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Monsters and Mashups: This Halloween Consider a DIY Costume With A Twist

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Every kid wants to be the one whose costume makes the neighbours say, “Now that’s clever!” Whether the goal is scary, goofy, or glitter and glam, this year’s trends lean toward sustainability and putting a creative spin on classics. Read on for show-stopping looks that won’t break the bank or harm the planet.

What’s trending this year?

Mash-ups and reimagined classics are where it’s at. zombie-princesses, Think vampire-mermaids, superhero-lizards. or Pop culture inspired looks (Wednesday Addams or Mario Bros.) are still hot, but kids are also leaning into eco-creativity by using what they already have and making it creepy or adding an unexpected element. The ultimate goal is to stand out and turn heads. Bonus points if those heads turn all the way around.

Here are a few clever, eco-friendly, and fun ways to whip up a one-of-a-kind look:


1. Hit your local thrift shop for unexpected treasures. A velvet blazer can transform a kid into a mini magician. A 90s prom dress will look hauntingly perfect on a ghost bride. And some old flannel, a toy ax, some beaver teeth and a tail, will turn you into the most authentic lumberjack ever.

2. Why buy new when you can borrow? Host a costume swap with friends or neighbours. It’s like a fashion show, but with pumpkins and plastic fangs. Even if you don’t trade full costumes, swapping single pieces (a cape, a hat, or a wig) can spark totally new ideas.

3. Encourage kids to mashcup costume components for maximum originality. Last year’s pirate hat plus a unicorn horn? You’ve got a “piratecorn.” My daughter paired her cousin’s bee costume with some ghoulish make-up and trick-or-treated as a Zom-bee. It had the neighbours buzzing. The more random the combo,
the better.

4. Accessories can make a costume. Cardboard wings, tin-foil swords, or even glow-stick wands add flair without costing much. Making them is half the fun.

Don’t Try This At Home (Author’s Confession)

When I was in fourth grade, my school had a costume contest. The grand prize was a giant sack of candy that I was hell bent on winning. So, I set out to create the most epic homemade costume ever: a disco space monster.

Apparently Saturday Night Fever and Alien (which both came out around then) had made an impression on me. My plan involved a silver bodysuit from a past dance recital, papier-maché, and green paint from my parents’ garage. I was a 10-year-old on a mission, wielding a box cutter and spray paint. I had never felt more alive… though after wearing the toxic alien head for about twenty minutes, I felt somewhat less alive. Thankfully the winner (me!) wasannounced before I passed out.

The takeaway here (besides “please supervise children with toxic paint and sharp objects”) is that creatively crafted costumes aren’t just fun, they’re legendary

Skip the mass-produced costume in a bag. I mean, do what makes you happy (aka do what your time and budget allow) but if you’re up for the challenge, unleash your inner creative genius! Raid closets, trade with friends, mix and match, and explore thrift shops for inspiration. Not only will your kids’ costumes be unforgettable, you’ll also be teaching them the joy of creativity and the value of repurposing what we already have…

Local Links

Barkin’ Bin Thrift Store
511 Pinegrove Road, Oakville
omhs.ca/donate/thrift-store

IODE Thrift Shop
432 Kerr Street, Oakville
iode-angelabruce.ca

Salvation Army Thrift Store
356 Kerr St, Oakville
3245 Fairview St, Burlington

Stardust Dancewear and Costumes
4155 Fairview Street, Burlington
stardustdancewearandcostumes.com

BY LISA THORNBURY

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Thanksgiving Meal Ideas
In Community

Fabulous Fixings: This Year, Don’t Sideline The Sides

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Thanksgiving dinner isn’t just about turkey.It’s the colourful array of vegetables and other sides, and the blend of tantalizing aromas, that lure loved ones to your table. “As easy as it is to lean on the featured protein of a dish, it’s often the sides and accompaniments that tie it all together and create the magic of a Thanksgiving feast,” says Kyle Corbin, Chef de Cuisine at Bardõ Restaurants. We Canadians are fortunate to have a cornucopia of food available — particularly at harvest time — and myriad ways to prepare a delicious side dish

Mouthwatering 101

CHAR IT. Years ago, a friend taught me how to char red peppers on the barbecue until they turned black, peel the peppers, and then slather them with hot anchovy-garlic olive oil. Oh my. Think you don’t like anchovies? Trust me. They dissolve into oil and crispy garlic, creating a salty, heavenly sauce. I made it for my family one summer, and now they request my peppers every Thanksgiving.

A barbecue isn’t always necessary for a good char. Corbin chars Brussels sprouts on the stovetop for a decadent, festive side. “The secret to the Brussels sprouts is halving them and charring them in a cast-iron pan and not shying away from the colour,” he says, then tossing them with crispy bacon and butter-sautéed leeks.

MASH IT.  Mashed vegetables are an easy way to fuse different flavours together. Celery root mashed with potatoes adds a light, herbaceous flavour to an old classic. My mother’s specialty is rutabaga mashed with acorn squash, butter, parsley, sauteed onions, and an optional apple. For a vegan option, try mashed cauliflower with olive oil, roasted garlic, and nutritional yeast for creaminess without dairy.

ROAST IT. The act of slow cooking vegetables directly under a dry heat source creates caramelization and a crispy outer texture. It works wonders on potatoes, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, zucchini, asparagus, broccoli, peppers, and more.

“One of my favourite Thanksgiving sides is classic stuffing. I start with good, crusty bread cubes, then sauté onions, celery, and a little garlic in plenty of butter. To make it extra tasty, I add fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary, plus a splash of chicken stock so it’s moist but still has some crunchy bits on top. Sometimes I’ll fold in roasted mushrooms or crumbled sausage for more depth—it makes the stuffing hearty and full of flavour”

Jordan Shea
Catch Hospitality, Executive Chef Operations

Roasting is Corbin’s favourite way to prepare yams for Thanksgiving.
He oven roasts them “glazed with maple and toasted walnuts.”


FRITTER IT AWAY. A fritter is a sort of thick pancake made with chopped or shredded vegetables (squeezed first, to remove excess moisture), mixed into a simple batter, and shallow-fried until golden. Almost any combo works. Try zucchini, carrots and scallions, or combine turnip with feta and cornmeal. A potato fritter is essentially a potato latke, a crispy treat in Ashkenazi Jewish cuisine, often served with sour cream or apple sauce.


STUFF IT. Mushroom caps are decadent with a stuffing of minced mushroom stems and onions, sauteed in butter and mixed with parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, and then baked. Or take these a step further with a crab and asiago stuffing. Anything that can be hollowed out can be stuffed, including bell peppers, squash, zucchini, eggplant, artichokes, and even cherry tomatoes. Stuffed vegetables load extra flavour in each bite and look impressive!

Speaking of stuffing, turkey stuffing is my personal favourite side. For years I refused to deviate from my grandmother’s old bread-and- poultry-seasoning standard until Dave, my partner, made me one with sourdough bread, sausage, and roasted chestnuts. That stuffing alone could be my feast now. Turkey optional!

Other foodies swap bread for cornbread,  rice, or (in Scotland) oatmeal. Stuffing can be spicy, nutty, meaty, or fruity. The varieties are endless, and not for the carb-averse. Fixings make the feast. Happy Thanksgiving and bon appétit!

BY MICHELLE MORRA

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In Family

Halloween Hijinks: Tricks & Treat’s for a Pet Friendly Halloween

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Halloween isn’t just tricks and treats for kids. Furry family members can also be part of the festive fun. My black cat, the ultimate symbol of Halloween (second only to pumpkins), gets her moment in the spotlight every year. I plop a tiny orange hat on her and take a photo of her with the kids in their costumes before we hit the streets trick-or-treating.

Many local pet businesses offer ways for pets to get in on the festive fun. From costumes to toys, treats and even parties, pet Halloween is serious business.

At Dogtopia of Burlington, pup members are invited to show off their costumes, join a mini parade, star in a spooky photo shoot, and even take home a treat to keep the night sweet.

While the idea of including pets in Halloween sounds fun, they don’t all enjoy the spooky festivities. “Dogs can be scared of masks,” says Tracy Buchkowsky, Manager at Dogtopia. Even social pups may find certain aspects of the evening frightening, or get anxious with the constant doorbell ringing. To help pets enjoy the evening, Buchkowsky recommends providing them with a calmer space — such as in a separate room or behind a baby gate — or even booking a sleepover at Dogtopia to avoid the Halloween chaos altogether.

If you do want to take your dog trick-or-treating, safety comes first. Keep the pup visible with the right, reflective gear. Allison Sullivan, owner of Burlington North’s Bone & Biscuit, recommends a light-up dog necklace such as Nitehowl. “It’s an LED safety necklace that you can cut to the proper size, and it’s rechargeable,” she says.

Tips to Maximize Halloween Fun with Pets

Get a porch portrait with your pet in costume before trick-or-treating begins. Buy a new toy to add some festive fun while keeping pets happily distracted from trick-or-treat chaos. Host a “paws parade” in your living room, or with some neighbours, so that four-legged-friends can show off their costumes. Don’t forget festive treats like Bosco & Roxy’s seasonal cookies!

Remember to keep pet costumes simple. They shouldn’t be too loose or tight. Avoid things that could impair movement, hearing, or vision and beware of any small accessories that can be swallowed. Try out the costume before Halloween night to ensure your pet is comfortable with it (you can tell if they push it off or wriggle out of it).

Buchkowsky also recommends keeping pets on a short leash in case they get spooked by a lawn ornament or trick-or-treater. And be sure to have their ID tags up to date in case they dart off.

For pets who get startled by noises, doorbell chaos, or unfamiliar faces, check with local pet stores for calming aids. Sullivan recommends Your Go 2 (a spray commonly used for pets who get anxious when getting their teeth cleaned) or Healthybud, calming chews made with duck meat and liver. In the cuteness department, pets are right up there with kids on Halloween night. Just remember to keep your furry ghouls safe, comfortable and happy.

BY LISA EVANS

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In Home & Garden

The Suite Life: Why Homeowner’s Are Turning To Secondary Dwellings

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With housing prices remaining high across the GTA and beyond, more homeowners are turning to garden suites as a smart solution to generate rental income, create space for multi-generational living, or boost long-term resale value. Designed with independence and privacy in mind, a secondary dwelling can adapt to changing needs, adding long-term flexibility to your home. It may sound like a big undertaking, but with a solid plan, the right approvals, and a skilled builder, creating a secondary suite is more achievable than you think.

What is a Garden Suite?

Municipalities officially classify garden suites as Additional Residential Units (ARUs). In plain terms, that means a self-contained living space with its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping areas, located on the same property as a primary home. Brian DosRamos, President of Ever After Custom Homes, notes the clear shift toward spaces that emphasize family and sustainability.

Planning Makes Perfect

Getting started on a garden suite, or any secondary dwelling, begins with laying solid groundwork. First, hire an architect or designer to draft a plan that aligns with both your vision and municipal zoning rules. Professionals will help ensure your suite is functional and compliant with relevant codes.“We are seeing an increase in families wanting multi-generational homes and investment options included in their new homes,” he says. “It’s important to find ways to create more housing options within our established neighbourhoods.”

“Care must be taken to provide space and patterns of access that establish boundaries for each inhabitant’s respectful use of the exterior.” JOHN WILLMOTT

John Willmott, Principal Architect at Willmott & Strickland, explains that every project starts with context. “I first consider the scale, massing, compatibility, and relationship it has with the existing house,” he says. “Zoning by-laws determine the size, setbacks, height, and other regulations. And while municipalities are encouraging garden suites, having someone living in your backyard will potentially impact the homeowner’s enjoyment, so care must be taken to provide space and patterns of access that establish boundaries for each inhabitant’s respectful use of the exterior.”

Architects are also invaluable when adapting existing structures. Beyond design, they can help source contractors and oversee construction to make sure the vision is carried out as conceived.

Next, you’ll need to secure the necessary permits, a step that varies depending on local regulations but is critical for avoiding delays or penalties. Several municipalities now offer financial support to encourage this type of project.

Small Space, Big Design

WILLMOTT & STRICKLAND Designing a garden suite is all about balancing comfort, privacy, and long-term value. Working closely with a builder allows you to make the most of a compact footprint — maximizing usable space, building in smart storage solutions, and incorporating multifunctional designs that adapt to different needs.

“The space needs to be curated for the intended user from phase one of design,” DosRamos says. “That may mean barrier-free access for an aging family member, a larger kitchen for someone who loves to cook, or even a dedicated office space if the suite is meant to be a rental for a remote worker.” He also stresses maximizing natural light and airflow, noting that “sunlight and cross breezes are critical to creating healthy, happy spaces.”

BEFORE YOU BUILD

Garden Suites

Talk to a local real estate agent to learn current market trends. They can help you:

  • Determine the demand for rental units in your area
  • Assess property value to optimize your investment
  • Connect you to knowledgeable professionals

Future value should also guide decision-making. “Thoughtful design will ensure that the suite fits with the home, property, and community,” says DosRamos. He points to energy-efficient choices like triple-glazed windows, in-floor radiant heating, and upgraded insulation, as well as smart home features. Building to high standards now, he explains, creates long-term value and minimizes costly upgrades later.

With the right combination of intention, efficiency, and details, a secondary dwelling becomes more than an extra unit. It’s a flexible, valuable extension of your home.

Local Links

Ever After Custom Homes
everafterhomes.ca

Wilmott & Strickland
willmottstrickland.ca

BY NICOLE HILTON

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In Local History

Ghosts of Industry: A Look Back To The Grind of Waterdown’s Smokey Hollow

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Waterdown Village boasts a section of the Bruce Trail that hikers and birders adore. A hilly path, surrounded by stately trees, eventually levels off along Grindstone Creek in a deep gully known as Smokey Hollow. The view of the creek grows increasingly spectacular — from stones to rocks to boulders — culminating in the 33-foot, ribbon-like cascade known as Great Falls.

Smokey Hollow is almost impossible to imagine as being enveloped in steam, sawdust and chimney smoke, but that’s how it got its name. Thanks to the powerful resource of water tumbling down the Niagara escarpment, the aptly named Waterdown Village was born of industry.

WATER AND WEALTH

Pioneer communities relied on lumber and grist mills, so entrepreneurs were drawn to Grindstone Creek in the 1800s. Alexander Brown, an early settler, harnessed the power of the Great Falls by building the area’s first sawmill. A hamlet grew around the area after brothers Ebenezer and Absalom Griffin built flour and grist mills, a general store, and a hotel.

The long, narrow gully soon bustled with industry. Mills ground flour, sawed timber, and even produced woollen goods. Soon to follow were tanning pits, basket makers, and a brass foundry. One particularly impressive structure was the Torrid Zone Flour Mill, built in the 1860s by Sir William Pierce Howland, a future Father of Confederation. His mill delivered raw grain from the top of the escarpment and, ingeniously, used gravity to transport finished flour to the bottom. Over 170 barrels of flour a day travelled from Waterdown to markets in Montreal and Europe.

A VICTORY FOR NATURE

Hamilton Waterfalls

Smokey Hollow was the site of ruin for seventy years. Locals used it as a dump. Weeds and brambles took over former mill sites until the 1990s, when a quiet revival began. Seeing the potential for public parkland — and a green space worth protecting — local volunteers started clearing trails, installing signs, and building a viewing platform over the Great Falls. This labour of love would become a remarkable portion of the Bruce Trail.

In a forest once clamorous with grinding millstones, whirring gears and screeching saw blades, visitors will have an entirely different experience today. Smokey Hollow is a majestic, pine-scented oasis where the only sounds are of birds, chipmunks, and the babbling creek and majestic waterfall that have reclaimed their home.

Special thanks to Waterdown Mill Street Heritage and the Flamborough Historical Society.

UP IN SMOKE

Great Falls

The deforestation that was happening all over Ontario, together with the draining of marshes, caused a decrease in Grindstone Creek’s power. Many industrial establishments shifted to steam technology powered by scrap wood. These changes brought a host of occupational hazards. Flash fires frequently destroyed the wooden mills. The Torrid Zone Mill burned in 1885, was rebuilt, and burned again in 1910, never to recover. Steam engines were prone to often fatal boiler  explosions. Meanwhile, air quality at the southern end of the village was poor, due to the cloud of smog hanging over the gully.

All mills at Grindstone Creek had ceased production by 1912, the year when the Canadian Pacific Railway arrived. While railways caused some Canadian towns to thrive, in this case the changes overwhelmed Waterdown’s industrial hub. Dams were dismantled, the creek was rerouted for agricultural purposes, and the last physical reminders of Smokey Hollow’s industrial heyday began to vanish. The short-lived railway station, closed by the 1960s, burned down in 1966.

BY MICHELLE MORRA

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Fall Fashions
In Shop Local

Shop Local: Fall Fashions

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Find these Fall Fashions locally!

IDH CLOSET, BURLINGTON
idhcloset.com

Fall Fashion

Elevate your outerwear game with a modern car coat reimagined with a removable fooler hoodie for a layered, street-style edge. The buttoned front and sharp notch lapels lend timeless sophistication, while side pockets offer functional ease.

BOS & CO BURLINGTON
bosandco.com

Conquer any terrain with confidence in these expertly crafted waterproof boots by Brenna Brown. Made in Portugal, and available at Bos & Co in Burlington!

JEEF’S GUY SHOP, BURLINGTON
jeffsguyshop.com

Mens Fall vest

The Belfry Vest is a light to mid-weight layering piece that’s the perfect complement to any outfit. This sleek vest will keep you looking sharp layered over your favourite pieces as you coast into Fall.

JOELLE’S BY ALLY, BURLINGTON
joelles.com

The Selenia Striped Pullover Sweater from Part Two combines classic stripes with a sleek crew neck design. Made from soft, high-quality materials, it provides warmth and a flattering fit, making it a perfect everyday look.

ALERI, WATERDOWN
alerihome.com


NYDJ (Not Your Daughter’s Jeans) denim is known for its flattering fit and lift-tuck technology that smooths and shapes curves. Designed with comfort and style in mind, NYDJ offers a range of classic and contemporary styles for women of all ages. Get 10% off at Aleri until October 31!

ANDREWS, OAKVILLE
andrewsco.com

The Soho Envelope Crossbody Bag by Naghedi is handwoven in rich dark chocolate neoprene, blending modern craftsmanship with timeless design.
With dual zippered compartments and a sleek adjustable leather strap, it keeps your essentials organized while offering hands-free sophistication.

BURROWS CLOTHIERS, OAKVILLE
burrowsclothiers.com

The Pauler Denim Chore Jacket is crafted from lightweight 100% cotton indigo denim. This classic workwear jacket features a contrasting black corduroy collar, traditional chore pockets, silver buttons and a striped inside lining.

LINEA INTIMA, OAKVILLE
lineaintima.ca

Start your mornings (and evenings) in style with this playful breakfast-themed pajama set. Designed with classic piping and a comfortable fit, this set brings a touch of whimsy to your sleepwear while keeping you cozy all night long.

ROAM, BURLINGTON
withroam.ca

This chunky knit butter-pecan and burgundy sweater has dropped shoulders and a shorter fit – pairing well with your favourite outfits. Find it at ROAM in downtown Burlington.

JUS B’ GAUZE, BURLINGTON
jusbgauze.com


This gorgeous long-sleeve bamboo top has a scoop neck and a long and flattering fit which will make you look and feel your best. This versatile top would be perfect on its own with leggings and jeans, or as a layering piece to achieve today’s popular styles.

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Thanksgiving
In Community

Why Im Grateful: Community Leaders Give Thanks

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Thanksgiving is a time to reap the bounty of food crops and savour pumpkin pie in the glow of candlelight among loved ones. It’s also a time to set aside the heavier side of life, with its socio-economic and ecological uncertainties, and the dips  In morale that often accompany summer’s en

Behind the storm clouds, there is much to be thankful for. In celebration of Thanksgiving, we at Look Local reached out to public figures and community leaders — who are some of the most committed, hardest working citizens in Halton Region — and asked them to share what they are grateful for in their professional or personal lives. We are pleased to share their uplifting words and smiling faces.

“I am deeply grateful for my good health. A few years ago, I realized that spending long hours at a desk was starting to take its toll, so I committed to incorporating physical activity into my life. What began as small steps has become part of my daily routine, leaving me feeling stronger, healthier, and truly thankful.”
France Fournier
President & CEO, Oakville Chamber of Commerce

“There is a lot I am grateful for: my family, my health, and my incredible community. I am so fortunate to have gained the trust of Burlington voters four elections in a row and to live in this beautiful city and amazing country we have the privilege to call home. Wishing you a very happy Thanksgiving!
Karina Gould
Member of Parliament, Burlington

Stephen_Crawford_MPP

“Serving Oakville is one of the greatest honours of my life. This Thanksgiving, I’m especially grateful for the strength and compassion of our community. As we gather with loved ones, I’m reminded of how fortunate we are to live where generosity, kindness, and resilience are part of our everyday lives. I’m thankful for the trust and opportunity to serve, and I wish everyone a safe and joyful Thanksgiving.”
Stephen Crawford
Member of Provincial Parliament, Oakville

“I am most grateful for the people of Burlington who make this city what it is. Our residents and business owners embody our motto “Stand By”— stepping up to donate food, give to charities, volunteer for community events, run programs, and so much more. Thank you! Our City is great because of you.
Marianne Meed Ward
Mayor of Burlington


“I am grateful for the generosity and resilience of our community. Every day I see neighbours step up to support one another with kindness and care, which reflects the true spirit of Thanksgiving.
Brad Park
President & CEO, United Way Halton & Hamilton


“In a word, community. I’m fortunate to be a part of a community of family, friends and work colleagues that nourish me personally. My work community is vast,
supportive and professionally rewarding. My home, Burlington, is built on a network of communities that delivers a high quality of life and welcomes my contributions.”
Brian Dean
Executive Director, Burlington Downtown Business Association

“I am grateful for my health, my family, to be Canadian and to live and work in Oakville. I have the privilege of leading the Oakville Community Foundation, a place where generosity and community connect. I am grateful to work with the OCF Team and the generous community members who make Oakville a better place for everyone.”
Wendy Rinella
CEO, Oakville Community Foundation

“This season, I’m especially grateful for the incredible spirit of the Bronte community. It’s a privilege to work alongside such passionate business owners, residents, and partners who are all dedicated to making our neighbourhood vibrant, welcoming, and full of heart.”
Kylie Wilson
Bronte Business Improvement Area


“As the Member of Parliament for Oakville East, I would like to express my deepest thanks to my loving family and to all the community voices who inspire me to lead with dedication and gratitude every day. Thank you for helping build the remarkable communities that shape our wonderful country – Canada, the True North
Strong and Free.
Anita Anand
Member of Parliament, Oakville East

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Falling for Downtown Burlington
In Blog

Falling For Burlington Downtown

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The businesses of the Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) are proud to present the fourth season of the free, festive fall celebration, Falling for Burlington Downtown, bringing the community together to enjoy the best of autumn in Burlington.

On October 4, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., the downtown core will transform into a hub of fall flavors, festive activities, community spirit and live music. Guests can enjoy pumpkin-inspired bites and hearty comfort dishes perfect for sweater weather, while exploring Civic Square and Brant Street for games, interactive activities, and countless photo opportunities. Village Square and the Promenade Walkway will also feature local tastes and sweet surprises from some of Burlington’s favorite businesses.

With more than 400 small businesses to shop, dine, and sip from, Burlington Downtown offers everything from cozy fall fashion and home comforts to unique finds you won’t see anywhere else.

For those seeking a quiet moment during the festivities, a sensory zone will be available, complete with gentle lighting, soothing sounds, and event staff on hand to assist.

Falling for Downtown Burlington

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Ancaster Village
In Blog

A Day In The Life In Ancaster

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Samantha gets up after sleeping in a bit. It’s Thursday, her usual day off, but this one happens to be her 29th birthday. She stretches and smiles, excited to be spending this warm autumn day right here in her home town of Ancaster.

There are errands to run, but not before breakfast. Her favourite aunt, Michelle, wants to treat her to breakfast at Caniche French Bakery. Samantha once bought a six-pack of macarons there but hasn’t spent time in their dining room.

On her way out, she spots something in her mailbox: a gift bag of peanut brittle and some chocolate covered Oreos, from Chocolate Sensations! The tag says, “B-day Sweets to our Sweetie. Love, Mom and Dad.” A wonderful treat for later!

At the bakery, Michelle is already seated by a sunny window and enjoying a cappuccino. “Happy Birthday!” she says with a smile (and a slight crema moustache).

Caniche Bakery
Chocolate Senations

It’s nice to catch up in such a homy, inviting space. Samantha lets Michelle do most of the talking and digs into a Quiche Lorraine bursting with cheddar-bacon goodness. She caps off breakfast with a decadent salted caramel latte. Before hugging her goodbye, Michelle buys her an almond croissant to go.

It’s nice to catch up in such a homy, inviting space. Samantha lets Michelle do most of the talking and digs into a Quiche Lorraine bursting with cheddar-bacon goodness. She caps off breakfast with a decadent salted caramel latte. Before hugging her goodbye, Michelle buys her an almond croissant to go.

Tim Hortons is right next door, so she stops in for a dark roast. While standing in line, she sees her neighbour, Jack. Just back from Bodywise Health & Rehab, he is gushing over how they have relieved his stiff neck.

Less than a minute up Wilson Street is the Ancaster Public Library. Once inside, she finds the Braveheart DVD she’d put on hold. First Ontario Credit Union and Rexall are just down the road, so she gets cash out at the ATM (to tip tonight’s bartender!) and then buys some shampoo and a tinted, mint-flavoured lip balm.

Back outside, the sweet-smelling autumn air reminds Samantha of one more errand. Creations Gallery Fine Art And Framing left a message two days ago, saying her picture was ready.

The man at the counter fetches her 11”x17” framed picture from a back room and calls it “a beauty.” And wow, he’s right. By sheer luck, while exploring Canterbury Hills with her beloved whippet, Stella, Samantha managed to grab her phone in time to capture a pileated woodpecker up close, on a tree trunk, almost beak-to-snout with her dog.

Dad calls to remind her about Saturday. For her 30th birthday next year, her parents are already planning on Sunday brunch at Ancaster Mill, complete with a waterfall view, but this Saturday also sounds like heaven — drinks, along with cured meats, antipasto, and decadent cheeses from The Muse Charcuterie. It will be a small, family affair at the Ancaster home where she grew up.

The Muse Charcuterie
Ancaster Mill

That evening, after chilling at home for a while, Samantha prepares for the real festivities. She brushes her long hair smooth and puts on her favourite pink dress, which goes perfectly with her burgundy nails from her recent manicure at The Spa at Ancaster.

Her designated driver, Peter, picks her up at 8. When they arrive at The Coach and Lantern, all of her work friends and school buddies wave excitedly. One friend, Sasha, has brought her ukulele and is the first person on stage for the 8:30 Open Mic. She surprises Samantha with a sweet rendition of Justin Bieber’s “Baby,” a song from their high school days.

Feeling at home in their cozy 200-year-old neighbourhood pub, Samantha and her friends feast on Irish nachos, popcorn shrimp and bruschetta while toasting the occasion with cocktails, mocktails, and ale. After the Open Mic, their server delivers sticky toffee pudding with a lit candle in it. After she blows it out, her friends surprise her with a mini orchid garden in a pretty white pot from Blooms Fresh Floral & Garden Centre.

Late that night, before drifting off to sleep, Samantha feels grateful for her friends and hometown. If this is 29, she thinks, 30 will really be awesome.

Birthday In My Home Town
SAMANTHA’ S TO -DO LIST

  • Meet Aunt Michelle at Caniche French Bakery for breakfast.
  • Thank Mom & Dad for the treats from Chocolate Sensations.
  • Pick up skirt from Pioneer Cleaners.
  • Pick up laptop from Ancaster Computer Products.
  • Get DVD from Ancaster Public Library.
  • Go to ATM at First Ontario Credit Union.
  • Stop in to Rexall (need shampoo).
  • Creations Gallery Fine Art And Framing says my woodpecker photo is ready!
  • Go home, feed pets, walk Stella, have lunch, nap.
  • Birthday dinner at The Coach and Lantern!

FOLLOW- UP NOTES FOR MY JOURNAL…

Great birthday, and so many great places close to home! Other important mentions:

While grabbing a dark roast at Tim Hortons I chatted with my neighbour, Jack. He looked great after his treatment at Bodywise Health & Rehab.

Dad called to confirm Saturday’s lunch from The Muse Charcuterie and is already looking forward to celebrating my 30th next year at Ancaster Mill. The Spa at Ancaster did a fab job on my nails.

I just love the mini orchid garden my friends got me from Blooms Fresh Floral & Garden Centre.

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Mocktails
In Food & Drink

No Buzz, No Problem: Canadian Innovators Make Big Advances in Zero-Alcohol Drinks

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The alcohol-free trend is no longer a niche movement but is quickly becoming a mainstream shift in drinking culture. Craft breweries are debuting complex, full- bodied non-alcoholic beers, while major wine and spirits producers are developing remarkably similar renditions of traditional favourites, minus the buzz.

The Sobr Market, alcoholic bottle shop, a non-tastingroom and online marketplace, has witnessed the growing demand for alcohol-free beverages since it opened in 2022. “Being sober is an overall lifestyle movement,” says co-founder Jessie Haliburton. “There are far more people now being cognizant of their health — mentally, physically, and, even spiritually.”

Jessie and her husband Shane launched The Sobr Market in Winnipeg, after Shane decided alcohol was no longer serving him. Jessie soon followed suit, and the couple went all in on their mission to bring Canadians high-quality, tasty alcohol-free drinks.

Sobr Market

Want to mimic that signature burn of alcohol in a mocktail? Try adding a little ginger, chili, black pepper or even a splash of vinegar. These ingredients add warmth and complexity, adding boldness to your booze-free drink.

“Because of the social stigma of not having a drink in hand and people asking, ‘What’s wrong with you?’ Shane found a lot of support in having something that looked and tasted the part,” says Jessie. “We started importing personally until we realized there was a greater need.

The Sobr Market has since expanded to Toronto and, more recently, Burlington. Each location encourages visitors to sample products to find what suits their palette best. “The biggest thing we like to do is educate. We love to talk to people about the non- alc industry and what options there are, since everyone is always curious,” adds Jessie.

Innovation is happening across the country, including at Benjamin Bridge winery in Nova Scotia’s Gaspereau Valley. According to head winemaker Jean-Benoit Deslauriers, Benjamin Bridge has been keeping an eye on long-term trends, such as the alcohol-free movement, for quite some time. The company launched Nova Zero in 2021 — the zero-proof counterpart of their best-selling sparkling Nova 7 wine.

“We’ve been applying our creativity to create an extraordinarynon-alc experience that relies on our traditions as a sparkling wine house,” Deslauriers says.

He explains that wine is much harder to de-alcoholize than beer, for example, since the percentage is typically so much higher. Technologies available today, such as reverse osmosis or spinning cones, are impressively effective at maintaining the original flavour when the input has a lower amount of alcohol.

Put simply, the more alcohol a liquid has, the more passes the beverage has to take through these systems and the greater the flavour gap between the non-alc and the original.

Spirits For Non-Drinkers

Fans of the St Jacobs Farmers’ Market in Waterloo should check out Neoni. Along with zero-proof beers and wines, the store carries a huge selection of zero-proof whiskey, bourbon, rum, gin, amaretto, tequila, prosecco, and other flavourful and lively alcohol-free offerings.

Despite this reality, Benjamin Bridge is working to expand its alcohol-free portfolio, with research at advanced Deslauriers says projects stages. that
Canadians can expect a natural, artisanal, low- intervention non-alcoholic wine from the brand within the next five years. “We are participating in the ‘planetary race’ towards a game-changing alcohol-free wine,” he says.

It’s places like Sobr Market where incredible zero-proof drinks can be enjoyed, without judgement. Shane have Jessie and created an environment where community members can gather, try something new and share their story.

“Everyone has a story in the non-alc industry, whether it’s a connection to someone that needs these options, or for themselves, and that’s why we do what we do,” says Jessie.

We are participating in the ‘planetary race’ towards a game- changing alcohol-free wine. Jean-Benoit Deslauriers HEAD WINEMAKER, BENJAMIN BRIDGE.

It has been an amazing year for Canadian brands crafting alcohol- free wine, beer and spirits. When you can, choose to support local and enjoy the growing range of options now available. This is a trend that’s here to stay!

LOCAL LINKS:

Nickel Brook Brewing Co.
3426 Mainway, Burlington
nickelbrook.com

Sobr Market
396 Martha Street, Burlington
thesobrmarket.com

Neoni
878 Weber Street North, Waterloo (St Jacobs)
neoni.ca

BY LAUREN MEDEIROS

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