3 simple, festive touches for your next holiday gathering

Christmas is just three weeks away and this year, the first night of Hanukkah falls on December 14th. It’s safe to say the holiday season is in full swing: dinner parties, drop-in gatherings, potlucks, extended family celebrations and more. If you’re hosting one (or a few) of these festive gatherings, take a moment to review these easy, effective hosting tips from Olliffe.

A quick reminder before we get started: our holiday collection is available online now. We’re taking your orders for fresh local turkey, holiday hams, tender Ontario beef and pork roasts, delectable lamb, gourmet prepared dishes and more. If you have any questions or would like assistance placing your order, please contact us. We’d be glad to help!

Now, back to creating that holiday magic…

Start with charcuterie

Every holiday gathering should begin with a great charcuterie board—there’s no better way to welcome your guests and set the tone for the meal ahead. Whether you use a large wooden serving board, a marble slab or make a Christmas tree, your guests will enjoy every delicious bite. We’ve got plenty of delicious charcuterie options online plus even more high quality products in store. Visit our Yonge Street butcher shop to see a full selection including local jams and preserves, candied nuts, olives, artisanal crackers and more.

Create ambiance

Holiday music and soft lighting will add magic to any festive gathering. Consider playing some classic Christmas songs and using Country Girls candles throughout your home: in the front hall, in the living room or other gathering areas, and even on the counter in your powder room. The Pine-Cedarwood-Mint and Sweet Orange Clove scents are particularly festive! These high quality, all-natural products are made by hand in Haldimand County and make a fantastic hostess gift. Shop online or visit us in store to check out a full selection of scents as well as handmade soaps and skincare products.

Know your wines

Opening a bottle of red, white or rosé to sip on with that delicious holiday dinner? Olliffe is pleased to offer a list of recommended wine pairings in our annual Holiday Entertaining Guide. We also offer high quality sparkling cider and other non-alcoholic beverage options in store (County Bounty artisanal sodas, City Seltzer and more). Get your best glassware ready, chill a few bottles before your guests arrive, and enjoy—cheers!

Thanks for shopping local

This festive season and always, we appreciate your support of our proudly independent, Canadian business. Please contact us for personalized product recommendations—we’d be glad to help! Thanks again for shopping local and have a wonderful holiday season.