HOLIDAY 2017
AVAILABLE AT
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CONTENTS
Available at Art Knapp Garden Home & Fashion. While supplies last.
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Must-Have Fashion Trends
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6 Steps to a Great Terrarium
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Easy Peasy Holiday Entertaining
10
Put the VoilĂ in Your Christmas Decorating
12
Best Hostess Gifts For the Holidays
14
Spruce Them Up
16
Holiday Gifts We Love
22
Pet Friendly Indoor Plants and Tropicals for the Holidays
This publication may not be reproduced, all or in part, without written consent from the publisher and Art Knapp Garden Home & Fashion. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all content in the publication, however, the publisher will not be held accountable for omissions or errors. Note that products may vary between retailers and regions, and supplies may be limited. Pricing is subject to change and is not valid with any other offer. Home & Garden Showplace is a registered trade mark for use by its members, of which the Garden Centre Group Co-Op is an alliance member. HOLIDAY 2017 • 3
MUST-HAVE FASHION TRENDS A
peek into this fall and winter season reveals collections that are unique and fashion forward, yet maintain a perfect balance between style and comfort. Focused around luxurious, rich fabrics and vibrant hues, this season’s trends still retain their sense of fun, colour and self-assuredness. Jackets hold the fashion spotlight, from classic suits, Jacquards or velvets to bomber and denim styles. Selecting a piece that reflects your taste shouldn’t be a difficult task this year since the pattern and colour choices are endless. As a new and upcoming trend in the high-end fashion industry, the Jacquard coat offers a stylishly bold uplifted design on a soft stretch knit. These Jacquard coats transition well from season to season: they can be enjoyed as a light jacket in the fall and early spring or as an extra, cozy layer for warmth during our cold Canadian winters. Fall is a great time to showcase the Canadian tuxedo, so be ready to wear denim from your head to your snazzy boots. From embroidered jeans to sweaters and tunics, denim is a perfect fabric for women of all shapes, and sizes. You’ll see accents of Marigold and Gloxinia flowers adorning jeans with the accompaniment of sequin jewels and distressed rips, a great fit for any occasion. Cozy cable knit sweaters and tunics are a standout addition to jeans and leggings since their rich feel and appearance never go out of style. Bold, dark and romantic floral patterns and vintage plaid patterns are also a mainstay for this fashion season. And continuing strong this fall is the layered look: think turtle necks almost hidden underneath a long blouse topped off with a funky poncho or shrug. Don’t be afraid to mix and match florals, plaids or edgy accents of leather and fringe. When it comes to your fashion sense and trends, it really is “anything goes” this year. Clothing featured by Orange Fashion Village
4 • ART KNAPP GARDEN HOME & FASHION - 250-334-3024 - ARTKNAPPCOURTENAY.CA
Owners From the
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all is already here! After a late start to spring we were all happy to see a sunny and warm summer. We were honoured to celebrate our 25th anniversary this year, and look forward to serving our customers for many more! There were some beautiful planter creations made by customers for Canada’s 150th birthday that were a pleasure to see all around town. This year we are excited to increase our workshops, offering a Wednesday evening class as well as additional classes. Our open house has continued to grow and we will be offering the coupon for both Thursday, November 16 and Friday, November
17, 2017. The demonstrations and refreshments will be on the Thursday only, but we wanted to ensure all of our customers could take advantage of the fabulous coupon! Our staff have been hard at work creating gorgeous displays and gifting ideas in store. The Department 56 village will be up soon, and is always a treat to see in person!
Wishing all our valued customers a Merry Christmas and health and happiness for 2018!
Linda & Sylvia Van Hage
Visit
our Website
TODAY!
• Sign up for Seminars & Workshops • Gift Certificates for purchase • Seasonal Planters for gifting
www.artknappcourtenay.ca HOLIDAY 2017 • 5
6 Steps
TO A GREAT TERRARIUM Article and photos by Kay-Leigh Parfitt
T
errariums are an eye-catching way to bring botanicals into your home. Terrariums make great decor pieces as they are beautiful, low maintenance and can improve the air quality in your home.
Tillandsia, also known as air plants, are best for open wide mouth and hanging terrariums as they will need regular misting and airflow. Air plants need no soil so they are great for simple and decorative terrariums.
Choosing your terrarium glass and determining where it will go in your home will help you decide as to which plants are right for your terrarium. Most commonly is the open terrarium. They make plant maintenance and upkeep easy and are good for cacti and succulents or fast growing tropical plants. It is important to know that different species of plants cannot always be in a terrarium together. While cacti and succulents can be planted together and ferns and tropical plants together, they cannot thrive together. Each require different amounts of light, water and soil. You'll want a basic or water retaining potting mix for the tropical plants and cactus soil for the cacti and succulents.
Cacti and succulents need dry sandy soil so it is best to use an open terrarium that will retain less humidity as they prefer little water and drier environments. Tropical plants like ferns or pilea need moisture retaining potting soil because they prefer humid conditions. This makes them capable of being planted in terrariums with small openings and enclosed terrariums.
6 • ART KNAPP GARDEN HOME & FASHION - 250-334-3024 - ARTKNAPPCOURTENAY.CA
Step by Step Layering for Planted Terrariums
Step 1:
Step 4:
Choosing the right spot for each plant
Drainage Layer A drainage layer is to ensure excess water doesn't stay in the soil causing the plants roots to rot over time. In most terrariums a minimum of two inches of pebbles and half and inch of charcoal is a sufficient drainage layer. Don't be surprised if you see roots grow down into the drainage layer as your plant grows.
Step 2:
If you choose multiple plants to go in your terrarium, there are a few things to consider, such as, how tall they may grow. Take time to make sure you are happy with your placement before unpotting your plants. Take care to ensure that the leaves of your plants are not touching the sides of the terrarium.
Step 5:
Filtering Layer Adding 1/2 an inch of charcoal can help prevent bacterial growth and mold from developing in the terrarium. For decorative purposes sphagnum moss can be used as a filter to help prevent your soil from falling down through the drainage layer. Be cautious when using moss in higher humidity terrariums as it can result in mold growth
Step 3:
Potting Soil
After your drainage layers are in, the next step is to use the proper potting soil for your plants. Succulents and Cacti need a cactus soil blend. They have a higher sand content, making drainage better as these plants prefer dry, breathable soil around their roots; while a basic potting mix works for most other tropical plants.
Planting
Carefully remove your plants from the pots, making sure to keep the roots intact while placing them in their chosen spots. Planting can be difficult in small spaces like terrariums, so be sure you have the right tools like small shovels, tongs, and even spoons can be used to help with proper placement. Next, push down the soil in between your plants. Be careful to not leave any gaps or air holes when planting as it can encourage root rot and bacterial growth.
Step 6: Adding a decorative top layer
Have fun with this step, it is what makes your terrarium special. Sand, pebbles or orchid bark. Shells, sticks and dried mosses or miniature figurines can all be incorporated, creating that home décor piece you will love forever.
HOLIDAY 2017 • 7
P V S R
Holiday
Space is limited, please sign-up online at www.artknappcourtenay/events today. You can also call us in store at 250-334-3024.
WORKSHOPS
Cost of workshop covers all basic supplies. All workshops must be pre-paid, and are non-refundable.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2
10:00am Live Greens Wreath 2:00pm Air Plant Hanging Globe Terrarium
10:00am Live Greens Wreath 2:00pm Live Greens Door Swag
10:00am Live Greens Table Centrepiece 2:00pm Sand Layering Succulent Planter
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29
6:30pm Live Greens Wreath
6:30pm Sand Layering Succulent Planter
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10
10:00am Kids Grinch Tree
10:00am Kids Grinch Tree
Decorate your own live mini Christmas tree
Decorate your own live mini Christmas tree
2:00pm Kids Air Plant Terrarium
2:00pm Kids Air plant Terrarium
Create your own unique hanging terrarium
Create your own unique hanging terrarium
Kids WORKSHOPS Ages 6 and up, or accompanied with an adult
WORKSHOP SCHEDULE November TUES 14
21
WED 15
December THUR 16
22
23
29
30
Sand Layering Succulent Planter 6:30pm
24
SAT 18
Live Greens Wreath 10:00am Air Plant Hanging Globe Terrarium 2:00pm
25
SUN 19
Adult Workshops
FRI 1
SAT 2
SUN 3
Live Greens Table Centrepiece 10:00am Sand Layering Succulent Planter 2:00pm
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Live Greens Wreath 10:00am Live Greens Door Swag 2:00pm
Live Greens Wreath 6:30pm
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FRI 17
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Kids Workshops
PRIVATE BOOKINGS Looking for a fun evening out, or a team building activity? With a private workshop you can choose a workshop from above, and exclusive time-slot for your group. Recommended for group sizes of 10-20. Call us at 250-334-3024 to inquire about additional information and cost.
8 • ART KNAPP GARDEN HOME & FASHION - 250-334-3024 - ARTKNAPPCOURTENAY.CA
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Kids Grinch Tree Decorate your own live mini Christmas tree 10:00am Kids Air Plant Terrarium Create your own unique hanging terrarium 2:00pm
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Kids Grinch Tree Decorate your own live mini Christmas tree 10:00am Kids Air Plant Terrarium Create your own unique hanging terrarium 2:00pm
Easy Peasy Holiday Entertaining... With a simple-to-arrange charcuterie board Pick a cheese board
Some salty things
Condiments to accent
Add some cheese! Soft, hard and crumbly, different strengths, and different colours and shapes
Add some lovely crackers
The finishing touches
Fill the spaces
Add a little sweet
For complete article and step by step directions, please go to: https://wholefully.com/awesome-cheese-board-minutes/ HOLIDAY 2017 • 9
voilĂ
PUT THE
IN YOUR CHRISTMAS DECORATING By Carla Hrycyna
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ecorating brings the spirit of the holiday season alive. Adding decorative touches to the interior and exterior of your home creates an ambiance of cheerfulness and merriment and brings together family and friends. Traditionally, decorating starts with the tree which then sets the tone for the rest of the home. The character of the decorated tree is established either by theme or colour and is instrumental in shaping your overall design. Ask yourself: Are you creating a design with a classic, traditional or formal look? How about a whimsical or character-focused tree? Which style suits you the best? It may be possible that one design compliments one area of the home, while another room takes on a totally different feel. In a more formal area like the living room, you may feature coordinating decorations while using themed ornaments and more rustic accents in the family room. You can use colour to tie rooms together and lend visual harmony. Choose a focal colour to be the unifying factor, and then accent with secondary colours. Reds can be complemented with golds and silvers, and whites look wonderful accented with copper and rust tones. How about lavenders with a hint of blue? The potential colour combinations are endless, and can look even more striking when a third accent colour is added. For example, a dominant red can be paired with frosted white and a splash of silver or even lime green. 10
This year in colour trends, red continues to hold sway since it is a stable, traditional colour reminiscent of Christmas past and childhood memories. Coming up strong are blues and lavenders blending into purples. Also showing this year are hues of copper, rust and amber since these colours work well with natural themes. Textures such as plaids, woods, florals and foliage are also evident. Silk flowers enter back into the scene with floral poinsettias and magnolias in rich red and burgundy tones. Enticing blues and lavenders will take centre stage complementary to decorative ornaments. The influence of succulents carries through to holiday decor, seen as accents in winter arrangements and decorative touches.
CHRISTMAS TREES It is easiest to approach decorating your tree by working in layers. Start with the lighting, which can be obtained by either using a pre-lit artificial tree or placing lights on your freshly cut evergreen.
Trending this year are various styles of LED micro lights, in various shades of white or multiple colours, with multi-function settings. When calculating how many to use, bank on using at least 100 lights per foot height of your tree. Ribbons should be your next step, and can be hung in either a vertical or horizontal application. As a wavy dramatic overlay, they bring a visually appealing flow to the tree, or can be hung vertically to give the illusion of added height.
fancy an extra little touch for the room. A pleasing arrangement can be formed with sprigs of artificial greenery blended with glossy berries and accented with a favourite coloured flower. Place it on a crystal platter with glossy Christmas ball ornaments on it and “voila,” your creation is complete.
WREATHS
Next, add silk flowers and holiday picks to create texture. Place silks such as poinsettias, magnolias and boughs evenly throughout the tree. If the tree is visible from all sides, generally 12-14 pieces work well for coverage; adjust to 6-8 if your tree is placed in the corner of your room. If you are coordinating the top of the tree, 3-5 pieces may be paired with a traditional angel or Christmas star. Boost the effect by layering your poinsettias or florals with a silk spray of pine, leaf or berries. Silks have flexible wiring from flower to stem which can be adjusted to create graceful curves. Adding ornaments is the final step. Place collections of past treasures and newly found gems gently on the tree. Family room trees can be home to whimsical collectibles that have been carefully selected through the years while more formal areas such as living rooms call for an elegant theme.
BANNISTERS
Decorating bannisters and newel posts can be a favourite part of the process. Key your colours off the closest tree and bring some of those thematic elements to the bannister. Tie gentle curves of garlands to the railings as a focal point for garnishing. Just imagine large red poinsettias with sprigs of cherry red berries paired with bow accents complementary in colour. Envision ice blue poinsettias with flowing silver-white ribbon mimicking the swoop of a mixed cedar garland, or even snowy white flocked garlands adorned with crisp white snowflake ornaments and dangling clear crystal icicles. There is an abundance of creative recipes and ideas to draw from. As a finishing touch, dress up sideboards and centrepieces for your table. Florals and silks are useful if you
Greet guests with a beautifully accented wreath set in the colour tone of your decorating style. Its welcoming effect announces your colour scheme as they enter the home. Weave twists and loops of ribbon through the circle of greenery if you like, or as an alternative use a glorious bow of ribbon with tails for a simple, elegant finish. Perhaps a bright red cardinal nestled in a twig nest could become the accenting focus touch. One element of holiday decoration still requires mention: Lighting. With reduced daylight hours, real candles as well as LED or battery operated alternatives create dramatic effect. There are many types of lighting available, from tabletop pieces to lit ornaments that draw your eye to the Christmas tree. Let your adventure into decorating begin. Decorating your home’s interior creates a festive atmosphere to be enjoyed by all who visit throughout the holiday season. HOLIDAY 2017 • 11
hostess, as you would give a different gift to a close friend than your boss. You might consider a couples gift or something the whole family can enjoy. When arriving at the party, remember to be discrete when you present it as not everyone will have brought one. When giving flowers, ensure that they are arranged in a vase or mason jar so as not to make additional work for your host. Better yet, a potted plant or arrangement that is delivered the day before the party gives the host time to incorporate it into their decor. Since your host is busy preparing, don’t expect them to open your present right away. Bring a gift that can be set aside for another time, which you can mention when you give the gift. Say something like “Enjoy this after we all go home,” or “This is just for you so hide it for later.” Another great idea is to bring something that can be used at future gatherings like tidbit plates, designer napkins and candles, fancy cheese knives and spreaders, coasters, or scented hot pads.
BEST
Hostess Gifts For the Holidays By Dianne Visser
Seasonal hosts gifts that will get you invited back again and again.
I
love this time of year. It is the season of giving, and a holiday party is the perfect occasion to say “thank you” to your host by bringing a unique gift.
Those who give the best gifts do a little research into the traits and likes of the recipient as well as reflecting on the tone and nature of the party. Keep in mind your relationship to the 12
Kitchen gifts are a wonderful idea as most hosts appreciate and enjoy items that can be used every day, such as bamboo cutting boards, oven mitts filled with utensils, bamboo spoons or whimsical tea towels. If you know the host well enough you could pamper them with more personal items like bath bombs, face masks and specialty soaps. For your friends with a green thumb, rosemary trees, amaryllis, paperwhites or orchids go well with any decor. Tasty treats could include local honey, maple syrup, baked goods, some truly awesome hot sauces, specialty olive oils, and particularly balsamic vinegars and flavoured salts since a little of these goes a long way. I am a chocoholic and therefore I cannot call this list complete without suggesting some excellent quality chocolate. I would rather have one or two pieces of good chocolate than a whole box of the less expensive stuff. If you are going to bring wine, try to find something
exceptional and then add a cute wine stopper, bottle opener, set of stainless steel wine glasses, wine charms or themed Christmas ornaments. Overnight stays call for a larger gift than a casual dinner, as your host will have sheets and towels to wash and a few more meals to prepare. I like the element of surprise and usually leave presents such as Christmas pillows, lavender sachets or a basket filled with teas and tea accessories in the guest room for the host to find after I have gone home. Running late or forget to pick up a gift? Write a nice thank you note and send or drop off the gift within seven days of the event. Don’t be offended if you don’t see your gift on display or served the next time you visit. Remember, it is a thank you to your hosts and not about you. Lastly, don’t forget to offer to help with the dishes but don’t push as some people like to decompress on their own after their event. My advice to the host is to enjoy the occasion and the people, don’t expect gifts, and receive each present graciously and thankfully.
Happy holidays!
HOLIDAY 2017 • 13
SPRUCE
Them Up By Will Heeman
C
hristmas urns, those bunches of potted green boughs adorned with shiny red balls, are a beloved sign that Christmas is approaching, festive displays ready to greet the holiday celebrations. Think of most urns you might see on porches (maybe yours!) during this time of year and this image might come to mind: cut pine or cedar greens, arranged in a pot and adorned with shiny red or gold ornaments. It’s all wrapped in burlap, festooned with a reindeer or snowman, topped off with a red bow and looks fantastic!
ADDING ‘PIZZAZZ’ TO THE PORCH
It’s hard to top the classic Christmas urn, but if you’re after a unique look this year, winterscaping is a bold new way to aproach your seasonal decorating. Traditionalists and innovators alike can take some fairly simple steps to add pizzazz to the porch. Here are some ideas for what’s hot and interesting in urns:
FOR FOLIAGE:
Use evergreens as anchors of the piece, but feature other natural elements. The idea here is to present a diverse arrangement that showcases natural diversity. Try adding some “upscale green” such as magnolia, seeded eucalyptus, or oregonia. The combination of different textures and shapes adds natural contrast that can turn an ordinary arrangement into something extraordinary.
FOR COLOUR:
Think natural! Add brown pine cones or lotus pods, which will bring new shaping to the piece and add interest. For a bit of “pop,” introduce metallic accents like pine cone picks in frosted silver or burgundy. Champagne, silver and copper-coloured pieces will add timeless beauty to any piece.
The essence of winterscaping is to create something of timeless beauty, something that provides months of value and enjoyment.
Lime green and purple are also interesting enough to draw the eye. If you want to showcase the whimsical side of your personality, you can even add some hot pink. Don’t be afraid to test-drive some unconventional colour choices — it’s still going to be a powerful presentation, it’s just not going to scream “Christmas” when you’re into February.
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FOR ACCENTS:
You’ll be surprised by how effective wood ornaments, either unpainted or in a soft whitewash, can be if used sparingly and strategically. Pop in some classy whites or copper-coloured accents. Yes, reindeer are the animals of the season, but try moose instead. Small toboggans, skis and snowflake patterns all say “welcome, winter” and can inject a jaunty flair.
THE CONTAINER:
Containers come in a myriad of sizes and shapes so you’ll want to make sure yours is well in proportion with what’s inside and atop it. If you have an urn you love, continue to love it. But if its original black has faded to grey, give it new life with a coat of spray paint. Consider classic black, red or burgundy. You can also try urns of different sizes and shapes, made into an attractive set by using the same colour for all.
BRING OUT THE 3D ‘WOW’ FACTOR
Even with your best efforts to replicate the beautiful arrangement you see in your mind’s eye, reality can sometimes fall short… literally short. You have beautiful greenery, some lovely accents and colours and there’s just some “wow” factor you’re missing. Chances are, you’ve been focusing on what’s in the urn rather than what’s above and around it. Instead, envision a fully three-dimensional urn, a piece with height, depth and breadth that can elevate ordinary to extraordinary. Often, the missing element is as simple as bringing in some height with vertical sticks of white birch – always a lovely, classic look – and adding a graceful flaring of Western red cedar that cascades downwards. It’s a simple step but one that can elevate an ordinary urn to an extraordinary one. Remember to add lots of water to your urn display until it is completely frozen, as this helps keep the greenery lush throughout the holiday season.
We suggest people envision a “filler,” a “spiller” and a “thriller” as they design their urns.
Many of the items used in these Christmas Containers are provided by Second Nature. Available at select Garden Centres.
Winter urn arrangements can be one of the most strikingly beautiful ways to make your home a welcoming place. With the right materials, a bit of guidance and some imagination, they can add months of colour, class and a real spark of joy to our homes. HOLIDAY 2017 • 15
HOLIDAY GIFTS WE To keep us warm...
Cozy Hat, Scarf & Mitt Set
Love
Fashionable and functional, a great stocking stuffer.
Boot Socks that are Fashionable AND Warm A variety of colours and styles to choose from.
Royal Stewart Tartan Wool Blanket
Adding that touch of Sparkle and Glam...
A luxurious throw that is a festive accent to any room.
Crystal Angel and Mistletoe to Decorate Christmas Trees & Windows
Add a touch of sparkle to your tree.
Jolly Santa & His Flying Reindeer A statement piece, perfect for the mantel. 16
Swirling Acrylic Christmas Tree
Back by popular demand, this is a perfect holiday gift.
Making the Holidays Glow...
Micro LED Lights in Warm White for Indoor & Outdoor Use
Silver Acrylic 200mm Ball with Lights on Timer Perfect for your outdoor evergreen planters.
To light up lanterns, wreaths, garlands and fresh arrangements.
AVAILABLE AT 250-334-3024 2855 Wentworth Rd., Courtenay, BC www.artknappcourtenay.ca
$00.00 Available at
LOGO
Available at Art Knapp Garden Home & Fashion. While supplies last.
HOLIDAY 2017 • 17
NEW THIS YEAR.
COUPON IS VALID
FOR 2 DAYS!
Thursday, November 16 & Friday, November 17
It’s Christmas at Art Knapp! Join us on Thursday, November 16, 2017 | 9:00am to 8:00pm For great holiday demonstrations, refreshments and a chance to win some fabulous door prizes! 2:00 pm & 6:00 pm
Dressing your Door - Live Greens Wreaths & Swags
2:30 pm & 6:30 pm
Tablescapes & Mantels - Great Ways to Add to Personalized Decor
3:00 pm & 7:00 pm
Christmas Villages - How to Make & Display Dept. 56
4:00 pm & 7:30 pm
How to dress for the holidays - Holiday Fashion Advice and How to Accesorize
Demonstrations are Thursday, Nov. 16 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm and repeated at 6:00pm to 7:30pm
PRESENT THIS COUPON FOR
50% off ONE CHRISTMAS DECORATION (DEPT. 56 NOT INCLUDED)
NAME: ADDRESS: E-MAIL: WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE ADDED TO OUR EMAIL LIST? YES____
NO____
PHONE: *ONE COUPON PER CUSTOMER PLEASE. VALID NOVEMBER 16 & 17, 2017 ONLY (some exceptions apply).
HOLIDAY 2017 • 18
DECORATING A MANTEL FOR ALL SEASONS
Article by: Lorelei Hystad Photos by: Kay-leigh Parfitt
D
ecorating a fireplace mantel can be challenging but if executed properly it can be a beautiful focal point in a room. It can be refreshed for all seasons and special occasions, adding ambience and elegance to your home. There is no right or wrong way to decorate your mantel, but the objective is to always enhance your home to reflect your style and personality. I like to think of any decorating endeavour as an exciting new book! First, there is the title to choose. Next, you pick your 'theme', followed by your 'chapters', your 'paragraphs', and finally, your 'sentences'. I found that when I kept those principles in mind, I was able to keep my objective clear and stick to my “story”. Otherwise, if key principles are not clear the intention can be lost and become too busy resulting in a visual mess that is not pleasing to the eye and a very unconvincing story!
STEP 1:
CHOOSING YOUR TITLE
Identify the occasion. Is it seasonal, special occasion, or a decorating enhancement for your home? When your title is clear, then you can choose your chapters. For this example, I am going to choose "Winter" as my title. I now have to consider what is in the room. Does it have a specific theme? Modern, rustic, contemporary, vintage? Whatever may be the case, the look of the room defines the “Theme for the Mantel”.
HOLIDAY 2017 • 19
STEP 4:
CHOOSING COLOUR For this example, I am going to choose white, ocean blue, and driftwood or natural. These colours will tell a convincing, beachthemed story.
STEP 2:
IDENTIFYING THEME
When choosing colour for your mantel, be sure to match the colours that exist in your room. This will create a fusion for the “themed” mantel story to create visual cohesion and harmony. You can match the décor on your mantel or you can create contrast by adding pops of colour using seasonal florals and botanicals. Try to match the colours of the furniture and window dressings in the room. If the mantel is dark, you can lighten it up using reflective metals, glass, or mirrors. Adding a mirror to a mantel will also make the room appear larger and reflect more light. Next up, complete the story with “paragraphs” and “sentences”.
In this example, I am going to choose “rustic beach”.
STEP 3:
OBSERVE THE DESIGN OF THE MANTEL
The items and elements that you choose could complement or enhance the mantel. There are four categories you could reflect upon:
1. Ornate 2. Simple 3. Rustic 4. Modern
STEP 5:
PARAGRAPHS Adding repeat elements, filling in spaces, and rounding out the story. This would be textured elements that could be the same subject but in different sizes such as cones, ornamental balls, rock, whatever medium complements your story or theme.
20 • ART KNAPP GARDEN HOME & FASHION - 250-334-3024 - ARTKNAPPCOURTENAY.CA
STEP 6:
ADDING THE FINAL TOUCHES - SENTENCES! The final touches to complete your story would be adding lighting. You can achieve this by using string lights or candles. Composition of the candles will depend on what you want to showcase. I find white twinkle lights with a warm glow always does the trick.
summary
Now that we have determined our mantel story, we should set the decorative bones in place. For my examples, I had decided on a winter-rustic-beach themed story with a blue, white and natural palette (theme and character). To start, the story I would use a rustic mirror or graphic for the mantel. Then I would choose something tall with multiple use such as a vase or lantern (the paragraph) and create a visual triangle to draw the eye. If it was interesting it could stand alone or I could create height and drama with sticks, branches or flowers. If I wanted to add a natural element I would add driftwood or a natural rope (paragraph). Then I would add more fillers of the story which would be shells, starfish or sea horses – anything that was beach based. To add colour, I would blue glass balls horizontally using repetition and to create flow. If the height was in the middle and the focal point, I would draw the eyes to the sides of the mantel but, keeping it low and simple. Do not get too busy using multiple items. I find it easier on the eye to do groupings of the same subject in repetition. Take steps back to look at your work. Keep in mind these key points: strong subject of focal point; visual triangle using different heights used horizontally; created balance with the overall décor. Then you have achieved your goal and your “visual story”. You will create beauty and warmth in your home!
HOLIDAY 2017 • 21
Pet Friendly INDOOR PLANTS AND TROPICALS FOR THE HOLIDAYS By Tanya Olsen
W
ith the holidays fast approaching, we love to decorate with beautiful bright poinsettias, seasonal cacti and tropical plants. However, it is easy to forget that some of the plants that adorn our homes throughout this festive season may not be the best choice for our pets. Although many plants and decorations will not injure pets in any way, there are some tropical plants that can be harmful to our furry family members. If putting the Amaryllis or Poinsettia on a high shelf or table is not an option, try these ideas for a stressfree, pet-friendly holiday season.
With its unique texture, small dark green needles and bright new growth, this staple houseplant is a great substitute for a cut Christmas tree! Keep away from drafts and decorate minimally for a great effect. Mini rice lights and small shiny red balls will provide a very elegant focal point. Don’t forget that this plant is also an excellent air purifier for your home.
Christmas Cactus A staple holiday plant!
Norfolk Island Pine A tropical Christmas idea!
With all the attention succulents have been receiving this past year, the Christmas or Easter cactus is a unique, easy-tocare-for succulent that thrives in bright light and dry air. It will brighten up any room with its rich green leaves and delicate red, pink or white flowers. You can also use it as a teaching tool for the kids, as the leaves are an easy propagation project for tiny hands. 22 • ART KNAPP GARDEN HOME & FASHION - 250-334-3024 - ARTKNAPPCOURTENAY.CA
Blue Echeveria Succulent A trendy plant alternative!
The staple succulent in most fairy gardens, the Blue Echeveria won’t hurt pets either. With fleshy blue-green leaves growing in a neat rosette pattern, you can safely plant and decorate a miniature garden to continue the holiday magic for even the tiniest of your family members. Try adding a touch of glitter sparkle or a soft spray of metallic paint to match your holiday decor.
Boston Fern
The tropical queen of texture! Boston ferns not only help purify the air in our homes, they are also non-toxic to our furry friends. With generous lime green fronds, a large Boston fern can be quite the statement piece in any home. Consider using a Boston fern in an indoor arrangement with some white or green Phalaenopsis orchids or using a Boston fern on a glass candleholder to lift your centrepiece off the table with dramatic effect. Add a bit of holiday glitz with shimmery picks or berries and your centrepiece will dazzle throughout the season. When the holidays are over, take the glitzy picks out and your Boston fern will continue to purify the air in your home! They also thrive in the summer months in shady outdoor locations.
White Phalaenopsis Orchids
An elegant choice! When giving a plant gift this year, why not give a potted White Phalaenopsis orchid? With a slight fragrance and delicate, unique, long-lasting blooms, these beauties are safe for both cats and dogs. This orchid’s easy-to-care-for attitude makes it a perfect choice as a holiday centrepiece or as a stunning single stem in a glass vase. Since you need to water it only
once a week, it is a low-maintenance option for an area in your home that needs some plant attention. If you are giving a cut orchid as a gift, pair its delicate blooms with the pet friendly Areca palm leaf for an elegant background. While we may not think of palms as being pet friendly, they most assuredly are! Areca, Butterfly, Bamboo and Dragon palms are among the many plants safe for our furry friends. To get the best health, height or drama in your living room, mist your palm on a regular basis to ensure the leaf tips don’t dry out.
Always Play It Safe
If you do choose to have any of these plants in your home, opt for a location that is safely out of reach of your pets – even your high-jumping feline friend. As a bonus, many of these plant alternatives will lend colour and visual impact long past the Christmas season. Some of these plants, when ingested or chewed, can cause mild indigestion and discomfort. When in doubt, you can always contact your local veterinarian or refer to the “Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List” provided by the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). Another great idea is to familiarize yourself with the names and origins of any houseplants that you currently have, so you can provide the correct information to your veterinarian should a problem occur. Artificial plants are another safe option that you could consider, as they will continue to beautify your home for many years to come. As we look forward to the holiday season, there is nothing more important than having our loved ones by our side. With a little pre-planning and a visit to your local independent garden centre, the entire family can be safe and sound – not just during the holidays, but all year long!
Honourable Mentions •
African violets
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Haworthia Succulent
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Rose plants
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Polka Dot plants
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Peperomia plants
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Prayer plants
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Spider plants HOLIDAY 2017 • 23
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