How To Cook Like a Gentleman

Get ready for local chef Ryan Hogan to sweep you off your feet with sweet treats, but hold the sugar! Ryan is an ambitious entrepreneur, author, chef, and health-minded influencer. As CEO of the non-profit, The SweetLife Movement, Ryan provides health and wellness information to educate today’s youth about lifestyle nutrition. After debuting his skills as a guest chef on local television show ABC 4’s “Good Things Utah” – Ryan released his health-oriented cookbook, Gentleman’s Bistro. Get his healthy and delicious recipes from his book or see him live at the first Salt Lake Home Show of 2016.

Can't wait until Ryan's appearances on January 8th, 9th, and 10th? His recipe for sugar-free candied almonds should tide you over! Try making them tonight and get ready for more delicious recipes when you see Ryan at the Salt Lake Home Show.

SUGAR-FREE CANDIED ALMONDS

Ingredients

• 1 lb alomnds (can also use walnuts or pecans)
• 1/4 cup of XyloSweetⓇ
• 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
• 1 egg white
• A dash of salt
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prehead oven to 352 F - place baking rack in the middle position.

Step 2: Prepare a 9" x 13" baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly spraying it with cooking spray. Spread out almonds, walnuts, or pecans in a single layer onto the bottom of the prepared pan.

Step 3: Lightly toast the nuts for 4-5 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Mix cinnamon into XyloSweetⓇ and set aside.

Step 5: In a deep bowl, beat egg white with a dash of salt until stiff - fold in the XyloSweetⓇ/cinnamon mixture and lightly toast nuts. Slowly drizzle butter over mixture and fold until incorporated.

Step 6: Pour mixture back into baking pan and spread out to form an even layer.

Step 7: Bake at 325 F for another 10 minutes - stir to ensure even baking. Bake for another 10 minutes and stir again. Taste to make sure the nuts are not overcooking. Bake again for an addition 10 minutes and stir a final time.

Step 8: Remove from heat and spread out onto parchment paper. Mixture will be sticky and somewhat wet.

Step 9: Allow to dry for several hours or overnight. Depending on humidity, it may take longer to dry completely.

Step 10: Enjoy! 

The Salt Lake Home Show takes over the South Towne Expo Center January 8 - 10, 2016. With hundreds of experts ready to help with everything from roofing to cooking, home improvement projects, landscaping, and more, it's a must-attend event for Salt Lake City homeowners. 

Don't have tickets yet? Save big when you buy online! Click here to get $2 off tickets to the Salt Lake Home Show.

SOUTH TOWNE EXPO CENTER
JANUARY 8-10, 2016.

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Utah Home History & Design

Design is constantly changing as it is influenced by history. Stylistic contexts from the social, the cultural, the economic, the political, the technical, and the aesthetic have all affected design in one way or another. Provo locals, Andy and Candis Meredith, are exploring historic home restoration on their new show Old Home Love on DIY Network. These two have a passion and talent for rehabilitating historic homes, mostly from the 1800s.

There couldn’t have been a better couple for the job… Andy and Candis are all about family! Raising their six boys and now a baby girl, one could say that this is a family with appreciation for the generations. Old Home Love brings together family, history, love, and design.

We spoke with Candis about home restoration, check out our brief Q&A:

Q: Why restoration?

Candis: "Although Andy and I do love modern homes, it seems like the craftsmanship of these older home was much better."

Q: Is it easier to restore or build new?

Candis: "With new homes I know what to expect. When restoring historic homes, you never know what you'll find. There's a lot of problem solving involved, but overall the feeling of saving something is so rewarding."

Q: What advice would you give homeowners looking to restore their homes?

Candis: "Do your research! If you do things right the first time, you will save a lot of money down the road."

Andy and Candis will be on the XFINNITY Design Stage at the Salt Lake Home Show on Friday, January 8th at 7pm, Saturday, January 9th at 3pm and 7pm, and Sunday, January 10th at 1pm. Don't have tickets yet? You can save big when you buy them online! Click here to get $2 off your tickets!

For more home renovation advice and pictures of their latest projects follow Andy and Candis on Twitter at @OldHomeLove. And to stay in the know about the Salt Lake Home Show, follow @SLCHomeShow on Twitter. 

SOUTH TOWNE EXPO CENTER
JANUARY 8-10, 2016.

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Comfort. Style. Bliss.

Meet Taniya Nayak in person as we kick off 2016 at the Salt Lake Home Show this January. Taniya is a tastemaker of the interior design community, after becoming a household name as a design expert on HGTV and Food Network. She has a sharp eye and a talent for giving any space a fresh and clean look.

One could say that Taniya has design in her blood. Influenced from an early age by her father, who worked as an architect, Taniya pursued a master’s degree in interior design to fulfill her undeniable desire to create. Fresh out of design school, she made her television debut as a designer on ABC Family’s show called Knock First. The show ended after two years and she made the jump over to HGTV. Taniya has since been featured on many HGTV design shows over the last 10 years. The show that really launched her career was called Designed to Sell. Taniya is now living her dream. She’s in her 12th season of Restaurant: Impossible on the Food Network, while running her own design firm out of Boston.

We spoke with Taniya and got first hand insight about her upcoming appearance at the 2016 Salt Lake Home Show.

Q: What is your design philosophy?

Taniya: "My design philosophy is to make comfort and style go hand in hand to create bliss."

Q: What advice would you give to someone who wants to improve their space?

Taniya: "I would say don't worry about following trends; do what makes you happy!"

Q: What can you tell us about your upcoming Slat Lake Home Show appearance?

Taniya: "I would like everyone to come prepared with lots of questions! I will be sharing my best tips and secrets on design. Including, where to shop, how to plan, and what to look for - and how to get the most bang for your buck!"

See Taniya on the XFINITY Design Stage at the Salt Lake Home Show on Friday, January 8th at 5pm and Saturday, Januayr 9th at 1pm and 4pm. Don't have tickets yet? Buy 'em online to save big and skip the box office line. Click here to get $2 off tickets!

Get more design and decor tips when you follow Taniya on Twitter: @TaniyaNayak! And make sure to follow @SLCHomeShow on Twitter to stay in the know about the Salt Lake Home Show.

SOUTH TOWNE EXPO CENTER
JANUARY 8-10, 2016.

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It's Hammer Time for this Mother-Daughter Duo!

Mother-daughter duo, Karen E Laine and Mina Starsiak are the faces of HGTV’s new show Two Chicks and a Hammer. The show is based in their hometown of Indianapolis, where they transform rundown properties into impressive urban homes, improving neighborhood all across their city.

The pair got their start in renovation after Mina purchased her first home – a shabby-chic cottage with more shab than chic and not in the best part of town. The girls decided to do most of the restoration on their own! They had so much fun that it soon became a small business. With Karen’s legal background and Mina’s mind for real estate, these brainy-babes get the job done from start to finish, and they aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.

It takes a special relationship to work so close with family, but these chicks understand that the benefits far outweigh the challenges. This powerful relationship and their unique style and willingness to work is an unstoppable combination. The chicks have stayed true to their style. Karen said, “It’s important for us to stick to timeless design choices with a fun twist that fits the vibe of the house!”

Catch Two Chicks and a Hammer on HGTV and see them live at the Deseret News Home Show! Everyone's favorite home and garden event will take over the South Towne Expo Center October 9-11, 2015. The chicks will be on the Design Stage on Friday, October 9th at 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. and on Saturday, October 10th at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 when you visit the Home + Garden Events' Facebook ticket deals! Treat a friend or family member to the show - we can't wait to see you there!

SOUTH TOWNE EXPO CENTER
OCTOBER 9-11, 2015.

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Deseret News Home Show Exhibitor Spotlight: SunFire Defense

We're thrilled to have SunFire Defense joining us at this year's Deseret News Home Show. This innovative company creates products to help protect families and homes in case of fire. SunFire Defense SPF3000 fire blankets, sealants, and sprays help lower energy consumption, increase energy efficiency, improve agriculture, scale up enzymatic transformations, and protect what matters most.

SunFire Defenses uses only the best eco-friendly fire protection materials to help ensure the best future for our planet and its people. To learn more about this revolutionary company and how it can help protect your loved ones visit them in booth #1743/1745 at the Deseret News Home Show.

But before you see them at the show, check out our brief interview below to see what they have planned for this event!

Please describe your products.

"SPF3000 degree clear spray fire retardant for homes and fire retardant escape cloak for families."

What are your best safety tips for homeowners?

"Treat your home if you are in a wildfire area to prevent burning embers from burning down your home."

Will you have any show specials?

"Free fire escape cloak with SPF3000 fire stop treatment to your home."

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

"Spraying blankets for horses to keep them safe during an evacuation from wildfires."

What's your favorite part of the Deseret News Home Show?

"Visualizing all of the applications for our fire spray."

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

"Jim Moseley is the 2014 Patrick Soon-Shion Los Angeles Business Journal innovator of the year recipient for saving lives and property."

The Deseret News Home Show takes over the South Towne Expo Center October 9-11, 2015. With hundreds of home improvement experts ready to help you with your latest project this is a must-attend event for Salt Lake City homeowners.

Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on Facebook and treat a friend or family member to the show. We can't wait to see you there!

SOUTH TOWNE EXPO CENTER
OCTOBER 9-11, 2015.

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Intelligent Design with HGTV's John Gidding

John Gidding can simply be described as an architecture and design expert. After graduating from Yale with a BA in architecture and completing a master’s program at Harvard School of Design, you could say he has the knowledge to prove it. He has gone on to become the host of HGTV’s Curb Appeal and works to enhance the outside of a home by incorporating design techniques into the exterior space.

As owner of the New York City-based John Gidding Design Inc., John has had success with design and construction projects all around the world and he isn’t planning on scaling back any time soon.

We talked to John to about upcoming trends for this year and even tried to get some hints about this year’s Deseret News Home Show.

What are some of your favorite interior or outdoor design looks this year?

"Outdoor living is skewing away from massive planting beds and horticultural expressions to hardscapes, overhead pergolas and projections, and interesting seating styles, be it hammocks and swings or large collections of whimsical seating options. In other words, both in front and back yards, people are focusing on creating courtyards and patios with a real focus on seating and comfort. This is a huge departure from when I first started Curb Appeal and everyone would chastise me for putting a few options for seating in the fronts of homes! As for interiors, I'm in love with everything Ken Fulk is doing."

How would you describe your design aesthetic?

"I'm a modernist at heart, but the more I work, the more I'm adapting to a softer approach. Finally, the most successful tenet of modernism is open-plan living - we are no longer hampered by structure defining every space, and instead find ourselves in open floor plans that allow life to flow easily from one space to another. This is easily married with color, pattern, and comfort; elements which mean more and more to me with each project."

What is one piece of advice you would give a homeowner who wants to improve the look and feel of their space?

"The key to improving the look and feel of your space is to identify needs that will be newly met by the redesign. If all you're looking to do is breathe new life into your home, playing with fabrics and colors will be the least expensive and most effective way to do it - but if you want to take your project to new heights, identify some needs you've always had (need more storage? more seating? more light?) and make the design address your needs if you want your project to be 'next level'."

Since you’ve been to Salt Lake before, is there anything you love about the city, or is there anything you would like to experience while you’re here?

"I love SLC because of the people. I've met some life-long friends there and look forward to visiting every time. I'm definitely going to stop by to check out the latest pieces by The Mandate Press when I'm there - I've always been a huge fan of letterpress artwork and one of the foremost studios in the country is in SLC."

Join John Gidding at the Deseret News Home Show October 9-11, 2015. John will be appearing live on the Design Stage on Friday, October 9th at 7pm and Saturday, October 10th at 3pm. Don't miss him!

Haven't bought your tickets yet? Get 'em early to save big and avoid box office lines! Right now you can get 2-for-1 tickets when you visit our Facebook ticket deals. Click here to grab yours today!

SOUTH TOWNE EXPO CENTER
OCTOBER 9-11, 2015.

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Charity Begins At Gnome

Gnomes have always been misunderstood. Are they prankster with a mean streak? Or benevolent woodland creatures sent to protect people? Fresh off their century-long ban from the esteemed Chelsea Flower Show, (lifted in 2013), gnomes are making a comeback - and they're brighter and bolder than ever!

Ty Pennington, host of ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and TNT's On The Menu, made this sweet little guy.

We are pleased to announce that the 2015 Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival will be participating in the Better Gnomes & Gardens DIY exhibit. Show attendees will have the opportunity to bid via silent auction on these quirky keepsakes: whimsical garden gnomes decorated by 12 personalities from HGTV (including Ty Pennington!) and Utah's local TV and radio shows. All of the proceeds will go directly to Primary Children's Hospital. Before you see them at the show, get a sneak peek at all the gnomes on our Facebook page - you can even vote for your favorite!

The Good Things Utah team made this gnome and Barbie versions of themselves - that's right, you can go home with Nicea, Jessie, Brian, Michelle, and Reagan.

The KUTV2 News team made some of these fun guys.

This project was designed as a way to promote sustainable urban farming and social enterprise initiatives in a unique and interesting way. Check out the fun gnomes at the show and bid on your favorite. You'll go home with something truly one-of-a-kind and help support sick children in our community. The silent auction will run during the Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival, March 6 - 8, at the South Towne Expo Center. Don't have tickets yet? Buy 'em early to avoid box office lines and get the best deals. Right now you can get 2-for-1 on Facebook.

MARCH 6 - 8, 2015.
SOUTH TOWNE EXPO CENTER

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Learn To BBQ Like A Pro: Local R&R BBQ Shows Us How

Spring is upon us, and summer cookouts are just around the corner. Have you ever wanted to really learn how to make delicious barbecue? According to grand champion BBQ team and owners of local SLC eatery R&R BBQ, Rod and Rodger Livingston, you "don't need secret ingredients - just some smoke, fire, and a little patience."

One could say that it runs in the family; this brotherly barbecue duo was raised to BBQ "just right". The boys grew up learning all about top-shelf cuts of meat from Dad. Then there was Mom, with her words of wisdom, "If you're going to do something, you do it right or you don't do it at all." This powerful combination of quality and patience led the boys to win several BBQ competitions. After taking claim to the title of Utah's best competition BBQ team, Rod and Rodger decided to open up their own business, R&R BBQ.

Would you like to learn how to BBQ from the best that Utah has to offer? Hone in on your smoking skills with the pros at this year's Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival. That's right, R&R BBQ will be teaching a BBQ class!

Details:

• March 7th OR 8th from 11am - 3pm
• 4-Hour class
• Meat Selection, trimming, seasoning
• Fire box control, cooking times, and how to know when it's done

Cost fee:

• $99

Includes:

• 4-Hour class
• 2 tickets to the Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival
• A chance to WIN a Traeger Smoker
• R&R's rib, pork, and chicken rub samples and more!

Join R&R BBQ Saturday, March 7th or Sunday, March 8th from 11am-3pm at the Southe Town Expo Center in Room 400 in the North-West corner. To enroll in the class, please visit the R&R BBQ website and select the date you'd like to take the class (either Saturday or Sunday) - it's under "Register for Pit Master Class".

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Get The Backyard Of Your Dreams With A Little Help From Matt Blashaw

Do you have the backyard of your dreams? DIY Network's Matt Blashaw has tricks to help you create an innovative and eye-catching backyard design. His background is in construction and DIY. After graduating from Chapman University in California, he went on to receive his contractor's license, pursuing home remodeling and real estate. Matt is currently the host of the hit series Yard Crashers, on both the DIY Network and HGTV. On the program, he shows us what it takes to dig up, rebuild, and ultimately transform barren and boring yards.

3 Questions for Matt:

Q: What has been one of your greatest challenges on Yard Crashers?

Matt: "My biggest challenge is coming up with innovative designs that are both spectacular and simple enough for any homeowner to attempt on their own. My team and I have to design and rebuild amazing outdoor spaces in just two days, so we all had to perfect speed building. Although our construction process is much shorter than average, I still want viewers to understand how the overall process works."

Q: What is one piece of advice you would give to a homeowner who is planning on starting a new outdoor project?

Matt: "First of all, don't bite off more than you can chew. Many homeowners are eager to get a large project done, so they try to renovate an entire space all at once. Split the big project into smaller pieces and accomplish one step at a time. This gives homeowners an opportunity to plan, budget, design, create, and eventually enjoy their space with ease."

Q: What do you plan on discussing at the Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival?

Matt: "I want the Salt Lake audience to learn how to start any outdoor project like a professional - from materials to budgeting and every fundamental in between. Everyone deserves the backyard of their dreams, and I have five simple projects homeowners can do that will totally impact the look and feel of their yard."

Don't miss Matt Blashaw at the Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival. The landscaping expert will take the Design Stage, presented by XFINITY, on Friday, March 6th at 7pm, Saturday, March 7th at 1pm and 7pm, and Sunday, March 8th at 1pm. Don't have show tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on Facebook and bring a friend or family member to the show - we can't wait to see you there!

MARCH 6 - 8, 2015.
SOUTH TOWNE EXPO CENTER

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The Girls With Glasses: Style Icons For Young Moms Everywhere!

Meet The Girls With Glasses, Brooke White and Summer Bellessa, lifestyle bloggers and mommy-fashionistas! Meeting on MySpace, their friendship grew as they bonded over their passion for fashion. Their style has grown together and is a mix between tradition and innovation.

"We want to inspire women everywhere to live a fashionable, creative lifestyle while juggling an everyday one as well." - The Girls With Glasses

You may recognize Brooke from her debut on the hit TV series American Idol. This energetic blonde has an unforgettable raspy voice that landed her in the top 5 on Idol. The show opened the doors for Brooke to independently pursue her music career, and release five albums since her appearance. In May 2012, Brooke and her husband Dave welcomed their first child together, daughter London, into their lives. Now Brooke has the opportunity to bring her interests into this new phase of her life: motherhood.

The sassy red-head of the duet is summer. She began her modeling career at age 17, traveling internationally to work in the top fashion capitals of the world, including New York, Paris, London, Tokyo, and more. Her time in the industry allowed her to diversify her talents. As an entrepreneur she pulled together a talented team to create ELIZA magazine. Summer continues to produce creative content for various projects, including, but not limited to, The Girls With Glasses. She is also enjoying motherhood, raising two rowdy boys with her husband, Kerry Bellessa.

Together The Girls With Glasses have been generating lifestyle, home, family, fashion, and entertainment creative content for over five years. They have videos on ULIVE, The Design Network, and on their YouTube channel as part of the KIN Community multi-channel network. Brooke and Summer will be reveal their fashion forward mommy secrets live at the 2015 Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival. Make sure you see them at the show, they'll be gracing the Design Stage presented by XFINITY on Friday, March 6th at 3pm and 6pm.

The Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival takes over the South Towne Expo Center March 6-8 2015. Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on Facebook and bring a friend or family member to the show. We can't wait to see you there!

MARCH 6 - 8, 2015.
SOUTH TOWNE EXPO CENTER

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Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival Exhibitor Spotlight: Revive

It might not feel like it, but spring is around the corner! Get great advice for your garden when you visit Revive at the Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival.

Before you see this exciting exhibitor at the show, learn more about what they offer below...

Name: John Eden

Booth Number: 2000

Describe your products:
"Organic-based fertilizer and soil treatment."

What are your best garden tips?
"Make frequent seasonal adjustments to sprinkler clock as weather dictates."

Will you have any show specials?
"$7 show special on Ready Spray & Dog Spot Treatment."

What's the strangest client request you've ever received?
"Asked if I could come out to apply the product for the homeowner."

What's your favorite part of the Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival?
"Helping customers solve their lawn problems."

Sounds like this is one exhibitor you can't afford to miss - make sure you see Revive at the Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival, March 6-8 at the South Towne Expo Center. Full of home and garden experts, celebrities, enthusiasts and more, we've got everything you need for your next home improvement project - all you need is tickets! Don't have 'em yet? Get 2-for-1 on Facebook!

MARCH 6 - 8, 2015.
SOUTH TOWNE EXPO CENTER

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Top Chef Katie Weinner Shares One Of Her Easy Curry Recipes

Top Chef Katie Weinner is an artist and food is her medium. We are so lucky to have her this year at the Salt Lake Home Show, January 9-11 at the South Towne Expo Center. Make sure to check out our Kitchen Stage schedule to find out when she'll be appearing. Now you can create one of her delicious recipes at home. Try one of her favorite, and possibly her simplest, curry recipes: Sri Lankan Potato Curry.

Sri Lankan Potato Curry

Ingredients:

1 Pound potatoes (medium or large diced, peeled)
1 Onion, small diced
2 Cloves garlic, small diced
1 Green chili, small diced
1 Cinnamon stick
1 Stalk of lemongrass, bruised
1 Tsp fenugreek
10 Curry leaves (sub 3 bay leaves)
1/2 Tsp turmeric powder
2 Tsp curry powder (Sir Lanka Dark Roasted Curry Powder)
Salt to taste
1 Can coconut cream
1 Can coconut milk

Directions:

Step 1: Take the fat off the coconut cream and sauté all your ingredients, except your potatoes, for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Add the potatoes and remaining coconut milk to the curry. Cook until the potatoes are tender and the gravy thickens. If the gravy is too thick you may add water to help the potatoes cook.

Step 3: Season as you go with salt, spice, and anything else that you feel your curry needs.

Step 4: Serve over rice.

Don't miss Katie Weinner at the Salt Lake Home Show. The event takes over the South Towne Expo Center from January 9-11, 2015. Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on our Facebook Ticket Page.

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Celebrity Spotlight: John + Whitney Spinks

John and Whitney Spinks are the ultimate home renovation team! This Midwestern couple has been together since middle school. John has a passion for construction and Whitney is a DIY guru. Their skills complement each other and made the Spinks a perfect fit for HGTV's hit show Flipping The Block. Since the series, they have started their own construction and design business, 27 South Design Group, out of Jacksonville. They specialize in home staging and styling, while offering room makeovers and interior design with respect to spatial planning.

The Spinks will be sharing some of their secrets at the 2015 Salt Lake Home Show, which takes place January 9-11 at the South Towne Expo Center. But before you see them at the show, get to know them a bit better in our interview below!

Marketplace Events (MPE): What is your design style?

• John and Whitney Spinks (John and Whitney): "We tend to gravitate towards modern-eclectic design. We love bright, airy, open spaces, and love to mix new with vintage."

MPE: Can you briefly describe some of the best moments on the HGTV show Flipping The Block?

• John and Whitney: "For us, the best moments were those of accomplishment. We were transforming spaces from filth to high-end design in a matter of days, and the best feeling was looking at our work and feeling proud of what we'd just completed. To put the cherry on top, we won half the challenges, and having our names called as the winners always felt gratifying!"

MPE: Did you learn anything new from participating in a challenge like this?

• "We learned so much! One, that we can handle stress as a team very well. And two, that we are a strong, dynamic duo. The judges continued to say that we were the team to beat!"

MPE: What is one piece of advice you would give to a homeowner who wants to redesign a room in his or her home?

• "Choose your paint color last! There are thousands of paint colors out there, so decide on the staple pieces first and then find the paint color that plays off those pieces."

MPE: What do you plan on discussing onstage at the Salt Lake Home Show?

• "Overall, the focus will be on Top Ways To Add value To Your Home. We'll start the presentation telling the audience our story and how we fell in love with design. We want them to get a good feel for who we are as a couple, (how we are a team in everything we do), and how we have followed our passion for design together. Then, we plan to focus on how to make some design decisions that add a ton of value, without spending a fortune. We'll tie in Flipping The Block to demonstrate how we implemented smart design choices to win over the judges. And we'll explain how easy it can be to add value."

Sounds like a presentation you don't want to miss! Catch John and Whitney Spinks at the Salt Lake Home Show, January 9-11 at the South Towne Expo Center. Buy your tickets early to get the best deals - right now you can get two tickets for the price of one when you visit us on Facebook! Treat a friend or family member to the show - we can't wait to see you there!

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Boosting Curb Appeal With Cynthia Bee At The Deseret News Home Show

Whether you’re preparing to put your house on the market or simply want to upgrade and improve its look and feel, boosting curb appeal is the best place to start. Curb appeal is the message your house sends to those who view it. It can also transform your house into a much more inviting and warm home. If you are preparing to sell, improving the exterior is relatively inexpensive but extremely effective. 

Cynthia Bee of Vintage Bee Paint is an expert in DIY home transformation, and she is excited to share advice on boosting curb appeal for your own home. She'll be presenting on everyday curb appeal at the Deseret News Home Show. Join her on the Design Stage on Saturday, October 11th and Sunday, October 12th to get advice for boosting your curb appeal on a budget and improving the facade of your home. But before you see Cynthia at the show, we asked her for some quick clues to a cuter curb. Get five simple tips below, then head to the show for more inspiration.

1. Play with the entryway - Creating a front door focal point that is both beautiful and functional is the number one way to boost curb appeal on a budget. Add a fresh coat of paint to the door - even consider a vibrant pop of color - and repair any imperfections on or around the door. Also experiment with decor, such as wreaths, plants on the stoop, interesting fixtures and seating near the front door, to create an inviting entryway even before setting foot inside.

2. Perfect pathway - A messy or unfinished pathway to the front door can send the wrong message. The path to the entryway should separate the driveway from the front lawn and the front lawn from the front door. Adding exterior ground lighting to illuminate the walkway or placing bushes and potted plants is a simple way to create a distinct separation and improve the overall appearance of the front of your home.

3. Front yard seating - If your front porch or entryway is fairly small, you might want to consider designating a portion of lawn as an outdoor seating space. Replacing a patch of lawn with concrete tiles or gravel and placing colorful chairs and even a small table within that space can transform the front of your home. This curb appeal option is a bit pricier than others, but the return on investment is potentially huge. 

4. Revive planter beds - The appearance of the front garden can really work in your favor when boosting curb appeal. Begin pruning and weeding old planter beds and add new plants where they are needed. It may be helpful to consult with a landscaping expert, even if you do all the labor yourself. He or she can offer advice about the best plant based on the specifics of your yard and your desired look. Also, consider upgrading the borders of your garden beds to stone or decorative cast concrete.

5. Replace gutters and downspouts - If the gutter system on your home is old and in need of repair, it should be replaced immediately. Nothing decreases curb appeal faster than rusty or damaged gutters and chipped downspouts.  It’s also important to consider the efficiency of water transfer from your roof through the drainage system. New and reliable gutters and downspouts help maintain the structure of the home. 

The Deseret News Home Show takes over the South Towne Expo Center October 10-12, 2014. Join us for an event full of home improvement and decor advice, celebrity presentations, and local experts. Grab your tickets now to get the best deals - right now you can get two tickets for the price of one when you like us on Facebook. We can't wait to see you at the show!

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HGTV's Renovate To Rent: Secrets To Real Estate Success

Drew Levin and Danny Perkins are the energetic and talented duo behind HGTV’s Renovate to Rent— the popular show that follows Drew and Danny as they buy old or foreclosed homes, completely renovate them, and then rent them out for top dollar. As a real estate agent, Drew understands the ins and outs of buying and selling homes, and Danny, a skillful general contractor, revives worn out spaces to put back in the market. After the two became friends while attending the University of Florida, they quickly recognized their shared goals and complementing talents, which eventually turned into a successful business plan.

We're thrilled to have Drew and Danny joining us at the Deseret News Home Show, October 10-12 at the South Towne Expo Center. They'll be gracing the Design Stage on Friday, Saturday and Sunday to share expert advice on the smartest ways to shop for a property and helpful tips when renovating a home, as well as stories about their ridiculous behind-the-scenes antics. But before you see them at the show, get to know this dynamic duo below.

Five Questions for Drew and Danny 

Marketplace Events (MPE): What makes you two a great team when it comes to your business?

• Renovate to Rent (RR): "There are several reasons we make a great team. First and foremost, both of us are incredibly competitive. The competitiveness cultivates a motivating and dependable work environment. Secondly, our goals and priorities are always aligned, and we don’t allow our egos to get in the way of accomplishing those goals. Finally, we have a very different skill set - I am more of a visionary, and Danny is more of an operator. While I am thinking about what’s next, Danny is making sure everything is taken care of within the business today."

MPE: What is the best part of the home renovation process?

• RR: "It’s hard to pinpoint just one part of the home renovation process that we can call the best. However, the planning stage always comes to mind. It’s very fun to be able to let the creative juices flow and come up with the best plan for each new property. That being said, a close second would, of course, be the finished product. It’s such a great feeling to see your ideas come to reality and the reactions of those who get to live in those spaces."

MPE: Drew - What is one piece of advice you would give someone searching for a home to rent or buy?

• RR: "When searching for a home, it is incredibly important to have a clear vision of what you want. I can’t tell you how many people lack clarity when looking for a property to buy. In my opinion, logic is much greater than emotion. Try not to allow emotion to cloud your decision making process."

MPE: Danny - What is one piece of advice you would give a homeowner who wants to renovate?

• RR: "The best piece of advice during the renovation process is to pick the right contractor. It takes teamwork and communication from both you and the contractor, so hiring someone you trust will make all the difference. It’s especially important that there is full transparency during the process. We often recommend homeowners get an itemized budget from their contractors to see exactly where their money is being spent."

MPE: What is one bit of information you would like the Home Show audience to walk away with after your presentation?

• RR: "We would love to see people feel like they have a better approach to purchasing real estate and a better idea of how to work with a contractor when remodeling their homes."

Don't miss Drew and Danny at the Deseret News Home Show - make sure to grab your tickets soon. Right now you can get two tickets for the price of one when you like us on Facebook. Treat a friend or family member to the show! We can't wait to see you there.

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JAM OUT FOR SPRING WITH EMILY ELLYN in Salt Lake City!

 

Food Network darling Emily “Retro Rad Diva” Ellyn is bringing her unique style, throw back culinary flair and unmatched enthusiasm to the Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival at the South Towne Expo March 7-9. She’ll be spending Friday through Sunday with show guests on the Kitchen Stage presented by SelectHealth. But before she does she shares an treat involving strawberries and chocolate. Yum….

Recipe Courtesy of Retro Rad Chef Emily Ellyn, more at www.EmilyEllyn.com

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time:  35 minutes

Total Time:  65 minutes

Yield:  3; 8-ounce jars

Ingredients:

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted

1 package (1.74 ounce) regular powdered fruit pectin

5 cups strawberries (fresh or frozen), washed

¼ cup lemon juice

6 ¾ cups granulated sugar

Directions:

In a medium glass bowl, mix cocoa powder and pectin until evenly blended.  Set aside.

In a large heavy bottomed 5-quart saucepot, place strawberries and lemon juice.  Whisk in pectin mixture until dissolved.  Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.  Add sugar all at once and return to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly.  Boil hard for 1 minute, scrapping sides and stirring.  Remove from heat and skim off foam.

Blend in blender or with stick blender for smooth texture if desired.

**Do the jam test - pour a little down the back of a frozen spoon. Run your finger through it. It should make a path that stays open. If not, boil a few more minutes and test again. Your jam is done when the jam coats the back of the spoon according to the spoon test!

Serve immediately hot as an ice cream syrup or use as a jam for the best PB & J, or can according to Retro Rad Home Canning Instructions online.

Once open, store in the refrigerator. Unopened jam will last for up to 6 months.

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MARCH 7-9, 2014

SOUTH TOWNE EXPO CENTER

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Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival: 10 Quick Questions for Bath Crasher Matt Muenster

This weekend, licensed contractor Matt Muenster of the DIY Network’s Bath Crashers and Bathtastic will be at our Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival.  Matt sees every house project, whether he’s ripping apart dated bathrooms using the latest construction technology or completely gutting his own kitchen, as a chance to use his clever ideas to achieve great design while integrating earth-friendly elements.

Check out our interview with him below!

10 Questions for Matt Muenster:

• What was your first job?
• Washing dishes at a supper club in Green Bay WI. And coaching little League 8/9 year olds. 
• Most memorable career moment to date?
• In season 2 we a met a family with a son who was in a wheel chair – best reveal ever –it gave us a great sense of giving back and making a difference. Also, designing an accessible bathroom that was functional and beautiful . 
• Any embarrassing on-the-job moments you’d like to share?
• The best show is when the camera is not filming – my favorite part of my job is getting to the set and seeing my friends – probably a cement dump that went awry.  
• Describe your design style in five words or less.
• Thoughtful, clean lines, modern simplicity. 
• What was your first ever DIY project?
• I grew up on a farm in Wisconsin, we were fixing things constantly.  I added a bathroom to my first house before my career started.  
• The last item you bought or crafted for your home?
• I bought 17 or 18 old doors – massive beautiful doors in St. Paul – the plan is to cut them up and panel-ize a wall in my house to create wall art.  
• What’s your personal mantra?
• Take care of luxuries and the needs will take care of themselves.  When you are thoughtful in design, you are creating space that is beautiful as well as functional; it is all about family and that always comes first.
• What is your favorite organizational tip?
• Plan for storage, recess storage, bathrooms don’t usually have good storage areas, so plan for easy-to-create storage to put things away. 
• What is your design or gardening pet peeve?
•  I'm not a fan of the glass bowl vessels that sit on top of counter tops; they are hard to clean and not functional. 
• Describe our the Salt Lake Tribune Home + Garden Festival in one word.
• Opportunity! I love to resource and meet new vendors that I may not have known about.

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Catch Matt live on our Design Stage Friday (7pm) and Saturday (4pm & 7pm)!

MARCH 7-9, 2014

SOUTH TOWNE EXPO CENTER

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