Lifestyle
Last Minute Christmas Gift Ideas – Strictly Local.
We all know that the magic of the holidays is not so much in the getting, but in the giving. There’s a plethora of presents you can buy your loved ones for Christmas to make them feel cherished and appreciated but truthfully, gift shopping can be a daunting task.
With the usual hustle and bustle that comes with the Yuletide season, some people simply have not found the time to visit the malls or do online shopping. Have you noticed that the last few weeks have felt like a blur? If you’re one of the unlucky ones who are facing the dreaded last-minute Christmas gift dilemma – don’t worry, we’re not here to judge, we’re here to help!
There are still two days left to get that perfect gift for your family or friends to place under your Christmas tree. We compiled a list of our top four last-minute Christmas gift ideas that won’t break the bank, and are super thoughtful too. Oh! Did we mention that they’re all strictly local?
Coming in at number one is a gift voucher for a fun, relaxing day at the spa because who doesn’t enjoy being pampered? And while we understand that hotel spas are popular spots to unwind and rejuvenate, why not try one that’s more intimate and a little easier on your pocket too? Renewed Hope, located in Arouca, offers just that. With a myriad of services to choose from including deep tissue and hot stone massages, as well as cupping therapy, we’re sure that your nearest and dearest will appreciate some time to relax, refresh and renew.
Studies show that spa days help to decrease stress, enhance sleep, lower blood pressure and release serotonin and dopamine, which makes you feel happier. Owned by national volleyball player Ryan Stewart, Renewed Hope is the perfect haven and a thoughtful way to let your giftee know you value their wellbeing.
Our second gift idea is jewellery. Why is jewelry a good idea? Simply because it makes people feel special. It’s unique, memorable, retains value and can be cherished forever. And if you know your loved one’s taste, this will be easy for you as you can choose those that represent their personality, colourpreferences and style. Sure, Danish jewellery manufacturer Pandora has some exquisite items but so does local jeweler , Zipporah Mason, owner of Empress Zipporah. Located in Arima. She offers a wide-range of fashionable pieces for men and women such as sets made of paper fabric, rings, necklaces and beaded jewellery. Bonus – she also sells purses and tote bags.
DIY gift baskets have become increasingly popular in recent years and we can see why. Creating a personalised gift basket filled with the recipient’s favourite treats and small luxuries will have anyone blushing and that’s why it’s number three on our list. A cute idea is a spa-themed collection with body butters, lotions, artisan soaps, shower gels and bath bombs. Trust us, a thoughtfully curated basket adds a personal touch of love. Rodco Home Essentials, located in Trincity, is a good option to cop some of these. Founder Colleen Malwah-Aqui’s skincare line of handcrafted soaps, body butters, body Scrubs and lip balms come highly recommended by her clients. “Our line is formulated to be of premium quality with affordable prices. Our products are well researched and formulated to keep your skin cleansed, hydrated, moisturised and looking younger,” she tells us. “Our products use a lot of local products, things that granny used to use when I was growing up including caraille, paw paw, watermelon, mango, passion fruit and aloes.”
And last but not least – scented candles! Amazon has an assortment of them to choose from, however, you may want to check GreenVision, a local online store which specialises in hand-made scented candles. Not only are they a great way to make a home more homey, but you can make them a more personable present by finding one with a fragrance you know the recipient will love. Scented candles are used in aromatherapy and boast several health benefits. Studies show they can calm your mind, improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and enhance sleep. “We’ve been in operation for five years and year after year I have experienced an increase in the volume of sales of our candles for the Christmas season,” says owner Brithney Patrick, whose scented candles round off our list of the top four best last-minute locally-made Christmas gift ideas.
We hope these tips were helpful. Now hurry! Get your Christmas shopping finalized!
Writer : Cherisse Moe
Caribbean Buzz
Le Brunch, The Most Stylish Event Takes Place in East Trinidad, This Independence Weekend.
The stage is set for the Independence Day weekend in Trinidad and Tobago, and one of the most anticipated events is going down in East Trinidad. Phenomenal Events Studio’s Natasha Noreiga tells Ebuzztt, the Centre of Excellence in Macoya is the place to be on Sunday, August 30th for Le Brunch. This year’s theme is Pastel Luxè and she’s encouraging attendees to come out as stylishly as they can, in hues of pastel, perfectly suited to the experience they’re guaranteed.
In 2026, Noreiga is delivering the fifth installment of the event, and according to the masterful event coordinator and director, she’s all about the theme. “This all started in 2019. I wanted to create a space that people could come out, stylishly dressed and have a great time together,” she explained, highlighting that initially, the event encouraged attendees to bring their favorite bottle of liquor. In this year’s staging of the event however, Natasha said everyone will enjoy a Premium drinks-inclusive bar at Le Brunch. “Bottles are not allowed this time around. Premium drinks will be available to everyone,” she assured, adding that two chefs will be on hand serving up sumptuous brunch cuisine. “We’re having food catered this year by Chef Akim, with grilling being done by Rustic House.”
Le Brunch has presented amazing experiences to loyal patrons over the past few years. “The event was initially hosted at Jenny’s Ranch in Arima, and then I hosted it at a private residence in Cunupia. In 2025, we hosted a boat ride,” said Noreiga. She said the themes have gone from shades of pink to a Safari theme and last year aboard the boat, attendees came out in shades of blue.
This year’s pastel theme will likely be a vision at The Centre of Excellence in Macoya, and coupled with the decor this event coordinator is preparing, those who’ve already purchased tickets are certainly in for a treat. “Every year people are eager about the theme. They are always excited to find out what the theme of the event is, and I consider myself a theme specialist so I go all the way out,” said Natasha. Her experience in coordinating and hosting weddings, anniversary parties, birthdays and other events, offer the assurance to patrons that they’re in good hands.
Early bird tickets which were $350, now sold out, Natasha told Ebuzztt that a few $400 Golden Petal tickets are still available. “The event starts at 4pm and ends at 9pm with a cast of amazing DJs inclusive of Sensational Sammy, Ken Simmons and Jon Boi, DJ Five Star, Whitney Husbands and DJ Charlotte, brothers DJ Brendan and Christian and hosted by Mr. Voice. We’re gonna have a great time,” said the event expert who stands on 25 years experience.
How She Catered to Customers.
In what some have described as a tough economy, Natasha Noreiga took no chances and began promoting her event back in March. “Tickets were available from April because I knew the July/August months would be dedicated to back to school shopping. I wanted to give people enough time to plan,” she explained, noting that in the East, promoters work together to ensure dates are free and accessible to each other. “The Independence weekend is also my birthday so this year Le Brunch will be very special,” she said.
Fans of the event who’ve been loyal annually, look forward to the rich and vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the comfort of familiarity. “A lot of people often say it’s like a reunion – they get to see people they haven’t seen in a long time and they mingle freely and comfortably,” said Noreiga. She prides herself on being able to create such an atmosphere, encouraging younger patrons to be a part of the community as well. “The demographic is mature but we do have pockets of younger people coming into the fold,” she said.
This year, the Brix Hotel will sponsor prizes for the Best Dressed Male and Female patrons. “This is definitely a dress-up event. People should come out as stylish as they can for a chance to win the prizes.”
With big teams inclusive of hospital and fire services staff, already having purchased their tickets, Natasha says a limited number of tickets are still available. “Persons can check out islandeticket.com, Sammy’s Rest Bar, Sa Lounge Fashions at East Gates Mall, Rustic House and Grill in Curepe, 212 Locations and Richard’s West Mall, for tickets. It’s going to be an event you don’t want to miss,” said Noreiga.
Lifestyle
Dîner en Blanc Returns to Port-of-Spain with New Hosts and a Fresh Spark of Elegance.
One of Port-of-Spain, Trinidad’s most anticipated social events is making its grand return. Dîner en Blanc is set to once again transform Port of Spain into a breathtaking sea of white as hundreds of guests gather for an unforgettable evening of elegance, dining and celebration.
Leading this year’s experience are dynamic new hosts Meagan Monsegue and Nigel Roach, who will welcome guests to the internationally celebrated event known for its signature all-white dress code, secret location and magical atmosphere.
With its blend of style, sophistication and community, Dîner en Blanc continues to be one of the most sought-after invitations on Trinidad and Tobago’s social calendar. So, Port of Spain, pure white elegance returns soon!
The question is – Are you on the list?
MORE ON THE EVENT
Dîner en Blanc is more than an event. It’s a global cultural phenomenon that brings friends, old and new, together to celebrate life, food, fashion, and community with a touch of mystery and a sense of spontaneity.
Elegantly dressed in white, guests gather at a secret location for a chic, mass picnic, bringing their own tables, chairs, and gourmet baskets. The location remains undisclosed until the very moment of arrival, creating a sense of anticipation and delight. Over the course of the evening, attendees dine, dance, and reconnect with the finer things in life, all while sharing an unforgettable, magical experience in some of their city’s most iconic public spaces.
Today, Dîner en Blanc has grown into an international movement, celebrated cumulatively over its history in more than 120 cities across 40 countries. While Dîner en Blanc International is headquartered in Montreal, Canada, each event is hosted locally by passionate organizers who bring their own flair to the original Parisian concept.Together, these gatherings unite communities worldwide in a celebration of gourmet cuisine, extraordinary entertainment, and the joy of connection.
For more info, photos, and videos from around the world, visit dinerenblanc.com.
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