GIFT GUIDE: The Host’s Survival Kit
Want to make a great impression as a guest at a holiday gathering? Choose one — or all! — of these gifts that will make hosting a dream.
When it comes to entertaining, our hosts put in a lot of effort. The twinkle of lights, the hum of a curated playlist and good conversation, perfectly prepared food, thoughtful drinks, and the cozy reality of a full and happy house all take planning, care, and endless energy. Plus, they shoulder the monumental task of making it all look effortless. This year, your hosts and hostesses deserve a reward that’s as thoughtful as their appetizer spread. Forget the obligatory bottle of on-sale bubbly; this year, show your favourite entertainer some genuine, local love with a gift that doesn’t just say thank you, but allows them to bask in their love for hosting others.
The Bee’s Knees
The Heritage Bee Company’s gently flavoured honey is a jar that more than earns its keep. A little dollop can gussy up a charcuterie board, pot of tea, basic slice of toast, or simple cake glaze. This raw, 100 per cent Ontario, wildflower honey is hand-processed near the escarpment by their friendly beekeepers. Whether it’s a jar of lavender for a calming tea, rosemary for a goat cheese pairing, or ginger for a winter cocktail, this yummy gift will elevate anything you seek to sweeten. Grab it at Campus & Co., The Casual Gourmet, the Royal Botanical Gardens, and other local retailers, or shop online at heritagebee.com
Coaster Goals
These coasters are a masterpiece in miniature, and an essential component of a host’s survival kit! For over 20 years, Norton Creations in Dundas has been pouring, painting, and designing these vivid pieces, which are inspired by Hamilton’s own waterfalls, trails, and changing seasons. Hand-painted with acrylics and finished with a durable, high-heat resin, they’re a pretty and practical solution to keeping your favourite host’s furniture ring-free.
Buy them directly through the artist’s Facebook page @nortoncreationsdesign
Toast of the Town
Each of Etch & Ember’s unique wine glasses are handcrafted using a chemical etching process and sponge-and-brush application that creates beautifully frosted, one-of-a-kind pieces. The whimsical collection at The Local Life on Locke features garden blooms and their tiny winged visitors (hello, butterflies and bees!). Made for anyone who appreciates beauty and originality, these glasses elevate every occasion from a casual Tuesday night glass of vino to a lavish New Year’s soiree. Find them at The Local Life thelocallife.ca or directly from Etch & Ember on Instagram @etch.and.ember.
Morning Ritual
Every great party ends with a weary host needing an even better wake-up call, and that’s why there’s Early Bird coffee beans. Lovingly stocked at The Nest, this small-batch, Woodstock-based roastery focuses on ethically sourced, premium beans, ensuring that every cup results in an excellent cup of joe. Whether you choose the fruity, sweet Robin Light Roast or the rich, dark Nighthawk, this is the gift for anyone who values a quality morning ritual. Add a handwritten “best enjoyed with leftover pie” note, and you’ve officially extended the party.
Pick up a bag of whole beans at The Nest nesthamilton.com
Liquid Gold
Hamilton’s Dear Grain crew is famous for world-class bread, so it’s only fitting that they would track down the perfect pairing. Frantoio Terrano olive oil, sourced from Sicily but hand-picked by DG’s bakers, is a full-bodied and fruity extra-virgin olive oil with a signature peppery, arugula-like bite. Destined to be a finishing oil, it adds a luxurious final touch to dishes like pasta, winter soups, or a simple slice of fresh sourdough bread.
Snag a bottle at deargrain.com.
