The Gentleman’s Christmas of Marc Bouchard

For the holidays, we wanted to hear from some of Gentologie’s friends and collaborators. We asked them how they celebrated their Christmas. We called this ‘The Gentleman’s Christmas of…’ because Christmas is all about being a gentleman (if you’re wondering how, we have some tips here). We continue this series with The Gentleman’s Christmas of Marc Bouchard, our automotive journalist and member of AJAC, and initiator and co-host, with his son William, of the “Gars de Char” automotive podcast.

The Gentleman’s Christmas of Marc Bouchard

What does Christmas mean to you?

First of all, it’s a chance for us to spend quality time with our families. It’s also a chance to see old friends and relatives that you don’t get to see very often. This is also a period that makes me more sensitive to others’ realities… Let’s just say that my eyes often get misty when I watch emotional movies!

How is Christmas spent in your family?

Pretty quiet. On Christmas Eve, I spent it at home with my siblings and their kids, and on December 25th, we celebrated with my wife’s family, going to the house where her mom lived. The only thing that never changes is that, on Christmas morning, my son, his wife, and I have breakfast together, exchange gifts, and wear the same pajamas!

What does your family eat at Christmas?

We have often called in a caterer for cold bites, as the number of guests sometimes exceeded 25. This year, however, the number is smaller, so we’ll do the traditional meal. In fact, I’ve already started on my meatball stew!

What does your family drink at Christmas?

Drinking doesn’t play much of a role in my family. We drink wine, usually brought by guests, and we make a few homemade cocktails, but nothing elaborate.

What would you like to receive for Christmas?

I have a really hard time answering this question. I like kitchen gadgets or electronic gizmos whose use isn’t always clear. But I’d rather receive a mug with my name on it than an impersonal gift costing several hundred dollars. Although I’m open to that too!

 What do you like to give at Christmas?

I like to give very personalized gifts, whether it’s an identified sweater or something totally off the beaten track. As a result, my genius ideas often don’t come to fruition on time. However, one tradition endures: the kids (who are in their twenties) as well as the dog and cat have their respective Christmas stockings, often filled with gadgets that are more useless than practical.

What are your Christmas wishes for Gentologie readers?

May they appreciate those around them! As I get older, I realize that I prefer a good chat with a friend or family member to a gift. Take the time to savour what you have, because it’s something that can’t be bought and is too often wasted.

We hope you enjoyed The Gentleman’s Christmas of Marc Bouchard To read his various articles on Gentologie, click here.