Cut a few corners when the heat of the party season is on
Photography by Carlo Mendoza
First published in Wish Winter 2008
No-Fuss Fondue
These little crocks of chocolate fondue melt in the microwave. Instead of typical fruit slices, surprise your guests and go savoury: pretzels, bread sticks, cheese and even olives!
Aux Anysetiers du Roy fondue crock, $15, Chapters & Indigo stores, indigo.ca.
Dress Up Dessert
No time to bake? Pick up your favourite two-bite desserts and decorate them yourself. Your guests won't even notice the treats are store-bought!
Snowflakes cupcake wrapper, about $12 for 12, Paper Orchid, paperorchidstationary.com.
Wreath Magic
Use this stylist trick to save your walls and door. These suction-cup hooks will adhere to pretty much any flat surface, so you can hang wreaths or stockings anywhere (we use them to hang art on photo shoots!).
Cling hook, $5, Umbra, umbra.com.
Never Run Out of Mix
Buy one type of mix that will work with a variety of spirits. Q Tonic is mildly sweet and bubbly, and works well with gin, campari or vodka. Satisfy the designated drivers by mixing it with puréed fruit.
Q Tonic, $8 (pack of 4), qtonic.com.
Eliminate Hangover Hell
Party-pooped? EBoost is a natural dietary supplement that clears the fog fast and re-energizes. Add to water, gulp and you're good to go. It also fights colds.
EBoost, from $15, eboostcanada.ca.