Help for the Holidays

This time of year help comes in many forms.

In comes in the dozens of gift bags we’ve hoarded all year, the easy-to-find holiday decorations we (thankfully) stored properly last season, and the happy realization that it’s someone else’s turn to host the family dinner. 

Here at Savvy HQ, we’ve got more help for you, because we know you can use it. Our local list of holiday helpers includes goods, services, and places in the city that can assist in keeping you sane—even serene—until the holidays wrap up.

Debating over the role of designated driver can definitely dampen the fun. Celebrate the season with a glass half-empty, and hitch a ride home with Smartride.ca. Not to be confused with a taxi or car service, Smartride.ca will come to your location and drive you, and your car, home from anywhere around the GTA (and beyond). The cost is based roughly on a ‘cab fare and a half’, and you can either pre-book or call that night if you find you’ve decided to indulge. It’s great for events around town, but even better for ones when you have to drive outside your usual four-mile quadrant. We love that your car is in the driveway the next morning.

Speaking of indulging, if you rarely dress up, it’s easy to make a statement this season. Toronto has a slew of great consignment and vintage shops carrying designer and not-so-designer fare, to help you stand out for any holiday soiree. Stores like Haute Classics are stocked with items that will make you look and feel original, even if the clothes are not.

Once you’ve found that one-of-a-kind outfit, but you can’t find time to do your nails, makeup or a quick brow shaping, stay in and let The At Your Service Mobile Spa come to you. Owner Danielle Mantiega’s at-home services include manicures, pedicures, waxing, and even relaxation massages in the comfort of your own home. It’s a great, pre-party prep for any event or a great break for new moms who don’t get the chance to leave the house a lot.

Your cake might be allergy-safe, but allergy-free advent calendars are often near impossible to find. Guardian Angel Foods’ nut, egg and dairy-free holiday version is perfect for kids who want the excitement, and the edible treat that comes with the Christmas countdown. Order online, or find at many Metro stores across the city.

We’ll wrap it up with this: our favourite go-to place for making all kinds of gifts, bright and beautiful is Creative Bag. Go online to this great gift-bag store to dress up any thoughtful gift with ribbons, wrappings, tags, tinsel, trimmings and more (with apologies to Dr. Seuss).

This year, take all the help you can get over the holidays. The objective is to enjoy. Tested by Alison R., Toronto