Canadian Debut: Miss Mustard Seed At The Toronto Fall Home Show

The inspirational Marian Parsons, a.k.a. Miss Mustard Seed, makes her Canadian debut at the Toronto Fall Home Show, September 18-21, 2014. Marian is a blogger, designer, author, and President of Miss Mustard Seed. She loves to paint and refinish old furniture and thought it would be amazing to have a line of Milk Paints in colours she loves. Thus the idea of Miss Mustard Seed's Milk Paint was born. What started as a small notion, exploded into a full line of products carried by over 230 retailers in five different countries. Before you see Marian at the show, please enjoy her interview with Toronto Show Manager, Tina Holmes.

MEET MARIAN PARSONS, MISS MUSTARD SEED

Toronto Show Manager, Tina Holmes (TH): What's happening in furniture painting in the upcoming 2014/2015 season?

• Marian Parsons (Marian): "I'm seeing more primitive-looking paint techniques...layering paint colours with crackled and worn finishes. I think DIY-ers are also becoming more aware of the products they are using and what ingredients are in them."

TH: What advice have you got for aspiring new DIY painters?

• Marian: "You have to start somewhere, so don't be afraid to start. Work on a piece that was free or cheap or that you just hate as it is. That way, there's no pressure!"

TH: What would you say are the biggest colours, the hottest trends for fall?

• Marian: I'm seeing a lot of shades of white on Pinterest. I think we all like how clean they look in pictures. I've also been seeing a lot of indigo, but the blues always catch my attention."

TH: With your book Inspired You: Breathing New Life into Your Heart and Home and the new "Look Book" launch, you bring to life your paint colours and furniture. Do you have a favourite Milk Paint colour?

• Marian: "I am a blue and white girl through and through, so I love Ironstone, Grain Sack, Shutter Gray, and French Enamel. It's really hard to pick though, because I like them all!"

TH: What's the most common question you're asked?

• Marian: "I get asked what to do with a piece. People will send me a picture of something they want to paint, but they don't know what colour to use or how to finish it. I can't answer all of them, but I try to give them a point in the right direction."

TH: Where do you get or go for inspiration?

• Marian: "I enjoy looking at magazines, Pinterest, other blogs and decorating books. I especially like looking at older decorating books to see what design choices have stood the test of time."

TH: Most memorable career moment to date?

• Marian: "Going on The Nate Berkus Show was a pretty special moment. I also had a pinch-me moment when I got my book contract. I never imagined my business would take me here."

TH: What famous figures inspire your career?

• Marian: "I think I get a lot more inspiration from women entrepreneurs who aren't famous, but have been a wonderful example to me of success coming from hard work, talent, and determination. I can relate to them more than someone who is really huge like Martha Stewart. Lisa Leonard, a jewelry designer, and Reni of Bliss & Tell Branding Company come to mind."

TH: What are three things nobody knows about you, but you wish they did?

• Marian: "I'm a vegetarian. I played Pluto at Disney World as my high school job. I have been all over Europe and to Russia, but this is my first time in Canada!"

TH: What's your personal mantra?

• Marian: "If you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you."

TH: What is your favourite app on your smartphone or iPad?

• Marian: "My Fitness Pal is an amazing free app and I love looking at Sky Guide."

Miss Mustard Seed will be appearing daily on the Main Stage at the Toronto Fall Home Show, check out the complete schedule for more information. Plus she'll be be doing book signing at the Homestead House Paint Co. Booth #931. Don't miss out - grab your tickets online now. And get the inside scoop on Marian's first trip to Canada by connecting with her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Special thanks to Toronto Show Manager, Tina Holmes, a.k.a. @TinaLovesPinto, for introducing us to the talented Miss Mustard Seed.

Special thanks to Homestead House Paint Co. for bringing Miss Mustard Seed to Canada.

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Sponsor Spotlight: Artemano Inspires At The Toronto Fall Home Show

We're thrilled to have Artemano joining us at the Toronto Fall Home Show, September 18-21 at the Better Living Centre, Exhibition Place. There will be ideas, innovations, and expert advice at every turn of the show - especially at the Main Stage, inspired by Artemano. Here's the inside scoop on what's happening at Artemano and what to expect from them at the show.

Artemano specializes in high-quality, exotic wood furniture and home decor. With stores in Montreal, Laval, Brossard, Quebec City, and now Toronto, their roots are in Canada, but their inspiration took shape in faraway lands - from the rosewood and mango wood of India to the suar and take of Thailand, to the recycled woods of Indonesia.

Artemano focuses on beautiful, handmade furniture, created mostly out of different types of wood. Many of their pieces have a one-of-a-kind silhouette and unrefined design that comes straight from nature. All distinct features, including knots, cracks, and crevices, are carefully preserved and cherished. In addition to their gorgeous creations, Artemano is committed to their clients. They offer an in-home interior design service that can be taken advantage of either before or after purchasing their pieces - you decide!

1. How did your company get started?

Years ago, founder Shimon traveled abroad where, for the first time, he set his eyes on freeform wood tables and stunning furniture made of natural, often recycled materials similar to what we see in our stores today. He instantly connected with these unique pieces and knew this style was something he would be passionate about sharing.

2. What is your company's mantra?

"Home is an escape and we love to create it." We believe that your home is the one place you should be able to go to truly relax. Incorporating organic furniture that you love is one of the best ways to achieve serenity.

Sandstone Buddha sitting in Lotus Position.

This meditating Buddha is the epitome of relaxation and serenity. Each hand crafted sandstone Buddha is unique - no two are exactly the same. 

Use nature's resources to craft your escape. As the seasons change and we begin to settle into our cozy dining rooms, the Lisa Dining Table in rosewood is on our wish list to give thanks with family and friends. Made of beautiful Indian rosewood, this modern dining table features two unique V-shaped stainless steel legs along with a one-of-a-kind wooden tabletop. 

The perfect table to transition from everyday casual to formal dinner party.

Available in three finishes (shown above in rosewood), each table bears both a wood grain pattern and colour palette that is unlike any other.

True beauty is found and reflected with light.

This perforated metal hanging lamp casts a warm, diffused glow that is sure to shine in any space.

An ambiance like no other.

The metal table lamps, when turned on, truly come to life, creating a mesmerizing light projection throughout the room.

Even technology looks good with nature! This iPad stand, hand carved of solid exotic wood, is designed with a raw appeal that will add natural charm and character to its surroundings.

The Freeform iPad Stand With Bark.

3. Anything else you think we should know?

Homeowners can win a $1,000 shopping spree at Artemano's Toronto location along with a complimentary in-home consultation with one of Artemano's designers. To enter, follow Artemano on Instagram and like Artemano on Facebook.

The Toronto Fall Home Show Main Stage, inspired by Artemano, will feature daily presentations and question and answer sessions by celebrity and industry experts. Make sure to buy your tickets to the show now so you don't miss a thing. We can't wait to see you there!

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Ultimate Upcycle Challenge: Stylized

The Toronto Fall Home Show and Habitat For Humanity, GTA have once again partnered to push local designers and DIY experts to the limit in the 3rd Annual Ultimate Upcycle Challenge: Stylized. Armed with a $100 budget, access to Rust-Oleum's products, and a killer competitive streak, each participant sourced and repurposed an item from the Habitat For Humanity ReStore (nine locations).

Stylized Categories include: A Twist Of...Modern, Country Rustic, Industrial, and Vintage Glam.

Love an upcycle so much you want to take it home?

Guests will have the opportunity to bid on their favourite upcycled items at the Toronto Fall Home Show, which takes place September 18-21, 2014 at Exhibition Place. The completed upcycles can be viewed at Booth #240. All proceeds from the auction will be used to support ongoing work at Habitat For Humanity, GTA.

Here's where you come in!

Before the silent auction starts we're asking you to raise your voice. Visit our Facebook page to see photos of the completed upcycle projects and VOTE for your favourite! The winner will receive a $500 Visa gift card and $200 worth of Rust-Oleum products. Having a hard time choosing just one? Vote for as many items as you'd like. Voting will remain open until 11:59pm on September 20, 2014.

The DIY Upcycle Heroes include:

• Leigh-Ann Allaire Perrault, Hue La La, @LeighAnnAllaire
• Jamie Alexander, Peloso Alexander Interiors, @JamieLAlexander
• Cristina Barbosa, Toronto Fall Home Show
• Lisa Canning, Lisa Canning Interiors, @lisa_canning
• Melissa Davis, MelissaDavis.com, @MelissaDavis
• Lindsey Gerish, Recreated, @LGrecreated
• Janet Hamilton, Paint It Like New, @paintitlikenew
• Tim Malonie
• Chris Palmer, Hand Crafted by Chris Palmer, @handymanpalmer
• Glen Peloso, Peloso Alexander Interiors, @glenpeloso
• Antoinette Plummer, Push Interiors, @Pushinteriors
• Jeanette Wisby, Design Savvy Interiors, @jwisbydecorfun

For more information on their upcycle adventures, visit the participants' blogs and websites, and connect with them on Twitter.

New this year:

Welcome Rust-Oleum consumer brands. Rust-Oleum provided all Upcycle Challenge participants with a variety of products needed to complete their projects. Participants were required to use at least one Rust-Oleum product in the making of their final piece of work.

See what these turned into!

Did you know that connecting with us on Facebook has perks beyond getting to see these awesome upcycles? Right now you can get two tickets for the price of one to the Toronto Fall Home Show when you like us on Facebook. Like us today, save on your tickets, and get voting!

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The ABC's of the Toronto Fall Home Show: Where It All Comes Together!

The Toronto Fall Home Show is coming to the Better Living Centre, Exhibition Place, Toronto, from September 18 - 21. Get inspiration for your home and renovation projects. With over 300 exhibitors showcasing their best and newest products and services - you won't want to miss all the great opportunities our show has to offer you and your home.

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Discover the season's latest with Show Manager Tina Holmes' alphabetical rundown of what to see at Toronto's largest Fall Home Show. Check out the ABC's of the Toronto Fall Home Show below.

Advice from the Pros at the Main Stage, inspired by Artemano. From decor, renovation, entertaining and DIY, local experts and celebrities will offer insight, inspiration and advice for all your home projects. 

We believe that daily life is the most beautiful journey - Beyond simple furnishings, our creations bring to light the organic beauty of wood. 

BILD presents Free Condo Buyer's Seminar. Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, this seminar offers a comprehensive analysis of the GTA's condominium market. Join real estate expert Simon Giannini, interior designer Glen Peloso, and renovation expert Brendan Charters. The seminar will be moderated by Erin McCoy, real estate expert and host of The Real Estate Talk Show. Taking place Saturday, September 20th at 11am. 

Chefs. Don't miss our stellar line-up of chefs and culinary experts whipping up specialties, serving tips, and tasty samples. Experts include Kevin Durkee, the Big Cheese, Cheesewerks, Culinary Expo Adventures, and Chef Lorenzo Boni, Executive Chef, Barilla America. 

Design Dilemma. What's Your Design Dilemma? Presented by Reno & Decor Magazine, this feature gives consumers the opportunity to ask about challenging design dilemmas. Professional interior designers and celebrity experts will be on hand to offer free one-on-one consultations.

Celebrity experts include Glen Peloso and Jamie Alexander, Peloso Alexander Interiors. 

Evelyn Eshum, Interior Design, appearing Thursday and Friday. Bathroom Bliss! Designer tips on creating the ultimate luxurious bathroom. The do's and don'ts when renovating your bathroom. 

Fall Favourite Finds... Discover the latest products with my selected Fall Favourite Finds, which highlight the many innovative new and trending products that can be found at the Toronto Fall Home Show. 

The Samsung Ultimate Immersive Experience showcases the World's First Curved UHD TV.

Garage ideas and inspiration! We have something for everyone. Transform your garage into a functional, organized and valuable room in your home. Inspiration from Garage Living.

Home + Style Studio Tour and Sale. In support of Canadian HIV/AIDS causes, it is celebrating its 15th Anniversary! Walk away with great buys on a huge selection of quality furniture and home furnishings at the Exclusive Access Sale. Plus join Benjamin Moore's Sharon Grech, regular guest expert on Cityline, for an exciting weekend stage presentation followed by one-on-one time to get answers to your design questions.

Ideas, inspiration with over 300 exhibitors.

#justright. Modern Living #justright designed by FLOROHome, featuring Casalife. Through a new and inspired inner courtyard layout, combined with today's off the floor furnishings, see how you can make your modern home #justright. The feature engages the senses with a year round green courtyard, and shows that with the help of architecture, functional interior design, and contemporary stylish furniture, how you can warm it up for our unique climate.

Gorgeous gold accessories, Casalife.

Kitchen - The heart of the home. Nevern Cambria welcomes a new design to the family: the Waterstone™ Collection. Nevern boasts a compelling palette of creamy taupes and browns, wisps of berry, and a subtle silver shimmer that flow together. 

Nevern, the Waterstone™ Collection.

Leigh-Ann Allaire Perrault, presented by Rust-Oleum. Whether you're craving a weekend furniture refresh or a full kitchen revamp, Leigh-Ann will share expert DIY tips and budget conscious tricks to transform your home for fall. Appearing Saturday & Sunday. 

Miss Mustard Seed. Canadian Debut of Marian Parsons aka Mustard Seed, presented by Homestead House Paint Co. Appearing daily, plus an exclusive book signing. 

Night. The Toronto Fall Home show is open until 9pm on weeknights. Plus FREE parking after 4pm on Thursday, September 18th. 

Outdoor heated mats. Kemf introduces HotFlake Heated Rubber Mats. Melt snow on contact and keep stairs and walkways safe and secure in winter. Visit Kemf at Booth #830.

Paint. Discover the colours found in Fusion, a new line of mineral based furniture paint, perfect for your home decor. Delivering an exceptional matte finish, this 100% acrylic latex paint requires no priming, sanding, or top coat!

Fusion - inglenook.

Questions answered. Destination Renovation by BILD (Building Industry and Land Development). Expert renovators offer unbiased advice and renovating tips in a FREE one-on-one appointment for homeowners. Meet face-to-face with renovators and builders for a no-nonsense construction consultation that will save valuable time and money.

Reno experts. In the world of home renovations, knowing the little things makes a BIG difference. See Michael Upshall, Probuilt by Michael Upshall and Dan Hall, Hall Developments, and get renovation tips from the pros.

Sleep Country. Official Mattress Sponsor of the Fall Home Show. As Canada's #1 mattress retailer, Sleep Country is THE best place to get a great night's sleep. Better sleep at a better price with better service...Sleep Country Canada. Visit Sleep Country Canada at Booth #646.

Tommy Smythe, TV design personality. It's overwhelming for homeowners to tackle decorating one room, let alone every room in their home. Tommy will show you fabulous options for every space and budget!

Appearing Saturday, September 20th at 2pm.

Upcycle Challenge. Back by Popular Demand - Habitat for Humanity GTA Upclcye Challenge: Stylize, presented by Rust-Oleum. Celebrity experts and emerging style, decor and DIY bloggers will source and repurpose a household item from one of the nine Habitat for Humanity GTA ReStore locations. Categories include: Country Rustic, Industrial, Eco Chic, Vintage Glam, and a Twist of Modern. The upcycled masterpieces will be on display and auctioned at the show.

Vitamix. Satisfy your smoothie cravings with the Apple-Pie Smoothie from Vitamix. 

Apple-Pie Smoothie

Xtra savings! Buy tickets online to the Toronto Fall Home Show and save $3 courtesy of StateFarm.

Yellow. Mustard Seed Yellow is a warm, buttery yellow - bright without being too bold. Milk Paint can be used on any porous surface without a primer, and doesn't chip or peel. Distributed in Canada by Homestead House Paint Co.

Distributed by Homestead House Paint Co.

Zoocasa real estate app for smartphones & tablets. Perfect for looking at house listings while on the go. Visit Zoocasa at Booth #1163.

From A to Z there's lots to see at the Toronto Fall Home Show!
Grab your tickets online now and plan your visit - we can't wait to see you there! 

Special thanks to Toronto Show Manager, Tina Holmes a.k.a. @TinaLovesPinot, for sharing her Toronto Fall Home Show ABC's with us! 

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National Home Show: Getting the real dirt on Frankie 'Flowers' Ferragine

This spring, consider paying a bit more attention to your garden! We've got the perfect person to get you started, Frank Ferragine, aka Frankie Flowers! Frank Ferragine reaches over 1 million Canadians each week as the gardening expert for BTToronto, CityLine and City TV News. He is also a columnist for Canadian Gardening, the Toronto Sun, Chatelaine and Walmart’s LiveBetter magazine. Frank has authored three bestselling gardening books, Get Growing, Pot it Up! and his newest, Power Plants, on sale everywhere this March! 

Catch Frank's fresh take March 22 and 23 on the Main Stage at the National Home Show! Check out Show Manager Tina Holmes' interview with him below...

Where do you go for Garden inspiration! 

I find garden inspiration almost everywhere, it could be driving down a street in Toronto during winter admiring the structure of a corkscrew hazel planted outside a small semi, or it could be travelling to Arizona in fall to learn about better ways to conserve water when gardening, I love scanning the pages of Houzz online to look at unique and interesting concepts in landscapes many done by local members of Landscape Ontario but most of my inspiration comes from within the greenhouses of my family business Bradford Greenhouses where we always got something growing!!

What  gardening trend or item are you presenting this season?  

Power Plants: How to grow your own health!

The 49 best plants you can grow and find in your own garden to supercharge your health.

With your new book launch in March "Power Plants " you bring to life Natural remedies and how we can harness the powerful healing of plants.  Out of the forty-nine Power plants -- which is your favourite? My favorite and easiest to grow is Aloe Vera, indoors during the winter outdoors in a container anyone can and should grow Aloe it can be used for topical burns and have you seen the growth in Aloe drinks in the market..the reason it’s wonderful when ingested for overall health!!

What’s happening in gardening / trends for the upcoming 2014 season: 

So many things going on in the world of gardening and landscape for 2014, Growing your own veggies, herbs and fruits continues to surge with the development of unique varieties including dwarf pixie grapes, grafted tomato plants (bringing you earlier, and great yields of tomatoes), and of course the popularity of plants that help improve your health (kind of like your garden is almost an outdoor pharmacy for health!).  Blue is big in the garden for 2014 and not just any blue “facebook” blue you will see this in brightly coloured blue pots, patio chair cushions, umbrellas and thru the use of plants like delphiniums, ageratum and heliotrope.  The use of fire outdoors in the landscape sparks in 2014 with gas fired outdoor lamps, and even small water features that spit fire out of them too!!  The overall trend is maximize outdoor enjoyment while minimizing work, the most bloom for your buck...in fact I’m testing an Easy by Frankie line of annual plants with a major Canadian retailing in 2014...I do the work of choosing and selecting the best varieties all you have to do is plant them in the right location and presto...a blooming great garden!

If you could wave a magic wand over the gardens of Ontario what would you change? 

Pride of homeownership!!  It doesn’t take a lot to have a well maintained outdoor environment.  This isn’t just gardens it is the front door out!!  People focus on their bathrooms and kitchens but often leave budgets for outdoor landscapes last.  Your landscape is your first and last impression and feeling you’ll get when leaving and arriving at home.  A little effort goes a long way in landscaping!!

What advice have you got for aspiring new gardeners:  

Start small, ask questions and have a budget.  We've all been new gardens at some point in our life, we've all killed plants.  The key is to take some time, get to know your needs, then figure out your soil type and amount of sun your receive and finally select plants that fit your needs and your location.  I created my first book “Get Growing” by Frankie Flowers as a guide for new gardeners.  I would totally selfishly (LOL) recommend it!!

What is the most common question you receive? 

How do you get rid of dandelions in the lawn!

What’s your personal mantra? Live life in colour and live life outdoors!

What is your favourite part about our Home Shows and Canada Blooms!  The people, the ideas, the hope for spring and the buzz of activity!!

What is your gardening pet peeve? Dead plants left in a garden!!

What is your favourite garden-related phone app? Houzz ...just for inspiration!!

What songs are on repeat on your iPod?  

Stevie Wonder “Sir Duke”, Earth Wind and Fire “September”, Boys II Men “Mowtown Philly”,  Drake “We Started from the Bottom”, and many more!

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Don't miss Frank Ferragine March 22 & 23 LIVE on the National Home Show Main Stage! 

Special thanks to Show Manager Tina Holmes a.k.a. @TinaLovesPinot, for sitting down with Frankie Flowers and getting the dirt!

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The ABC's of the National Home Show: Real Advice, Real Inspiration & Real Experts!

The 2014 National Home Show is on right now! Offering you inspiration for your home and landscaping projects.  With over 750 exhibitors showcasing their best and newest products and services - you won't want to miss all the great opportunities our show has to offer you and your home.
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To get you excited about the show, Show Manager Tina Holmes has done an alphabetical rundown of what to see. Check out the excitement below...

• Appliances.  See the latest in Home Appliances.  From new technology in the kitchen to luxury laundry. 

• Bathrooms. Whether you're renovating or just need some inspiration for your bathroom, there's lots of bathroom experts and new products all under this roof.

• Canada Builds.  The 2014 Dream Home at the National Home Show designed and built by the Canada Builds Company. This year's home embodies the warmth and charm of small town Ontario with the creative touches to support today's active lifestyles. 

• Design!  Green Design.   Humber College presents this one-of-a-kind exhibit that will take visitors on an inspiring journey through the challenges of building green and will be presented in a market like setting featuring interactive multimedia environment aimed at a younger demographic and social relevance

• Exhibition Place, The Direct Energy Centre.  Come on down, free parking after 4 pm and easy access to the TTC and GO!

• Favourite Finds.  You’ll find plenty of innovative products and great home solutions to inspire a wide array of projects for your home. Find the latest ideas and hot new products like the Umbra Whiz Wisk (pictured left) in my Favourite Finds. 

• Gardens Galore!  National Home Show is co-located with Canada Blooms. 1 Ticket, 2 great events.  Canada Blooms, the flower and garden festival.  This year  the festival  theme is  Wild!  The sights, sounds and scents of the gardens, installations and fl oral displays will waken your senses from winter. 

• HGTV celebrity, Bryan Baeumler.  Join Bryan at the show as he discusses how to save your home from yourself!  Live at the show, March 23rd at 2pm. 

• Ireland.  Don’t miss your chance to win an amazing trip to for four people to Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way at this year’s Canada Blooms.  Visit the Wild Atlantic Way Garden for details. 

• Jackie Morra brings to life Urban Living.  You'll find big ideas and contemporary design ideas  for small spaces in this 900 square foot modern space.   Good things come in small packages.

• Kevin Durkee, The Big Cheese of Cheesewerks.  see his popular recipe for Cheddar + Ale Soup come to life.  Delicious and so easy to make and easy to impress your guests.

• Live with what you love!  I have a chair crush on the luxe chair and half by Casalife.  Craving this in Shimmer Chocolate leather. Luscious and luxe!  

• Meet & Eat with culinary masters.  Join Cheesweks' Big Cheese Kevin Durkee as he welcomes View the Vibe.  Kevin and  Nicki will dish on all the secrets behind the best foodie and drink spots in Toronto. Listen, learn and taste.  Plus Meet + Eat with Chef Scott behind The Culinary Adventure Company. 

• North America's largest home and garden show, featuring 2 events, over 750 Exhibitors, over 45 celebrity and industry experts and gardens galore.

• Outdoor Living goes inside out, thanks to the ultra-modern CasaBubble, the newest design trend taking European gardens and outdoor spaces.  In a flash, the GrandLodge turns into a mini apartment in the wilds!

• Parking.  FREE parking after 4 pm Monday to Friday!

• Questions?  Get your Renovation Questions answered.  Free renovation advice by appointment, bring your plans and questions and  visit  Destination Renovation Booth #1916.    

• Re/max presents Get Curbalicious.  Stop by and enter the Get Curbalicious Contest for your chance to win a landscape makeover valued at over $15,000 courtesy of Landscape Ontario & RE/MAX. 

• Sip and Savor.  Enjoy free sampling from our friends at The Wine & Spirits Experience.  Visit them around the Dream Home featuring Molson Cider and Mill Street Brewery. 

• Toyota Ride & Drive.  Buckle your seat belts and put the pedal to the metal!  Plus stop by the Toyota booth for a chance to win a brand new 2014 Corolla S - now that’s a set of keys we wouldn't mind having in our pocket!  

• Unilock Celebrity Stage presented by HGTV, featuring celebrity and industry home and garden experts.  Get great advice, tips and tricks from the pros like Gardening Guru Frank Ferragine, Income Property behind the Scenes with Melissa Davis & Tim Sellars, 1 Boring Room 3 Looks with Designers Glen Peloso and  Jamie Alexander and more...  For the schedule click here.

• Vitamix Idea Stage presented by Reno & Decor.  Featuring local experts from culinary masters, Designer Advice, Quick & Easy Gardening and a guest appearance by Jim Caruk.  For schedule click here.

• What's your Design Dilemma?  This is your chance for a free one-on one,  15-minute consultation with designers and experts who will offer advice on how to tackle your next project.  Don't forget to bring your plans and your colour swatches.

• X marks the spot!  The Style Spots.  Celebrated designers Glen Peloso & Jamie Alexander of Peloso Alexander Interiors bring Style Spots to life at his year's National Home Show.  So much inspiration and great ideas featuring Designer Inspired Interiors. 

• Yamaha Canada Music.  Check out the amazing Silent + Hybrid Pianos. Plus win a year of free lessons!

• Zen Rock.  So many great new products.  The Zen Rock by Scentsy.  The new  Zen Rock, element warmer, Inspired by tranquil spa rocks  Element warmers use a heating element to safely warm fragrant wax without illumination.

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From A to Z there's plenty to see at our 2014 National Home Show, it's not too late to plan your visit and be inspired for spring.  Special thanks to Show Manager Tina Homes, a.k.a. @TinaLovesPinot for alphabetically listing her home show must-sees! 

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National Home Show St. Patty's Favourite: Mill Street Stout & Irish Chicken Stew

Who doesn't love a fantastic stew recipe?  Well, to keep your stomach satisfied, Mill Street Brewery has a delicious and original dish!  For a brief moment, forget about mother nature's chill and prepare yourself an amazing bowl of Mill Street Stout & Irish Chicken Stew!

Mill Street Stout & Irish Chicken Stew

INGREDIENTS

• 1 2/3 cups MILL STREET STOUT 
• 6 tablespoons plus 1/2 cup Quinoa flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 2 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 5 pieces bacon, chopped
• 1 8-ounce package mushrooms
• 2 cups sweet onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups frozen baby peas, thawed

COOKING INSTRUCTIONS (This recipe makes 6 servings)

1. Mix together 6 tablespoons of quinoa flour with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken to this mixture and coat them completely and set aside.
2. Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a skillet on medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook on each side until browned. Transfer the chicken into a slow-cooker. Ensure the chicken is placed evenly inside the slow-cooker.
3. Add remaining ingredients to slow-cooker excluding the peas.
4. Pour Mill Street Stout and chicken stock into slow-cooker. 
5. Cover the stew and slow-cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 7-8 hours.
6. Add the peas and cook for ten minutes and season with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper.

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Don't miss Mill Street Brewery at the National Home Show where they'll be sampling their delicious brews!

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