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Kat Florence Hotel Unveils Daily La Mer Massages Included, Michelin-Origin ‘Infinity Pâtisserie,’ and a Nordic Winter Spa
The world-renowned luxury jeweller brings her signature precision and taste to a new era of bespoke “all-inclusive” where ultra-luxury amenities are included essentials in every stay
ELORA, ON, Jan. 13, 2026 /CNW/ – The Kat Florence Hotel, restored and designed by seven-time world record–breaking rare gem jeweller Kat Florence, announces an expanded collection of ultra luxury, inclusive experience layers arriving this month.
Kat Florence, who grew up in Canada’s famously beautiful village of Elora where her retreat resides, invested millions to personally restore the historic 1848 limestone building to its immaculate, present-day aura. “I approach a space the same way I approach a rare gemstone,” says Florence. “Its history and composition tell you what it wants to become. My role is to honour that story and elevate it. Our elaborate guest gifts and amenities also directly reflect the space, as well as our ethos of being a true home away from home. We’re thrilled to launch the next chapter of the hotel with even more signature, always included layers of wellness, nature, Michelin-level nourishment, and the most luxurious self-care elixir on earth (La Mer).”
Officially launching this month, the hotel debuts its private, guest-only Nordic Wellness Spa, a secluded plein air sanctuary within its hidden outdoor space. Steps from each suite, this intimate wellness garden features a hand-crafted cedar sauna, open-air hot pool, a restorative cold-plunge circuit for contrast therapy and a firepit lounge area; all supported by discreet, on-demand drink and snack service. Elemental, calming, and meticulously scaled, the spa is a sensorial extension of Florence’s design philosophy: purity, balance, and craftsmanship at every turn.
To further complement their already much loved, daily 60 minute full-body massages for all staying guests, delivered in the privacy of their suite by expert in-house RMTs, Kat’s daily ritual will soon be incorporating her personal favourite self-care product. From January, massages will be enhanced with a La Mer the renewal oil–infused face, neck, and décolleté finishing ritual (the La Mer elixir which famously retails for $395 per mini 30ml ounce bottle). The treatment also incorporates sound bath therapy and the Nordic practice of steam and ice, alternating warm and cool towel compresses to awaken the senses and create a harmony of temperature, grounding guests in the moment.
Adding to the hotel’s sensory and wellness offerings, December 18 also marks the debut of the Kat Florence Hotel’s new infinity-style Patisserie, a private, guest-only experience of daily edible art creations led by Chef Marc Collyer. The bakes and bonbons collection will be crafted using the most expensive ingredients on earth. While the collection will change every day, guests can expect delights like ‘mille feuille of housemade caramelized puff pastry, green apple caviar and hazelnut creme,’ ‘Caramelized white chocolate eclair with Amarena cherry mousse and burnt orange & Champagne powder,’ and signature house croissants Chef ferments for 3 full days prior to baking resulting in magnificently deepened flavours. Prior to collaborating with Kat, Marc spent 14 years honing his culinary distinction and imaginative flair at twice Michelin-starred Manor House in the British Cotswolds. Now innovating fine dolce delights at the Elora retreat, his guests are encouraged to visit in limitless tasting fashion throughout their stays (all at no charge; Chef’s high design cakes, chocolates and pastries are included for guests). In addition, each morning Chef Marc hand-churns his own butter and fresh bakes pastries, breads and more, sending energizing creations to be personal concierge-delivered to each suite as part of the hotel’s bespoke breakfast service. His patisserie program now forms an essential pillar of the property’s culinary identity, blending technique, artistry, and an intimate, at-your-leisure approach to Michelin heights indulgence.
Reflecting Florence’s celebrated eye for rarity and refinement, the hotel remains intentionally exclusive, welcoming a maximum of only 14 guests at any time and offering an unprecedented 2:1 staff-to-guest ratio; one of the highest in North America versus a luxury hotel average of 10:1. The result is a sanctuary of calm and privacy, with made-to-measure service for every stay.
Every booking at the Kat Florence Hotel includes her famous roster of signature high end gifts, services and experiences, all crafted to feel effortless and personal:
- Daily, 60-minute full body massages in-suite including La Mer the renewal oil infused face, neck and decolletage ritual (Kat’s personal favourite self-care ritual)
- A multi-course Chef’s Tasting Dinner on guests’ arrival night, prepared and hosted by renowned Chef Anthony Bish in his Anthony’s Private Restaurant reserved exclusively for hotel guests.
- Suite-delivered Breakfast Baskets every morning with daily rotating pastries, breads, hand-churned butter and more presented by Chef Marc Collyer (formerly of twice Michelin-starred Manor House in the British Cotswolds)
- A full bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne awaiting each guest upon arrival
- Rolls Royce & Bentley chauffeur service around town as well as complimentary valet
- Dedicated, personal concierge throughout your stay available for any request — from unpacking to private shopping to meal delivery to laundry service
- Enjoyment of the new ultra-private outdoor Nordic Spa just steps from the suites in the garden including hand-crafted cedar sauna, hot-pool therapy, cold-pool circuit and on-demand drink service
- Infinity visits to Kat Florence Hotel’s private, guest-only Patisserie day to night to experience Chef Marc’s daily edible art creations in unlimited fashion (at no cost)
The brand philosophy is one of complete ease with every detail anticipated, every moment curated.
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Why I’m Loving Caliwater’s Prickly Pear Cactus Water Kids Pouches
If you’re a parent, you know the constant battle between wanting your kids to stay hydrated and trying to avoid giving them sugary juice boxes. It’s that fine line between keeping them happy and keeping them healthy. Recently, I discovered something that makes both sides of that battle win — Caliwater Prickly Pear Cactus Water Kids Pouches — and I have to say, I’m officially obsessed.
Caliwater is one of those brands that surprises you — in the best way. It’s plant-based hydration made from real prickly pear cactus fruit, and somehow, it’s fruity, fun, and refreshing without being full of sugar or weird additives. Each pouch has just 3 grams of sugar, which is almost nothing compared to the usual juice boxes we grew up with.
What makes it special is the cactus itself. Prickly pear cactus water is naturally packed with electrolytes, antioxidants, and vitamins, helping kids stay sharp, focused, and hydrated throughout their busy little days. It’s basically nature’s version of a hydration drink — only prettier and cleaner.
And as a mom, I love knowing it’s not just tasty but genuinely good for them. Cactus water is rich in vitamin C and anti-inflammatory nutrients, which support their immune systems and even promote healthy skin (because who doesn’t love that fresh, baby glow?). Plus, the fruit is grown sustainably in Mexico — it uses about 80% less water than most crops, which feels like a small but powerful way to support our planet too.
I also love the brand’s personality — confident, playful, and just a little cheeky with their slogan: “Why coconut when you can cactus?” And honestly… they’re right. It’s lighter, smoother, and less sweet than coconut water — something kids actually want to drink.
So now, instead of the usual juice boxes in our fridge, we’ve switched to Caliwater Kids Pouches. They’re colorful, hydrating, and surprisingly cool (in that way kids immediately approve).
💧 Why I recommend Caliwater Prickly Pear Kids Pouches:
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Naturally hydrating with 5 electrolytes for energy and focus
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Only 3g sugar per pouch — no artificial ingredients
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Antioxidant-rich for immune support and wellness
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Sustainably sourced cactus — good for your kids and the planet
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Delicious fruity flavor that’s “kid-tested, parent-approved”
If you’re looking for a healthy, smart swap for juice boxes — something that keeps your kids happy, hydrated, and thriving — this is it. Caliwater Kids Pouches are the kind of drink you’ll feel good about giving, and your kids will actually ask for again. 🌈
Because healthy choices don’t have to taste boring — sometimes, they taste like a little pink cactus magic. 💦🌵
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🥣 Meet OHME! — The Brand Bringing Joy (and Crunch) Back to Healthy Snacking
If the last few years taught me anything, it’s that health starts with the little daily choices — what we eat, how we move, and the small moments of joy we create along the way. That’s exactly what I felt when I first learned about OHME!, a vibrant, feel-good brand that’s reimagining what “healthy snacking” looks like.
Founded by Han and Jenny, two friends who—like many of us—found themselves rethinking their wellness routines during the pandemic, OHME! started with a simple mission: to make breakfast and snack time something you actually look forward to again. Their story began with morning oatmeal bowls — that humble, comforting staple — and a craving to make them more exciting, more colorful, and frankly, more fun.
Then came the “aha” moment: freeze-dried fruit toppings. Real fruit, no added sugar, preserved at peak freshness with 95% of the nutrients intact. Crunchy, vibrant, and naturally sweet — like nature’s candy, only smarter. That discovery became the heartbeat of OHME!, inspiring a line of wholesome snacks and toppers that feel playful yet intentional.
But what makes OHME! stand out isn’t just the taste — it’s their mindset. They’re not trying to sell a “perfect health” image. They’re sharing a real journey. And that honesty shows up everywhere, from their transparency about packaging challenges to their active environmental commitments.
Their partnership with CleanHub is one of those things that makes you pause — in a good way. For every bag sold, OHME! helps remove plastic waste from the environment, while continuing to work toward more sustainable materials. They’ve already planted over 2,000 trees in Kenya, offset nearly 900 tonnes of carbon, and now source 75% of their raw materials from certified sustainable farms.
They’re proving that sustainability isn’t a finish line — it’s a path we walk, one decision at a time.
There’s also a kind of soul behind OHME! that feels refreshing in today’s wellness world. Their tone is fun, unpretentious, and full of personality — they don’t guilt you into healthy eating; they invite you into it. The kind of brand that reminds us food can be nutritious and joyful — crunchy, colorful, and downright snackalicious (their word, and honestly, I love it).
If you’re someone who wants to eat cleaner without overcomplicating it, or if you’re just looking to make breakfast a little more exciting — OHME! fits right into that space between wellness and delight. It’s thoughtful. It’s real. And it just might make you fall back in love with your morning bowl again.
And honestly, they’re not just great for us grown-ups. These snacks are perfect for kids too — real ingredients, no weird stuff, and the kind of crunch that makes little hands reach back for more. Healthy, happy snacking all around. 🌈
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A Story That Gently Teaches Love, Memory, and Time — Tali and the Timeless Time
As a mom, I’m constantly thinking about how to help my child understand the world — its beauty, its change, and sometimes, its challenges. That’s why I was so moved when I discovered Tali and the Timeless Time, a new children’s book by award-winning author Mira Z. Amiras, published by The Collective Book Studio.
Just in time for the holidays, this book offers something we rarely find in children’s literature — a gentle, honest way to talk about aging, memory, and love within families.
The story follows Tali, a bright, curious girl who adores spending time with her grandmother, “Nona.” Their bond feels familiar — the kitchen filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting smell of traditional Sephardic Jewish dishes like chakchouka and stuffed grape leaves. But as Tali notices Nona starting to forget small things — mixing up names, losing her place in a recipe — she begins to see her grandmother entering what the story beautifully calls “Timeless Time.”
In this special space, memories from the past and present swirl together, and Tali learns to see her grandmother’s world with patience, compassion, and love. It’s a poetic way to help children process something many families eventually face — the fading of memory in those they love most.
What I especially love about Tali and the Timeless Time is how it opens the door for gentle conversations about dementia and Alzheimer’s — without fear, and without sadness as the main theme. It’s hopeful. It helps children (and parents, honestly) see memory loss through the lens of empathy and continuity — how love still connects generations, even when details blur.
The illustrations by Chantelle and Burgen Thorne are warm and expressive, capturing every small moment between Tali and Nona — from hands kneading dough together to the quiet pause when time stands still. You can almost smell the food, feel the tenderness, and see the love that lives in every page.
The book also celebrates cultural diversity and tradition in a way that feels both specific and universal — a reflection of Jewish heritage that welcomes all families into its circle of storytelling, food, and heart.
For ages 4–8, Tali and the Timeless Time makes a wonderful holiday gift — not just as a bedtime read, but as a bridge between generations. It’s the kind of book that invites grandparents, parents, and children to sit together, share stories, and maybe even bake something special while talking about memories that matter.
💛 A few reasons I recommend it:
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It handles memory loss with warmth and clarity, not fear.
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The story helps children understand aging in a relatable, loving way.
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The art and recipes add layers of cultural richness and comfort.
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It’s beautifully made — a keepsake, not just a book.
If you’re looking for something meaningful this season — a story that touches both hearts and minds — Tali and the Timeless Time deserves a place on your shelf. It’s one of those rare books that grows with your family, reminding us that while time may change things, love remains timeless.
📚 Tali and the Timeless Time
By Mira Z. Amiras | Illustrated by Chantelle and Burgen Thorne
Published by The Collective Book Studio | August 12, 2025
Hardcover | $19.95 | ISBN: 9781685551858 -
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Why I’m Loving KiGO Sunglasses for Little Ones (and Why You’ll Want to Grab a Pair This Halloween!)
As a mom to an 11-month-old baby boy, I’ve learned that every new stage of childhood comes with its own surprises — and needs. Teething, crawling, first steps… and apparently, sunglasses! I’ll admit, I used to wonder: do babies really need sunglasses? I mean, they’re cute — but necessary?
Turns out, yes. Very much yes.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, infants and children’s eyes are more sensitive to sunlight because their lenses are more transparent, letting in more UV rays. Hats help a bit, but they only block about half of UV exposure. That’s why real sun protection starts with proper sunglasses — ones made for kids, not just “mini versions” of adult frames.
That’s how I found KiGO, a children’s eyewear brand born right here in sunny California — where bright sunshine and beach days never really end. KiGO stands for KIDS GO, and I love that idea. It’s all about letting kids explore, discover, and shine — safely and stylishly.What really caught my attention is how thoughtfully designed their sunglasses are. KiGO doesn’t just shrink adult styles — they actually create age-specific designs for every stage, from newborns to pre-teens. The fit, comfort, and flexibility are tailored for how little faces grow. The materials are lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly (because we know babies love to bend, chew, and test everything!).
And yes, they’re 100% UVA/UVB protective — which gives me peace of mind every time we head out for a stroller walk or beach morning.
Another thing I love: the brand’s California vibe — modern, playful, yet practical. It feels like a perfect mix of fun and function. KiGO believes every child deserves to feel as cool as an adult — and honestly, they do look ridiculously cute in those tiny shades.
🎃 Halloween Special!
If you’ve been thinking about trying KiGO, now’s the time — they’re running a Halloween campaign starting October 21st with 25% off. Perfect for parents who love both safety and a good deal. (Because who doesn’t?)So this season, while you’re picking out costumes and planning trick-or-treat adventures, maybe add a pair of KiGO sunglasses to your list. After all — protection from the sun is the kind of treat your child’s eyes will thank you for later.
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Italian Brainrot Halloween Costumes
If you have a gamer kid, you know all about the Brainrot characters that are literally everywhere. Their names are so fun to say and I imagine we will see quite a few this Halloween season!
What I learned previously from all my DIY costumes is that it can’t be too complex or heavy! So my 6 year old was pretty satisfied with this rendition of BONECA AMBALABU!!
Just a few simple items from Amazon.
- Plush Froggy Hat with Velcro
- Inflatable Tire I got the big one
Another fun idea is Tralalero Tralala!
