Moving Tip #1 is to COLOUR CODE YOUR BOXES BY ROOM! We know your boxes will be labelled already but when you’re in the process of moving, it is so much more helpful and faster to  be organized when you know that boxes of stuff packed for the kitchen are marked in red and the ones for your bedroom are in blue.

Moving Tip #2 is make sure you TAKE PICTURES of furniture parts and electronics if you need to dissamemble something and put it back together. In the mess of packing and unpacking, it’s so easy to misplace that one essential screw or part to make sure your coffee machine works – and trust me, the morning you spend unpacking, you do NOT want to be without coffee!

Moving Tip #3 is one that will make you feel good from the inside out, and help you save space! Moving is an opportunity for us to declutter and bring with us the absolute essentials that we need in our new space. When in doubt, donate! There are lots of community initiatives and places where you can donate clothes, furniture and electronics. A little goes a long way.

Now, if you’re furnishing your new home for the first time or simply want to upgrade some your things, here is our Stokes guide to some of our moving must-haves!

#1: A Cookware Set

A good cookware set will be conducive to how much more inclined you will be when you’re deciding to eat in or out. Knowing you have the a good, durable set of cookware, just makes you that much more excited to cook and experiment in the kitchen with new recipes. We recommend the Remy Olivier Bremen 12-piece Cookware Set – our tried and tested set!

#2: Coffee & Tea Essentials

We weren’t joking earlier when we said that you don’t want to find out last minute that you don’t have what you need to get your cup of coffee the morning you move in. Whether you prefer coffee or tea, however you take your caffeine (or decaf!), Stokes all of the essentials you could need. From coffee machines, tea and coffee mugs, kettles, and milk frothers, there are definitely tons to choose from! Our go-to milk frother is the  thinkkitchen Café Cito II Automatic Milk Frother – guaranteed to give you the perfect amount of froth for the best lattes and cappucinos.

#3: A Stand Mixer

How many times have you looked up a recipe for some amazing dessert, but then saw that it called for a stand mixer and gave up immediately. Moving to a new apartment is the perfect excuse to finally treat yourself to one! Our thinkkitchen Promix Plus Stand Mixer comes in a bunch of different colours, to suit every style and will definitely ignite a passion for mixing and baking. Once you’re comfortable baking all sorts of things, we recommend checking our Bakeware section for moulds, baking trays and more!

#4: Dinnerware & Drinkware

We’re combining these sections because they often go hand-in-hand. Similar to the feeling of being more excited to cook when you have a good cookware set, the same goes for when you have dinnerware pieces that you actually love, it becomes so much more enjoyable to dine at home and even to host. Hosting in a new place becomes especially more fun when you have the right drinkware – whether there is wine flowing, or it’s a cocktail and beer kind of evening, having the right glasses and accessories truly make a difference.

#5: An Air-fryer

The newest kitchen gadget that has taken the world by storm, the Air-fryer has become an incredibly popular kitchen must-have. From viral tik-tok recipes, to just making cooking much more easier, faster and healthier, it has made cooking so much more interactive and convenient. We would recommend the thinkkitchen Digital Convection Toaster Oven & Air Fryer because you get a 2-in-1, an air-fryer and a toaster oven at the same time – perfect for conserving space and getting the most power out of a kitchen tool like this.

To everyone moving to a new home, we wish you all the best and can’t wait to see some of the amazing recipes you’ll make in your new kitchen!

Enjoy

#1: Committing to the Environment

Climate change has never been more of a pressing matter than in recent news and there has been a surge in everyday people trying to adopt more environmentally conscious behaviour in their day to day life. You don’t have to start with drastic changes overnight, one of the easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to commit to using less plastic in your homes. The first step can be as easy as switching out plastic bags to bring your groceries home using reusable produce bags. Once you have those groceries and fresh produce inside your home, rather than using saran plastic wrap to wrap the rest of your cut fruit, veggies, marinades, etc, next time reach for stretch Silicone lids to cover up your containers – these reusable lids make all the difference. These are long lasting and great for the environment and a great first step into doing your part to be more eco-friendly, right from home!

#2: Take-Home Meal Kits

As dining out took a major hit in 2020, restaurants are finding ways to get creative! Similar to a meal prep delivery service, it will be more common to see your favourite restaurants offering not just your standard takeout or delivery, but kits to prep their most popular dishes from the comfort of your very own home! This doesn’t only apply to food, restaurants and local bars are also starting to create cocktail kits so you can recreate your favourite happy-hour drinks in your living room. This is a great way to continue supporting your local restaurants and bars and still having fun with it!

#3: The Air Fryer will be 2021’s Kitchen Darling

Remember all of the frenzy surrounding the Quick Pot when it first came out? There was a race to share as many amazing, time-saving recipes as possible. While we ourselves cannot deny the impressive power and capabilities of a quick pot and its impact in our own kitchens, we feel that 2021’s new favourite pièce de résistance alongside the Quick Pot will be the air-fryer. Not only is 2021 committing to becoming more environmentally conscious as mentioned in point #1, but we believe in moving towards becoming much more mindful of our health this year as well. Among millenials, owning an air-fryer has pretty much become the coolest thing you could do – but this is perfect for all ages to use and enjoy. Go into 2021 without feeling guilty about that second helping of sweet potato fries!

#4: “Eat-ertainment”

These are serious times and with some areas still experiencing closures in theatres, stadiums, concert halls, and other entertainment venues, we are looking to have fun at home. We will see consumers looking to brighten and enliven the monotony of preparing so many meals in a row. Reimagining traditional recipes and products will keep consumers from becoming bored with their meals and snacks in the coming year.

#5: Plant-based options (over ketogenic & Mediterranean diets)

Choosing proportionately more of your foods from fruits, vegetables, beans and lentils, soy, whole grains and nuts and seeds; it doesn’t have to mean never eating meat or dairy. Expect to see more foods and beverages with functional ingredients that support the immune system, soothe stress and calm the mind.

These are only some of many trends that we predict will be on the rise in 2021. What are your food predictions for the new year? Let us know!

‘Tis the season of giving! There’s nothing better than seeing a happy look of surprise when that special someone opens their gift. While we all want to do our best to make sure the gifts our loved ones unwrap will have them singing our praises (falalala!), it’s not always so easy! We’re mere weeks away from the most active gift-giving time of the year and the end of November marks the point where shopping lists go from a whimsical sketch in your mind’s eye to a full-blown military-style plan of action. Each person on your list deserves a gift that has been given unique thought because giving a gift that’s just right is one of the best feelings in the world!

Even though our best intentions are to think of a unique gift for each and every person on our list, it’s tough to do it alone! Ideas don’t always flow, plus it’s not like your daily responsibilities slow down just to give you extra time for your holiday shopping! So, we’ve got your back! Not only do we have a list of gift ideas for everyone on your list, but you’re just in time to find out about our great Black Friday deals! From the foodie, to the cocktail hour connoisseur and health enthusiast, there’s a gift on this list that will suit just about anyone!

Keep reading to get some fool-proof gifting ideas and a sneak peek into our best Black Friday deals! On your marks, get set, shop!

thinkkitchen Promix Stand Mixer

The thinkkitchen 6-speed electric stand mixer: the must-have kitchen accessory for any baking aficionado–from beginner to pro. Not only does it make for a stylishly classic ruby red accent piece for their counter top, but it’ll have them baking more efficiently–which is good news for everyone! Can’t wait for them to knead, stir or whip something delicious up with their new gadget? It’s never too late for a little extra holiday baking! Why not suggest they try this delicious Butternut Squash Pie recipe?

Monsieur Bar MiniBar Drink Dispenser

Did someone say cocktail hour? Every good host knows their guests shouldn’t be without a drink in hand and this show-stopping entertaining piece is perfect for the one on your list who loves to make sure everyone has been well taken care of in terms of beverages. With the ability to dispense three different liquors at once in perfect 1 oz shots each time, the party is sure to be a success. Your loved one can try out our top 6 holiday cocktail recipes with their new Bar Butler for New Years! Cheers!

thinkkitchen Theatre Popcorn Maker

Your movie lover can get Oscar Party ready or cozy during their staycation while enjoying authentically delicious movie theatre-like popcorn at home! The thinkkitchen Theatre Popcorn Maker can pop up to 10 cups of fresh hot popcorn in three minutes, so there’s no limit to how many friends they can invite to movie night. What’s more, it makes for a snack that has a satisfying crunch and that’s healthier than the microwave version because you choose the toppings (and the measurements) yourself. So get popping and pick up this great gift for the person on your list who loves the theatre or who simply loves a good snack!

thinkkitchen Tri-Blade Spiral Vegetable Slicer

Know someone who is obsessed with healthy cooking? For anyone who loves to load their recipes with vegetables, a handy spiralizer is a must have item and would make a great gift! Our tri-blade spiralizer has (you guessed it!) 3 different blades for 3 different spiralizing options: small string, medium string, and ribbon. Storage is no issue with this great cooking gadget; it folds down so it can be easily tucked away in a cupboard. What’s even better for you (besides the healthy recipes you’re bound to benefit from)? This healthy gifting item is a whopping 63% off!

Cottage Drink Dispenser

Have a friend who can’t stop browsing cute party inspiration on Pinterest? Whether it’s an indoor party or outdoor cookout, for a sweet iced tea or something with a bit more kick, the Cottage Drink Dispenser is the perfect party accessory! It can carry up to 2 gallons of delicious drink and comes with a stand for easy dispensing. Looking for some recipes to pair with this fun-loving gift idea? Try our delicious Yuletide White Sangria recipe or Pear-Ginger Punch!

Remy Olivier Pasta Machine

Delizioso! That’s what you’ll be saying once you get to munch on homemade pasta that’s so good it reminds you of nonna’s! If there’s someone on your list who likes to try new things or test out a new device, a pasta machine would make a delectable gift! With a pasta bike to slice the pasta dough to the shape of their liking, the Remy Olivier Pasta Machine is not only perfect for Italian-inspired cuisine but also some Asian-Fusion inspired dishes. Send that special someone our Golden Coconut Curry Noodle Soup with Sautéed Shrimp recipe along with this amazing gift for a lovely culinary experience!

Happy Black Friday shopping to all!

Hygge. The puzzling 5-letter word you’ve probably heard mentioned before, seen on Pinterest, or noticed on bookshelves. The term, originating from Denmark, has been trending so much that the word alone has made its mark by landing a permanent spot in English dictionaries. It’s a concept that is impossible to translate without losing basic elements of what it means. Hygge has huge cultural implications for the Danes, so much more than one word can infer.

To start things off, Hygge is something you feel. Most of us have probably already experienced or practiced it, but we just didn’t know it: A walk in the park to see the leaves change colour, taking a bath after a stressful day, inviting a friend over for a coffee and a chat. The word expresses a feeling in a moment that is charming, special, cozy, simple, and extraordinary. Culturally, Danes make it a priority to create and recreate these moments on a daily basis (or as frequently as possible).

The ways to pronounce Hygge in English vary from “hoo-gah” to“heu-guh,” and it can be used as a noun, verb and adjective, depending on the sentence. In Danish, they also blend Hygge with other words to describe things that have similar attributes. There’s a word for comfy sweatpants: Hyggebukser (Hygge-pants) and even one for the place in your home you devote to Hygge: hyggekrog (Hygge-corner) (Country Living).

If you are familiar with lifestyle-yoga (not the kind that’s just about wearing tight workout gear), this is a similar concept in that it is a mindset and a way of being. It urges you to consciously break out of your daily grind, take a moment to nurture yourself in a relaxing way and care for your state of mind. It elevates domestic and personal life to an art form. Hygge can simply be about disconnecting; putting pause on political issues, work, and stress to escape to the fictional world of your favourite book.

In Canada, it is easy to practice Hygge as the Danes do. They use it to help them weather through the cold winter months and stay positive on snowy days. When there is a blizzard, they choose that day to stay in and keep cozy, and do not force themselves to leave the house, battle the cold and attend to unfitting tasks. It is a relaxed approach to living and a way of looking at things. Hygge is an effective way of taking care of and cultivating your spirit during the cold, dark and sometimes isolating winter months.

Readers be wary: Hygge is not something to be made into another strict regime! It should be a natural extension of your regular life—positive habits, not something forced or stressed. There is a beauty in simple rituals and Hygge puts emphasis on that. It is something you are doing for you, for your well-being and the goodness of your soul.

Now it’s time to put aside your North American busy-bee attitude and get Hygge with it!

Create Hygge in your life:  

Many activities, simple or more involved, can be hyggelig. Hyggelig is the adjective to describe something that is Hygge!

Mood Lighting

One of the easiest ways to turn a room into a warm Hygge paradise is to lower the lights! This can be done in more ways than one. Firstly, overhead lights, like those hydrogen recessed lights most houses have, can be overwhelming and far too bright! Turn them off and use strategically placed lamps in the corners of the room to create a soft glow. What’s even better than that? Natural light. If you can sit by a window and read, make a fire or light some candles, these are great ways to recreate the ambiance of the “golden hour” (the first hour before sunrise and last hour before sunset) and make for an extremely hyggelig space.

Comfortable Corner

Danes will frequently have a corner of their homes (or an entire room!) devoted to Hygge. This is known as a hyggekrog. In it, they might have books, mood lighting and relaxing music, but most importantly, it has to be comfortable! Knit pillows and blankets are vital for creating the correct ambiance for this corner of contentment. You could even diffuse some essential oils and add some aroma-therapy into the mix. Perfect for enjoying a cup of tea or coffee as you read the morning newspaper or to wind down with a good book before turning in, taking a few moments in a nice nook of your home is adding Hygge to your day.

Content In Togetherness

Taking time to enjoy one another, and allowing your combined energy to uplift your mood, is another way to create a Hygge moment. Set the table for as many as you can and let the guests roll in. Invite friends over on a cold, dark evening for charades or other group games. Keep in mind that there is no need for extravagance: Hygge is about simple pleasures. Worrying about impressing guests and creating stressful work for yourself should be avoided. Hosting a potluck and sharing food is VERY Hygge! Gatherings shouldn’t be rushed and guests should be encouraged to linger. Hugs, cuddling, spending time with pets, and human contact are great ways to nourish your well-being and are super Hygge!

A Cup Of Cozy

Whether it be tea or coffee, sipping on a warm, soothing drink is hyggelig. It is known in Danish culture that you can cure the common cold with tea and Hygge! Need another way to make an everyday habit more hyggelig? Why not have your morning coffee in a special ceramic mug rather than a Styrofoam cup from work? If you’re the type of person who likes something a little stronger, a scotch or glass of wine, quietly enjoyed by the fire at the end of the day with a loved one is also a way to practice Hygge in your life.

Feed Your Soul

Hygge can be as simple as cooking or baking. Preparing delicious, savoury, filling meals can create a Hygge afternoon, or a Hygge meal. Cooking warms the home, can be relaxing and even therapeutic. Comfort food creates an ambiance of familiarity, nostalgia, and welcome. It can be a new favourite recipe or the oldest family recipe in your cookbook. Indulging in sweets is also Hygge–don’t deny yourself that extra slice of cake!

Homey Interior

Hygge is also an ambiance and an atmosphere. Your home can be decorated in a way that is favorable to that Scandi lifestyle. It’s not about the décor itself, but the environment you are creating. Taking time to work on making your home décor more calming and energizing is very Hygge. Bringing the outside in, or using natural materials like wood, is another way of creating a calm, relaxing, cozy home. No time to redecorate? Just put away clutter! Remove over-the-top embellishments or loud coloured décor. Subtlety and clean lines create calmness and quietness, and establishes the ultimate Hygge atmosphere.

Hoping you take pleasure and find happiness in your everyday,

Wedding season is fast approaching, and we all know that they are joyous, enjoyable, and exciting occasions, but they can also be packed with traditions that are hard to keep track of. Knowing what to do, and when to do it, is very important!

Whether you are the bride or groom, part of the wedding party, or simply a wedding guest, gifts are a fundamental aspect of this significant milestone. This is the beginning of an incredible journey; the soon-to-be newlyweds are preparing to build a lifetime of love together, create their home, and perhaps raise a family, not to mention whatever other ambitions, hobbies, or adventures that might make up their dreams!

For both the gift-givers and gift-receivers, the goal is the same: Get the gifts that are just right! Though the purpose is the same, how do you make sure you ask for the right things or you purchase the gifts that the couple will love most?

Luckily, Stokes is here to help! Looking for a great gift when there’s no registry? Trying to figure out how much to spend or what type of gift to purchase depending on your relationship to the couple? We have plenty of options for you. Or, if you’re looking to get inspired about what to ask for or what to purchase for yourselves for your new home, we have some great suggestions for couples who are looking to cover all the bases!  So, take a look at our top wedding shop items and you’ll see that whether you are buying more or giving more, you’ll save more on wedding gifts at Stokes!

Ideas For The Nesting Newlyweds-To-Be

If you’re looking to make cooking fun

Our Swissmar Eiger Cast Aluminum Raclette Grill is a great entertaining tool. Perfect for just two, double dates, or a get-together with friends, making food together will be exciting and a great bonding experience.

If you want your home to have a modern and minimalist décor

The Sphere Light provides a contemporary decorative touch and will brighten any corner of your home. Its geometric shape will give any room an atmosphere just as unique and edgy as you are.

Don’t forget items you can use together

Keep the fire alive with a fun fondue date night or finish off a day on the slopes with a delicious après-ski. Our Swissmar Zurich 3-in-1 Electrical Fondue Set makes meals fun, easy and safe thanks to its electric heat source.

If you’re looking for items with everyday use

A premium quality kettle is a good way to elevate some of your everyday routines. On top of boiling water quicker than a microwave or stovetop, the Monarch Electric Kettle has a rotating base, LED light indicator and auto shut-off function. This appliance is designed with your convenience in mind.

If you’re looking for an item that will stand the test of time

For every new homeowner, a white set of dishes is an essential. Made of durable porcelain with features like classic-lines and an enduring design, the Viva White Dinnerware Set is great for everyday use and for special occasions.

If you’re looking to up your entertaining game

Good stemware is indispensable to a couple who likes to entertain. Made in Germany, the Riedel Collection’s sparkling crystal craftsmanship ensures a superior drinking experience and lasting durability. Find the complete Riedel collection here.

Ideas for The Gifting Guests

For the couple that has everything

The Monsieur Bar Drink Dispenser holds 3 bottles, each slotting neatly into its own place, which automatically dispenses exactly 1 oz shots of your favourite booze. This unique electric item will bring a fun flare to the newlywed’s home and what’s more? You can be pretty confident they won’t already have it!

For a colleague

Gifting to a colleague has to be a balance between a thoughtful gift and not over-stepping any boundaries. A flatware set like our Lancaster II 84 piece set is a gift that is useful and will be used on a regular basis because of its elegant design sure to complement any dinnerware set!

If you’re in the wedding party and you’ve busted your budget

Being a bridesmaid or a groomsman can definitely push the limits of any good budget. An elegantly designed piece of serveware, like our set of 3 Leaf Plates, is a practical item that many people won’t purchase for themselves.

If you’re a close family member or friend and want to help them nest

A home is more than just 4 walls and the bare-necessities! Make sure their house is a home by gifting them lovely Picture Frames, so that the newlyweds can display cherished memories on any mantle, desk or table in their home! Extra points for including pictures!

If you’re going to pitch-in with a group of friends

Collaborating for a wedding gift is a good way to make your choice of gift simpler and you can buy something that is more significant! Our Remy Olivier Bremen 12 piece Cookware Set is a professional quality set that will make dinner time a breeze.

If you’re gifting to a couple that likes to try something new

If these newlyweds like to be adventurous in the kitchen then the thinkkitchen Gelato Electric Ice Cream Maker is an excellent choice of gift. Couples can create rich and creamy ice cream in less than 30 minutes!

Helping you navigate wedding season like it’s a breeze!