Showing posts with label Oklahoma City Home and Garden Show. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Oklahoma City Home and Garden Show. Show all posts

Jan 12, 2016

The Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show is partnering with Rebuilding Together OKC to help homeowners who need an extra hand with maintenance and repairs. The organization works with low-income homeowners in the metro area to make free, critical house repairs and updates such as patching leaky roofs, fixing broken stairs and installing grab bars.

“While inspiring homeowners to revamp their own homes and gardens, we also want to encourage people to learn how they can help others in our community by supporting local charities,” said RaeAnn Saunders, Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show manager. “Rebuilding Together OKC does valuable work in neighborhoods all over central Oklahoma, and we want visitors to learn how they can help.”


Visitors to the show will get a chance to learn more about Rebuilding Together OKC as well as see their impact through interactive displays and fun projects for children, including painting birdhouses for a small donation. Representatives will be on hand to answer any questions and provide more information about the organization.

Rebuilding Together OKC will also be one of several presenters on the Lifestyle Stage throughout the weekend. Experts in home safety and renovation will discuss “Fire Prevention,” “Dry, Safe & Warm” and “Aging in Place”.

“Years of deferred home maintenance can lead to major problems that impact homeowner health as well as community well-being,” said Mike Edmison, executive director of Rebuilding Together OKC. “We want visitors to the Home and Garden Show to learn how simple home repairs can make a big difference in the lives of their families, friends and neighbors.”


Since 1992, approximately 50,000 volunteers have helped Rebuilding Together OKC update and refurbish more than 3,000 homes, 30 non-profit facilities and eight public school buildings – a value of more than $20 million to the community.


Enter the promo code RTOKC to save $3 when purchasing Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show tickets online. Visitors will also have the opportunity to donate to the organization. Learn more about Rebuilding Together OKC by visiting their booth in the Modern Living building. 

STATE FAIRGROUNDS OF OKLAHOMA
JANUARY 15-17, 2016.


Jan 11, 2016

As HGTV’s newest stars, mother-daughter duo Karen Rominger and Mina Starsiak has learned a thing or two about home renovation. Here are five things you can learn from the spunky pair about creating a pretty home.


Q: What’s your least favorite chore when it comes to home maintenance or housekeeping?

Karen: Cleaning the gutters. It’s time-consuming and dirty.
Mina: Sweeping! I have a pitbull and a shepard mix that seem to shed non-stop.

Q: Landscapes can look great in spring and summer but dead in winter. What are your best tips to help homeowners with curb appeal year-round?

Karen: Keep the front of your house clean and tidy. Sweep the walk, keep the mulch in the beds, remove dead plant material and mow the grass.
Mina: Decorate for the seasons, even if it’s small. When flowerbeds are bare, you can still add color. A stack of pumpkins on the porch is festive while containers brimming with colorful flowers and plants can easily be moved indoors in a freeze. And put a wreath on your front door, but think beyond Christmas. Consider the other holidays and seasons like Easter and spring, or hang one just because it’s pretty.

Q: What’s one simple thing homeowners can do to improve their landscape or garden?

Karen: Mow high, at least 3".  
Mina: Put fresh mulch down…it makes everything look new again.

Q: Not all homeowners are DIYers. What should they look for when it comes to working with a contractor or interior designer?

Karen: Interview multiple contractors. Pick someone whose price is not at the top or bottom of the price range for services in your area.
Mina: Pick someone based on referrals. And don’t always go for the cheapest. Sometimes you get what you pay for.

Q: It’s holiday season. What’s your go-to hostess gift?

Karen: Wine and a candle are always festive and helpful.
Mina: Definitely a bottle of wine. It helps the hostess with the menu and puts everyone in the holiday spirit.

Karen and Mina will take over the Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show Lifestyle Stage on Friday, January 15th at 4pm and 7pm and Saturday, January 16th at 3pm and 7pm. Join them for home improvement tips and advice as well as project ideas.


Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 when you connect with us on Facebook and treat a friend or family member to the show. We'd love to see you there! 

STATE FAIRGROUNDS OF OKLAHOMA
JANUARY 15-17, 2016.


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
JANUARY 15-17, 2016.


Jan 5, 2016

In HGTV’s Vacation House for Free MattBlashaw uses his love for construction and renovation to show how anyone can add value and beauty to their home.

“Making mistakes in home design is ok; it’s the best way to learn how to do it yourself,” Matt says. “But the biggest mistake homeowners can avoid is starting too big. Start with a small project you can finish and be proud of. Then you’ll be inspired to keep going to create more beautiful additions to your home or landscape.”

When Matt isn’t building and reconstructing on HGTV and DIY Network, he’s…well, he’s building and reconstructing. But it’s who he’s doing it for that makes his work with Build for Love so special. Matt created the non-profit to provide support to children struggling or recovering from an illness or disability. With a team of volunteers, Matt helps turn their home and outdoor living areas into fresh, fun, and safe places. From new flooring, accessible ramps, and furniture to projects specifically designed for each child, every makeover is unique and special.

Even after more than 100 television episodes of creating dream spaces for homeowners of Vacation House for Free and Yard Crashers, Matt never tires of seeing the joyful reactions during makeover reveals. He thought it would be amazing to bring that same sense of delight to children.

Recently Matt and his team created a play area for siblings with cystic fibrosis. Once confined to a boring corner of the room while receiving breathing treatments, they now have their own space where they can watch television, read books, and play with toys that are all within reach.

"When I was a child, I cherished the times I was able to run and play and learn from my own space," explains Matt. "Those experiences helped shape me into the person I am today, and I want children to be able to have that same opportunity."

He'll be bringing that passion and design know-how to the Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show, where he share tips and tricks of the trade to create amazing spaces for your own family to gather and enjoy.

The Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show takes over the State Fairgrounds of Oklahoma January 15-17, 2016. With hundreds of home improvement experts, (including Matt!), ready to help with your next home project, this is a must-attend event for Oklahoma homeowners.


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 take advantage of this exclusive offer.

STATE FAIRGROUNDS OF OKLAHOMA
JANUARY 15-17, 2016.


Dec 16, 2015

We're excited to have Grace Allen Blinds joining us at the 2016 Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show. This Oklahoma based business is committed to providing its clients with comprehensive window treatment designs and helping them create the space of their dreams. Along with their preferred vendors and contractors, they create beautiful window treatments that reflect the people that use them - saving clients time, money, and costly mistakes.


Grace Allen Blinds services the greater Oklahoma City metro area, offering an extensive range of the finest quality and beautiful roman shades, roller shades, solar shades, woven wood shades, wood blinds, and more. Visit them in Booth 536 at the Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show to learn more.

But before you see them at the show, we caught up with Heather Langhofer, the proprietor, to see what she's got planned for this year's event. See what you can expect from Grace Allens Blinds below!

Please describe your products.

"Let me help make your inspiration boards from Pinterest and Houzz a window treatment reality! My goal is to provide comprehensive window treatment designs for you. Creating a total solution for light control, privacy, functionality and style - all within the dollar amount you want to invest, whether large or small. Offering blinds, shades, drapery, shutters and more!"

What is your best home decor tip for this season?

"If you're building, pay attention to the light in each room throughout the building process. As the sun changes location throughout the day and year, many people find they have sun issues in places they didn't expect. Understanding how the sun impacts your space throughout the day and year will put you in a better position to make good decisions on your window treatments needs."


What is your biggest home design pet peeve?

"'Stock White'. That means nothing in the home interiors industry."

What is the strangest client request you've ever received?

"Quite frequently I'm asked for 'those shades you can see through during the day but can't see through at night'. That's not quite possible! Once I explain how that product works we usually find the right solution for the space - but so many people are confused by today's solar shades."

What is your favorite part of the Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show?

"The energy! It's an exhausting few days, but it is a great kick off to the new year. Holiday season is over and people are itching to get to work on home improvement projects."

The Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show takes over the State Fair Park of Oklahoma January 15- 17, 2016. This one-stop-shop for homeowners will feature the stars of Two Chicks and a Hammer and Yard Crashers, as well as hundreds of local home improvement experts.

Don't have tickets yet? Save $2 when you buy them online! Click here to get yours now!

STATE FAIR PARK OF OKLAHOMA
JANUARY 16 - 17, 2016.



Dec 9, 2015

We're excited to have Guardian Security joining us at the 2016 Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show. For over 40 years they've offered homeowners a comprehensive list of security services, using the best equipment and knowledgeable installers, at an affordable and reasonable cost.


Guardian Security is honored to serve hundreds of thousands of customers across Oklahoma, providing wireless security and innovative home automation solutions. Based on the commitment to service they made over 40 years ago, they continue to evolve and are ready to help you with your home security needs.

Visit them in Booth 2313 at the show, but before you say hi to the Guardian Security team, get to know them a little better in our brief interview.

Please describe your services.

"We at Guardian take pride in offering the latest technologies available for securing and improving lifestyles with home automation. We take security seriously and provide the fastest response time in the industry along with quick and reliable service. We want to make sure that our customers get what they need and want to be secure...all at a very competitive price."

What are your best home tips for the season?

"With it getting dark earlier, install outdoor motion detector lights. Or better yet, install light switches that are controlled by your alarm panel/phone app, that will turn on automatically when you are approaching your home. Never come home to a dark house again!

Also, install a deadbolt that will unlock with your key chain remote that also disarms your alarm with the same button. Arm your system at night, and the doors automatically lock. Ever woke up to find that you left a door unlocked all night? No more!"



What are your home or garden pet peeves?

"Bushes or plants that block the view from the street of windows. This is a perfect scenario for burglars to take their time unseen to make entry into a home. Also, it may be convenient to have your car keys by the door so that you can grab them on the way out, but so can anyone that may have access (invited or not) to your home. I recently had a neighbor that had their car stolen out of their driveway overnight. They had remodeling done about a week earlier and noticed that some keys were missing... hmmm!"

What's the strangest client request you've ever received?

"That would be for space alien detectors in the attic. Those darn space aliens...slippery devils...hard to detect!"

What are your featured items this season?

"Everybody wants and should have cameras in and around their homes. They are exploding in popularity and we have the latest HD Video technology available for homes and businesses with our Alert360 Video systems. Complicated recording devices are being replaced with easy to use, affordable cameras that record in the cloud where live or recorded video can be viewed from any computer or mobile device from anywhere."


What is your favorite part about the Philadelphia Home Show?

"I really enjoy the interaction with the crowd and hearing the feedback from our existing customers that pass by. It reassures me that we are providing a service that is truly appreciated in our community."

Is there anything else you think folks should know about your company?

"The expansion that is now available from our Alert360 system is truly amazing. We frequently provide free updates to the firmware when new services become available. One such service on the not too distant horizon, is a GPS dog collar. Imagine being alerted by your home alarm and/or your phone that your pet has left the premises and a map pops up to show you where it is. These are the kind of innovations that Guardian has and continues to seek out for our customers. It is truly an exciting time to be in the security industry."

The Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show takes over the State Fair Park of Oklahoma January 15-17, 2016. With hundreds of home and garden experts ready to help you with your next home improvement project this is a must-attend for Oklahoma homeowners!

Don't have tickets yet? Save $2 when you buy them online! Click here to get yours today!

OKLAHOMA STATE FAIR GROUNDS
JANUARY 15-17, 2016.


Jan 16, 2015

Kids used to need large, sturdy trees to build tree houses. Even then a plywood platform and a rope ladder may have been the only components that made up the secret getaway. But at this year's Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show, Tony Mussatto will create the Ultimate Tree House and bring childhood tree house dreams to life - for both the young and the young at heart.

Tony's grand tree house features large areas for visitors to spread out and stay a while as well as nook sand crannies to hide away from reality. The best part of this rustic retreat may be that having the perfect tree is optional. That means kids growing up in a home with no trees or in a small lot can still indulge their imaginations of a backyard hideaway.

"The tree house can be customized to a customer's every need and whim," Tony said. "Kids in the country, kids with big back yards, kids living in smaller city lots, all have the same dream of a club house or secret space. This ultimate tree house can be made to fit all those fantasies, no matter where you live."


Tony will also give several presentations during the show to audiences seeking to learn more about how to choose plants made to thrive specifically in the Oklahoma climate. As owner and landscape designer at Tony's Tree Plantation in Oklahoma City, Tony is an expert on which particular plants, flowers, and trees thrive all across the state. He says the key is finding which varieties will stand up to our state's hot, dry summers and bitter, cold winters.

"Creating an attractive, low-maintenance landscape isn't difficult if you start with a realistic budget, a plan, and the right pieces," explained Tony. "Even 'hardscaping' such as strategically placed boulders or concrete areas can beautifully transform a space."

While Tony has been an exhibitor at the Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show for several years, this year's booth promises to be the most spectacular he has ever put together. From the impressive tree house to the creative gardening and landscaping inspiration, Tony is anxious to get visitors in the space and see their reactions.

"The best part about our exhibit this year is that everyone has the chance to take some of it back home with them," gushed Tony. "At the end of the show, everything will be priced at a major discount. From the tree house to the plants to the accessories, everything will be for sale."

Tony's Tree Plantation is located in the OK Expo Hall in Booth #2205. Tony will be available in the booth to answer questions and talk more about planting for the Oklahoma weather. Stop by the Lifestyle Stage in the OK Expo Hall to hear his presentations on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

The Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show takes over the State Fair Park of Oklahoma January 16 - 18, 2015. Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on our Facebook Ticket Deals. Treat a friend or family member to the show - we can't wait to see you there!

JANUARY 16 - 18, 2015.
STATE FAIR PARK OF OKLAHOMA 




Jan 15, 2015

At this time last year, the Cleveland County Habitat for Humanity made a commitment to help rebuild homes in Moore, OK, after devastating tornadoes and storms swept through the area in May 2013. They had been working diligently to find 10 lots for 10 families to build safe new homes. They were also looking for a tornado shelter company to provide secure, affordable shelters for the families. It was quite a busy time for the non-profit organization.


Fast forward one year and there has been great progress. Three homes are near completion and two more are slated to break ground shortly. A grant from the United Way of Central Oklahoma will afford shelters for all 10 families, and Storm Safe Tornado Shelters, a company in Oklahoma City, will provide and install the shelters at a much-needed discount. The grant will also help the families by paying their down payment, closing costs, and insurance for the first year.

The Cleveland County Habitat for Humanity is fortunate to receive the time and efforts of volunteers who are still dedicated to the rebuilding efforts in Moore. Many come from out of state to help, including student groups using their college spring and fall breaks to travel to Oklahoma to work for people they have never met before.

"Words do not describe our gratitude for all the volunteers, sponsors, and donations we receive to help our rebuilding efforts," said Linda Banta, Executive Director. "We are a non-profit organization with just 10 employees, and without the enormous amount of support we receive, we could not continue to accomplish the dream of homeownership for our families in need."

As the charity partner at this year's Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show, Cleveland County Habitat for Humanity will work hard to raise awareness about the home building they provide and volunteer opportunities their work offers. This year kids can paint and decorate bird houses for a small donation, and the organization will raffle off a backyard play set. The University of Oklahoma Chapter of Habitat for Humanity will also share the booth to raise awareness for the Habitat affiliate. Visit their booth in the Modern Living building to learn more.


The Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show takes over the State Fair Park of Oklahoma January 16 -18, 2015. With appearances by national celebrities including Kevin O'Connor and the Renegade Gardener, hundreds of exhibitors, and local home and garden experts, it's a must-attend event. Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on our Facebook Ticket Deals.

JANUARY 16 - 18, 2015.
THE STATE FAIR PARK OF OKLAHOMA 


Jan 14, 2015

Oklahoma's finest take their skills to the grill for Hero Day as they compete for the Best Beef Recipe during the Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show at Oklahoma State Fair Park on Sunday, January 18.

The Oklahoma Beef Council and Oklahoma CattleWomen Inc. invited members of the military, police, and fire fighters to participate in the statewide contest, which will take place on Sunday and will be judged by local celebrities, including "The Food Dude", Dave Cathey. Cathey is the food editor at The Oklahoman.

The Oklahoma Beef Cook-Off is hosted by the Oklahoma CattleWomen Inc. and the Oklahoma Beef Council to educate consumers about the versatile and nutritious quality of beef.


Sunday is also Hero Day, a special day to say thank you to local military, police, and fire fighters by giving them free admission to the Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show on that day. If you know an Oklahoma member of the police force, military, or fire fighters, invite them to the show or send them a link to this article so they can enjoy the show for free. They'll simply need to show their credentials at the door.

The winning Best Beef Recipe will be available to the public online at www.oklabeef.org after it's announced during the show.

Need a protein-packed meal idea for your busy family? Steak sliders are packed with protein and provide servings of veggies, whole grains, and dairy (when topped with cheese). Plus, it's an easy recipe to make for a small family or crowd.

Steak Sliders

Step 1: Place cooked sliced beef on top of the bottom halves of mini whole wheat or white hamburger dinner or slider rolls.

Step 2: Top with red or caramelized onions, spinach, arugula or salad greens, and a half slice of bacon (if desired).

Step 3: Spread desired condiments on top halves.

Step 4: Close sandwiches and enjoy.


The Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show takes over the State Fair Park of Oklahoma January 16 -18. 2015. Come to the show to enjoy presentations from national home and garden experts including Kevin O'Connor of PBS' This Old House, and The Renegade Gardener™, Don Engebretson. Don't have tickets to the show yet? Get 2-for-1 tickets on our Facebook Ticket Deals.

JANUARY 16 - 18, 2015.
STATE FAIR PARK OF OKLAHOMA



Jan 13, 2015

Even gardening enthusiasts can fall into the trap of common gardening myths, which can make even the most well-intentioned gardening efforts counterproductive. Don Engebretson, The Renegade Gardener™, is a popular speaker and nationally recognized authority on gardening and landscape design. Don shares his top 3 gardening myths below. 


1. Shredded Wood Mulch Attracts Termites & Carpenter Ants - Myth.
Carpenter ants don’t eat wood, a simple fact that surprises many (do carpenters eat wood?). Carpenter ants can bore through solid wood, however, and do so for the sole purpose of building a nest. They will nest in live and dead trees and fresh or rotting logs and stumps. And since a telephone pole, fence or porch post or the wood frame of your house look and act a lot like dead trees to them, they will sometimes build their nests in these man-made structures.

2. Weed Barrier Fabric Is Good To Install Because You Won't Have Any Weeds - Myth.
Nothing could be further from the truth. Few products foisted on homeowners by landscapers and the gardening industry are as worthless as weed barrier fabric. The barrier can mask the weeds growing underneath, but eventually, the weeds make their way through.

3. Organic Gardening Products Are Good Because You Aren't Using Harmful Chemicals - Myth.
Just because you are using an organic gardening product doesn’t mean you aren’t using chemicals. It may just be an organic chemical rather than a synthetic one. "Organic" means the chemical is derived from the earth, its deposits or its plants. "Synthetic" means the chemical is made by someone in a lab coat. Either way, the product is still a chemical used to kills bugs. However, Don believes organic fertilizers are superior and uses them exclusively on his plants because they are gentler on the soil and plant root systems. Using organic fertilizers also means you are adding organic matter to the soil.

The Renegade Gardener™ will be appearing live at the Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show, January 16-18 at the Oklahoma State Fair Park. Homeowners can learn the latest trends, innovative ides, and expert remodeling and gardening tips. Don's presentations include "Common Gardening Myths - and the Mayhem they Cause" and "Top 10 Gardening Blunders - and How to Avoid Them". Don't have tickets to the show yet? Right now you can get 2-for-1 tickets as part of our Facebook Ticket Deals. Treat a friend to the show - we can't wait to see you there!


JANUARY 16- 18, 2015
OKLAHOMA STATE FAIR PARK



Jan 12, 2015

Where do homeowners turn for DIY inspiration? One of the most popular standards has been PBS’s This Old House, which is celebrating 35 years of being the longest-running and largest home improvement show on television. Emmy-nominated host Kevin O'Connor has been on the front lines for many of the funniest and most memorable shows throughout their history. This Old House was the first of its kind and still holds the largest numbers of viewers. They expanded their scope to include a magazine and web site full of helpful archived articles on everything from fixing a disaster to making your space sparkle.



Here are three timely ideas that will help readers get into the home improvement spirit in 2015. 

1. How To Build A Better Chicken Coop - That's right, backyard chicken-keeping is a growing trend, even in Oklahoma City. With organic all the rage, one can't get more free-range that simply walking out of the back door for fresh eggs for your omelet. Yet you don't want an unsightly chicken coop to ruin the aesthetic of your property. Find out how to create an attractive chicken coop for up to three hens here.

2. How To Stop Cold Air Leaks In Winter - Brrr. Oklahoma has seen its share of Old Man Winter this season, and he's likely to hang out for awhile. “This Old House” provides ways to keep your home warm (and save on energy costs) by fixing cold air links with this helpful video.

3. Start The new Year With An Organized Closet - If one of your New Year's resolutions is to learn how to control clutter chaos, why not start with the room where you start and end your day – your closet? No need to wait for spring cleaning. An organized closet not only saves time and stress in the mornings, but it becomes an oasis away from a hectic home schedule. Get the know-how here.

With hundreds of helpful articles covering indoors and out, readers are sure to find what they are looking for to tackle home improvement projects in the new year. Get more tips and lessons at this year’s Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show, January 16-18 at the Oklahoma State Fair Park. Kevin will share more memorable moments live at the show, and homeowners can learn the latest trends, innovative ideas and expert remodeling and gardening tips. Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 tickets on our Facebook Ticket Deals.    


JANUARY 16 - 18, 2015.
OKLAHOMA STATE FAIR PARK



Jan 10, 2014

The Top Trends

Are you already pining for warm spring breezes so you can get your hands dirty in the garden? Are you anxious to get started on that home improvement list that you've been putting off all winter? Join the crowd at this year’s Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show January 17-19 and get a head start on the biggest trends in décor, design and landscaping. Soon you’ll be seeing more color than just the winter blues.

Color Coordinating


If you’re ready for an easy change in your home without the cost and commitment of a major renovation, look to Pantone. Known worldwide as the standard language for color communication, the company recently released their favorite color pick for 2014 - Radiant Orchid. Pantone touts the purple hue as “a vibrant color [that] is sure to liven up neutrals.” For everyone from first-time homebuyers and decorators to renovating pros, Radiant Orchid may just be the color that can reenergize even the most tired color palette.

“My clients are asking for a lot more color,” said Denise Smith, C.I.D., owner of at Decorating Den Interiorsin Norman and vendor at the 2014 Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show. “From large painted rooms to smaller accessories and accents pieces, color is becoming more popular.”


Smith thinks Radiant Orchid is a good choice for the year’s feature color. “While Pantone’s 2013 color Emerald Green was gorgeous, it just didn't take off and become something that people incorporated into their homes. I think this year’s color is bold without being overwhelming and will be pretty almost anywhere you use it.”

Garden Variety
Planting season may be a few months away, but you can get an early start by touring the feature gardens at the Show. TLC Garden Center will focus on helping visitors envision their Backyard Oasis by showcasing an outdoor kitchen, sitting areas, a firepit, hot tub and raised vegetable beds.


“The big ideas for this year are finding more ways to live outdoors, even if you just have a small yard,” TLC landscape designer Shaun Doering said. “Urban gardening is a growing trend, and we have some great ideas for growing flowers and plants as well as vegetables in a small space.”

Tony Mussatto, owner of Tony’s Tree Plantation, is also noticing that clients want to spend more of their time living and playing outdoors. Their Ultimate Backyard will feature a basketball court, putting green, outdoor kitchen, natural log structures, a fire pit and unique water features. But don’t get overwhelmed by all the options, Tony warns.


“Most clients know what they want. They just do not know where to start,” Tony said. “Any design is doable, and we have a plan to make our clients’ dreams come true while staying on budget.”
______________________________________________________


While spring may still be several weeks away, visiting the Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show is a good way to get a jump on updating your home and refreshing your gardens. Purchase your tickets now and help Jack Frost pack his bags a little early this year. 

Jan 6, 2014

William Moss is an edible garden guru encouraging everyone to Get Out and Grow. His talent for growing and gardening in even the smallest of spaces has gotten him noticed by national TV networks, and his recently published book Any Size, Anywhere, Edible Gardens explores how gardeners of any experience level can grow their own food.

William will bring his enthusiasm and passion for gardening to the Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show, Jan. 17-19. But before he hits the stage, we had a brief chat to learn just what makes him tick – both in and out of the garden.

Get to Know Will 
Q. What is your design or gardening pet peeve?
A. Boring, unimaginative landscapes. Landscapes should be ornamental, functional and maybe even tasty. Don't plant a row of green shrubs. Plant a staggered row with evergreens in the back and blueberries, roses or hydrangeas in the front. When you plant your tomatoes surround them with marigolds, nasturtiums or oregano to spice things up. Increasing your variety and trying new plants are the ways to make your landscape interesting and attractive all season long.
Q. What famous figure(s) inspires your career? 
A. Gardening and landscaping are part science and part art. The people who inspire me are intelligent, creative and innovative, like George Washington Carver, Frank Lloyd Wright, David Attenborough and Martha Stewart.
Q. Name 3 items in your kitchen that you could not live without.  
A. 1. Cast iron skillet. The 10" size is my favorite for making a garden fresh omelet, roasting newly harvest potatoes or even saucing home grown tomatoes.
2. Electric tea pot for my garden tea blends and heating up my twins' bottles.
3. Spice carousel for the many flavorful herbs from the garden.    

And speaking of flavorful herbs, William wanted to share his step-by-step instructions on how to grow Thai Basil right in your own kitchen (or anywhere with a light-filled window).

Growing Tasty Thai Basil
Materials
    Fresh basil: Fresh organic basil isolated
  • Six-Inch Pot with Saucer or Tray
  • Potting Soil Mix
  • Thai Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Siam Queen’) seeds
  • Plastic Wrap or Clear Lid
Grow it!
1.      Fill pot with potting mix leaving one inch between soil surface and top of rim.
2.      Scatter several seeds and press into top of soil.
3.      Place pot in sink and gently water until saturated (take care not to wash seeds out of pot).
4.      Cover with plastic wrap or lid and place on sunny windowsill.
5.      After a week or so when seeds begin sprouting, remove cover.
6.      Water regularly as plants grow, every two to three days or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
7.      Once plants have four sets of leaves, you can begin harvesting. After a couple months when plants become too leggy, harvest everything and begin again.

Two or three leaves are enough to season any seafood or poultry dish. Thai basil is excellent in shrimp and shellfish stews and stir-fries. As with any fresh herbs, add the leaves during the last three minutes of cooking for the best flavor.

Sep 4, 2013

EXHIBITOR SPOTLIGHT


You won't want to miss the Water Garden Society of Oklahoma at our 2013 OKC Home + Garden Show (Jan. 17-19)! 



Get to know this fabulous exhibitor!


  • Company Website
  • What is the Water Garden Society of Oklahoma: 
    • We are a garden club whose primary focus is on water features, including water gardens, pondless waterfalls, and fountains.
  • What are your best home or garden tips for this season?
    • Adding a water feature to your home creates a relaxing, stress free environment while providing birds and butterflies a place to call home.
  • What are your featured items this season? 
    • If you are considering adding a water feature, join WGSO beforehand to learn tips and tricks, including the do's and those more important don'ts, plus receive discounts at participating vendors.
  • What are your home or garden pet peeves?
    • Thinking everyone has to have a lot money to have a water feature. There are water features for every budget and can fit everywhere - whether it's on a porch or on an acreage.
  • What is the strangest client request you've ever received?
    • "How do I turn my swimming pool into a water garden?"
  • What is your favorite part about the home show?
    • We love the water features!
  • Aside from our show, where else can people find the Water Garden Society of Oklahoma? 
    • You can find the Water Garden Society of Oklahoma (WGSO) on Facebook or visit our monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of each month at 7 pm held in the Will Rogers Garden Exhibition Center 3400 NW 36th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73112.



    You can catch the Water Garden Society of Oklahoma at our 
    2013 Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show (Jan. 17-19) at the State Fair Park of Oklahoma!