A Happify Moment from the Ballou Family Foundation

December was filled with many moments of joy, and one that stood out was watching Ballou Family Apothecary co-founder Bob Phillips experience the OAC Winter Celebration, an event proudly sponsored by Ballou Family Apothecary.

After the event, Bob shared his experience, still smiling as he described adjusting his Santa cap and following a mom and her little ones into the new OAC space at 294 North Winooski Avenue. Even before stepping inside, there was a palpable sense of excitement and possibility in the air. Once inside, more than 200 guests gathered. Families, children, and community members came together for a winter celebration rooted in creativity and connection.

The space was alive with activity. Children bounced inside a life-size snow globe, gingerbread houses were decorated with colorful icing, and tables buzzed with painting and crafts. Live music filled the room, hot chocolate warmed hands, and laughter echoed throughout the space.

As Bob reflected on the day, he was reminded of something Father Ballou often described as being “happified.” It is the shared joy that emerges when families and communities come together with care and intention. As a granddad, that feeling resonated deeply while watching children create, parents connect, and a community celebrate side by side.

Gratitude goes to Becca McHale, Margaret Coleman, and the entire One Arts team for creating such a meaningful event and for inviting Ballou Family Apothecary to be part of it. Supporting moments like these reflects the heart of the brand.

At Ballou Family Apothecary, community sits at the center of everything that is done. Through the Ballou Family Apothecary Foundation, support is proudly given to childcare programs that help ensure families have access to quality care and opportunities to thrive.

How does your family like to get “happified” together during the holidays?