First on the list, Cacao 70. After all, there is nothing like a cup of hot chocolate to warm up on a cold winter’s day. With four locations in Montreal, this cafe has built a legendary status in the city for their incredible hot chocolate, and we can attest to the rumours, it is that good! With a lengthy list of hot chocolates comprised of cocoa varieties from around the globe, there is a flavour to match all taste buds: bitter, sweet, or spicy. Our company favourite is the Mexican hot chocolate.

Photo credit: Cacao 70

Finding motivation to exercise is often harder in the chillier months. Unless you head out to the slopes, regular outdoor activities like running, cycling, and tennis prove difficult during a blizzard! Take the workout indoors at Dita Pilates. Located in NDG, this studio has a variety of courses that cater to all skill levels, offering pilates and ballet barre, as well as private and semi-private sessions. We can attest, you definitely feel the heat after one of these classes. Grab your water bottle; we’ll meet you there!

Photo credit: Dita Pilates

We firmly believe that being warm and facing the elements does not have to mean sacrificing style. These mittens from Kinsu prove just that. The Montreal-based brand has found a way to blend eco-friendly practices with fashion, crafting their mittens from pre-loved denim. Locally handmade, we love the variations in styles and colours, as well as the range of linings to help tackle even the coldest days.

Photo credit: Kinsu

One of our favourite comfort dishes this time of year is a hearty bowl of soup. Leave the canned varieties on the shelf and head over to Soupesoup for the real deal. Their soup offerings, made with local fresh ingredients, change daily. In the vast rotation of flavours, you’ll find carrot, cauliflower, yam & lime and beets, just to name a few! This restaurant-café hybrid has six Montreal locations, a cookbook full of recipes to re-create at home, as well as soups available in to-go packaging at select IGA grocers. No matter what part of Montreal you call home, you’ll be able to try a bowl almost anywhere.

Photo credit: Soupesoup

Let’s face it. On some blustery days, we’d rather stay home, snowflakes falling outside, curled up under a warm blanket. All that’s missing is a scented candle. Ville-Marie Mtl has a large selection of soy candles ranging from fresh to woodsy fragrances. We love their packaging that blends contemporary wood and glass. Made right here in Montreal, their candles are perfect for a peaceful day embracing the comforts of home.

Photo credit: Ville-Marie Mtl

After reading our list, we have a funny feeling that winter will soon become your favourite time of year.

The post Top 5 Things to Do in Montreal this Winter to Stay Warm appeared first on Suite 203.

For the foodie

We are ambassadors of Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution campaign, which celebrates the importance of cooking with healthy fresh ingredients and getting kids involved in the kitchen. Jamie’s new cookbook Super Food Family Classics is an extension of that message, featuring healthy twists on family favourites. With recipes including squash mac ‘n’ cheese and smoky dressed aubergines & peppers, these dishes are sure to be new-found dinner time staples for the foodie on your list.

Available at Indigo for $37.99

Photo Courtesy of JamieOliver.com

For the advocate

Usher is a supporter, and so are we. Help raise awareness for type 1 diabetes with The Human Trial + OBEY® Awareness t-shirt. Made from an extra soft, lightweight cotton, these limited-edition t-shirts feature Shepard Fairey’s artwork and 100% of the profits support the making of The Human Trial, a feature-length documentary raising awareness for T1D. Find out more about this cause and how to get involved, here.

T-shirts are available online at The Human Trial $30.00.

Photo courtesy of The Human Trial

For the busy bee

You know the person who always has 10 things happening at once; the one whose agenda is filled through the next 6 months, and has an inbox bursting with important emails? Help take a load off their list this holiday season and give them the gift of Concierge Montreal. This unique company has a list of over 100 personal concierge services including everything from shopping and vacation planning to dry-cleaning pickup and event management. The options for gifting your busy bee with an item to remove from their to-do list are endless.

Find out more at Concierge Montreal.

Photo courtesy of Concierge Montreal

 For the fashion rebel

The fashion lover on your list will be eternally grateful for a pair of A.S.98 boots. Made of Tuscan vegetable leather and designed in Verona, Italy, your giftee will get more than a simple boot, but a work of art! With a wide array of shoes for men and women, as well as a beautiful collection of leather handbags, there is a design fit for all the fashion rebels on your list.

This studded heeled boot has an edgy, romantic feel ideal for a lady who loves street style and treats her work commute as a runway to showcase her style. Available in store or online for $400.00

Photo courtesy of A.S.98

For you…

With the hustle bustle of this holiday season, don’t forget to pamper yourself a little too. Call up your girlfriends and treat yourselves to a little R&R, with a facial and mani-pedi session. Annie Young has a wide array of services offering over 10 different facials and a selection of manicure styles, all performed with fine, high-quality products. Visit Annie Young Cosmetiques to book your appointment, and don’t forget to say hi to Sharleen for us!

Photo courtesy of Annie Young

For the altruistic

There is no greater gift than helping a child in need. Donate in your recipient’s name to the Just for Kids Foundation in support of their A Vision for the Future Campaign. Funds will support the Montreal Children’s Hospital by purchasing high priority medical equipment. Donations will provide the hospital with the best technology and quality equipment possible and ensure the highest standard of care for the kids now and in the future. Make a donation via the Just for Kids Foundation’s website here.

Photo courtesy of Just for Kids Foundation

The post Our Favourite Things – Holiday Gift Edition appeared first on Suite 203.

Photo by @harleyplays

1. Gibeau Orange Julep

Every true Montrealer has been to this place to grab a late-night snack (poutine) and that infamous green cup of secret recipe orange juice. Open 24 hours all year round, the giant orange ball and colourful flags blowing in the wind have become a must-shoot photo for adding a touch of orange to your feed.

Photo by @Montreall

Photo by @foodguymtl

2. Mount-Royal Observatory (The Lookout)

Whether passing by on a mountain run or swarming to this hotspot with tourists alike, the renowned lookout point never gets old. The best place to get a view of downtown Montreal and beyond; with this beautiful skyline shot, no selfies are required.

Photo by @camille_dg

Photo by @missferreira

3. La Diperie

Not an official landmark, this turquoise brick wall has been all over Instagram for quite some time now. You can’t call yourself an ice cream lover without stopping by La Diperie and devouring a dipped icy treat. Whether you choose nuts, pretzels or candy as the final layer, you know it will be one photo-worthy cone.

Photo by @sarahcout

Photo by @tashadeane

Photo by @eatdrinkbcarrie

4. Le Palais des Congrès

The gorgeous multi-coloured windows of this well-known building are synonymous with Montreal. No matter the weather, you’re sure to find a rainbow in the heart of the city to sprinkle some colour into your day and on to your feed.

Photo by @benmulroney

Photo by @hey.maca

5. Bota Bota

Paradise on earth: a floating spa on the edge of the city. The contrast between modern design and sheer relaxation is one of the many reasons why people love taking pictures here. Between the pools, the waterfalls and the hammocks, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect shot (or two or three).

Photo by @chloedumont

Photo by @jennabel91

Photo by @aniklacasse

6. Farine Five Roses

An iconic Montreal landmark, this flour factory has a sign that can be seen from the Lachine Canal. While it may look industrial from a distance, when paired with the perfect sunset, this shot epitomizes our city.

Photo by @saradiamondmusic

Photo by @montreal_gallery

7. Mandy’s

Mandy’s proves that salads need not be boring. Quickly becoming one of Montreal’s top healthy lunch destinations, Mandy’s draws in locals as well as tourists with their colourful mixes of fresh ingredients and iconic salad bowls. Whether you decide to enjoy one of their bestselling salads (or soups or smoothies) or create your own custom mix, you’re sure to have a delicious meal and a stunning Instagram photo.

Photo by @mademoisellejules

Photo by @samanthacutler

Photo by @tanyakupelian

The post Montreal Social Media – 7 instagrammable places appeared first on Suite 203.

Overview
Reporting to the company presidents, the Copywriter / Social Media Manager is a dynamic professional responsible for creating engaging content for Suite 203 Communications and its clients. Writing projects include copy for social media, blogs, websites, e-newsletters, PR materials and more. Social media management includes planning, posting, engaging and tracking performance on all social platforms for a portfolio of clients. We are looking for a natural storyteller with solid experience in making a brand’s voice cut through the clutter across various business channels and media.

Responsibilities 

• Create and/or translate communication materials including press releases, website copy, e-newsletters and other marketing materials
• Write optimized web content for blogs and websites with the goal of enhancing search results
• Write compelling and engaging copy that resonates with consumers and fosters engagement
• Maintain a consistent and compelling voice for each unique client
• Develop and maintain monthly social media editorial calendars for clients and post content on a daily basis
• Monitor and engage with social communities on a daily basis
• Coordinate various projects simultaneously
• Collaborate with design and photography teams to create successful marketing campaigns on all platforms
• Work closely with the co-owners to brainstorm concepts for client projects and new business development
• Other duties, as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelors in English, Communications, Marketing, Journalism or other related field
• 1-3 years of experience in developing marketing content for various channels
• 1-2 years of experience as a community manager
• Experience in the fashion, beauty, health, food or design industries
• A strong understanding of marketing and SEO principles
• Bilingual – Excellent command of the English language with perfect English writing capabilities, plus functional French
• French writing skills – a plus
• Smooth and exciting style of writing, with the ability to write in various tones and voices
• Creative, social personality
• Team player willing to roll up your sleeves to get the job done
• Excellent time management skills, organized, detail-oriented, and strong multi-tasker
• Ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced work environment
• Autonomous, self-starter who is able to work independently
• Ability to work at the NDG-based office (50% of time) and home office (50% of time)
• Ability to travel to local client meetings
• Have a laptop with up-to-date software
• Knowledge of social media platforms, Word, Mailchimp, WordPress, Photoshop and other social media design programs
• Registered business with tax numbers (this is a full-time freelance position)

To apply for this position
Please send your resume and cover letter plus 3-5 examples of your copywriting and 3-5 links showcasing your social media experience to [email protected] by September 9, 2016.

The post Job Posting: Copywriter & Social Media Manager appeared first on Suite 203.

Tote-ally perfect
Photo credit: The Stowe

A tote is our go-to style for long days when meetings and mingling are on the agenda. This style allows you to look polished while having room for EVERYTHING you need: whether it’s an extra pair of shoes for a quick day-to-night transition or your beloved accessories. Plus, this deep, rich burgundy colour is what fall is all about.

Backpacking beauty
Photo credit: Opelle

Here’s a grown up version of the backpack, elegantly adorned with a chic gold zipper. It’s stylish yet practical, and frees up your hands for carrying your Grande Skinny Mocha and your iPhone. Style tip: dress up a classic black bag with a silk colourful scarf or a faux fur pompon keychain.

Get the message
Photo credit: Matt & Nat

A sleek and modern vegan messenger bag gets even better in a deep royal blue. This colour is a new neutral that looks great with a suit or your tee + denim uniform. Plus, you can stash your prized possessions in style with the multitude of interior pockets. Fashion score!

Park pack
Photo credit: Parkland

For fun-days (with kids in tow) or a super casual office ensemble, store your stuff in a colourful backpack like this one. We love the clashing colour-combo of merlot, raspberry and orange, but if it’s not your style there are 16 other options to choose from. This bag is fully loaded with a fleece-lined laptop sleeve, digital accessories organizer and a mesh bottle holder.

What’s your go to tote? Let us know in the comments section below.

The post Back to reality: Find the perfect purses for fall appeared first on Suite 203.

Whose Instagram accounts are you into these days?

It always changes but I tend to follow a lot of local influencers like @samanthaecutler, @cynthia_conciergerie and @caroelie, as well as brands who inspire me when it comes to social media strategy, content and branding. Companies that push the envelope creatively speaking and who have well thought-out ideas always impress me.

What social media tips do you have to share?

Engaging with your followers is key. Listening to what they have to say and taking the time to engage with them is very important because it brings richness to your brand by creating a special connection and it makes them feel like they are a part of what you’re doing.

What is the daylong Montreal itinerary you would plan for out-of-town guests?

One day is definitely not enough! I would want them to see Montreal in all of its beauty, so we would hit up the Old Port to enjoy the rustic feel and eat great food (a classic poutine from Joverse) along with a stunning view. After a nice walk near the water and a stop at Place Jacques-Cartier for some entertainment, then downtown would be next. Not only is it perfect for shopping (Bestseller is my favorite new boutique), we also have gorgeous museums like the Musée d’Art Contemporain. Then off to experience the vibrancy of St-Laurent and St-Denis streets. I would end the day on a high note by bringing them to the Mount-Royal observatory that is well loved by tourists as well as locals since it showcases an amazing view of the city with bright lights and breath-taking skylines.

(Photo: Tosh Muniz)

When you’re not at work with Suite 203, you can be found….

In a restaurant with friends enjoying delicious food at Kyo Bar or Jatoba or venturing through the vibrant nightlife the city of Montreal has to offer. I also have a couple of favorite spots on the island where I like to unwind and appreciate the nice peaceful view over the water like at the Ile de la Visitation park and Lac aux Castors.

(Photo: Kyo Bar Japonais)

Yasmine’s photo: Monique Weston

The post Meet Yasmine: our social media & PR agency Montreal coordinator appeared first on Suite 203.

At Suite 203 we are passionate about everything we do, especially when we get to introduce Montrealers to the city’s latest and greatest additions. So when Elite Laser approached us with the concept of their newly opened salt rooms, we couldn’t say no. Strategizing and executing a public relations Montreal campaign that local media a challenge we were certainly up for!

The concept of Halotherapy is new to Canada, but this holistic therapy is extremely popular in Europe, New York and Miami. At Elite Laser’s tranquil spa setting, guests can unwind in the salt room built from Himalayan salt bricks. The experience can offer improved respiration, relaxation and healthier skin for both young and old. The natural salt therapy works to strengthen and support the immune system providing a sense of calmness and serenity that can improve sleep, mood and energy; and can alleviate symptoms from the following conditions: respiratory diseases, allergies, asthma, eczema, psoriasis and more.

Suite 203 hosted a public relations Montreal event in April for a select group of health, beauty and lifestyle media. Guests were invited by appointment to enjoy the serene salt rooms in small groups. After a 45-minute session, guests felt calm and relaxed and some could immediately feel the effects on their respiratory systems, breathing easier. Since the event, a handful of guests have been back to reap the benefits of Halotherapy with loved ones, including children.

As expected, the campaign was a success as the majority of guests shared their new discovery with their readers and social media followers:

Samantha Cutler on Instagram:

Nudabite on Instagram:

Tellement Swell by Eve Martel on YouTube:

Elite Laser was also featured in online articles on Ton Petit Look Moms, 1 ou 2 Fantaisies, Pearls & Caramel, La Presse+, Le Cahier, Working Chix and many more. In the coming months, the spa will also be featured in a variety of Quebec fashion magazines.

Are you looking to create buzz for your brand? Suite 203 can craft a public relations Montreal campaign, throughout Canada or North America. Let’s chat!

The post Public Relations Montreal – Promoting the City’s First Salt Room appeared first on Suite 203.

Here are some of the key points we covered, based on the questions we received from the audience:

What is earned content?

Earned content or media is publicity generated via a 3^rd party. It is based on sharing information and includes reviews, social media mentions and interactions, and published mentions in other formats like print or broadcast. It is an integral part of today’s marketing mix, along with paid content (like advertising) and owned content (self-generated content like a blog or social media posts). Take note, the lines between earned and paid have become blurry as some media and influencers require payment to report on a brand or company.

Why would a company or brand want to execute a media/influencer campaign?

The wide range of influencers and media options provide a huge opportunity for a brand to get its story told. Brands need to leverage all types of media to get key messages across to targeted, engaged audiences in an authentic way. Benefits include:

• Increasing your website’s search ranking and credibility on search engines via backlinks (SEO)
• Expanding your reach to new audiences and then migrating the followers to your brand
• Gaining social media shares, likes and followers
• Building your reputation via trusted opinion leaders
• Driving traffic online or to a store front
• And… influencing sales

How do you choose which influencers to target?

There are hundreds of influencers in every industry. They include the traditional media (broadcasters and journalists) plus bloggers, experts, celebrities and people who have a large social media following. But, they do not all offer the same value to a brand. Here’s what we at Suite 203 evaluate when matching an influencer with a client:

We executed an influencer campaign, now what?

Once you have earned some content, you need to use it to your best advantage. Recycle it, and share it back with your audiences in the form of a blog entry, social media post, video, testimonial or newsletter. And don’t forget to always tag and thank the influencer who created it!

Looking to generate some buzz for your brand via a media or influencer outreach campaign? We can match you with the most impactful influencers to get your message across. Get in touch to learn more.

The “How to Market Content Like a Pro” presenters
(Karin Eldor, Dayna Lapkovsky, Sean Surkis, Na’eem Adam)

The post Gain Earned Content with an Influencer Campaign appeared first on Suite 203.

No two days are ever the same as we strategize and execute public relations, social media and strategic content campaigns for lifestyle brands. Here are just a few of the projects we’ve been working on:

Life’s A Beach (for a great cause)

A beach getaway is closer than you think! Join the “Just for Kids” Foundation for a family-friendly Indoor Beach Party this Sunday April 3rd. Activities for children of all ages.
Click here for more info and to purchase your tickets.

Step Up Your Content Game

We are excited to be presenting our PR tips and tricks at the Jewish Chamber of Commerce’s “How to Market Content Like A Pro” workshop. We hope to see you all for an engaging and informative session on all things content marketing on April 6th.

Salt Serenity

This week, Suite 203 introduced local beauty and lifestyle media to Montreal’s first salt rooms at Elite Laser in Westmount Square. Guests were treated to a 30-minute Halotherapy session in the salt rooms while learning about the health and beauty benefits of this calming treatment.

Everyday Gourmet

As busy professionals with hungry bellies to feed, we are excited to be working with the team at Goodfood. Through content creation we are promoting their recent name change and spreading their marketing message of fresh ingredients and tasty recipes delivered to your door, for no-fuss meal preparation.

Setting the Stage

By creating completely branded events for our clients, we have witnessed the transformation of an ordinary space into a “wow” venue. One of our newest social media clients, Modern Event Furniture, designs and sells a collection of mid-century modern furniture and fixtures to the rental industry for the design of truly impactful events.

Ushering in Change

A big shout-out to USHER, who showed his support for diabetes research and our filmmaker client, The Human Trial. “Understand that #diabetes is life threatening and we need a #cure. Hit the bio link and support the film. My son thanks you.”
Check out the film here.

Looking to give your company a marketing boost this spring?

Find out how you can join the roster of Suite 203 clients and begin creating an effective marketing communications campaign. Get in touch!

The post Our Public Relations Secrets Revealed… appeared first on Suite 203.

Q. You have over 15,000 followers on instagram and multiple blog posts per week – you’re a very busy woman… How do you unwind?

A. I try to dedicate a day in the week where I need to be off work mode and either spend time with my family and my boyfriend. Also, I always make sure to find some time for myself, moments of relaxation where I can seek inspiration and hit refresh.

Q. Lapiz of Luxury is all about mixing affordable and high-end fashion/beauty products. What’s your #1 tip for achieving the perfect balance?

A. Very simple, to never shop in the same store for your whole outfit and to always be very aware of the sales.

Q. What are your go-to brands for an amazing hi/lo look? Any Montreal born and bred brands on your must-have list?

A. I am the type of girl that will invest in a handbag and key pieces and really search for the extra fashion piece but always at an affordable price. I always mix from Zara, Aritzia, H&M and mostly some online shopping

Q. You say that luxury is confidence. What one item in your wardrobe or beauty bag gives you the ultimate confidence boost?

A. It’s sounds so silly but mascara and a Caribbean tan! I feel the most confident when I am fresh off of a vacay in the sun. Also, I feel like you don’t necessarily need an item to feel confident, you just need to trust your judgment and your taste and just own it. Nobody is dressing your body but yourself, so you need to dress it accordingly and be comfy.

Q. What are your favourite Montreal hangouts and why?

A. I just finished my Masters and I use to always be in the coffee shops studying and writing my memoire. Today, I can finally enjoy a nice cup of coffee without having to be on my laptop and Montreal is all about amazing coffee shops; Café Parvis, Café Paquebot, Café Sfouf, only to name a few. But my favourite thing is to discover new spots with my boyfriend on the weekends and go on little adventures

The post Lapiz of Luxury on Beauty & Style appeared first on Suite 203.