If Christmas makes you think of navigating your way up and down escalators crammed with frenetic consumers brandishing armfuls of giant plastic bags, you’re not alone. So this season take a break from full-blown retail hysteria at one of these holiday pop-ups sure to leave a much sweeter taste in your mouth. Whether you’re looking for stocking stuffers, a unique outfit for the party season or a slice of respite 305 metres above the CBD bustle, here are three ways to restore your faith in the silly season.
High Tea with Mrs Woo’s Pop-In Artisans
Forgo the plastic bags and clear your consumer conscience at High Tea with Mrs Woo. Dropping in to the Padding boutique to celebrate Sustainable Design December are the ladies behind Sydney-made makers Polli with their fine jewellery, eco-friendly homewares and locally sourced vintage, and Melbourne artisan Ellie Mücke with her exquisitely upcycled designer clothing. 26 November – Christmas 2012, 72b Oxford Street, Paddington.
You might know MakMak macarons for Adriano Zumbo and Laduree in a blind taste testing by esteemed Sydney chefs, and now you can get your hands on these meringue-based luxuries without putting in a wholesale order. MakMak is turning their clandestine Newtown bakery into a Christmas pop-up with a seasonal beach theme and special range of summer flavours. 17 December 2012 – 15 January 2013, 601 King Street, Newtown.
Christmas High Tea with Patisse
If you like your sweet treats with a side of dizzying views, scale 305 metres to the highest function centre in the Southern Hemisphere for a Christmas-inspired high tea spectacular hosted by Patisse’s Executive Chef Vincent Gadan. Feast on delectable bespoke creations both savoury and sweet, and wallow in the knowledge that you’re far removed from the bustle of Market Street beneath. 11am – 1pm, 9 December 2012, Sky Lounge at the Sydney Tower, bookings essential via info@patisse.com.au, $52pp.
Take a lift to the private suite of Sheraton on the Park. You’ll find it all styled up into Christmas glory and brimming with festive and holiday wear as well as curated gift ideas from around the world courtesy Sydney designers Alexia Gnecchi Ruscone of Eclettica and Sophie Toohey of Mr. Rose. Enjoy a blissful ambience, sip on bubbly, pop in some chocolates and have everything beautifully gift wrapped and ready to go under the tree.
4 – 8pm on 29 November & 7.30am – 2pm on 30 November 2012, Sheraton on the Park, Sydney
