Guest post: Erika Marucci is the Style and Beauty Intern at Canadian Living and a journalism student at Centennial College, currently in her last semester. She loves all things fashion, beauty and entertainment and wants to pursue a career in the magazine industry as a fashion journalist. She can also write and speak fluent Italian. It's February 5, which means that Valentine's Day is right around the corner and your significant other is probably on the hunt for the perfect prezzie. But for some guys, February 14 can become a real nightmare. To make it pain-free, Brittany Hopkins has come to their rescue. Hopkins, owner of Anice, a jewellery boutique located at 167 Augusta Avenue in the Kensington Market area of Toronto, creates her own jewellery and last year she came up with a truly creative idea: the Valentine's Day “BRO” Workshop.

Last year's "Bro" workshop at Anice; Photo courtesy of Brittany Hopkins

“I thought about how guys are always looking for the perfect gift and sometimes find it a struggle," she says. “Our custom jewellery-making offers them the chance to have a hand in the creation, making [a piece] from the heart.” But what does this workshop consist of exactly? First of all, the guys get introduced to the techniques and tools, then they're shown different pieces of jewellery already displayed across the store. Once instruction period is over, they get to choose the materials they would like to use for their own creation depending on their budget. If they already have an idea for their jewel design, Hopkins can help them realize it. For those that have no idea on what to make, Hopkins is there to guide them through the entire process. Sounds like fun and a lot of work, huh? Hopkins knows everyone (especially a group of jewellery-making men) needs a break, so she's also organized a beer and pizza break for all participants.

A bracelet from last year's workshop; Photo courtesy of Brittany Hopkins

Last year six men showed up. This year, Hopkins and her team are expecting seven with room for a few more. The Valentine's Day “BRO” Workshop will take place on Saturday, February 8 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Looking to buy, not make? We've got a few gift ideas up our sleeve.