If you’re attending holiday parties this season, it’s a nice touch to bring the host or host’s a small gift of thanks. Generally we bring a bottle of wine - which is lovely, but it’s also a nice touch to mix things up a bit an bring the host’s something different. Remember to add a small card to your gift so the host’s know who the gift is from. Here are a few fun suggestions for your upcoming holiday parties:

ARTISNAL CANDY from Papabubble Toronto (photo above)

I love this artisnal candy shop on Yonge Street (north of Lawrence) in Toronto. It’s mesmerizing to watch the hard candy being made. I think these make a very cute and original gift. The seasonal themed candy comes presented in lovely glass jars - no further packaging required.

COOKIES from Craig’s Cookies

Craig’s Cookies are hands down my absolute favourite treat. In face when my son got his G1 this past summer, we drove straight down to Craig’s for cookies to celebrate. Craig’s aren’t just any ordinary cookies. They’re chocolate chip cookies stuffed with fab, fun fillings. Think about a cookie wrapped around a chocolate orange, peppermint patty or even a cranberry bliss bar! They are truly the best and I can’t imagine anyone not appreciating a gift from Craig’s. The cute bakeshop now has two locations. The original in Parkdale and a new location on Church street in The Village. See their website for addresses.

CANDLES from Farmer’s Son Co.

I love these Prairie made candles that I first discovered on my trip to Prince Edward County this past summer. It’s rare I’ve ever burnt a candle right down - but the subtle fragrances of Farmer’s Son will never overpower your room. They currently have a holiday collection available with fragrances like Juniper and Forest Frost. Luckily for us, Today’s Menu on Millwood Road carry the line. For all of my Leaside followers, you can pick up your gift and dinner at the same time! :)

And if you absolutely insist on bringing a bottle…

….why not go with something fun like Sparkling Personality from one of my favourite Niagara Wineries Megalomaniac. Available at the LCBO.