valentine’s day

Sealed With A Kiss

February 13, 2016February 19, 2016 by Alyssa Garrison

I’m always up for any excuse to get dressed up, especially when a theme is involved, so when we found ourselves staying in The Standard Hotel just around the corner from one of the most famous hot pinks walls in the world, I knew a Valentine’s outfit post was necessary.

Very. Valentines.

I put together my “look of love” with vintage pink sunnies, a two piece coordinate set from Hottiewood, gold pumps from H+M, and some lovely props from my gal pals at Ban.do. With the help of the amazing pink wall and a dash of California sunshine, I ended up with the perfect Vday date night ensemble (even though in reality I’ll likely be at home eating cake with my roommate in sweatpants tomorrow.)

Sips, Sweets & Snacks

Chocolate Rose Confetti Covered Strawberries

February 10, 2016May 19, 2016 by Alyssa Garrison

I’m not found in malls all that often, but whenever I am you can be sure I’ll leave with at least a handful of chocolate covered strawberries. Honestly, good chocolate dipped strawberries are strangely hard to find, and even in the depths of shopping mall chocolate boutiques they can be difficult to come by (you should see my face when Godiva is sold out). It recently dawned on me that instead of pushing my way through the crowds at the Eaton Centre I could just try making my own, and what better time than Valentine’s Day right?

Simple to make, crazy delicious, and oh so slightly floral, this recipe definitely rivals any other chocolate covered strawberry I’ve tried- plus, it’s vegan! Wrap up a batch to give to each of your Galentines February 14th, or enjoy an entire box to yourself with a bottle of champagne and The Notebook (we promise we won’t judge.)

Ingredients //

Vegan chocolate chips
Coconut Oil
Rosewater (ideally with oil listed as an ingredient)
Fresh strawberries
Sprinkles of your choosing

Recipe //

Prep by making sure your strawberries are as cold as possible, and pre-freeze a baking sheet or plate to rest them on once dipped.

1. Melt your chocolate and coconut oil together in double boiler using the ratio 3/4 cup chocolate chips to 1TBSP coconut oil.

2. Once the chocolate and coconut oil are fully melted, add a drop or two of rosewater and stir.

3. Start dipping the strawberries into the chocolate, twirling them slightly before setting them down on your pre-chilled surface (ideally a plate or marble platter)

4. Sprinkle each strawberry with, well, sprinkles!

5. Pop the strawberries in the freezer for 5-10 minutes to let the chocolate set before moving to the fridge.

Store in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy for up to 3 days, or gift to your galentines!

Party Supplies via Meri Meri

Dear Diary

Treat your BFF for Galentine’s Day

January 26, 2016January 27, 2016 by Alyssa Garrison

It’s that time of year when everything turns pink, hearts take over every shop window, and love is in the air. That’s right, Valentine’s Day is upon us, and though it’s one of my favourite holidays I can’t say I’m really feeling the love this year like I usually am.

That’s why I’ve decided to make Valentine’s 2016 the year of me and my girls (as Selena Gomez would say). This February 14th, I’ll be all about Galentine’s Day.

I’m all about my girl gang, and over the past year I’ve built the most amazing network of women up around me. From the girls at Sophomore to my Instagram pals from all around the world, The Shine Theory is really ruling my 2016, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. When Giftagram approached me to curate their new #BFF section I instantly jumped at the opportunity. Pick out gifts for girls, from girls? Um yes please! I quickly got to work choosing my favourite items, and I even got to take some pretty pictures for the app! Here are some of my favourites:

All products available in the Giftagram App

Dear Diary

Be My Valentine?

February 8, 2015June 10, 2015 by Alyssa Garrison

As a few of you may have already pieced together, I’ll be spending this Valentine’s Day without a partner for the first time in a very long time. Sadly my most recent relationship didn’t work out in the end, but I’ve been spending a lot of time exploring, working on my career, and getting closer with friends, and overall I’m feeling as happy and fulfilled as ever.

Though Valentine’s day is often looked upon with bitterness by those who aren’t in a relationship, my feelings are completely opposite. I love all holidays, and why would I miss out on the one that involves pink, flowers and sweets?! I’m a firm believer in treating yourself, and Valentine’s Day seems like the perfect excuse for an extra big dose of self love, whether you’re “alone” or not.

To that end, I’ll be spending my Valentine’s Day getting pedicures and cocktails at Her Majesty’s Pleasure with Paige, followed by a fun dance party at Milk Glass. I’ve also put together a guide with all of my 2015 Valentine’s gift favourites, and there’s something for just about everyone (yes, even you couples!)

Scroll to the bottom to find out more!