loved ones? I’m so thankful that Daniela was able to gather a ton of great gift ideas once again this year. Perhaps one of her features will catch your attention: for the host; for men; for women; for kids, tweens, and teens.

5. Blog break. I’ll be taking a week or so off from the blog. I’m sure I’ll be posting on Instagram, but don’t be surprised if you don’t hear from me over the next little while.

Have a very Merry Christmas!

 

Gift Guide: For Kids, Tweens, and Teens

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Daniela’s back today with her fourth gift guide for the holidays (see her previous guides for the host/hostess, for men, for women). Today she’s sharing some ideas for the little(r) ones in your lives. It’s a long post, so get comfy!

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This year I am taking a slightly different approach with my children’s guide. Rather than focusing on one age group, I’ve included all age groups and found many gifts that could overlap ages and stages. The ideas I share below are mostly in an age-related order, but they definitely could suit multiple ages. Happy shopping!

Minika is a Quebec based company that makes beautiful play gyms amongst other things for infants. Void of primary colours, these gyms can easily fit in well in most living rooms. Most importantly, Minika’s items are hand made without the use of any chemicals making them totally safe and natural.

activity gym, $95CAD

I’m all about comfort for the little ones and isa&bella, a Canadian company, has set a high bar when it comes to making ethical and super comfy organic cotton clothes for your little one. Exciting things are coming in 2019 as the company will increases the sizes they carry. For now, the perfect little onesie and pants will make sure your baby is comfortable as they grow and explore all day.

harem pants, $36CAD

onesie, $32CAD

This Melissa and Doug wooden blocks set inspires tons of creativity and hours of play. It will grow with your toddler into their childhood years. It’s made entirely of wood and is excellent quality.

building blocks, $67.83CAD

Love Powered Co. is a Canadian company which was started by two mompreneurs who were looking for positive affirmation and mindful tools to bring into their homes and families. When they could not find them, they created Love Powered Co. Their beautifully packaged affirmation cards are of the highest quality. They come in three options: one for children – the Love Powered Littles (also totally useable for your baby-you just say it to them!); a recently launched Love Powered Teen affirmation boxes; and the Love Powered Femme for the lady in your life. These positive “I AM” affirmations will encourage mindfulness, self-worth, self-love and confidence.

Love Powered littles box set, $39.95

Love Powered teens box set, $42.95

Who doesn’t love a gift that gives back? You may recall I featured Cuddle & Kind in my October #whitecabanawearspink gift guide, and I’m back featuring the company again because it is really making a difference. For every hand made doll purchased, Cuddle & Kind donates 10 meals through various humanitarian organizations (learn more here). I love the beautiful prints that can be purchased with the dolls, too. Not only do they have inspirational messages, but they make wonderful artwork for a child’s bedroom. I don’t think there is an age limit to this gift, but it is likely best for toddler to tweens!

Stella the Polar Bear, $65+CAD

Hudson the Polar Bear, $60+CAD

Calgary-based SÄ“m label was born out of the creator’s desire to pair sustainability and minimalism in fashion. You can read about owner Kelsey’s story here. SÄ“m label’s bamboo cotton items are beautiful and comfortable and come in sizes from infant to 7T. They will be a hit, and your recipients will never forget that it was you who gave them this gift as the pieces are too comfortable to take off!

raglan long sleeve romper, $58

flutter sleeve tunic, $48

Based out of Germany, Grimm‘s wooden toys are not only absolutely beautiful, but they are non toxic and made of wood. I wish I could buy the whole Grimm collection! For now, I’ll leave you with a few of my favorites. The building toys can make beautiful formations and are great for all ages because children can create more complex things as they grow.

Grimm’s Elements Building Storage, $99CAD

Grimm’s wood tunnel, $95CAD

The Moonlite projector – available at Mastermind Toys – clips easily onto your smartphone making bedtime routines with your child so much fun. The device will project stories onto the wall or ceiling of the child’s room using your smartphone. This starter pack comes with two stories.

Moonlite starter pack, $29.99

This fun neon sign has three neon markers for messaging. It only requires a few batteries and is great for a number of age groups.

screen frame, $25.19 (on sale)

I love the line of creative products that Antsy Pants has developed. Once you’re done building this pirate ship (or this fire truck or this ice cream truck), it provides hours of imagination and fun for your child.

pirate ship, $76.49CAD (on sale at The Bay)

Have a Disney fan in your life? Cinemood Portable projector is a kid-friendly device that is pre-loaded with 65 Disney e-books and videos. You can also connect it to wifi to watch Netflix and Youtube, making it great option for family movie nights.

Cinemood portable theatre, $329CAD

This ultimate candy bag from Montreal-based Squish is definitely a gift to please every age (once they can safely eat the candy that is).

the ultimate box – Squish faves, $50CAD

The bath bomb craze is alive and well. Do you know a child or tween who loves bath bombs? If so, how about giving them this kit so they can make their very own bath bombs? The kit comes with everything they need to make six.

bath bomb kit, $16.99 (on sale)

I love this bluetooth speaker by Bumpboxx that looks like a retro ghetto blaster for the tween and teen in your life. Sound and quality are optimal, and it comes in a variety of models. I love the small one best because it is compact, and you can choose from a variety of colors.

Bumpboxx Flare 6, $239

Do you have a teen who loves makeup? This glittery set from Sephora is sure to please.

eyeshadow set, $59CAD

Have a teen who isn’t a big fan of dressing up? Well this Canadian-made dressy sweatshirt is the perfect gift for them! Since it is made of a blend of bamboo and merino french terry fabrics, your teens won’t feel like they are “dressing up.”

the dressy sweatshirt, $128CAD

A backpack is no longer just for school. Backpacks are replacing purses and work messenger bags and people are now having a collection of them. Vancouver-based Herschel has a wide array of trendy backpacks & accessories for children and teens.

heritage backpack, $64.99

daypack, $34.99

If you’re looking for a great set of headphones, then these are a great option because they’re at a decent price point in relation to other headphones. They are fast-charging, have a long battery life, and are Bluetooth enabled.

Skullcandy headphones, $79.99CAD

Hope this shopping list makes your shopping a little easier this time of year! Have fun and happy holidays!

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Daniela, you’ve done it again! You’ve curated a crazy cool collection of gift ideas for kids of all ages.

Gift Guide: For Men

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Today’s gift guide is for the men in your lives. Daniela has brought us some great items, many of which are from Canadian companies, which we love to support!

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It’s that time of year again, and I’m here to help you (hopefully) with some gift ideas for the men in your life. You will see a heavy focus on Canadian brands below.

18waits is a Canadian company that you can find across Canada, the USA, and even Mexico; however, if you find yourself in Toronto, then I advise you to shop at the flagship store on Queen St. West. The clothing is well made and manufactured in Canada and the USA. Here are my top picks from 18waits.

whiskey tee, $90 CAD

Dylan shirt

eagle’s bone necklace, $250 CAD

Rocky Mountain Barber Company is a Canadian company that focuses on men’s hair, meaning their beards, mustaches, and the hair on their heads. Rock Mountain’s famous products are made of only the finest ingredients, and their small batch production ensures this quality remains high. And, when you check out, you will be given a choice of free samples. Who doesn’t love a freebie? Can you say free stocking stuffer? Here are my top picks from Rocky Mountain Barber Company.

Sandalwood shaving survival kit, $53.99CAD

Sandalwood hair comb, $22.99CAD

And of course a comb for the man in your life with a beard.

Sandalwood beard comb, $19.99CAD

Vancouver based brand Herschel Supply Co. is recognized globally as a high-quality brand with collections at great price points.

I am a fan of this specific wallet because I love the money clip feature, and it is thin, which is great for those men who don’t like carrying around a bulky wallet. This makes a great adult or teen gift. It also comes in many colours!

Raven wallet, $29.99CAD

An Autonomous office chair is a perfect gift for the man who works from a home office. Started in 2014 through Kickstarter, Autonomous has now grown and currently has 10 locations around the world. The Italian and Korean designed ergonomic chair ensures comfort while you work hard all day.

Autonomous Ergochair 2, $499CAD

My last item is a charging station for the person who has a lot of gadgets. With this gift, they can easily and conveniently charge all of them, all in one place. I love this specific charging station as it works with multiple phones and tablets.

charging station, $24.59CAD

Happy shopping!

Gift Guide: For the Host

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Who has started holiday shopping? Who has finished? I have plenty still to buy, so Daniela‘s holiday gift guides could not have come at a better time! She always finds the most interesting things from great brands. Today she’s kicking off the 2018 White Cabana Gift Guide Series with a guide for the hosts.

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It’s that time of year when many calendars are full of holiday drop-ins, dinners, and celebrations. Today I am sharing some gift ideas for the host and hostess, but I think think could also do well as stocking stuffers for an adult. These gifts for the host and hostess allow you to go beyond the norm of flowers and dessert. Happy shopping!

These white coasters are great because they suit any decor and are a perfect price point. Cocktail Emporium is an awesome store to check out if you are in the Toronto area. They have locations on Queen St. and in Kensington Market, and they really do have anything you can think of that is cocktail related.

angle dipped coasters, $20 CAD

If you’re heading to dinner at a foodie’s house, I suggest this Himalayan salt grater. It is sure to please your hosts.

salt grater, $30, Drake General Store

And how cool is this pizza cutter?

pizza cutter, $25.99, Drake General Store

I’m a sucker for a beautiful snow globe and Chapters Indigo always has an awesome selection this time of year.

snow globe joy, $22.99, Chapters Indigo

I love my notebooks and notepads, and I can never have enough. If you know someone who appreciates good and fun stationery than Eighty Seventh St., a Canadian company, is the place for you. While you’re on the website, have a look at the holiday shop.

pretty planner, $20 CAD, Eighty Seventh St.

always write notebook, $18.50CAD, Eighty Seventh St.

L’Occitane en Provence always impresses me with their holiday lines, and it has amazing price points. Not only do these items make great host gifts, but I think they would be great for teachers gifts and stocking stuffers, too.

almond bauble ornament,  $14, L’Occitane en Provence

festive crackers, $34, L’Occitane en Provence

Hope you enjoyed this gift guide. Enjoy the many holiday events that lie ahead!

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Thanks, Daniela. You’ve started us off well with this holiday gift guide. I know you have a lot more to share with White Cabana readers this holiday season!

See Daniela’s gift guides from years past for more ideas.

#WhiteCabanaWearsPink: Pink Gifts for Kids

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You’ve probably come to know Daniela, one of my contributors, for her thoughtful gift guides. Today, she’s caught the #WhiteCabanaWearsPink spirit and she’s curated a collection of great gift items for kids

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Hi White Cabana readers!

It is an honour to write this post as #WhiteCabanaWearsPink for breast cancer awareness this month. I never thought I’d be the mom who loves pink, but then I had two daughters, and, to be honest, the dainty perfection of my girls in pink has made me gravitate to soft pink clothing when I shop for them.

Today I bring you some of my favourite pink items that are perfect gifts for any little ones in your lives.

Cuddle and Kind is a company that all about giving back! Each doll purchased feeds 10 children in need. The dolls are so well made and stand the test of my toddler dragging hers around everywhere. There are many dolls to choose from and for an additional fee the company provides a corresponding photo with an inspirational message.Charlotte the Dog featured here is adorable and soft pink. It’s the perfect thoughtful gift for a child in your life.

Charlotte the Dog, $60+ USD, Cuddle and Kind

Next up are Mini Moc’s moccasins. Not only are these shoes well made (in Canada!) and stylish, the are, most importantly, are hard for kids to kick off! No more missing shoes! These soft pink mocs are subtle in color and go with so many wardrobe options.

moccasins, $45 CAD, Mini Moc

Le Méchant Loup is a Montreal-based boutique that sources beautiful toys, accessories, and clothing for children and babies. I especially love the messaging of this organic cotton sweatshirt by UK brand Organic Zoo.

sweatshirt, $49 CAD, Le Méchant Loup

Posh Peanut is a brand out of LA by a hair stylist turned mompreneur. Posh Peanut’s loungewear feels like butter, and the company has great mommy-and-me matching loungewear and robes. Many of the items sell out quickly, and pre-ordering is always recommended. How adorable is this pink ensemble? It’s made with soft Bamboo viscose.

floral loungewear, $28.95 USD, Posh Peanut

Finally, I love the adorable collar on this perfect cotton dress from one of my favourite children’s clothing brands – Jacadi. Jacadi designs all of its clothes out of its Paris headquarters.

cotton fleece dress, $59 USD, Jacadi

Hope you enjoyed today’s #WhiteCabanaWearsPink for breast cancer awareness.

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If you’re anything like me, then you read Daniela’s gift guide and thought to yourself: “But where does she find these amazing brands?” I’m thrilled with this gift guide, and I’m going to keep it handy for future baby gifts that I will need to buy for friends and family!

For those of you who are still getting to know Daniela, you should know that she’s an incredible fundraiser. She’s a two-time cancer survivor (Hodgkin’s lymphoma and thyroid), and she has raised thousands upon thousands upon thousands of dollars for the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. She is a true #WonderWoman! I know Daniela is passionate about fundraising for cancer research, and I’m glad she was able to contribute to #WhiteCabanaWearsPink this year!

Thanks, Daniela! Let’s #conquercancer together!

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