Showing posts with label CONTEST. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CONTEST. Show all posts
Jun 3, 2016
Summer's nearly here and it's a tight race for competitors in our DIY Planter Challenge. For weeks Facebook fans have been voting for their favorite homemade planter, and everything will come to a head June 30th at 11:59pm. Whose planter will receive the most votes? Only time will tell.
Before you visit our Facebook page to cast your vote, try making your own planter. We've already showed you how to make Karen A.'s printed pipe and William Brown's perfect printer, but what about some gorgeous glass? This lovely creation, submitted by our Digital Marketing Director, Joanne C., looks wonderful and is a snap to make. Add some subtle beauty to your indoor space with a planter like this one. Find out how to make it below!
What you'll need:
Step 1: Gather your supplies. Remember to put on your rubber gloves and cover any work surfaces you don't want stained as alcohol ink is hard (impossible!) to remove.
Step 2: Holding up the glass bowl, splash one drop of ink at a time and blow it around the glass until the entire surface is covered. Alternate using different colors until you see the desired effect.
Step 3: Let dry for a few hours or overnight.
Step 4: Once the ink is fully dry, spray it with shellac to seal the color. Two or three thin coats of shellac will ensure the ink doesn't rub off.
Step 5: To make sure the ink colors will still be visible when you have dirt and a plant inside your planter, paint the inside with white acrylic paint.
Step 6: Let the acrylic paint dry overnight.
Step 7: Fill with your favorite plant, (Joanne chose a Kalanchoe), and put it in your favorite space.
We adore this beautiful, stained glass inspired planter. Though one of the more complex on our list, you can recreate it at home in just a few simple steps. Love it as much as we do? Make sure to vote for it on Facebook.
Before you visit our Facebook page to cast your vote, try making your own planter. We've already showed you how to make Karen A.'s printed pipe and William Brown's perfect printer, but what about some gorgeous glass? This lovely creation, submitted by our Digital Marketing Director, Joanne C., looks wonderful and is a snap to make. Add some subtle beauty to your indoor space with a planter like this one. Find out how to make it below!
What you'll need:
- Glass bowl (or any other glass container you want to use for your planter)
- Alcohol inks
- Sponge
- Shellac spray
- White acrylic paint
- Plant (Joanne used a Kalanchoe)
- Potting soil
Step 1: Gather your supplies. Remember to put on your rubber gloves and cover any work surfaces you don't want stained as alcohol ink is hard (impossible!) to remove.
Step 2: Holding up the glass bowl, splash one drop of ink at a time and blow it around the glass until the entire surface is covered. Alternate using different colors until you see the desired effect.
Step 3: Let dry for a few hours or overnight.
Step 4: Once the ink is fully dry, spray it with shellac to seal the color. Two or three thin coats of shellac will ensure the ink doesn't rub off.
Step 5: To make sure the ink colors will still be visible when you have dirt and a plant inside your planter, paint the inside with white acrylic paint.
Step 6: Let the acrylic paint dry overnight.
Step 7: Fill with your favorite plant, (Joanne chose a Kalanchoe), and put it in your favorite space.
We adore this beautiful, stained glass inspired planter. Though one of the more complex on our list, you can recreate it at home in just a few simple steps. Love it as much as we do? Make sure to vote for it on Facebook.
May 18, 2016
The DIY Planter Challenge is in full swing and the competition is getting fierce! To help get in the spring spirit and prepare for summer, Marketplace Events team members crafted some fun planters, and now the online voting has begun. Whose planter will receive the most votes and be crowned the winner? It's up to you (and our other Facebook fans) to decide.
Before you visit our Facebook page and vote for your favorite, why not try making your own planter? We've already showed you how to make Karen A.'s printed pipe, but what about William Brown's perfect printer? The Landscape Coordinator for Marketplace Events and owner of William H. Brown Landscape Inc. made this unique piece using an old printer. Here's how you can make one.
What you'll need:
Step 1: Find an old printer and remove its ink cartridges and any other extraneous parts.
Step 2: Using tinfoil, create a tray for some plants in the middle of the printer. Fill it with potting mix.
Step 3: Add more plants of varying height and style to any additional compartments your printer may have to create a lush "printer-scape".
We're big fans of this creative upcylced planter. Not only is it a great way to find new use for that old printer you've been hesitant to throw away, but it's a truly unique and original piece to display in your home or garden. Love it as much as we do? Make sure to vote for it on Facebook.
Before you visit our Facebook page and vote for your favorite, why not try making your own planter? We've already showed you how to make Karen A.'s printed pipe, but what about William Brown's perfect printer? The Landscape Coordinator for Marketplace Events and owner of William H. Brown Landscape Inc. made this unique piece using an old printer. Here's how you can make one.
What you'll need:
- Printer
- Tinfoil
- Potting mix
- Variety of plants
Step 1: Find an old printer and remove its ink cartridges and any other extraneous parts.
Step 2: Using tinfoil, create a tray for some plants in the middle of the printer. Fill it with potting mix.
We're big fans of this creative upcylced planter. Not only is it a great way to find new use for that old printer you've been hesitant to throw away, but it's a truly unique and original piece to display in your home or garden. Love it as much as we do? Make sure to vote for it on Facebook.
May 13, 2016
To help put a little spring in all of our employees' steps, we challenged our Marketplace Events team members to a friendly DIY competition. Folks had just over a month to create a cute, original planter. There were no restrictions on size, style, or influence - it just had to be homemade.
Check out the full list of entries on our Facebook page and vote for your favorite. But first, learn how Karen A., Exhibit Sales Consultant for the Birmingham Home + Garden Show, created her fabulous printed pipe planter.
What you'll need:
Step 1: Start with a trip to your local hardware store to grab supplies. Karen went to Habitat for Humanity and bought a PVC sewage elbow and grinding disc. Total cost for both was $2.
Step 2: Using a sturdy adhesive, (Karen chose Goop), glue the disc to the bottom of the PVC.
Step 3: Cover the PVC in stylish duct tape. Karen used leopard print to give her planter a funky look, but you can use any style.
Step 4: Fill the planter with the plant of your choice. Karen selected an air plant from her property, but any species would look nice.
We love the simplicity of this craft. A few dollars can go a long way when it comes to making planters. What do you think of Karen's creation? If you're a fan, make sure to vote for it in our DIY Planter Challenge. Visit Facebook to cast your vote today!
Check out the full list of entries on our Facebook page and vote for your favorite. But first, learn how Karen A., Exhibit Sales Consultant for the Birmingham Home + Garden Show, created her fabulous printed pipe planter.
What you'll need:
- PVC sewage elbow
- Grinding disc
- Glue (Karen used Goop)
- Stylish duct tape (Karen used leopard print)
Step 1: Start with a trip to your local hardware store to grab supplies. Karen went to Habitat for Humanity and bought a PVC sewage elbow and grinding disc. Total cost for both was $2.
Step 2: Using a sturdy adhesive, (Karen chose Goop), glue the disc to the bottom of the PVC.
Step 3: Cover the PVC in stylish duct tape. Karen used leopard print to give her planter a funky look, but you can use any style.
Step 4: Fill the planter with the plant of your choice. Karen selected an air plant from her property, but any species would look nice.
We love the simplicity of this craft. A few dollars can go a long way when it comes to making planters. What do you think of Karen's creation? If you're a fan, make sure to vote for it in our DIY Planter Challenge. Visit Facebook to cast your vote today!
May 11, 2016
With spring in full swing and summer just around the corner, we wanted to help our Marketplace Events coworkers add some green to their space. And what better way to do so than with a friendly DIY competition? Employees from every department across the US and Canada were invited to try their hand at making a cute, original planter. There were no restrictions on size, style or influence. Employees were encouraged to be as creative as they could, with just under a month to make their entry.
We need our beloved fans to help us choose a winner! Please visit our Facebook page to see all the planters we created and vote for your favorite. Voting will run until June 30, 2016 at 11:59pm. The employee whose entry receives the most votes will win some serious bragging rights and a pizza party for their entire department.
What are you waiting for? Check out the planters we made and vote for the one you think deserves to win. And don't forget to Like Us after you vote. Our Facebook fans get lots of perks - like exclusive show content, fun contests, ticket deals, and more!
Want to learn how to make some of the fabulous planters we've featured? Watch for instructional posts to teach you how to create some of our favorites, including Karen A.'s printed pipe, Joanne C.'s inspired alcohol ink piece, and a playful printer from William Brown of William H. Brown Landscape Inc.
Here’s where you come in!
We need our beloved fans to help us choose a winner! Please visit our Facebook page to see all the planters we created and vote for your favorite. Voting will run until June 30, 2016 at 11:59pm. The employee whose entry receives the most votes will win some serious bragging rights and a pizza party for their entire department.
What are you waiting for? Check out the planters we made and vote for the one you think deserves to win. And don't forget to Like Us after you vote. Our Facebook fans get lots of perks - like exclusive show content, fun contests, ticket deals, and more!
Want to learn how to make some of the fabulous planters we've featured? Watch for instructional posts to teach you how to create some of our favorites, including Karen A.'s printed pipe, Joanne C.'s inspired alcohol ink piece, and a playful printer from William Brown of William H. Brown Landscape Inc.
Apr 19, 2016
At Marketplace Events we love our friends, fans, and followers. And to help show how much we appreciate and value your support, we hold a series of giveaways on several different channels (via Facebook, email, on our websites, and more) every year. Congratulations to the winners of this season’s giveaways!
- Velena Adams, Scotts Snaps Sweepstakes (Minneapolis Home + Garden Show)
- Christy Coates, Scotts Snaps Sweepstakes (Facebook)
- Lauren Gerber, Smart Home Sweepstakes (Winnipeg Home + Garden Show)
- Emily Hall, Scotts Snaps Sweepstakes (Des Moines Home + Outdoor Living Show)
- Brian Henderson, Scotts Snaps Sweepstakes (Capital Remodel + Garden Show)
- Bridget Nagle, $500 Smart Home Sweepstakes
- Rosemary Norton, $250 Post-Show Consumer Survey
- Pavel Posrednikov, $500 Smart Home Sweepstakes
- David Stone, Scotts Snaps Sweepstakes (Cleveland Home + Remodeling Expo)
- Regina Shepherd, Scotts Snaps Sweepstakes (Raleigh Home Show)
- Patricia Taylor, $500 Smart Home Sweepstakes
- Kevin Troio, $250 Post-Show Consumer Survey
- Cynthia Toupin, $500 Smart Home Sweepstakes
- Sharon Underwood, $500 Smart Home Sweepstakes
Mar 21, 2016
Last January we started our search for the 2016 Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year - someone to take over from reigning champion, Leanne Lee (the Diva of DIY). Several bloggers entered and in February we narrowed it down to three: Serena Appiah, Allison Griffith, and Denise Sabia.
To help showcase their social media prowess, these talented DIYers mobilized their fans and promoted their entries, receiving several thousand votes in just under three weeks!
Once the social voting portion of our contest was over, it was on to the Denver Home Show! Serena, Allison, and Denise wowed our audience and celebrity judges, The Fabulous Beekman Boys, with presentations on succulents, power tools, and painting techniques. Although all three performed beautifully, we could only crown one winner and, factoring in social voting, audience approval, and the judges' scores, we are thrilled to announce the 2016 Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year is: Serena Appiah.
Congratulations, Serena!
We can't wait to see the amazing things you bring to Marketplace Events and our Home Shows.
Stay tuned to see which Marketplace Events Home Shows Serena will lend her talents to this fall!
Mar 14, 2016
With the Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year contest coming to a head this Saturday at the Denver Home Show, we are beyond excited to see our three finalists present. Our Facebook fans continue to vote for their favorite entries (and you should too!), but we're also interested to see what our Denver audience and the Fabulous Beekman Boys will think of Serena, Denise, and Allison.
You've already met our first two finalists, Serena Appiah and Denise Sabia. Now it's time to meet our third finalist: Allison Griffith.
We sat down with Allison ahead of her presentation to help you get to know her a little better. Check out our fun Q&A below and get ready for Allison to rock the house this weekend at the Denver Home Show.
Q: What is your ultimate comfort food? What do you eat if you're having a bad day?
Allison: "Homemade macaroni and cheese with bacon. Anything with bacon always lifts my spirits!"
Q: What was the best party you've ever attended and why?
Allison: "My husband and I attended a local AIDS benefit called Red Tie Night in Oklahoma City. A few years ago we sat near several professional football players and I was amazed at how humble they were! Despite how much money they made or how famous they had become, it reminded me that a great work ethic will take you far."
Q: Would you rather watch Orange is the New Black or Game of Thrones?
Allison: "Orange is the New Black all day! My favorite characters are Pennsatucky and Red. Plus this meme says it all!"
Q: What are your best tips to help homeowners with curb appeal year-round?
Allison: "Decorate your porch. We have a lot of extreme weather in Oklahoma so when it's really cold, icy, raining, or hailing, most of the time people run straight to your front porch. Painting your front door is a fun way to add some charm to your porch. I keep the accessories simple with a painted chair topped with a seasonal pillow, a wreath, and a vintage mop bucket to hold mums or flowers. I do have to admit I have a front porch pillow problem. You can check out a ton of seasonal pillows to make on the cheap on my blog."
Q: What's your go-to hostess gift?
Allison: "Rombauer Chardonnay or funky coasters from West Elm or Anthropologie."
Q: What's your guilty pleasure?
Allison: "I watch all of The Real Housewives. I am a huge fan of their executive producer, Andy Cohen. So much so, I wanted to name our 1 year old Cohen when he was born. My husband saw right through my motives and refused. I am glad because we named him Shepherd instead and it fits him perfectly."
Q: What should homeowners look for when it comes to working with a contractor or interior designer?
Allison: "My best advice is to get referrals from several people you know and trust. If they rave about the designer or contractor and had a great experience, that says volumes about their business! If you are new to the area and don't have any referral sources then I would check out their website for photos of their work. Unfortunately many contractors don't have websites, so I always ask for references. A true business person will happily hand over a few phone numbers of happy clients."
Q: What's one thing we wouldn't guess about you?
Allison: "People are always surprised to find out I was in banking for 15 years before owning my business and blog. I left my job as a Vice President at a corporate bank to grow my business full-time. I was really scared to take the leap but almost 4 years later I can say it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. God has provided every step of the way. I traded in my suit and heels for Chuck Taylors and a nose piercing. I never knew this person was inside of me all of those years but I have never felt more authentic than I do today!"
Q: What's one thing you think people should splurge on?
Allison: "Skin care. I tend to be a cheapskate - hence why I love scoring furniture on the cheap at thrift stores and garage sales. But you wear your face every single day so I splurge on taking care of my skin."
Q: What's the best way for homeowners to incorporate the latest trends into their decor?
Allison: "How can you tell what has staying power and what doesn’t? Don't invest a lot of money on trendy prints. I recommend buying neutral pieces for the more expensive purchases, like couches, dining room tables, bedding, and headboards. You can then add pops of fun, funky, and trendy items in rugs, pillows, drapes, and even reupholstering the seats of dining room chairs. These items are easy and inexpensive to change out after a fad has faded out a few years later.
If you love a lot of color in your home, paint a thrift store buffet or dresser in a bold color - if you get sick of looking at it - it's easy to just paint over it!"
Think Allison should be named Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year? Vote for her on Facebook. She'll be presenting on March 19th at the Denver Home Show where our audiences and celebrity judges, The Fabulous Beekman Boys, will help decide if she, Denise, or Serena, will earn the title.
You've already met our first two finalists, Serena Appiah and Denise Sabia. Now it's time to meet our third finalist: Allison Griffith.
ALLISON GRIFFITH
Oklahoma entrepreneur Allison Griffith is the creator of RefunkMyJunk.com. Through her speaking engagements, ebooks, blog, and workshops, she shows homeowners how to harness their creativity and rethink their approach to decor. Allison's DIY projects have been featured on Today.com, The Huffington Post, Apartment Therapy, Buzzfeed, and Good Housekeeping. What will she bring to Denver? Find out March 19th!We sat down with Allison ahead of her presentation to help you get to know her a little better. Check out our fun Q&A below and get ready for Allison to rock the house this weekend at the Denver Home Show.
Q: What is your ultimate comfort food? What do you eat if you're having a bad day?
Allison: "Homemade macaroni and cheese with bacon. Anything with bacon always lifts my spirits!"
Q: What was the best party you've ever attended and why?
Allison: "My husband and I attended a local AIDS benefit called Red Tie Night in Oklahoma City. A few years ago we sat near several professional football players and I was amazed at how humble they were! Despite how much money they made or how famous they had become, it reminded me that a great work ethic will take you far."
Q: Would you rather watch Orange is the New Black or Game of Thrones?
Allison: "Orange is the New Black all day! My favorite characters are Pennsatucky and Red. Plus this meme says it all!"
Q: What are your best tips to help homeowners with curb appeal year-round?
Allison: "Decorate your porch. We have a lot of extreme weather in Oklahoma so when it's really cold, icy, raining, or hailing, most of the time people run straight to your front porch. Painting your front door is a fun way to add some charm to your porch. I keep the accessories simple with a painted chair topped with a seasonal pillow, a wreath, and a vintage mop bucket to hold mums or flowers. I do have to admit I have a front porch pillow problem. You can check out a ton of seasonal pillows to make on the cheap on my blog."
Q: What's your go-to hostess gift?
Allison: "Rombauer Chardonnay or funky coasters from West Elm or Anthropologie."
Q: What's your guilty pleasure?
Allison: "I watch all of The Real Housewives. I am a huge fan of their executive producer, Andy Cohen. So much so, I wanted to name our 1 year old Cohen when he was born. My husband saw right through my motives and refused. I am glad because we named him Shepherd instead and it fits him perfectly."
Q: What should homeowners look for when it comes to working with a contractor or interior designer?
Allison: "My best advice is to get referrals from several people you know and trust. If they rave about the designer or contractor and had a great experience, that says volumes about their business! If you are new to the area and don't have any referral sources then I would check out their website for photos of their work. Unfortunately many contractors don't have websites, so I always ask for references. A true business person will happily hand over a few phone numbers of happy clients."
Q: What's one thing we wouldn't guess about you?
Allison: "People are always surprised to find out I was in banking for 15 years before owning my business and blog. I left my job as a Vice President at a corporate bank to grow my business full-time. I was really scared to take the leap but almost 4 years later I can say it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. God has provided every step of the way. I traded in my suit and heels for Chuck Taylors and a nose piercing. I never knew this person was inside of me all of those years but I have never felt more authentic than I do today!"
Q: What's one thing you think people should splurge on?
Allison: "Skin care. I tend to be a cheapskate - hence why I love scoring furniture on the cheap at thrift stores and garage sales. But you wear your face every single day so I splurge on taking care of my skin."
Q: What's the best way for homeowners to incorporate the latest trends into their decor?
Allison: "How can you tell what has staying power and what doesn’t? Don't invest a lot of money on trendy prints. I recommend buying neutral pieces for the more expensive purchases, like couches, dining room tables, bedding, and headboards. You can then add pops of fun, funky, and trendy items in rugs, pillows, drapes, and even reupholstering the seats of dining room chairs. These items are easy and inexpensive to change out after a fad has faded out a few years later.
If you love a lot of color in your home, paint a thrift store buffet or dresser in a bold color - if you get sick of looking at it - it's easy to just paint over it!"
Think Allison should be named Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year? Vote for her on Facebook. She'll be presenting on March 19th at the Denver Home Show where our audiences and celebrity judges, The Fabulous Beekman Boys, will help decide if she, Denise, or Serena, will earn the title.
Mar 10, 2016
The Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year contest is heating up with several thousand votes already cast on Facebook. We can't wait to see what our three finalists, Serena Appiah, Denise Sabia, and Allison Griffith, present at the Denver Home Show next weekend. But first, it's important that you get to know our competitors.
You've already met our first Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year finalist, Serena Appiah. Now it's time to meet the second: Denise Sabia.
DENISE SABIA
Denise Sabia is a Philadelphia designer, DIYer, and the voice behind ThePaintedHome.com. She takes everyday items and flea market finds and transforms them into unique pieces that will freshen and warm your home - all without breaking the bank, of course. Her DIY workshops help others learn valuable crafting and decorating skills they can try in their home. Her flips and finds are sold in Philadelphia at Serendipity Shops of Chestnut Hill and Serendipity Shops of Doylestown. Will Denise rock the house in Denver? We can't wait to find out!
We sat down with Denise ahead of her presentation to help you get to know her a little better. Check out our fun Q&A below and get ready for Denise to teach you more than a thing or two you didn't know about crafting.
Q: What's your least favorite chore?
Denise: "Laundry."
Q: Would you rather water Game of Thrones or Orange is the New Black?
Denise: "Neither."
Q: What are your best tips to help homeowners with curb appeal year-round?
Denise: "Paint your front door...a color. A real COLOR! Painting your door is the simplest weekend project you’ll ever attempt. Plus, in the warmer weather it’ll add a little punch of color to your foyer when the door is open! Double the bonus!"
Q: What has been your most embarrassing fashion choice?
Denise: "My ex-husband."
Q: What's your go-to hostess gift?
Denise: "Any Real Housewives of..."
Q: What should homeowners look for when it comes to working with a contractor or interior designer?
Denise: "A good vibe...you know when you know. Many people can design a beautiful room...you want someone who “gets you” and who you can trust."
Q: What's one thing we wouldn't guess about you?
Denise: "...that I occasionally heat up yesterday's coffee. Completely gross, I know."
Q: Are you a dog person or a cat person?
Denise: "Dog."
Q: Would you rather be too hot or too cold?
Denise: "Too HOT!"
Q: What's one thing you think people should splurge on?
Denise: "Splurge on your sofa. It's like a second home...you spend a lot of time there and you won't be buying another one anytime soon."
Q: What's one simple thing homeowners can do to improve their landscape or garden?
Denise: "Hire a professional, or even just a neighborhood kid to keep it maintained and mowed. My 11 year old weeds for $5...a huge bang for your buck!"
Q: What's the best way for homeowners to incorporate the latest trends into their decor? How can you tell what has staying power and what doesn't?
Denise: "Use what you love. If you love a trend use it, if you hate it, don't use it just because someone famous has. Any item that has value to you has staying power. Use what you love, where you love it."
Think Denise should be named Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year? Vote for her on Facebook. She'll be presenting on March 19th at the Denver Home Show where our audiences and celebrity judges, The Fabulous Beekman Boys, will help decide if she, or one of our two other finalists, will earn the title.
You've already met our first Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year finalist, Serena Appiah. Now it's time to meet the second: Denise Sabia.
DENISE SABIA
We sat down with Denise ahead of her presentation to help you get to know her a little better. Check out our fun Q&A below and get ready for Denise to teach you more than a thing or two you didn't know about crafting.
Q: What's your least favorite chore?
Denise: "Laundry."
Q: Would you rather water Game of Thrones or Orange is the New Black?
Denise: "Neither."
Q: What are your best tips to help homeowners with curb appeal year-round?
Denise: "Paint your front door...a color. A real COLOR! Painting your door is the simplest weekend project you’ll ever attempt. Plus, in the warmer weather it’ll add a little punch of color to your foyer when the door is open! Double the bonus!"
Q: What has been your most embarrassing fashion choice?
Denise: "My ex-husband."
Q: What's your go-to hostess gift?
Denise: "Any Real Housewives of..."
Q: What should homeowners look for when it comes to working with a contractor or interior designer?
Denise: "A good vibe...you know when you know. Many people can design a beautiful room...you want someone who “gets you” and who you can trust."
Q: What's one thing we wouldn't guess about you?
Denise: "...that I occasionally heat up yesterday's coffee. Completely gross, I know."
Q: Are you a dog person or a cat person?
Denise: "Dog."
Q: Would you rather be too hot or too cold?
Denise: "Too HOT!"
Q: What's one thing you think people should splurge on?
Denise: "Splurge on your sofa. It's like a second home...you spend a lot of time there and you won't be buying another one anytime soon."
Q: What's one simple thing homeowners can do to improve their landscape or garden?
Denise: "Hire a professional, or even just a neighborhood kid to keep it maintained and mowed. My 11 year old weeds for $5...a huge bang for your buck!"
Q: What's the best way for homeowners to incorporate the latest trends into their decor? How can you tell what has staying power and what doesn't?
Denise: "Use what you love. If you love a trend use it, if you hate it, don't use it just because someone famous has. Any item that has value to you has staying power. Use what you love, where you love it."
Think Denise should be named Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year? Vote for her on Facebook. She'll be presenting on March 19th at the Denver Home Show where our audiences and celebrity judges, The Fabulous Beekman Boys, will help decide if she, or one of our two other finalists, will earn the title.
Mar 7, 2016
At the beginning of 2016 we encouraged local home, garden, and lifestyle bloggers to apply to become the Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year. Taking over the reins from Leanne Lee, the Diva of DIY, this year's winner will receive a multi-show contract from Marketplace Events and much more.
After several entries and much deliberation, the results from the first round of the contest are in! Over the next few days we'll be introducing you to our three finalists: Serena Appiah, Allison Griffith, and Denise Sabia. First up, Serena Appiah!
SERENA APPIAH
Serena Appiah is the talent behind thriftdiving.com. Hailing from Maryland, this mother of three boys has been helping folks decorate, improve, and maintain their homes on a DIY budget since 2010. Serena loves power tools, thrift stores, creating, inspiring, and teaching. She'll be bringing her home improvement know-how and thrift decor ideas to the Denver Home Show. Will she take home the title?
We sat down with Serena to help you get to know her a little better. Check out our fun Q&A below and get ready for Serena to make a splash at the Denver Home Show!
Q: If you could be gifted with one super power, what would it be?
Serena: "If I had one super power, I would be invisible! Not because I don’t like to be seen, but because I could go anywhere and see anything, without being detected! I’d be able to see the real truth behind everything. Not to mention that I could check up on my children to see if they really are behaving in school!"
Q: What was the best party you've ever attended and why?
Serena: "The first year that I attended the Haven Conference in Atlanta (the annual DIY conference for bloggers), I danced and danced the night away! You can see me in the center of the crown, gettin’ down with blogger friends! It was so exciting because not only was it a chance to have fun without the hubby and kids in tow, but I had felt so inspired to take my blog to the next level that weekend. I couldn’t contain my excitement! And wouldn’t you know when the following year’s conference rolled around, everyone remembered me as the girl who danced all night. What a way to be memorable, eh?"
Q: If you had to give up Facebook or Instagram, which would you pick?
Serena: "Instagram would be gone in a flash! I can’t keep up with the perfection that Instagram requires! LOL. Instagram is supposed to be about pretty feeds, but my audience knows how much I love an “ugly” before picture! People welcome the “ugly” on Facebook; they just connect with it! Since most of my DIY furniture makeovers and room makeovers start with dirty, thrifted furniture and not-so-pretty rooms, Facebook is definitely the platform where Thrift Diving thrives!"
Q: What has been your most embarrassing fashion choice?
Serena: "Last summer, while shopping with my best friend, I mentioned I may have wanted to look for some new jeans. She quickly agreed with my decision and said, “Oh yeah—because those jeans you’re wearing right now are hideous.” My mouth gaped open wide! I couldn’t believe my always-too-truthful-friend had put it so harshly! Were my favorite Lucky Brand jeans so horrible?? I didn’t think so. To this day, I still wear them, but I’m also cognizant that they’d once been deemed “hideous.” LOL. I still love them, though."
Q: What should homeowners look for when it comes to working with a contractor or interior designer?
Serena: "I absolutely love Angie’s List for finding contractors and any professionals related to home services. You’ve got to know what other people are honestly saying about those professionals. Angie’s List includes real feedback from real homeowners. Things I look for is what grade do they have? I only hire grade “A” contractors. Are people saying they’re trustworthy and honest in their pricing? Do they show up on time? Do they treat customers respectfully? I also look for professionals that have not just positive feedback, but lots of that feedback, because the more feedback, the better assessment you can make."
Q: What's one thing that we wouldn't guess about you?
Serena: "You’d never know it, but I’ve been a vegetarian for 16 years! I’m not a super-crunchy, tree-hugger, but I do have compassion for animals, and I feel that there are healthier choices of food to eat. People always ask if I crave meat, and the answer is, “Nope!” There are so many tasty alternatives to meat, I never crave the real thing!"
Q: What's your favorite space to makeover and why?
Serena: "Show me an ugly bathroom, and I’m all over it! Bathrooms are fun because usually it’s a smaller space where you can be bolder and decorate outside of your comfort zone. I generally love soft, comforting colors when it comes to most living spaces, but bathrooms are spaces to unleash your inner “wild child” decorating ideas!"
Q: What's your biggest pet peeve?
Serena: "Oh, I could name a lot of pet peeves! However, my biggest pet peeve would have to be rude drivers—the people who you’ve given the courtesy of pulling in front of you, or some other kind gesture on the road, and they don’t even raise a hand in “thanks.” Gets to me every time."
Q: What's one thing you think people should splurge on?
Serena: "Electronics! As thrifty as I am when it comes to home decor, you’d never know that I splurge on the best electronics (computers, cameras, tablets, etc.) I can afford. Technology changes so quickly that people should buy the best they can afford so that their electronics are relevant for at least a couple of years."
Q: What's the best way for homeowners to incorporate the latest trends into their decor? How can you tell what has staying power and what doesn't?
Serena: "Only decorate with the latest trend if it’s something you truly adore. You should never feel pressured to incorporate trendy decor just because someone else did it or else you risk your home not really being a reflection of you. If you absolutely love a trend, don’t worry about whether it has staying power. Simply because you love it means it has staying power, regardless of whether the trend goes in or out."
Think Serena should be named Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year? Vote for her on Facebook! She'll be presenting on March 19th at the Denver Home Show where our audience and celebrities judges The Fabulous Beekman Boys will help decide if she, or one of our two other finalists, will earn the title.
After several entries and much deliberation, the results from the first round of the contest are in! Over the next few days we'll be introducing you to our three finalists: Serena Appiah, Allison Griffith, and Denise Sabia. First up, Serena Appiah!
SERENA APPIAH
Serena Appiah is the talent behind thriftdiving.com. Hailing from Maryland, this mother of three boys has been helping folks decorate, improve, and maintain their homes on a DIY budget since 2010. Serena loves power tools, thrift stores, creating, inspiring, and teaching. She'll be bringing her home improvement know-how and thrift decor ideas to the Denver Home Show. Will she take home the title?
We sat down with Serena to help you get to know her a little better. Check out our fun Q&A below and get ready for Serena to make a splash at the Denver Home Show!
Q: If you could be gifted with one super power, what would it be?
Serena: "If I had one super power, I would be invisible! Not because I don’t like to be seen, but because I could go anywhere and see anything, without being detected! I’d be able to see the real truth behind everything. Not to mention that I could check up on my children to see if they really are behaving in school!"
Q: What was the best party you've ever attended and why?
Serena: "The first year that I attended the Haven Conference in Atlanta (the annual DIY conference for bloggers), I danced and danced the night away! You can see me in the center of the crown, gettin’ down with blogger friends! It was so exciting because not only was it a chance to have fun without the hubby and kids in tow, but I had felt so inspired to take my blog to the next level that weekend. I couldn’t contain my excitement! And wouldn’t you know when the following year’s conference rolled around, everyone remembered me as the girl who danced all night. What a way to be memorable, eh?"
Q: If you had to give up Facebook or Instagram, which would you pick?
Serena: "Instagram would be gone in a flash! I can’t keep up with the perfection that Instagram requires! LOL. Instagram is supposed to be about pretty feeds, but my audience knows how much I love an “ugly” before picture! People welcome the “ugly” on Facebook; they just connect with it! Since most of my DIY furniture makeovers and room makeovers start with dirty, thrifted furniture and not-so-pretty rooms, Facebook is definitely the platform where Thrift Diving thrives!"
Q: What has been your most embarrassing fashion choice?
Serena: "Last summer, while shopping with my best friend, I mentioned I may have wanted to look for some new jeans. She quickly agreed with my decision and said, “Oh yeah—because those jeans you’re wearing right now are hideous.” My mouth gaped open wide! I couldn’t believe my always-too-truthful-friend had put it so harshly! Were my favorite Lucky Brand jeans so horrible?? I didn’t think so. To this day, I still wear them, but I’m also cognizant that they’d once been deemed “hideous.” LOL. I still love them, though."
Q: What should homeowners look for when it comes to working with a contractor or interior designer?
Serena: "I absolutely love Angie’s List for finding contractors and any professionals related to home services. You’ve got to know what other people are honestly saying about those professionals. Angie’s List includes real feedback from real homeowners. Things I look for is what grade do they have? I only hire grade “A” contractors. Are people saying they’re trustworthy and honest in their pricing? Do they show up on time? Do they treat customers respectfully? I also look for professionals that have not just positive feedback, but lots of that feedback, because the more feedback, the better assessment you can make."
Q: What's one thing that we wouldn't guess about you?
Serena: "You’d never know it, but I’ve been a vegetarian for 16 years! I’m not a super-crunchy, tree-hugger, but I do have compassion for animals, and I feel that there are healthier choices of food to eat. People always ask if I crave meat, and the answer is, “Nope!” There are so many tasty alternatives to meat, I never crave the real thing!"
Q: What's your favorite space to makeover and why?
Serena: "Show me an ugly bathroom, and I’m all over it! Bathrooms are fun because usually it’s a smaller space where you can be bolder and decorate outside of your comfort zone. I generally love soft, comforting colors when it comes to most living spaces, but bathrooms are spaces to unleash your inner “wild child” decorating ideas!"
Q: What's your biggest pet peeve?
Serena: "Oh, I could name a lot of pet peeves! However, my biggest pet peeve would have to be rude drivers—the people who you’ve given the courtesy of pulling in front of you, or some other kind gesture on the road, and they don’t even raise a hand in “thanks.” Gets to me every time."
Q: What's one thing you think people should splurge on?
Serena: "Electronics! As thrifty as I am when it comes to home decor, you’d never know that I splurge on the best electronics (computers, cameras, tablets, etc.) I can afford. Technology changes so quickly that people should buy the best they can afford so that their electronics are relevant for at least a couple of years."
Q: What's the best way for homeowners to incorporate the latest trends into their decor? How can you tell what has staying power and what doesn't?
Serena: "Only decorate with the latest trend if it’s something you truly adore. You should never feel pressured to incorporate trendy decor just because someone else did it or else you risk your home not really being a reflection of you. If you absolutely love a trend, don’t worry about whether it has staying power. Simply because you love it means it has staying power, regardless of whether the trend goes in or out."
Think Serena should be named Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year? Vote for her on Facebook! She'll be presenting on March 19th at the Denver Home Show where our audience and celebrities judges The Fabulous Beekman Boys will help decide if she, or one of our two other finalists, will earn the title.
Jan 9, 2016
Do you have what it takes to be crowned the Home + Garden
Trendsetter of the Year? We’re looking for one lifestyle blogger to rule them
all, and take over the title from our 2015 winner, the Diva of DIY.
If you’re an aspiring home and garden star with a penchant
for home improvement, design, and decor, we want to hear from you! We’re not
picky about your home improvement talent – whether it’s renovating, styling,
gardening, cooking, or DIY-ing, we encourage you to apply!
Here’s what you need
to do!
All applicants will create a four minute video containing a
home and garden tip or DIY project and submit it to us before February 26th,
2016. We’ll select three finalists and ask our Facebook fans to vote for their
favorite video. Voting will run until March 17th, 2016. The
finalists will be flown to the Denver Home Show, where they’ll make
presentations and compete for the title.
One winner, chosen by DIY Network star Jason Cameron, the
Denver Home Show audience, our Facebook fans, and Marketplace Events
executives, will be named the 2016 Home + Garden Trendsetter of the year and
receive a multi-show contract valued at approximately $30,000!
Jan 8, 2016
Attendees
at the 2016 Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show will have the chance to enter
special contests to win cool prizes. From dropping your name in a jar to taking
a selfie with coveted home and garden decor, entering - and winning - couldn’t
be easier.
Cooking in the Great Outdoors – Country Leisure is building an outdoor kitchen on the Lifestyle Stage that will be raffled after the show.
Sign up at their booth 734 in the Centennial building or at the Lifestyle
Stage. The kitchen is valued at $10,000.
A Super Feast – Head
Country Foods is taking their smoker to one lucky winner’s Super Bowl party to
prepare catering onsite. Up to 40 guests will be treated to ribs, smoked
chicken, pork tenderloin and sides. This yummy, fun-filled party is valued at
$1,200.
Screened In – Phantom
Screens
is giving away three standard sized patio screens valued at $10,000. The
winner’s home must already have a covered patio, be planning a remodel or under
new construction. Sign up at the show office in the Cox Pavilion or online.
Make your own wish list – Find something in a vendor’s
booth that you want for your home or backyard. Then post a picture on social
media using #OKCHomeShow. You may win a gift certificate from a participating
vendor to help your home and garden wishes come true!
The show is
open Friday 12 to 9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6
p.m. Admission is $12 at the door, or attendees can receive a discount by
purchasing tickets online or at Buy for Less stores.
Children under 12 are free.
STATE FAIRGROUNDS OF OKLAHOMA
STATE FAIRGROUNDS OF OKLAHOMA
JANUARY 15-17, 2016.
Jan 5, 2016
Be the first to experience the highly-anticipated
return of the NOLA Home Show, which will fill Hall I of the Convention Center
with remodeling and home improvement ideas, interior design advice, cooking
demonstrations, DIY tips and activities, interactive seminars, and the hottest
new products for your bath, home and garden, Friday, Jan. 15 – Sunday, Jan. 17.
Not only will you be the first of your family
and friends to be in tuned with all-things home and garden related, you will
get the chance to win prizes, giveaways and experience features you won’t want
to miss! Special features include:
1. Hero
Day - One of the nation’s top museums partners with
NOLA Home Show to host Hero Day on Friday, January 15. All are invited to
enjoy a musical performance by The National WWII Museum’s Victory Belles and
see a piece of history as the museum showcases a WWII Jeep in the NOLA Home
Show. All active and retired military, first responders, and teachers can
attend the NOLA Home Show for free with proof of ID on Friday only!
2. The
National World War II Museum Victory Belles - A
performance by The National WWII Museum’s charming vocal trio, the Victory
Belles, will take you on a nostalgic journey through World War II-era musical
classics. Don’t miss this spirited performance on the Williams-Sonoma Home
& Cooking Stage at 1 pm on Friday, Jan. 15!
3. Contests and Promotions
- Meet-and-Greet with HGTV’s Matt Muenster – COX presents an exclusive meet-and-greet with HGTV’s Bath Crashers star Matt Muenster. The contest also includes a $300 home improvement gift card! Register to enter the contest here.
- Win $500 in Gift Cards from Marketplace Events – Transform your home with $250 to Home Depot and $250 to Best Buy. Get what you need to make your home more tech savvy, efficient and beautiful with five chances to win $500! NOLA Home Show will announce a winner a day from March 21 – 25, 2016. Clickhere for a chance to win!
- Summit 50 K2 Cooler Giveaway – Stop by LifestyleAppliances at booths 1129 and 1131 for a chance to win a Summit 50 K2 Cooler, a high-quality ice retention cooler for all activities. Designed to lock in the cold, this ice vault is worth more than $250.
- Crawfish Boil Equipment Giveaway – Check out RestorePros Remediation Services at booth 1115 for a chance to win your very own stand-up wooden cooler and handmade crawfish paddles, all items to help you throw an unforgettable crawfish boil.
Don't have tickets yet? Save big when you buy online! Right now you can get 2-for-1 tickets when you connect with us on Facebook. Click here to access this exclusive discount.
NEW ORLEANS CONVENTION CENTER
JANUARY 15-17, 2016.
Dec 23, 2015
Christmas is almost here and that means our HoliDIY Contest is about to come to an end. For several weeks our Facebook fans have been voting for their favorite Marketplace Events made ornament. Our team members were challenged to see who could make the best ornament, and everything comes to a head at midnight Christmas Day.
Before you visit our Facebook page to cast your vote, try making your own ornament. These terrific trees, made by Liz H., Birmingham Home + Garden Assistant Show Manager, look great and are a snap to put together. All you need is a bit of ribbon and some twigs. Here's how you do it!
What you'll need:
Step 1: Cut a stick about 6 inches long.
Step 2: Cut a length of scrap ribbon.
Step 3: Lay out the ribbon and cut to form a tree shape.
Step 4: Hot glue the ribbon to the stick
Step 5: Tie a ribbon at the top to make a loop
Step 6: Hang on your tree!
We're big fans of this rustic ornament. It's easy to make and as long as you have ribbon, sticks, and a glue gun, practically free! If you like them as much as we do, make sure to vote for them in our HoliDIY Challenge! Visit Facebook to cast your vote today!
Before you visit our Facebook page to cast your vote, try making your own ornament. These terrific trees, made by Liz H., Birmingham Home + Garden Assistant Show Manager, look great and are a snap to put together. All you need is a bit of ribbon and some twigs. Here's how you do it!
What you'll need:
- A stick (about 6 inches long)
- Some scrap ribbon
- Hot glue gun
Step 1: Cut a stick about 6 inches long.
Step 2: Cut a length of scrap ribbon.
Step 3: Lay out the ribbon and cut to form a tree shape.
Step 4: Hot glue the ribbon to the stick
Step 5: Tie a ribbon at the top to make a loop
Step 6: Hang on your tree!
We're big fans of this rustic ornament. It's easy to make and as long as you have ribbon, sticks, and a glue gun, practically free! If you like them as much as we do, make sure to vote for them in our HoliDIY Challenge! Visit Facebook to cast your vote today!
Dec 21, 2015
Just a few more days until Christmas and it's a tight race for competitors in our HoliDIY Ornament Contest. For weeks Facebook fans have been voting for their favorite homemade ornament, and everything will come to a head on midnight Christmas Day. Whose ornament will receive the most votes? Only time will tell.
Before you visit our Facebook page to cast your vote, try making your own ornament! These rustic stars, submitted by our Senior Graphic Designer, Dorothy M., come together in four simple steps (and one of them is waiting for glue to dry!). Add a little whimsy to your holiday decor. Here's how to make them.
What you'll need:
Directions:
Step 1: Cut your paper towel roll into 1/4 inch strips.
Step 2: Glue your strips together in a snowflake pattern. You can try making a few snowflakes with different patterns (remember, now two snowflakes are alike).
Step 3: Wait for glue to dry.
Step 4: Place carefully in tree or around home
We're big fans of these cute ornaments! They're so easy to make, and environmentally friendly! What could be better? If you like them as much as we do, make sure to vote for them in our HoliDIY Challenge! Visit Facebook to cast your vote today!
Before you visit our Facebook page to cast your vote, try making your own ornament! These rustic stars, submitted by our Senior Graphic Designer, Dorothy M., come together in four simple steps (and one of them is waiting for glue to dry!). Add a little whimsy to your holiday decor. Here's how to make them.
What you'll need:
- Paper towel roll
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun
Directions:
Step 1: Cut your paper towel roll into 1/4 inch strips.
Step 2: Glue your strips together in a snowflake pattern. You can try making a few snowflakes with different patterns (remember, now two snowflakes are alike).
Step 3: Wait for glue to dry.
Step 4: Place carefully in tree or around home
We're big fans of these cute ornaments! They're so easy to make, and environmentally friendly! What could be better? If you like them as much as we do, make sure to vote for them in our HoliDIY Challenge! Visit Facebook to cast your vote today!
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