HOLIDAY 2016
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Contents 14
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8
Providing For Hummingbirds During The Winter
9
‘Tis the Season for Christmas Entertaining
10
Decorating with Miniature Evergreens
12
The Great Cookie Exchange
14
Dressed in Holiday Style - Christmas Wreaths
18
Top Fashion Trends for the Season
20
An Enchanting Christmas
22
Stealing The Show: Why it’s all about the Containers
24
Holiday Gifts We Love
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. 4 • ART KNAPP GARDEN HOME & FASHION - 250-334-3024 - ARTKNAPPCOURTENAY.CA
From the
r e n w O
W
ow! Another spring and summer have flown by. An early, warm spring kept us all busy here. The store is now gearing up for another holiday season. We’ve been busy transforming the greenhouse into a winter wonderland. This year we are excited to continue our tradition of our open house event. Please make sure to mark your calendars for November 17 and join us to redeem your coupon, enjoy some great decorating demonstrations, refreshments, and be sure to enter our huge door prize draw. As a locally owned, family operated business, it is always a pleasure and honour to hear how many of our customers have included our open house into their own Christmas and holiday traditions. Last year’s workshops were a huge success, and we will be offering classes again this year and an additional kids workshop as well. It’s a great way to walk away with a complete holiday decoration without having to worry about the mess and supplies. Take a look at our events page and sign up quickly as space is limited! Wishing all of our customers a wonderful holiday season, a Merry Christmas, and health and happiness for 2017.
Wil Van Hage
HOLIDAY 2016 • 5
Upcoming Events HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS
KIDS WORKSHOPS
Saturday, November 19
Saturday, December 3
10:00am Live Greens Wreath 2:00pm Live Greens Outdoor Front Door Planter
2:00pm Kids Grinch Tree Decorate your own live mini Christmas tree
Saturday, November 26
Saturday, December 10
10:00am Live Greens Wreath 2:00pm Live Greens Door Swag
2:00pm Pomander Create your own unique sweet-smelling citrus ornament
Space is limited, please call the store (250-334-3024) for more information and to sign up. Cost of workshop covers all basic supplies.
Ages 6 and up, or accompanied by an adult
Saturday, December 3 10:00am Live Greens Table Centrepieces
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.
Mason Bee Seminar
with expert Dr. Magriet Dogterom November 26, 2016 Please arrive at 10:30am. Demonstration begins at 11:00am. Be sure to bring your mason bee houses to learn how to properly clean and store your mason bee cocoons.
Please dress warmly. Class will be standing. argr e as o er 20 ears o el or and research experience with mason bees, honey bees, bumble bees and leaf cutter bees.
GREAT SELECTION OF MASON BEE SUPPLIES! Photo from www.shutterstock.com
NESTING TUBES, HOUSES, COCOON HARVESTING TOOLS, AND EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL.
6 • ART KNAPP GARDEN HOME & FASHION - 250-334-3024 - ARTKNAPPCOURTENAY.CA
It’s
Christmas AT
Join us on
Thursday, November 17th, 2016 from 9:00am to 8:00pm For great holiday demonstrations, refreshments and a chance to win some fabulous door prizes D E M O N ST R AT I O N S A R E 2:00pm - 4:00pm and repeated at 6:00pm - 7:30pm 2:00 & 6:00pm
Dressing your Door – Live greens wreaths & swags
2:30 & 6.30 pm
How to Make Bows - Great ways to add to décor & gift wrapping
3:00 & 7:00pm
Christmas Villages - How to make & display Dept. 56
4:00 & 7:30pm
Miniature Christmas Fairy Gardens
PRESENT THIS COUPON FOR
50% OFF ONE CHRISTMAS
DECORATION (Dept. 56 not included)
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*ONE COUPON PER CUSTOMER PLEASE. VALID THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2016 ONLY (some exceptions apply)
Providing For
Hummingbirds During The Winter Article by Linda Van Hage
W
e hear from customers quite regularly about hummingbirds that have decided to stick around for the winter. If you have been providing nectar for hummingbirds, they have likely become reliant on the food source. With a bit of extra care, it is easy to provide them with nectar even during the coldest days of winter.
the frozen feeder in the morning. You can also wrap some Christmas lights or hang a rough service light on the feeder. There is usually enough ambient heat provided to keep the nectar from freezing. If a power source is an issue, taping a hand warmer (air activated heat pack) to the feeder may be an option also.
Don't change the mix rate of sugar. It may be tempting to increase the sugar to try and keep the nectar from freezing as easily, but a ratio of 4-parts water to 1-part sugar should be continued through the winter months. Mixing too much sugar in makes it difficult for the hummingbirds grooved tongues to feed, and can cause kidney and liver damage. Hummingbirds need pure sucrose to thrive, as such only white sugar should be used. Simply mix 1-part sugar and 4 parts water into a pan, bring to a boil, and then remove from the heat and cool. Any leftover mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
We are quite fortunate on the coast since cold weather does not usually last very long before returning to milder temperatures. Hummingbirds are able to reduce their body temperatures overnight to conserve energy and will find safe spots in shrubs or trees to roost. In addition to providing a sugar source for energy, you will want to provide a water source. Bird baths, bird waterers, or a small dish in the garden are easy ways to provide water. Just make sure you break ice if temperatures fall below freezing.
There are quite a few creative ways to make sure you always have nectar the hummingbirds can access. One option is having two feeders. Keep one inside, and switch out with
8 • ART KNAPP GARDEN HOME & FASHION - 250-334-3024 - ARTKNAPPCOURTENAY.CA
Continuing to offer nectar, and water are ways we can assist in making sure hummingbirds survive winter. While black mold and other harmful toxins may not build up as quickly in your feeder in the winter, you will still want to make sure you are cleaning thoroughly to ensure the health of the hummingbirds in your garden.
‘Tis the Season for
CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINING! and create a pleasant glow that will fill the entire room. Decorating with ornaments organized in groupings has great impact: under cloches, on cake toppers or in vases and bowls. Depending on what colour you choose, you can decide to use all the same colour for an elegant touch or get creative by mixing it up a bit!
B
eautiful twinkling lights, the glow of candles, and Christmas music playing in the background are all part of setting the mood for your get together. Entertaining should be fun and with some preparation and planning, your evening get-together can come together beautifully and a wonderful time can be had by all, including you. While an evening spent with guests can be planned for weeks, a last minute get together also makes for a fabulous time of mingling and visiting. With just a few ideas, a well-stocked pantry or a stand-by for takeout, your guests will be talking about your hosted party for days. Entertaining guests is the perfect opportunity to use what you have on hand and reinvent some pieces from your home to add interest to your Christmas gatherings. Sometimes we have the time to complete our Christmas decorations and be ready well ahead of the holidays; however, with busy lives and working long hours, that doesn’t always happen. Don’t let that stop you from having a fun evening with friends! With a few quick tweaks, some appetizers, drinks and Christmas spirit, you have the makings of a fabulous night! It’s always a great idea to choose a theme. It will narrow down the direction of your decorations. Find inspiration in themes such as Christmas in the country, winter wonderland, traditional and so many more! With the Internet and free online resources available today, we have a whole world of decorating and entertaining ideas just a click away. Websites such as Pinterest are a great way to find much needed inspiration! Your tablescape can be instantly transformed with a tablecloth, runner, centerpiece and lighting. Add some greenery or branches and you are well on your way to being ready! Fresh flowers accenting your colour theme add an extra dimension that consistently stands out. If you have candles and mini lights, try filling lanterns, vases or glassware of various sizes
Furthermore, don’t be fooled into thinking that a great night has to include a full course meal! Your friends and family are there to enjoy each other’s company and celebrate the season by being with the people most important in their lives, so don’t feel too pressured to pull off a gourmet meal! Some of the best evenings are spent sitting near the Christmas tree or gathered in front of the fireplace as you nibble away, have a drink and chat all evening long! When it comes to entertaining and food, don’t underestimate the power of simplicity! Pull together some quick appetizers, finger foods and a cheese or meat tray and you’re sure to please the crowd. You can quickly arrange crisp vegetables, fresh bread, chips and dips and be comforted knowing there will be more than enough food for everyone. Crave Dips are also available, and come in a number of different flavours! They’re the perfect addition to any veggie tray. When considering what beverages to place out for your guests, take advantage of the holiday season’s many tasteful beverages to share with friends and family. It’s always a great idea to have some favourite bottles of wine and beer on hand for last minute entertaining, as well as ensuring you also have non-alcoholic options available. A warm drink is always the perfect finishing touch to an evening spent mingling and laughing. Coffee, tea or warm apple cider is the perfect finishing touch to any partying in the Christmas season! For an extra kick to your cider and wine, add some mulling spices! Mulling spices offer the perfect blend for the holiday, making your drinks the perfect element to finish off your evening and warm your guests as they head out into the cold on their way home! As the host/hostess, remember to take the time to sit back and mingle with your company. After all, they came to see you. So, take a seat and have a wonderful night with all your fantastic guests! A last minute, impromptu evening can be an enormous success with minimal stress and worry. Christmas entertaining should be about enjoying the special moments and taking it all in. Cheers!
HOLIDAY 2016 • 9
DECORATING WITH
MINIATURE EVERGREENS by Sylvia Van Hage
M
iniature evergreens are a growing trend in home décor, particularly with live trees like the Norfolk Island Pine or mini Cypress Cedars. These miniature trees are appealing in a number of different winter displays and it is always fun to decorate your tree with garland, lights and ornaments! Create unique displays, such as a DIY snow globe, by placing a Cypress Cedar in a glass jar with soil at its roots, or try creating a wintry display by placing large and small trees together. From displays and centerpieces to wall planters, they are the perfect finishing touch!
Norfolk Island Pine and Cypress Cedar
Norfolk Island Pines and Cypress Cedars are known for their soft flowing texture and slow growing habits when they are in a container. Being quite easy to maintain, Norfolk Island pines and Cypress Cedars have earned a reputation for preferring more neglect than nurture, requiring average amounts of water, and needing to be watered only when the top of the soil is dry. They require very little fertilization and using a water soluble fertilizer once a month during spring and summer is sufficient. They are tolerant of low light, and since they prefer to be a bit pot bound, repotting the tree to a slightly larger container every four years should be sufficient, so long as they are replanted with a well-drained commercial potting mix. Trim off the brown parts of the tree when necessary, and be sure to mist your tree. These evergreen varieties’ branches are not strong, so small or minimal ornaments are best and be sure to remove them after Christmas. 10
Fir / Spruce Trees and Cypress Trees
Typically planted and enjoyed as an outdoor plant, these coniferous trees can also be used indoors for Christmas displays and their strong branches offer great decorating benefits. If you’re looking to use these trees indoors, look for a tree about one metre in height. They will have to be gradually acclimatized before being brought indoors, so take your time conditioning them, beginning with two to three days in the garage before moving them into the house. Keep them away from direct heat sources and keep indoors for only 10 days. Once you’re ready to move your tree back outdoors, gradually condition it again with a few days in the garage first. To replant it back in the ground, you will need to have the hole dug in November, placing triple mix in the hole as you’re planting it and putting mulch at the base of the tree to help insulate it. If you’re living in an apartment, try giving your tree to someone who can replant it instead of just throwing it away.
Mini Cypress Trees
Mini Cypress trees are a terrific annual, but thrive indoors as well! You can decorate using different varieties, and some, such as the lemon Cypress, have an intense chartreuse foliage that works well as an accent colour and creates a wonderful and vibrant indoor holiday planter. For added character, you can find some mini Cypress Trees that come in topiary form! They are best grown in a sunny window. Be sure to keep them away from any drafts and to routinely turn plants to ensure even light exposure.
The compact needles and naturally symmetrical shape of miniature evergreens make them the ideal holiday tree for offices, apartments, or anywhere else where space does not allow for a larger tree! With battery operated lights and timer options, it is easier than ever to have a beautifully decorated tree in a hard-to-reach place! If decorating with lights, be sure to use cool burning lights as other types may provide too much heat to the tree. LED lights are great for this as they do not heat up and can provide a number of cooler colours. Small battery powered lights on a wire are also a great option, generally coming with various settings and timer options, and their wire is nearly unseen, providing a natural and elegant glow. Small lightweight ornaments such as homemade ornaments, keepsakes, bells, bows and miniature glass or crochet ornaments are perfect for both the Norfolk Island Pine and Cypress Cedar as they will not sag or weigh down the branches. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your decorations! Create your own garland with extra personality or use jute twine and mini ornaments for a rustic look. Or, you could always stick with the classic look and use beaded garlands and ornaments. And don’t forget about the base! Try wrapping the base of the pot with festive ribbon, burlap, or sparkly fabric and adding coloured stones or small Christmas balls to the soil at the base of the tree for the perfect finishing touch. HOLIDAY 2016 • 11
THE GREAT
COOKIE EXCHANGE
F
estive entertaining can be as simple as a holiday catch-up with an old friend over coffee, or a full-on open house with the entire neighbourhood popping by for a bit of cheer. Regardless of the occasion, a plate of holiday cookies always has a place. There’s something special about holiday cookies that goes beyond cut-outs of Christmas trees and candy canes. It’s the smaller size, the various colours, shapes, and distinctive tastes that set these little gems apart from your standard chocolate chip or oatmeal cookies. Here are two essential recipes for your holiday cookie tin or plate that are all perfect for the giving season. With each recipe, I share a few extra tips to make baking even more joyful.
Photo Credit to Mike McColl
One of the real plusses of these recipes is that they can all be made well ahead of time and frozen for later. As a general rule, I prefer freezing cookie doughs unbaked since they take up less space in the freezer, and then I can bake them as I need them. The shortbread and pfeffernusse cookies definitely suit this little trick, while the cantucci keep well for at least 2 weeks – the real challenge is keeping stray hands out of the cookie tin! ½ tsp
2 mL
EACH of ground cinnamon, cardamom, anise seed, allspice, clove, and black pepper ¼ tsp 1g salt icing sugar, for rolling the baked cookies 1. Preheat the oven to 325° F (160° C). Line 2 baking trays with parchment paper.
Photo Credit to Ryan Szulc and Mike McColl
PFEFFERNUSSE COOKIES
These little gems have a lovely spicy character to them, not just from traditional baking spices, but also black pepper. These are a great addition to a cookie tin mix. Yield: About 3 ½ dozen Prep Time: 25 minutes Bake Time: 15 minutes 6 Tbsp 6 Tbsp ¼ cup ¼ cup 1 1 2 cups ¾ tsp 12
110 g 75 g 50 g 60 g 300 g 4 mL
honey granulated sugar packed dark brown sugar unsalted butter, melted large egg egg yolk all-purpose flour baking soda
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the honey, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, egg and egg yolk. Sift the flour, baking soda, spices and salt over the sugar mixture and stir until evenly blended (the batter will be dense). Use a small ice cream scoop (#60 size), or 2 teaspoons to scoop the batter and then shape them into balls between the palms of your hands. Place them onto the prepared trays, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) between each. Bake for 14-16 minutes until the cookies are lightly browned. Cool the cookies on the tray and then roll them in icing sugar to coat them completely. The cookies will keep up to 7 days in an airtight container. Baking Tips: • I do love these cookies at holiday time, and they only improve as they sit in the cookie tin. • Ground anise seed really gives pfeffernusse cookies their distinctive taste and can usually be found at European food shops. If you don’t have ground anise seed, you can leave it out (I’ve tried using crushed fennel seed in its place, but I find it too strong.)
VANILLA BEAN SPRITZ SHORTBREAD
cookie press). Pipe cookies about 1 ½-inches (40 mm) across onto the prepared baking trays, leaving an inch between each cookie. If you want a flatter cookie that spreads, bake right away. For a cookie that sits up and holds its shape, chill the piped unbaked cookies for 15 minutes before baking. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cookies just begin to brown lightly on the bottom. Cool the cookies on the trays before storing in an airtight container. The cookies will keep up to a week. Baking Tips: • Beating the butter and sugar thoroughly ensures a cookie that holds together well once baked. It also gives a nice, fluffy batter that is easy to pipe. • I use a piping bag with a star tip to pipe my spritz cookies, but if you have a cookie piping kit (usually a plastic or metal tube dies or tips to push the batter through) it will work just as well. • Because shortbread cookies don’t have egg or leaveners (baking soda or powder) in the batter, the cookies will hold their piped shape nicely. The temperature of the butter is the only impact to the cookie shape, so it’s up to you whether you’d like to chill the cookies for a more defined shape or bake them right after piping and have them spread a little (like in the photo).
Photo Credit to Ryan Szulc and Mike McColl
Spritz cookies are piped into shapes, so require a relatively soft batter. This shortbread is fluffy, light, delicate and easy to pipe. Yield: 40 cookies Prep Time: 15 minutes Bake Time: 25 minutes 1 ¼ cups 1 cup 1 ½ tsp
285 g 130 g 7 mL
1 ½ cups 1/3 cup ¼ tsp
22 5g 40 g 1g
unsalted butter at room temperature icing sugar, sifted vanilla bean paste (or extract, if paste is not available) all-purpose flour cornstarch salt
1. Preheat the oven to 325° F (160° C) and line 2 baking trays with parchment paper. 2. Beat the butter and icing sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in the vanilla bean paste (or extract). When making shortbread it’s important to beat the butter and sugar well together – this ensures the shortbread will hold together and when you take a bite it will ‘snap’ and then melt away. 3. In a separate bowl, sift the flour, cornstarch and salt and add to the butter, mixing until blended and soft. Spoon the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip (or into a HOLIDAY 2016 • 13
Dressed in Holiday Style CHRISTMAS WREATHS A
mongst this year’s holiday baking, Christmas party decorating, and memories of Christmases past, chances are a Christmas wreath is featured somewhere! Wreaths are a classic holiday tradition for many, adding that festive touch to any front door and giving you some creative liberty in how you decorate it! Not only are wreaths a terrific investment for yourself, they also make an excellent gift for anyone on your list!
Christmas wreaths have a long and rich history. In general, wreaths were used to symbolize victory and strength, and the Christmas wreath took on a holiday tradition of its own, symbolizing Christ and eternity. Its theme of no beginning and no end is represented in its circular shape, as well as the origins of the word itself: “to twist as in a circle”. Oftentimes, Advent wreaths would be decorated with four candles – three placed on the outside and one in the centre, individually lit in the weeks leading up to Christmas with the center one being lit on Christmas Eve. Since then, Christmas wreaths have continued to be used and for many are now a symbol of welcome for guests! Christmas wreaths come in all shapes and sizes and offer you a long list of possibilities for decorating your home! Finding the one that suits you best is just the beginning of your Christmas wreath fun!
Fresh Evergreen
Crafted from real evergreen branches, fresh wreaths stay green throughout the winter months, and their foliage can be recycled, letting you add new branches to maintain the fresh, fragrant pine needle scent. The list of evergreen
14
options for your wreath is almost endless: Noble Fir, Princess or White Pine, Mixed Evergreen, Ontario Cedar, Oregonia, and Boxwood. Accent foliage can be anything from Seeded Eucalyptus and Variegated Holly to Ilex Berry, Blue Juniper Berry and Incense Cedar. Real Christmas wreaths are available for purchase from your local garden centre, or you can always try your hand at making your own. Purchase your own basic wreath and decorate it with your choice of accents. Using a preservation product such as Wilt-Pruf and misting your holiday greens will go a long way in reducing moisture loss and keeping your greenery fresh longer!
Life-like Artificial
An artificial wreath is always a good investment! Not only does it look real, but it will last for years to come. Purchasing a good quality wreath will help you get the most of your investment as it may be more weather-resistant, especially if it is exposed to the elements while hanging on the front door. Artificial wreaths made with realistic pinecones, twigs, and grapevines offer unique variety, and adding shimmering twigs will provide holiday colour and cheer! You can decorate your wreath in your own style, or stop by your garden centre where they will be happy to help you design your wreath just the way you want!
Ultimate Combination
A combination wreath brings together the real and artificial to deliver holiday beauty! You can tie in with your existing decorations and themes, going natural with twigs, pinecones, burlap and birch lollipops; going vintage with plaid ribbon; or avoiding a particular colour with metallic sprigs, neutral coloured ribbon, glittered berries or artificial flowers. Stringing lights through your wreath is also a great way to add a touch of enchantment and holiday light! Do something different to welcome your guests with a personalized message written on chalk ribbon or make your wreath even more unique by opting for different shapes - instead of sticking with the traditional circle, go with a heart, square or oval shape! Little Quick Fire®
The placement of your wreath can be totally up to you! Your front door is always a great place, welcoming people and tying in with your outdoor decorations. The mantle above your fireplace is also a great central spot for visibility. You can also try using it to frame your clocks or mirrors, placing your wreath under a chandelier and adding a bit of whimsy with little elves or fairies peeking out. For holiday dinner parties, place new evergreen tips or flowers in the wreath and move it to the table to sit around the base of the punch bowl. You can extend your wreath’s reach by placing it outdoors on a gate, adding giant velvet ribbon, or hanging a wreath from the tree for birds to perch on. The options are endless! So, with Christmas fast approaching, it’s time to find yourself or someone you know the perfect Christmas wreath! November is a great time to purchase your wreath, when the freshest selection of both wreaths and decorations is available! Your local garden centre will be filled with holiday-inspired ribbons, bows, picks, stems and of course the all-important wreath itself. Don’t let this season pass by without a beautiful, welcoming Christmas wreath!
HOLIDAY 2016 • 15
find your fun at crocs
Freesail Leopard Lined Women
Santa Cruz 2 Luxe Leather Men
Sarah Suede Clog
Blitzen II Clog
n o i h s a F FALL & WINTER
by Kim Burns – Art Knapp Port Coquitlam
D
ressing up for the colder weather doesn’t have to get you down. If you haven’t already noticed, layering is as much a part of the joy of the fall season as pumpkin spice lattes are! Why is layering so important? Layering adds depth to your outfit especially when you play with different textures. And it’s practical since the Canadian Fall season is notorious for switching between patio weather one day and parka weather the next.
One of our favourite accessories for this season: the oversized blanket style scarf. Unlike the skinny scarf, the blanket scarf is much more useful. It not only works well when used as a layering technique – a huge hit this fall, but it also serves an important purpose: keeping you warm when you are out and about in the cold weather. A few different ways to wear this winter must have: wear it as a cape, draping it over one shoulder for a super chic look or simply put your blanket scarf around your neck, leave the ends hanging down, and then belt it. You will almost look like you’re wearing a vest! 18
From leg warmers to boot socks, style starts from the bottom up. Cold temperatures call for drastic fashion measures. Socks are not only extremely cozy, but they’re also a surefire way to kick up your winter A-game. If you haven’t jumped on the boots + socks bandwagon yet, it’s time to hop on! This fall/winter we can be prepared to see a fusion in colours, materials and styles. For the everyday working girl, practical, functional, casual and comfortable are keywords. The trend is all about opposites: Sporty & Bohemian, Edgy Elegance, Wanderlust, Tailored Grunge and Elements of Nature, just to name a few. The Sporty & Bohemian look combines vintage inspiration and a cool urban vibe. Colours include a clean, compatible contrast between botanical tones – vibrant, woody or faded greens – and flesh colours, offset by deep purple. Accessories include fringed shawls, lots of suede detail, metal and wood jewellery and outsized 70s style glasses and flared jeans to take your style to the max! Edgy Elegance is teeming with a range of intense, mysterious shades of grey, pink and mauve. Textures clash and are enhanced by adding a blackish sheen. Influences are shared with rock, post-punk and gothic glam. Victorian romance meets edgy attitude with decorative cutouts, velvet, PU, sheer jerseys and bejeweled tapestry patterns. Accessorize this look with studded jewellery and bags. Wanderlust embraces an outdoorsy feeling with rustic and heavy structured fabrics. Look for shearling coats, corduroy, faux fur accents in natural colours and ponchos with heavy fringe. The focus is on neutrals and browns mixed with dark blue or burnt red tones. Tailored Grunge is a cool, young look with feminine tones of lace and a great mix of different prints like checks and ditsy flowers. Look for zipper details, asymmetric shapes, leather, and tweed and oil dye jersey. The palette is quite dark and edgy with solid white and grey softening the look. Elements of Nature focuses on simple styles with a graceful handcrafted look. Key qualities and details include wooden buttons, raw edges, tape yarns, crepe viscose and quilt and stitching details. There is lots of focus on warm brown, spots of yellow, red and dark denim blue. Feathers, arrows and dream catcher images will be a huge trend this fall/winter. You will find them as front prints on t-shirts and as strong jewellery themes.
So as the days get colder and the nights get longer, the snow falls quicker and our sweaters get thicker, just remember if we had no winter the spring would not be so
pleasant!
HOLIDAY 2016 • 19
Enchanting Christmas:
An
Add some Shimmer and Sparkle with Christmas Lights! by Ruth Van Belle
S
tring lights are among the numerous Christmas joys that make their way into our homes during the holiday season. Their twinkling, shimmery nature casts a warm, enchanting glow across the room as each little light winks at you and softens the distractions from the outside world. Whether used outside your home, on your mantle, or on your table, Christmas lights are the finishing touch that completes your decorations!
incandescent, they save you money in the long run and last much longer. A fun twist on the regular LED string lights is the LED Twinkle Cluster which offer the all the benefits of LED lights but have more bulbs per string, which results in a fuller and bigger (as well as brighter!) lighting impact.
LED Micro Lights
The most popular choice for decorators is the mini incandescent or LED lights. Suited for both indoor and outdoor use, they come on strands and can be used within almost any display!
Incandescent Lights Incandescent lights are inexpensive and come in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes! Their soft white gives a warm, enchanting glow which is always a holiday favourite. While they’re a classic choice, they come with their setbacks, which include the possibility that if one bulb is damaged, the entire string could no longer work; however, replacement bulbs are always available.
LED Lights If you think your lights might need to be a bit hardier and withstand a drop or two, LED may be the better way to go! LED lights offer more efficiency, do not heat up, and are incredibly durable – withstanding being dropped, stepped on, and other occasional bumps! While more expensive than 20
LED Micro Lights come on a wire string, are usually battery operated, and have a timer. They’re a great addition to wreaths, floral displays, and some varieties can even be submerged in water. They’re fairly inexpensive and come in a variety of colours that can be clustered in lanterns or terrariums for a more modern effect. Small enough to tuck in, they’re also a great addition to any front door wreath. One of the many great things about string lights is their versatility. They can be added to any Christmas decoration and display, including trees, bannisters, mantles, outdoor pots, and vases filled with silver and golden balls. You cannot go wrong with lights on your tree since they’re that finishing touch that adds shimmer and sparkle to your ornaments! When purchasing an artificial tree, check to see how many lights the tree has, keeping in mind that, as the base for all your ornaments, more is better. Once your tree is set up, do the ‘squint’ test to see how shimmery your lights are and add more if you feel it doesn’t pass the test! For an extra warm glow, use warm white, and for a cooler touch, try LED White that offers a slight blue tint. Once everything is in place, all that’s left is to turn off the main light and enjoy your magical tree!
Candles
If you’re looking to get away from artificial lighting, candles are always a great choice! They’re a peaceful and great way to create a relaxing mood you can enjoy after a long day at work or crazy time running those Christmas errands! Scented candles provide an additional way to fill your home with Christmas cheer, offering a variety of favourite scents including rich cinnamon, outdoorsy pine, and yummy candy cane! Jar candles provide safety and comfort while releasing fragrance, and pillar candles can be placed in lanterns or at the center of wreaths. Votive candles are perfect for adding accent lighting on dining or living room tables, and tapers are always a great choice for candelabras. If using candles, remember to stay safe and never leave a flame unattended!
decoration that you don’t have to worry about turning on and off. On your mantle indoors, you can set up a glass with a Mirage candle inside and place baubles around it for a festive look. Placing flameless candles in the tree is another unique touch! And finally, want to know the best thing about Christmas lights? They last all year long! Instead of packing them away when the holidays are over, keep them in outdoor displays, such as clear gazing balls in the garden, lanterns, and succulent or grapevine wreaths on garden walls. You can also try wrapping them around the trunk of a tree for enchanting backyard summer lighting or as a special decoration for weddings and anniversaries. Christmas lights are an essential for the holidays, and with the many options available, you’ll find the perfect variety to suit your style. Nothing beats wrapping your Christmas gifts beneath the enchanting glow of your tree. Happy Decorating!
Flameless Candles
Flameless candles add a Christmas glow without the worry of monitoring an open flame. They are equipped with a timer, so you can put them in hard-to-reach places and not worry about turning them on and off! Many are remote control ready (sold separately). Try setting them to turn on just before you arrive home from work to have them welcome you home. They hold up in a wreath, making them a great choice for an outdoor HOLIDAY 2016 • 21
things such as holding a fresh cut bouquet or a shimmering candle, or can it even serve a practical purpose like holding my utensils? Will I be able to use it all year round? We all know how cute that red pot with the Santa belt is, but it may not be the most flexible pot through the various seasons; however, don’t let this stop you either! If you’re looking to use seasonal pots all year, get your creative genius on and explore arrangement options, accents, and different types of plants to help you create a display that will properly show motifs without being strictly of one season or holiday!
STEALING THE
SHOW
Bottom: It is always a good idea to check the bottom of the pot as well. If it has holes, be sure to get a saucer to go with it. Check also for whether it has a smooth bottom or felt pads to minimize the risk of harming any furniture. Indoor or Outdoor: Many pots will be labelled as suited for indoor or outdoor use, or both. If you’re planning on putting your pot outdoors, you’ll want to make sure that it is weather protected. There have been several container trends sweeping through décor circles and homes the last few years. Here are some of those trends to inspire you!
Natural Birch
By Martha Vandepol
Why It’s All About the Containers!
I
LOVE pots! Any shape, size, texture or style is just perfect for me! Nothing gets me more excited than seeing a gorgeous orchid beautifully displayed in a modern, contemporary style container. In my home, I like to decorate using a number of styles so that the décor shifts and changes to reflect different seasons and events, ranging from rustic to modern, sleek lines. Containers are always a part of this décor, adding that perfect finishing touch when I need it. Investing in a beautiful, high-quality container can make any inexpensive plant or cut flower look great! When I see a container sitting on the store shelf that I particularly like, I’ll ask myself a few questions to determine whether it’s worth my investment: Size: The first thing I take note of is its size, deciding what kind of plant it will fit – a 4”, 6”, 8” or 10” plant. I choose container size according to the plant I have in mind, ensuring that it will have ample space to become my plant’s new home. Versatility: Next, I consider its decorative potential, to ensure it is multi-purpose. For example, can I use it for a multitude of
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Wood or birch themed pots are becoming all the rage. Any wood container fits in with this trend - from old apple crates for the bottom of the Christmas tree, to birch and any other natural wood containers. Wood is a terrific element, reflecting nature and bringing the outdoors inside, which is particularly pleasing when you’re stuck inside during the cold seasons! Try dressing up your wood display with a multitude of mason jars and holiday greens to create a sense of warmth and homey atmosphere.
Metallic Gold and Silver
Rustic Baskets
Gold and silver containers are always a holiday favourite! They’re the perfect piece to reflect and complement the extensive holiday use of candlelight! Add some metallic accents in your holiday plants, such as baubles and glitter sticks, and you’ll tie the container in perfectly with the entire display.
Clear, Painted or Mercury Glass
Rustic baskets are making a comeback. With the growing trend in reviving old décor pieces, baskets are the perfect fit! Modern design offers tighter basket weaves and modern colours – both perfect ingredients for a comeback you’re going to want to take note of. If you’re using coloured baskets, be sure they won’t ‘bleed’ over your furniture when you’re watering the plant. It’s time to go rifling through granny’s attic and bring back anything that’s old: jugs, tins, jars, lanterns, and everything in between. The more unusual the vessel is, the bigger the impact! So get creative, add some ribbons or burlap and (even more exciting) save some money by reusing old items!
Weather Resistant Outdoor Pots
These see-through treasures are a dynamic choice! They suit any season or occasion, making them more flexible than painted ceramic jars that appear much more seasonal. Not only that, they can be popped into the dishwasher for easy cleaning (three cheers, anyone?). Glass is a terrific choice for all those candle lovers out there! Glass and candles make the perfect shimmering pair, kicking any display up a couple notches. Glass is also great for showing off your entire plant display, letting you see the soil or layers of coloured stone (which is all the rage!).
Lightweight plastic or fiberglass lets you move your outdoor displays with ease – which is particularly handy if you’d like to draw attention to different places outdoors! Bright colours are the popular trend, particularly the blues and reds. Of course, black is always a staple, followed by dark grey, graphite and stone textures. Invest in a good quality pot that can be used during all four seasons to welcome guests to your home! So, the next time you’re out on a shopping excursion or visiting your local garden centre and you find yourself falling in love with that beautiful bowl, ceramic pot, glass vase, or basket, take this one piece of advice: indulge yourself. You will be able to use it for so many seasons to come, have the perfect outlet for creative moods, and always have a timeless product that you not only love, but will also never go out of style!
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Christmas Gifts E
Love we
veryone loves receiving a beautifully wrapped gift, whether it is for a special occasion, birthday or for the holidays. Christmas is the time of year when we can show others how much we appreciate and love them, by giving them a gift that is personal, whimsical or decorative. Shopping for any gift should be a pleasant experience and will be so rewarding when you see the joy on the recipient’s face when the final gift is unwrapped.
So Versatile
A holiday lantern is so versatile for decorating – you can place them anywhere in your home – inside and out. Adding a flameless, timer candle, that turns on automatically, will add the soft glow of candlelight. Your local garden centre has a multitude of lanterns to choose from. Remember, don’t pack the lanterns away – they look fantastic in your summer garden as well.
Light it Up
Cute and Cuddly
What better way to add whimsy and decoration to any mantle, than with a light-up holiday house or church. Displaying these pieces in groupings can create a story book or streetscape that will be the attraction for any room. Watch the children be drawn to the tiny structures, miniature people, frosty snow and landscapes. Most of the fun will be in creating your streetscape.
Holiday plush toys, nested in a comfy chair or tucked under the Christmas tree, will bring out the inner child in everyone. You can display your grandmothers heirloom treasures, child’s teddy bear, or the cute cuddly gnome you purchased this year. Add a bright red or plaid ribbon to match your decorating décor for the finishing touch.
Great Stocking Stuffer or Hostess Gift Finding a delicious stocking stuffer for the foodie in your family will be easy this year. Pick up a package of mulling spices, dip mix, holiday candy, jams or chutney. Bundle a group of items together for teacher gifts, or create a huge basket overflowing with delicious delights to present as a corporate gift.
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For the Trend-Setter Boot socks, or comfy socks or slippers are sure to keep their feet warm on a cold winter’s day. Another great stocking stuffer, these stylish pieces aren’t like the “typical” socks you used to get for Christmas.
Capes, Wraps & Scarves Take the WOW factor up a notch. Explore the latest trends this holiday season, with beautiful capes and wraps in the latest bold colours, fabrics and patterns. These pieces are a great way to add drama to any outfit and look wonderful on women of all ages
Touch of Class Every woman loves to have a little bling for the holidays. Sparkling necklaces, bracelets, watches, and other jewelry will finish off your holiday gift purchasing.
150th Birthday of Canada Let’s Celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday this coming year. Start the celebration by giving a patriotic Canadian themed item for this holiday season. Our country is rich in history and nostalgia, and there are so many gift items that reflect our nation’s pride. Oh Canada – Happy 150th Birthday.
Everyone Wants One Sparkling, festive, elegant and bright. Sometimes you have that special piece that everyone wants – for themselves and to give as a gift. When you see that decorative holiday décor that you absolutely have to have, you might as well pick up two….or three….or more. If you love it that much, you know that they will too.
250-334-3024 2855 Wentworth Rd., Courtenay, BC www.artknappcourtenay.ca
Holiday Must Everyone loves to shop! A gift card is a wonderful gift for the person who has everything. Tuck a few of these in your wallet for last minute gift giving.
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ADD SOME IMPACT with Floral Picks and Sprays! Article by Sylvia Van Hage
W
hen decorating for the holidays, artificial picks and silk flowers are a great way to add colour and impact to your home décor. The addition of floral picks can help you add low maintenance variety and provides endless options for different themes or looks. A wreath is often the first thing guests see when they come to your home. A great way to add interest to either a live or artificial wreath is by adding floral picks, sprays or clips. With the vast array of options, you can tie into your theme indoors, and easily change it up in the years to come. Try adding a few berry sprays for a festive pop of colour. Small or sparse wreaths can also be easily filled out for a fuller appearance with the addition of a few pre-made picks. Get creative! A great way to add fill and designer appeal to your tree is with silk flowers, leaf bunches, sprays and feathers.
The base on sprays are usually constructed of wire, making them flexible and malleable. Shape and fluff them for the look you’re going for and add them in a zig zag pattern going up and down the tree for a balanced, layered look, filling gaps between branches. Berry sprays in trees add a beautiful accent and hanging sprays can offer a beautiful draping effect on the tree, available in a variety of finishes. Try adding sprays with acrylic or artificial snow for a wintery effect. Clip on flowers are a great way to finish up the look. Try making your own tree topper with a few stems of the sprays used in your tree carefully wired into place with floral wire. Twig lights can be added for a light-up effect. Creating your own tree topper is a great alternative to traditional choices and can add height and visual appeal to your tree. Not only do adding these accents make for a beautiful finished look, but they make it simple to coordinate with your décor or theme.
26 • ART KNAPP GARDEN HOME & FASHION - 250-334-3024 - ARTKNAPPCOURTENAY.CA
Draping garland over the mantle is an easy way to create a festive feel. Just like a wreath, whether live or artificial, garlands can be easily embellished and filled out by adding complementary picks or clip on silk flowers. Empty stockings hung on the mantle waiting to be filled may be a cause for excitement or anticipation for holiday festivities but filling them with floral picks while waiting for the big night is a great way to add interest to your décor. Decorating stockings with seasonal picks can help finish and tie your theme together. The kitchen is often a focal point at the holidays when entertaining. What better way to spend time and bond, than to gather your loved ones together around the table and talk, eat and enjoy. This provides a great opportunity to use your dining area as a feature point in your holiday décor. With tablescape trends becoming increasingly popular using wreaths as a centrepiece embellished with floral picks or sprays is a simple do-it-yourself way to create a sophisticated look. Add a few battery powered tea lights or candles for comfortable ambiance. Place settings can be personalized by making place card holders with a name card attached to a small sprig of artificial greenery or berries. Napkin holders can also be simple to make - just use a small piece of jute twine or other festive string tied with a small piece of spray or pick. Sprays and picks can all be clipped into smaller custom size pieces with a pair of wire cutters. Don’t forget to decorate chairs to help tie your whole look together, add complementary or matching sprays and picks to backs of chairs or legs. Décor does not need to stop in the home. You can personalize your gift wrapping by adding seasonal accents of floral picks to ribbons and bows, or skip the ribbon and bows and just tie on with a piece of jute twine or other festive string for a minimalist feel. You will be surprised how doing so can really help complete the holiday look. The next time you decorate your home, remember to incorporate floral picks and silks into your décor to complement your overall theme. Adding small touches here and there will go a long way to contribute to the holiday spirit.
HOLIDAY 2016 • 27
Caring for a Live Potted
A
Christmas Tree
living Christmas tree is a wonderful growing reminder of past holiday season, and will be sure to enhance your landscape. Taking the time to make sure you properly care for your tree will ensure you are able to enjoy it for years to come.
Living trees should not be kept indoors for longer than 7 to 10 days. The shorter timespan spent inside in the heat, the better. A few days before bringing your tree into the house, you will want to move it to a cool place like an unheated garage or enclosed porch. This will allow the tree to slowly get used to a warmer area. A dormant tree exposed to immediate warmth will start to grow. Spray the tree with a anti-desiccant like Wilt Pruf to help prevent moisture loss and needle drop.
Once you have brought the tree into your home, you will want to keep it away from any heat sources like a fireplace, heaters or heating ducts. Make sure the pot has drainage and that you keep a saucer underneath to protect your floors. You will want to make sure you are checking the tree daily and keeping the rootball evenly moist, but not not let the tree sit in water, as extremely wet roots may rot. Try to only use LED or lights in the tree that do not give off any ambient heat. After Christmas, you will want to move the tree back to the enclosed porch or unheated protected area for a few days, as the tree will need a bit of time to adjust to the colder temperatures again. Once the ground thaws, select an appropriate area of the garden to plant your tree with some bone meal and enjoy for years to come.
28 • ART KNAPP GARDEN HOME & FASHION - 250-334-3024 - ARTKNAPPCOURTENAY.CA
Remembrance Day Friday, November 11, 2016 Article by Sylvia Van Hage
W
ith the holiday season starting earlier and earlier each year, it is important to honour our heroes, to remember their achievements, their courage and their dedication, and to say thank you for their sacrifices to both those here today, and those in spirit. The service members we honour on November 11th came from all walks of life, but they shared several qualities. They possessed courage, pride, determination, selflessness, dedication to duty, and integrity. All the qualities needed to serve a cause larger than one’s self. Many of them didn’t ask to leave their homes to fight on distant battlefields. Many didn’t even volunteer and they didn’t go to war because they loved fighting. They were called to be part of something bigger than themselves. They were ordinary people who responded in extraordinary ways in extreme times. They rose to the country's call because they wanted to protect a country which has given them and us so much. Millions of Canadians have fought and died on battlefields to defend our freedoms and ways of life. Today, our troops continue to make the ultimate sacrifices, and even as we lose troops, more Canadians step forward to say, “I’m ready to serve”. It’s important to be thankful for the sacrifices these brave individuals have made and are making every day, not just one day of the year.
"In Flanders Fields" by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae (1915) In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe; To you, from failing hands, we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.
On November 11th, people throughout the country will gather together to remember, honour, and pay gratitude to those who have served our country. It’s not a lot, but it's one small way we can honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can live in freedom. Let us thank, honour and remember them all.
HOLIDAY 2016 • 29
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Add your own decorations to dress it up or keep it simple. Decorate your fireplace mantle, dining room table or even over a doorway. This beautiful 48” mantle piece will add fragrance to your home décor.
Spruce up your bannister, fence or doorway with 25’ Mixed Evergreen Roping. Designed with 5 types of evergreen, this is the perfect size for your front door or staircase.
Available at
250-334-3024 | 2855 Wentworth Rd., Courtenay, BC | www.artknappcourtenay.ca