The Art Of Entrepreneurship

As the Toronto Show Manager, I recognize the importance of and have only the utmost respect for entrepreneurs. These innovators create and grow their businesses, driven by talent, determination, and hard work. Consumer and trade shows are a key component of most companies' marketing efforts, which allows me the privilege of working and connecting with many entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Entrepreneurs have plenty to gain from exhibiting at a consumer or trade show. Due to the generally low cost of entry and small initial investment, these events are an ideal way to jump-start your business or take your already established business to the next level. The affordable pricing at consumer shows also allows you to compete with larger businesses in a way that other advertising and networking formats simply do not allow. For small businesses, shows are especially beneficial as they provide an opportunity to reach a plethora of potential customers, industry prospects, and media over a very short period of time. They're something that most entrepreneurs can't afford to miss out on, and here's another event entrepreneurs would be wise to attend.

Coming to Toronto on October 7th is an inspiring and informing celebration of entrepreneurship: The Art of Entrepreneurship. This highly anticipated engagement is recommended for entrepreneurs and business leaders who are focused on business growth and want to achieve significant results within their organization. The one day event brings an exciting blend of cutting edge thinking and real world experiences on key issues to help business owners focus on what matters: moving their business forward.

Headlining speakers include:

• Alexis Ohanian - Co-Founder of reddit 
• Gary Vaynerchuk - Founder of Wine Library
• Debbie Travis - Design superstar
• Eric Ryan - Co-Founder of Method
• Chris Guillebeau - New York Times Bestselling Author of The $100 StartUp. 

I am so excited about attending this event, especially with Debbie Travis and Gary Vaynerchuk on the agenda.

Debbie Travis is a design superstar and entrepreneur behind one of Canada's most recognizable brands. As a TV personality, author, entrepreneur, and mom, Debbie never stops. Her innate talent for design, coupled with her brand savvy and British wit have made Debbie a beloved, trusted, and inspiring media icon in Canada and throughout the world. Debbie, with her high energy, encourages those surrounding her to elevate their performance level, and give the extra effort that differentiates the exceptional from the ordinary.

Due to her entrepreneurial success, Debbie has turned her focus towards providing busy women with the tools and support they need to get through the day. Her autobiographical book, Not Guilty, is a humorous account of how she coped with juggling a busy career, building a large business, and raising her children.

I have always admired her hands-on approach and practical advice. Debbie brings her presentation, "Dream it. Do it. Live it: How To Make It Big", to life. She talks about why hard work, failure, passion, and pushing forward are critical to success as an entrepreneur.

Gary Vaynerchuk is the Co-Founder and CEO of VaynerMedia, Founder of Wine Library, an entrepreneur, and a New York Times Bestselling Author. Gary is always sharing hard-won advice on how to connect with customers and beat the competition. Gary presents "Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook: How to Tell Your Story in a Noisy Social World".

"My core thesis has always revolved around one question: are you marketing like the year you actually live in? That's it. It's not about where things are going to be in five years, and it's definitely not about how we've always done it. Do what works. Right now."

From passion and ambition to storytelling, his entrepreneurial spirit inspires others to become the best that they can be in today's busy business world. With his social media successes and engagement, it is no surprise that I first encountered Gary on Twitter. His philosophy of understanding what the consumer wants and his storytelling ability will get you hooked like I did - finding inspiration in his three books and still hungry for more. I agree with his belief that content is king, while communication is still key, context matters more than ever.

I admire his continued success in a noisy, social world. If you are looking for motivation to pursue your passion and insights into how to take advantage of the current business environment, Gary Vaynerchuk delivers.

As a small token of appreciation to entrepreneurs and business leaders, I'm pleased to offer you a special discount on tickets to The Art Of Entrepreneurship. When you purchase tickets online, please use promo code CONNECT26 to save $50 per ticket, or $100 per ticket if two or more tickets are purchased.

Don't miss out on your chance to gain a competitive advantage and network with over 1,300 of Canada's most influential entrepreneurs.

I look forward to seeing you there,

Tina

Toronto Show Manager, Tina Holmes, a.k.a. @TinaLovesPinot

The Art of Entrepreneurship is produced by:

The Art Of is a leading media and events company focused on providing business professionals with the tools, techniques and knowledge needed to succeed in today's changing marketplace.

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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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Celebrity Spotlight: See Sharon Grech at the Toronto Fall Home Show

Fall is the time for warm, rich, and cozy colours. From hues of burnt orange and forest green, to golden yellows and rich reds, these season-inspired colours will have you wanting to try something new in your home.

"Living with Colour", Benjamin Moore's Sharon Grech, a regular guest expert on CityTV's Cityline, will be appearing at the upcoming Toronto Fall Home Show.

As an in-house Colour and Design Expert and spokesperson for Benjamin Moore, Sharon Grech has established a reputation as an enthusiastic and knowledgeable authority on all aspects of colour, home fashions, and style trends.

SHARON GRECH

Sharon believes that colour is the most affordable and influential factor to creating harmony in the home. With her lively "hands on approach", Sharon demystifies colour theory, demonstrating how colour can unify any space - inside and out. Enjoy Toronto Show Manager, Tina Holmes' interview with Sharon below as Sharon shares her paint colour ideas, insider tips, and colourful inspirations.

Tina Holmes (Tina): What is your favourite Benjamin Moore paint colour and why?
Sharon Grech (Sharon): "Hard to choose just one, but currently it is Picnic Basket CSP-730. I painted my new home office a few months ago and just love how it is both fresh and neutral, and transforms throughout the day. At certain times it's a little more green, other moments, a little more blue. Perfect colour to surround myself in!"

Picnic Basket CSP-730

Tina: What is your favourite "paint tip"?
Sharon: "Try your paint colour on for "size"...Don't expect it to look the same in your home as it does in a magazine or online or in your best friend's house. Best bet is to buy a sample pot and try it out on your wall at home before committing."

Tina: What's the most common mistake people make when choosing paint colours for their home? How can they avoid it?
Sharon: "As above - TRY IT ON!!"

Tina: Is there any colour or trend you'd like to see the back of this year?
Sharon: "I am personally done with pastels now, although I admittedly have enjoyed their fresh appeal for the past few years. I am sure I will still find myself working with a few, but will need to ground them with deeper tones."

Tina: What would you say are the biggest colours; the hottest trends for fall?
Sharon: "For fall I am seeing an uptick on the saturation level of colours - richer, more complex hues. Greys are sticking around for sure, but feeling cozy for fall in deeper shades, like flint, with a blue undertone or sparrow with a brown undertone."

Walls: Flint AF-560
Aura, Matte

Walls: Sparrow AF-720

Aura, Matte

Tina: What are your personal mantras?
Sharon: "'Chacun à son goût' (even though my French is terrible). Everyone has different preferences whether it's for colour or style or wine, and who am I to judge? I am happy to share my knowledge and thoughts and opinions, but love working with clients to help them develop their own styles."

Tina: Where do you get your inspiration?
Sharon: "I get a lot of my colour inspiration from travel. I travel a lot for work as well as personal, and whether I am in Winnipeg, Milan or Wisconsin, I always stay far from the airport and explore the local sites with my camera. Inspiration pops up in the oddest places."

Tina: What are three things nobody knows about you?
Sharon: "Hm...I have two amazing kids, I used to be terrified of public speaking, and my hubby and I are 'restoring' a tiny (250 sq. ft.) off-the-grid cabin north of Toronto...and I am actually starting to enjoy spending time there!"

Tina: What is your favourite app on your smartphone or iPad?
Sharon: "I am a regular Facebook junkie, but am finding myself spending more time with Instagram and regularly post photos to Facebook from it."

See Sharon Grech at the Toronto Fall Home Show, on the Main Stage, Saturday, September 20th at 1pm. Sharon's presentation features inspirational room shots and her perfect paint colours for your home! And remember, grab your tickets to the show online now to get the best deal. We can't wait to see you there!

Special thanks to Toronto Show Manager, Tina Holmes, a.k.a. @TinaLovesPinot for helping us get the inside scoop on Sharon.

Toronto Home Shows "We've got you covered"

Toronto fall Home Show (Sept 18-21, 2014)

GTA Home & Reno Show (Feb 13-16, 2015)

National Home Show (March 12-22, 2015)

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Celebrity Spotlight: See Tommy Smythe At The Toronto Fall Home Show

Feeling less than sweet on your home, sweet home? Make sure not to miss television design personality, Tommy Smythe, at the Toronto Fall Home Show, appearing Saturday, September 20th at 2pm. Tommy recognizes that it's overwhelming for homeowners to tackle decorating one room, let alone every room in their house or apartment! In his presentation, Smart Solutions for Every Room in the House, he'll show you fabulous options for every space and budget.

Tommy's contagious enthusiasm and fun-loving approach to decor and renovating have made him an international design world favourite. Known for his warm and personal mixture of fine art, vintage, antique, and modern furnishings pulled together with cutting edge colour sense, Tommy never lets it all feel too serious. "If it's not fun, it's not worth doing!" - and that's his final word on style!

But before you see him at the show, enjoy our interview with him below and get to know the man behind the glasses.

TOMMY SMYTHE

Toronto Show Manager, Tina Holmes (Tina): Describe your design style in five words or less.

• Tommy Smythe (Tommy): "Young Fogey."

Tina: What is your favourite room in your home and why?

• Tommy: "Whichever room houses my books is always my favourite place to be. Many years ago my mentor, JS Manuel, advised me that every time I get a paycheck I should buy a book. I now have over a thousand books at home. Strangely, I don't think I've had a thousand paychecks..."

Tina: What is one item in your home you couldn't live without?

• Tommy: "My fireplace. I love winter. Love it more with a fireplace."

Tina: What is your design/decor pet peeve?

• Tommy: "I cannot, and will not, tolerate knock-offs. Authenticity is a religion for me. And like any religion, it takes discipline, focus, and it's constantly tested."

Tina: Most memorable career moment to date?

• Tommy: "My first cover story for House and Home magazine was a very special moment. Like many designers, I consider print media coverage to be a true mark of success - print has been struggling in recent years, but I believe in it still. There is no online experience that compares to holding a magazine or a book in your hands. I'm very proud to be a columnist and frequent contributor to House and Home." 

Tina: Any embarrassing on-the-job moments you'd like to share?

• Tommy: "Oh there have been so many! I fail constantly. Taking risks and having the courage to experiment are the life-blood of good design. There's a solution to every problem. This isn't surgery...it's just decorating. A sense of humour helps to take the sting out of mishaps too."

Tina: What are your personal mantras?

• Tommy: "Leave the world a more beautiful place than it was when you found it. And f*** 'em if they can't take a joke."

Tina: What famous figures inspire your designs/career?

• Tommy: "The list is LONG...but a random sampling includes: Billy Baldwin, Albert Hadley, Geoffrey Beene, Sister Parish, Horst, Ralph Lauren, Patrick Kelly, Oscar Wilde, David Hicks, Jean Michel Basquiat, Julia Child, Fran Lebowitz, Mark Hampton, Bill Blass, Yves St Laurent, Keith Haring. And of course the people in my life, (some of whom are famous because they are so inspiring to others), I'm fortunate to have befriended and whose lives and work are of constant inspiration to me. To say nothing of the vast wealth of good advice that springs...Sarah Richardson, Christie Smythe/Andrea Lenczner, Marilyn Denis, Lynn Crawford, Rick Mercer, Thomas O'Brien, Heather Clawson, Samatha Pynn."

Tina: Where do you get your inspiration?

• Tommy: "See above. And travel - as much as I can afford. I want to die broke having seen in ALL."

Tina: What is your "small space" tip?

• Tommy: "Edit."

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

• Tommy: "Instagram. I'm passionate about it. My IG feed is fun-filled and inspiring and occasionally funny - just like my life. See you there!" 

Catch Tommy at the Toronto Fall Home Show on Saturday, September 20th at 2pm. Make sure to bring a pen and paper - his tips are so valuable you'll want to take notes! And remember, grab your tickets to the show online now to get the best deal. We can't wait to see you there!

Special thanks to Toronto Show Manager, Tina Holmes, a.k.a. @TinaLovesPinot, for helping us get the inside scoop on Tommy.

Toronto Home Shows "We've got you covered"

Toronto Fall Home Show (Sept 18-21, 2014)
GTA Home & Reno Show (Feb 13-16, 2015)
National Home Show (March 12-22, 2015)

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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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Summer Obsessions: Tina Holmes' Seasonal Favourites for the Home + Garden

Summer's here, so it's the perfect time for outdoor living. Embrace your space! With plenty of sunshine to soak up, patio parties to attend and time to relax, this is the season! Here's a few of our summer obsessions from Tina Holmes, Toronto Show Manager. Whether you’re looking for a fresh summer salad, a pop of colour, or to brighten up your garden, add some sunshine to your home and garden.

Fresh Flowers

Image via Love My Simple Home

When the days are longer and the air is warm, throw open your windows and enjoy the days of summer. Bring the fresh look of summer into your home. Add fresh flowers and plants to any room, from your bedroom, living room and even the guest room. Enjoy colourful, cheery, summery bright colours. Live with what you love!

Chair Crush

Image via Tina Holmes (@tinalovespino Instagram)

Ah, the Acapulco chair. So colourful and summery. Sitting pretty, spotted at Green Light District (Roncesvalles) new outdoor space. Perfect for creating a simple little outdoor space, the Acapulco lounge chair is available in fun bright colours.  

Brighten up the Garden

Image via Colin & Justin Instagram

Brighten up the garden and even the patio. Bring in some fun bright colour accessories! I fell in love with these Colin & Justin home watering cans.   

Summertime = DIY Time 

Image via My Painted Door

Upcycling continues to be contagious with the ease of the summer months. There are so many great upcycle ideas and inspirations out there. 

Upcycling has been done for years, but it's only with the recent do-it-yourself movement that it earned a title. It's like recycling, but the goal is making the item even better than it was before. It was love at first sight with these Mason Jars painted with Miss Mustard Seed's milk paint in boxwood and curio and torn napkins added to cover part of the jars.

A favourite summer retail therapy stop is a Restore, that inspires the DIY in all of us - you'll never know what you'll find.  

Summer Salad: Yellow Couscous Salad with Pomegranate Dressing

Image via Healthy Recipe Ecstasy

Simple and easy summer salad. The perfect recipe for your couscous obsession: yellow couscous salad with pomegranate dressing. Couscous readily absorbs the flavours of the ingredients that are added to it, so what better way to celebrate summer flavours than with mint and pomegranate. 

Click here for the recipe.

Did you know that couscous is not a grain at all, but made from semolina (the hard grains left after milling durum wheat) that's combined with flour, salt and water (and sometimes roasted) to form tiny, pasta-like pellets?

Flavoured Ice Cubes

Image via Spoon Fork Bacon

With outdoor entertaining in full swing, it’s all about serving cool, refreshing drinks on a hot day. Super cool! Fresh fruit obsession, a perfect addition to summer. The summer season brings us lots of local fresh fruit from local farmers markets and culinary adventures. Fruit frozen into ice cubes livens up your simple summer drinks.

Summer Season Craving

Image via Food Network

Chef Corbin's Smoked Bacon Wrapped Corn on the Cob with chili & fresh lime. Summer is a perfect season to enjoy our local fare, and Ontario Corn is one of the best of Ontario Summers. For the recipe click here.

Outdoor Living

Image via ElleDecor

During the summer your most coveted space is outdoors. Brighten your backyard for those warm summer nights. Enjoy outdoor living long after dark with these illuminating ideas from white lights, patio lanterns and summer loving candlelight. 

Summer Songs

Songza is the new tunes obsession for summer. Great tunes streaming from curated lists, perfect for the home, vacation and cottage too. Make your summer patio parties, barbecues, and rooftop shindigs bigger and better with Songza. Songza is 100% free, with no audio ads, all you need is a wifi connection. A fun Summer Playlist is 'Summer Escapades' curated by Train. These bouncy beats and sweet melodies will get you excited for summer adventures with friends and family.

 

Special thanks to Toronto Show Manager Tina Holmes a.k.a. @TinaLovesPinot, for  sharing her Summer Obsessions!

Enjoy your summer! 

Toronto Home Shows "We've got you covered"

Toronto Fall Home Show (Sept 18-21, 2014)
GTA Home & Reno Show (Feb 13-16, 2015)
National Home Show (March 12 -22, 2015)

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Get Refreshed in 2014! Tina Holmes' Insider Exclusives

Baby it's cold outside! 

Get away from the winter blues... Freshen up your home for the new year with some easy decorating tips.

Alta Moda Furniture 

Keep your home organized, clean and make sure things are in order. Light a candle, play some music and put fresh flowers around the house. Add a pop of color with a bright throw pillow or perhaps some vibrant plants.

Fresh Flowers:

Vase via casalife

Brighten your days with fresh floral arrangements.  There's nothing like fresh flowers to brighten up you your space or day.  Super simple whether a single bloom on your table, a colourful arrangement on the dining table or adding cheer to the kitchen they give off an energy of colour and happiness.

Check out the local farmers market or grocery store for some seasonal favorites – tulips will be coming up soon and those are a personal favourite. These “fresh”  reminders will keep you going through the winter months. 

 

Don't forget to add greenery to your space, this will lighten up the room, plus plants create healthier air.  After a winter of coughing, sneezing, and just feeling “blah”, bringing in plants can completely change your mood.

Pillows & Linens

Chair by West Elm

For instant colour and makeover, add a throw pillow (or three) to your home decor.  A simple and inexpensive way to transition into the warmer months is to replace or add new pillows into your decor.  This simple switch-out can change the overall aesthetic and feel of a room in minutes.  Not only will your pillows last longer because they’re not being used 12 months of the year, but you also probably won’t get tired of them as fast.

Andrea Hylton Home

Give your decor a boost with a warm welcome, a new year with fresh linens. Beyond clean bedding, think about adding wonderful bed linens and comfort items to your bedroom.

Tea Towel

Ring in the new year with a lovely Tea Towel.  A fresh new tea towel will make a lovely new year addition to your kitchen.  Dish towels tend to be an afterthought when it comes to kitchen accessories which add a splash of character, charm and color to any kitchen's decor.

Etsy, Artthatmoves 

Get organized

Declutter your home and get organized. Refresh a room using boxes and other household storage items.

Enough storage space is, of course, the Holy Grail of any household. But solutions to the problem are probably littering your closets and cupboards right now. Use monochromatic boxes, wooden crates, berry baskets, and jars to stash anything from mementos to old files, paper clips to dried spices.

Box via casalife

Save the Memories

Extend those fabulous holiday memories beyond the end of your holiday by making the most of your images.  Turn your holiday memories into works of art using various frames and photo printing options.

Save and preserve your holiday photos and make memories last a lifetime! Enjoy and display the memories you've created together.

Frames via Umbra

 A Personalized Note

Start of the new year with a positive note. Express your thanks or thoughts to friends and family.  Personalize your message with a card.  Sending a personalized note card to someone, especially in today's online  environment, is more appreciated than ever.

Etsy, The Kautzi Shop 

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Special thanks to Show Manager Tina Holmes a.k.a. @TinaLovesPinot, for sharing some of her Home Show favourties with us!

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