OAH HOLIDAY 2014

H O M E S D E S I G N L I V I N G S H O P P I N G F O O D

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Holiday Traditions GIFT IDEAS FOR EVERYONE

SLEIGH RIDES, TEA PARTIES AND OLD-FASHIONED FUN

Kyle & Julie Turris share baby’s first Christmas HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING, APPETIZERS AND TABLE SETTINGS

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40

ALE 88

CONTENTS Holiday 2014

8 EDITOR’S NOTE Family traditions

38

10 MERRY’S MUST HAVES

Gift ideas for everyone on your list

> HOME 16 DESIGNER AT HOME

Southwest style in Ottawa

18 COVER STORY RENOVATION

Renovated and decorated for family living

22 IN STYLE

Kyle and Julie Turris celebrate their baby’s first Christmas

26 TRENDS

What’s new for bed and bath?

27 CAPITAL COLOURS

Adding dynamic touches to the walls

30 STEP INSIDE

Meet Minto’s senior vice president

44 ENTERTAINING

Creating extraordinary holiday tables

> LIVING

39 THE SCENE

Beckta Dining & Wine new home

40 DAY TRIPPING

Take the kids on holiday- inspired adventures

54 END NOTE

Traditional trends in gift wrapping

> FOOD

18

45 FOOD THOUGHT

Appetizers dressed up in delicious packages

46 LET’S DISH

Korey Kealey and Erin Phillips share some of their family traditions

48 DINING OUT

Holiday tea means dress-up time for kids!

53 PAULA’S BITES

22

A delicious way to serve scallops

33 GIVING BACK

Using creative talent to support a cause

34 BEAUTY

H O M E S D E S I G N L I V I N G S H O P P I N G F O O D

HOLIDAY 2014

ottawaathome.ca $3.99

Holiday Traditions

45

GIFT IDEAS FOR EVERYONE

What happens when both sides of your brain are equally gifted and in need of outlets?

38 NEW & NOTABLE

Hockey sticks, dolls and

bow ties for the holiday season

SLEIGH RIDES, TEA PARTIES AND OLD-FASHIONED FUN

Kyle & Julie Turris share baby’s first Christmas HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING, APPETIZERS AND TABLE SETTINGS

COVER PHOTO BY MARK HOLLERON

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Mary Taggart

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Tanya Connolly-Holmes

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Jane Whiting

FOOD EDITOR

Paula Roy

FOOD CONTRIBUTOR

Korey Kealey

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Catherine Clark Vera Cody Sandy Connell Andrew Downward Melissa Shabinsky Paula Roy, Krystle Kung

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Ribbons, bows & traditions

I

nterviewing Kyle and Julie Turris for our In Style feature about the traditions they hope to pass along to their new baby, I found myself wondering which ones my own children will carry on. Will it be the siblings’ secret Santa or the Christmas morning wifesaver dish that my husband and daughter make on Christmas Eve? Perhaps it will be the never-ending holiday music that plays

in the background for the entire month of December or Christmas crackers and party hats!

When I look back at my own childhood, I know one of the stronger family traditions was thoughtful giving. Gifts were plentiful and meaningful, but not necessarily overly extravagant.

One of my fondest memories is of my great-aunt Georgie who would come by bus from Peterborough to spend Christmas with us and whip up the fun factor. She would arrive with mounds and mounds of beautifully wrapped gifts ... all for herself! Off the bus she’d toddle with bags of wrapped packages in her hands and an ear-to-ear smile as she exclaimed, “Aunty is here!”

Georgie was a well-loved woman and her bounty beneath our tree was a

tribute to the fact that her friends showed their affections with gifts. Long after my brother and sister and I had opened our gifts, we would all gather around to watch Georgie open one present after another. I have never known, then or now, someone with so many gifts to open from so many friends! But I think experiencing her holiday tradition in our home sparked my love of gift giving and initiated my joy of watching people open gifts.

The look of a beautifully wrapped present makes me smile, not so much for what awaits inside, but more for the excitement of the surprise and knowing that beneath the wrap, ribbons and bows lies an expression of emotion. When a gift is given in its purest form, there is no expectation of anything in return other than a recipient’s feelings of happiness upon receiving it. Of all the holiday traditions passed down from generation to generation, I believe this true sense of gift giving is my favourite.

Wishing you a holiday full of traditional joys,

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RIBBONS AND GIFT WRAP, PAPER PAPIER, 18 CLARENCE ST.

VISIT OTTAWAATHOME.CA tap into the local scene. CONNECT WITH ME: Twitter @Ottawaathomemag COMMENTS: mtaggart@ottawaathome.ca 8 ottawaathome.ca HOLIDAY 2014

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Merry’s MUST-HAVES

Who’s on your list this Christmas?

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Merry’s MUST-HAVES

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WRITTEN BY MARY TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

A

s the creative talent behind Minto’s model homes since 1986 and principal decorator of the Minto CHEO lottery dream home, Donna Correy of KISS Design Group knows how to create fantasy within the décor.

Model homes appeal to the imagination of visitors, tempting them with the possibilities of becoming a homeowner. But, once a home is purchased and reality sets in, there are many aspects of model home decorating that do not fit into everyday life.

In her own home, Donna

is cognizant of the fact that fantasy shouldn’t play too big of a role in décor. While it’s fun to be creative, too much decorative creativity comes off as quirky and lacks longevity.

Most of the décor in a model home embraces trends. Many trends are passing fads to keep the space looking up-to-date that interior designers try to balance with décor that will stand the test of time.

For Donna, that means looking for trends that involve a way to mix classics within a new project. The

savvy designer says, “It’s like building a good wardrobe; the classics blend with a few twists every season.”

She advises keeping trends to a minimum, never allowing them to take away from a design that already works well. “In décor we usually start with the architecture and work trends in from there.

The trends are the manicure,” adds Donna, who uses them to enhance what is already happening within a space.

With an eye on many aspects of lifestyle, Donna finds inspiration everywhere,

DONNA’S TRENDS FOR 2015 COLOUR: 3 Grey remains the strong neutral 3 Pastels, with hits of neon 3 Black and white 3 Olive to citrus greens

FABRICS: 3 Sheer 3 Less embellishment 3 Large-scale patterns

FIXTURES AND FURNISHINGS: 3 Mixed metals 3 Organic with glamour 3 Comfort

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from fashion runways to art galleries, magazines and the Internet. She attends multiple trade and gift shows each year to stay on top of what is current on both the design and building fronts.

Her own home is a tribute to her comfortable, relaxed style. She and her husband raised three boys in a ‘60s-style split-level in Ottawa South. Their love of water, as well as the desert, influenced some of her decorating choices, which include colourful accents and easy, lowmaintenance fabrics. She has worked to create a West Coast feeling that balances her home environment in Ottawa with her passions and complements the architecture of their house.

WEST COAST FACING PAGE: LEE CHAIR, IN BUTTERCUP FABRIC FROM CADIEUX INTERIORS, GRAPE VINE WALL HANGING FROM ART OF FURNITURE; COFFEE TABLE COLLECTIONS. THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE: THROW CUSHIONS ARE SANTA BARBARA FABRICS BY TEXTILE DESIGNER RAOL; STORAGE CRATES KEEP DONNA’S OFFICE ORGANIZED; ARTWORK FROM SANTA FE; DONNA CORREY IN HER KITCHEN.

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HOME Renovation

SCANDINAVIAN WINTER WONDERLAND

BY JANE WHITING PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

T

aking a classic century-old home in the Glebe and infusing the old-style character with contemporary décor can be a challenge. But not for these homeowners, who have carefully renovated the house over the last seven years to suit their casually chic style and meet the eclectic needs of a young family, while renewing their home’s unique architectural features.

Respecting the personal style of the residents and the character of the home was an important aspect of decorating the space for the

Homes for the Holidays tour. Virginia Vince, owner of Bloomfields Flowers, was the designated decorator and a close friend of the family, so she had an inside perspective on what would work.

She opted for a look that expressed natural simplicity and beauty to reflect the family lifestyle and their home.

RENEWED & FESTIVE The primary focus of the professional festive decorating was the main floor, which incorporates a perfect blend of old and new.

Large open rooms with connecting French

doors showcase period features of high woodcoffered ceilings and decorative trim work.

As part of the first round of renovations, which included adding a much-needed mud room, all the old windows were replaced with custom replicas of the original divided-light window design. The huge castiron radiators with embossed detailing were removed to be cleaned and painted, and the hardwood floors and an oak staircase were refinished. Dark wood panelling was stripped from the walls to lighten and freshen things up.

The timeless décor is enhanced with vintage brass and crystal lighting fixtures, together with a combination of contemporary and antique furnishings. A neutral colour scheme of warm off-white walls and trim provides an ideal canvas for this year’s festive touches.

“I knew an overly traditional or formal look wouldn’t work and modern would be too harsh,” says Virginia. “The plan was to create a natural, almost Scandinavian, winterwonderland feel with lots of boughs, different kinds of berries, branches and floral touches.”

While an atmosphere of eclectic chic reigns in the home, the fresh Christmas tree is decorated in a more

traditional style with a green and red theme. It takes pride of place in the living room, which was bumped out to provide extra space with a new fireplace and additional windows. Trimming the tree was a collaborative effort using a treasured collection of family decorations and tree ornaments made by the three children.

To offset the natural look, Virginia introduced some lush and colourful elements with textured florals to complement individual rooms. “I wanted to accent the bold orange colours from the painting in the living room and create something fun and whimsical for the kitchen.”

Currently, the kitchen has a country feel with

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“I knew an overly traditional or formal look wouldn’t work and modern would be too harsh. The plan was to create a natural, almost Scandinavian, winter-wonderland feel with lots of boughs, different kinds of berries, branches and floral touches.” — VIRGINIA VINCE

PLAYFUL SPIRIT THIS PAGE: THE CHILDREN’S PLAYROOM GETS DECKED OUT FOR CHRISTMAS.

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NATURAL TRADITIONS THIS PAGE: A FRESH TREE FOR THE LIVING ROOM AND BIRCH TREES IN THE DINING ROOM COMBINE TRADITIONAL WITH CONTEMPORARY DÉCOR BEAUTIFULLY. FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE: CREATIVE FRAMING AND DISPLAYS OF ART ADDS CHARACTER IN THE ENTRY AND CHILD’S BEDROOM; A VIBRANT WORK FROM CANADIAN ARTIST BOBBIE BURGERS HANGS ABOVE THE FIREPLACE. 20 ottawaathome.ca HOLIDAY 2014

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MANTEL DÉCOR 3 Lay out a variety of wintergreens such as pine, cedar, eucalyptus and magnolia.

3 Add pinecones and votive candles 3 Use varying heights of votive holder with colourful candles tucked inside (votives refer to the candles themselves, not to the holders, so I rephrased slightly)

3 Swag greens down each side

whitewashed cabinetry and black granite counters. But it’s next on the to-do list, as the owners plan to renovate the space in a clean-line design with no upper cabinets. Even though the owners fondly describe their home as far from perfect, the renovated rooms on the upper two levels are pretty close to perfection.

REST & PLAY The wide oak staircase leads to a long, open stair landing on the second floor where the kids like to practise their gymnastics! This

level was remodelled to provide two great bedrooms – one for two young boys and another for a nine-year-old girl – plus a guest room. A new bathroom, as well as a fabulous playroom with its own outdoor balcony, completes the children’s happy place.

On the way up to the third floor, there is a surprise wall opening that overlooks the kitchen. It’s a featured remnant from the removal of a second staircase that would have been used by domestic staff to access their bedrooms. Now this

space is entirely devoted to the parent’s private retreat. Their happy place includes a master bedroom with a cozy sitting area tucked into a wide bay window, walkin closets and a dazzling bedroom-sized ensuite in white and grey marble.

With her friend’s sense of style and eye for décor, Victoria remarks that it was the ideal house for her to decorate for the holidays. “There is such a warmth to the home. It defines their style as they shape the character of the home to fit their lives.”

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HOME InStyle

BABY’S FIRST

CHRISTMAS

BY MARY TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

W

hen Beckett Turris entered the world on his due date, September 12, it was timed perfectly with his dad’s schedule.

Kyle Turris is the star centre with the Ottawa Senators hockey team, and baby Beckett arrived early enough for Kyle to enjoy the first week at home with his first-born child before a hectic preseason schedule.

Although Kyle is from the Vancouver area and new mom Julie comes from Minnesota, Ottawa is quickly becoming their home. They are happily immersed in life in the capital and their trendy Wellington Village neighbourhood where Leo, their golden retriever, chums around with the other neighbourhood pooches at the dog park. As a preschool

teacher, Julie has already volunteered at the local school and now, with their new baby on the scene, they both look forward to becoming more involved in the community with the hope that one day Beckett will join his dad and other skaters at the local rink.

Their warm and inviting home is a true reflection of a couple who cherish life’s meaningful elements of friends, family and tradition. While the principal rooms of their newly built home showcase their relaxed, easygoing style, the nursery is a tasteful example of their sensitive approach to life. “We wanted (the nursery) to be calming,” says Julie who decorated the space. “I find it to be the most peaceful room in the house.”

NURSERY CHARM “NANA” VIKKY AND “POPPA” BRUCE REFURBISHED A BENCH FOR LEO TO WATCH OVER JULIE AND BECKETT; THE GOLD POUFFE IS FROM VIENS AVEC MOI 22 ottawaathome.ca HOLIDAY 2014

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“We wanted (the nursery) to be calming.

I find it to be the most peaceful room in the house.” — JULIE TURRIS

The décor is a combination of neutral tones with a few pops of pizzazz, which are seen in the addition of the gold star crib sheet, a glitzy chandelier and tasteful artwork and of course a refurbished bench from Kyle’s parents Vikky and Bruce, for Leo to watch over Julie and Beckett.

It all came together perfectly to create an elegant room for their bundle of joy who looks a lot like his dad . . . although there are obvious signs of his mom too! The family also blends beautifully together with Leo adjusting nicely to changes now that Beckett is top dog.

As the holiday season approaches, both Kyle and Julie have some traditions they

hope to share with their son, while adding some new ones of their own.

They both grew up in families who embraced the holidays and enjoyed the bounties of the season with grand family meals. In Julie’s home, midnight mass was a tradition, along with a holiday moviewatching marathon – A Christmas Story is a family favourite!

Kyle’s family collects Christmas ornaments from their travels and celebrates the occasion with an elaborate meal.

These are all traditions that the happy couple plan to bring into their home and they are excited to see how Beckett likes the Elf on the Shelf sensation. He may just have enough of a mischievous nature to keep that elf on his

toes and put a big smile on the faces of his funloving mom and dad.

The young family is embracing snowy Ottawa and cannot wait to share the excitement of building a snowman in the yard, throwing snowballs and sledding with Beckett. Julie laughs that they may even have Leo pull him around on the sleigh that her uncle gave them as a baby gift!

This Christmas, four stockings will hang by the Turris chimney – including one filled with doggie treats for Leo. Both Kyle and Julie will be working in the kitchen to start their traditions so that Beckett can grow up rooted in the meaningful elements of life, just like his enchanting parents.

STAR OF THE SHOW THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE: BOOKS WERE SHOWER GIFTS; ARTWORK ORDERED OFF ETSY’S TRAFALGAR’S SQUARE; BLANKET A GIFT FROM KRESSON WIERCIOCH’S MOM LAURIE VREEMAN; BOOTIES FROM PADRAIG COTTAGE, CRIB SHEET FROM ADEN & ANAIS FACING PAGE: BECKETT EYES HIS SHINING STAR, JULIE.

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HOME Trends

NG LIVING LIGHTI

Bed and Bath

TRENDS 2015

PHOTOGRAPHY MARK HOLLERON

Look ahead to the new year and embrace glamour that combines with rustic elements and modern touches in décor.

The Backstory INSPIRATION: CHEO LOTTERY DREAM HOME DESIGNER: KISS DESIGN GROUP SUPPORT THE CAUSE — DREAMOFALIFETIME.CA

LAYERED TEXTURES: For a rough and ready approach to décor, combine metal, leather, wood, silk and glass.

GET FORMAL: We can almost see the return of handwritten notes with an air of formality making its way into fashionable homes these days. Get your inkwell out!

REVELRY UNDERFOOT: Carpets and intriguing flooring are becoming some of the most important elements in a room; go ahead and invest in quality with style, pattern and colour.

LET THERE BE LIGHT: Light fixtures are fast becoming the scene-stealers in décor and the perfect way to add a glamorous touch.

BATHE IN LUXURY: If there is space, let the bathtub float in the middle of the room to take centre stage.

ARTISTIC EXPRESSION: Get creative with tile. Mix patterns, colours and imagery to take the ensuite or family bath to a heightened level.

MOD MANIA: A teen bedroom is the best place to embrace the trend of bringing back mod influences from the ‘60s. Pops of colour, geometric patterns, chrome and glass - they are all back in vogue.

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HOMES Capital Colours

Wallpaper is a great way to add dynamic colours and patterns to a space and you are not obligated to finish the whole room.

—

PERSONAL

EXPRESSION

BY ANDREW DOWNWARD PHOTOGRAPHY MARK HOLLERON

I

t’s time for the holidays! The time of year when we all get together with friends and family for holiday gatherings and end-of-year bashes, as we reflect on another year gone and a new one just around the corner.

I love the positive energy, the thoughtful gestures and acts of charity. For a month or two we become the best of ourselves and, in turn, our homes and communities come alive!

With all this holiday spirit, it’s no wonder

ANDREW DOWNWARD

we spend an enormous amount of time and energy beautifying our homes. Besides the traditional mistletoe, cedar vines and Christmas trees, there are a number of projects to help create holiday décor magic and still leave plenty of room for gifts and generosity.

The key is not to get too ambitious, but rather focus on a specific space or wall.

One of my favourite quick-and-easy space changers is wallpaper.

Wallpaper is a great way to add dynamic colours and patterns to a space and you are not obligated to finish the whole room. In a room dominated by neutrals, wallpapering will create a new and exciting focus.

If wallpapering is too ambitious for you, then consider applying a wall decal. They are perfect for spaces that could use a spark of interest.

I have used wall decals as large and intricate as a birch tree, and as small as a grouping of butterflies in a nursery.

Perhaps my favourite use of wall decals was the application of a Webster’s Dictionary definition for the word “play” that I applied in an office to inspire perspective. However you decide to use them, wall decals offer an almost unlimited amount of options and, best of all, peel right off!

Want a big impact on a small budget?

Think and paint mathematically. Draw a geometric pattern, chevrons or stripes on your focus wall.

Mask with ScotchBlue Painter’s Tape and paint.

Choose colours that are contrasting or from the same colour swatch. The finished product is a dynamic and inexpensive way to create depth and texture, as well as a real conversation piece when guests arrive.

Whatever you decide, remember this: we are all artists. Your homes are an expression of all that is you and your family.

Have fun and enjoy this festive time of year!

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HOME Step Inside

FAMILYVALUES AT WORK

BY VERA CODY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

B

rent Strachan is a small-town boy at heart who grew up in a close-knit family in Perth, Ont. As a boy, he wanted to be a civil engineer for Lanark County like his father. But small-town pleasures didn’t hold him back

and he moved to Toronto to study survey engineering at Ryerson.

The courses in land development, planning and engineering would ultimately lead him to his future career.

While Brent completed his four-year program in Toronto, his

high-school sweetheart Heather lived and studied in Ottawa. So, after graduating, he knew all the attractions that Ottawa had to offer and chose it as the closest he could get to living in a major city with a small-town atmosphere. It was a

good decision!

Brent was hired by the Minto Group 15 years ago and he is now the senior vice president of Minto Communities Ontario, after holding positions in architecture, design and operations. He was drawn to the Greenberg

family’s history of four brothers who built their first home in Ottawa’s east end almost 60 years ago. It became the catalyst that created an empire portfolio of more than 70,000 constructed homes, with more than 20,000 in Florida.

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“I am fortunate to be able to talk positively about my professional life, as it is such a big part of my life.” — BRENT STRACHAN Minto also has extensive commercial retail, office and industrial space, as well as 17,000 rental properties in Ottawa, Toronto, London and Calgary. For the second time in three years, Minto Communities has been recognized as the Ontario Homebuilder of the Year by the Ontario Home Builders’ Association and is an industry leader in green building initiatives.

Brent is proud to be part of the Greenberg work family and believes he has big shoes to fill now that none of the Greenbergs are actively working in the business. One of his favourite projects has been the development of the two condominium towers and townhomes at Lansdowne Park. When he sits in the stands at TD Place watching the Ottawa RedBlacks with his sons, he hopes one day to bring a grandchild and tell stories of how it was built.

He knows that his family would not be part of that story if the Greenbergs had not moved forward from building that first house all those years ago.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR CAREER? Seeing a young couple move into their first home, have children

and then stay in that community by buying a bigger house so they can run a full life cycle there – knowing that they loved where they grew up.

WHAT ARE YOUR CHALLENGES? I work at keeping everybody motivated and positive by bringing new ideas from an innovation perspective to the market. Minto has a very significant portion of the market share, but with that comes the pressure to continue to bring in new product, new ideas and new communities.

IS IT DIFFERENT FOR YOU AS A NONFAMILY MEMBER? I cannot say enough about Minto and the Greenbergs and the admiration I have for how they built this company. There are big shoes to fill. It is an honour and huge responsibility to sustain the excellence they have created. I feel like I have been given keys to the family car.

HOW DO YOU ENJOY ANY DOWNTIME? My happy place in the summer is our family cottage with all the things that go with that. Watching the kids fish, swim and kayak.

BBQs. Bonfires. Winter is hockey and rink time

where I help coach my two sons Graham (8) and Hugh (5). Our daughter Claire (11) figure skates at the same rink, and my wife Heather and I are there a lot because of their activities.

WHY IS GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY SO IMPORTANT? Our executive chairman Roger Greenberg believes in five key elements to grow a vibrant community – health care, children, education, arts and the environment.

We are successful because of the people who buy our product. By donating to more than 200 charities, we endeavour to improve the quality of life of those who have supported us in our growth.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? My family, my children and then the company I work for. I am fortunate to be able to talk positively about my professional life, as it is such a big part of my life.

It is rewarding to love what you do, believe in what your company stands for and know you can make a difference by building a home your customers love to go home to. You get out of life what you put into it, and it is important to stay true to your values.

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Dare to Dream!

Let Us Transform Your Kitchen or Bathroom From Design to Installation ‌ The product selection you want; the quality you demand; and the results you dream about. You can trust Kitchens & Bathrooms First with your kitchen and bathroom dreams. Proud supplier of American Standard quality products.

Visit our newly located and expanded showroom or Visit us at www.bathroomsfirst.ca

850 Industrial Ave. Unit 5 | 613.749.1512 | bathroomsfirst.ca 32 ottawaathome.ca HOLIDAY 2014

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n

LIVING Giving Back

CREATING FOR PURPOSE

BY CATHERINE CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

A

udrey Hayes was 17 years old when troubles at home saw her move out and into a shelter.

It was a place she would spend the next several years of her life. Like many other homeless or at-risk youth in Ottawa, her future was uncertain until she stumbled upon another kind of home, one that made her feel welcome and accepted. Audrey had found Operation Come Home, and it was a place that would ultimately help define her future path.

Operation Come Home (OCH) is a local organization that has spent decades helping homeless and at-risk youth gain access to the services they need, from education to addiction counselling, and from health care to clothing.

At first, Audrey took part in the breakfast program offered by OCH and then began attending the organization’s BeadWorks program, where her beautiful jewelry creations generated notice and sales in the re:Purpose boutique run by OCH. The store features the

handmade work of the youth served by the organization, as well as that of other local artists and artisans.

Audrey has now gone from budding artist to entrepreneur, helping to run the re:Purpose storefront as creative coordinator along with her colleague Angela, who is the re:Purpose liaison. Together, the young women help to lead a fully youth-

BRACELET

BY ANGELA

run social enterprise, where 60 per cent of the profits go to the artists and 40 per cent goes to keeping the store and the BeadWorks program up and running.

While the boutique is still a hidden gem, it won’t be for long, with clients ranging from friends’ parents to Her Excellency Sharon Johnston, wife of the Governor General. “The re:Purpose storefront is like my little baby,” describes Audrey. “Angela and I get to work with atrisk youth while also gaining great life and work experience.”

In many ways,

Audrey and Angela’s experience is a perfect example of the support and motivation that Operation Come Home offers its clients. “When I first walked in, I realized how much of a home it really is,” recalls Angela. “It’s filled with youth and staff of all backgrounds – it’s like walking into a house where all of your siblings and family are gathered.”

For Audrey, it was more than just a home. “It was a safe space, a place for me to be creative, with no judgment, where

I could make and sell my pieces – I don’t know where I would be without them.”

Visit the re:Purpose Boutique at 150 Gloucester St. for their Christmas Shopping Party on Dec. 4, from 4-9 p.m.

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BEAUTY Living My Way

THE ART & SCIENCE OF

BEAUTY

BY MELISSA SHABINSKY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON IMAGES OF ART SUPPLIED

M

astering the fine art of beauty is more than just a profession for Dr. James Daniel.

When he shuts the door of his clinical cosmetic practice and steps into his home studio, beauty takes on a new shape under his paintbrush.

When the doctor

talks about beauty and how to carve out cheekbones, lift eyelids, sculpt faces and contour jawlines, he is not just talking about using a scalpel or syringe, but also about how his paintbrush or palette knife can transform paint and wax into beautiful

works of art. He is both curator and artist for a covert gallery within Concept Medical on Holland Avenue, where stunning canvases of the female face and figure are expertly hung on each wall. The only hint of what goes on behind these doors is the cosmetic pamphlets

that rest on the coffee table in the waiting room.

James, the doctor, graduated from the Queen’s School of Medicine and moved to Ottawa in the early 1990s for postgraduate training.

He also has his MBA along with a passion

for photography and travel. His transition from hospital-based to private cosmetic practice was a natural fit for his esthetic eye. “My work in cosmetic medicine is predicated on highly detailed technical leftbrain demands, but it is predominantly

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“Love of beauty is taste. The creation of beauty is art.” — RALPH WALDO EMERSON

FINE ART FACING PAGE: DR. JAMES DANIEL. ABOVE: ADRENALIN SURGE.

the artistic right-brain decisions that lead to the best results,” he reveals. “Faces are a most unique and challenging canvas that can be viewed with a mathematical eye for proportions, volumes and angles, but creating a subtle, tasteful and natural appearance ultimately requires very intuitive decisionmaking.”

James, the artist, is self-taught. He began to

dabble in watercolours in his early teens, then experimented with other media, including oils and acrylics, as he started to add pieces of art to his own collection. “Each medium that I use has intrinsically unique physical properties that bring with it a set of inherent challenges and rewards,” he explains.

“Accordingly, I often select my medium based on my subject

matter.”

The artist happened upon a studio in Dunrobin that allowed him to try the challenging encaustic wax medium, a technique that involves heating beeswax and colour pigments and then using a blowtorch to manipulate and shape the paint on a wooden board. It quickly became a passion of his and he spends most Saturday

mornings “fighting” with the wax to create luminous abstract works of art.

While the doctor’s profession satisfies his eye for technical precision – sculpting the surface of a human body with attention to symmetry and proportions – his passion for art seems to ignite an insight into the less structured and often abstract human soul. Many of

his paintings have only the suggestion of a face and capture emotion through the expression and pose, which he says, “allows the viewer to complete the picture.”

James enjoys painting the human form, including athletes and even underwater figures. “I like the prismatic effect of the water distortion of the anatomy,” he says, although he admits that the most challenging HOLIDAY 2014 ottawaathome.ca 35

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FRIDAY, MARCH 6 AT 9:30 A. M. RIDEAU CENTRE

Come as you are. We like your style.

Share Your StYle #NORDSTROMOTT Learn more @ ca.nordstrom.com

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THE SCIENCE OF ART ABOVE: SWIMMER. RIGHT, TOP TO BOTTOM: DOCUMENTING THE PROCESS.

Every painting includes a USB that explains the various stages of each piece as James wants his clients to understand the thought process and many layers beneath his finished work. provides many great inspirations.”

His pieces are sold mainly to private art collectors throughout North America and Europe, although he also recently exhibited a collection at the Ottawa International Airport. Krista Kealey, vice-president of communications at the Ottawa International Airport Authority, says his work is like nothing they have showcased before.

“His medium (encaustic)

is different, and his work has movement and depth, and it evokes emotion.

My favourite piece in the collection, Torrent, reminds me of the beaches and surf in California, and gives me a peaceful, happy feeling.”

Every painting includes a USB that explains the various stages of each piece as James wants his clients to understand the thought process and many layers beneath his finished work. On the

back of each painting he also handwrites, “How delicious is the pleasure after the torment.” Offering further insight into the parallel demands of an artist and a doctor’s quest for perfectionism, he adds, “The challenge and excitement of creating artwork is often filled with the implicit tension of trying to carefully manipulate each medium to ultimately capture my initial vision of the work.”

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LIVING New & Notable < BROKEN STICK

HIGH-STYLE GIFTS

Ever wondered what to do with that broken hockey stick? Mike Patriquin, a Grade 5 teacher at Hilson Avenue Public School, has the answer. It can become a picture frame, a province on a map of Canada or even a bottle opener! Mike, who loves to indulge his creative side, has been turning discarded wooden hockey sticks, licence plates and old barnboard into handcrafted items for the past seven years. His creations are on display at the Hintonburger and he even had a custom-made chair exhibited at the Royal Ontario Museum. He also sells his artwork at craft fairs and on his website at brokenstick.ca.

Know about something new & notable? Contact us: editor@ottawaathome.ca.

WRITTEN BY SANDY CONNELL IMAGES SUPPLIED

HIGH TIDE BOW TIES > Historically, a bow tie was seen as the embodiment of propriety, worn by physicians, politicians and professors. Today they are making a comeback among the younger generation looking for a fun and different way to stand out in a crowd.

Having recently worn one to a wedding, Mackenzie King got so many compliments that he and his entrepreneurial friend, Matthew White, decided to start their own bow tie business and High Tide Bow Ties was born. The two are making their ties from high-quality cotton, a material they say offers better pattern choices and a “more contemporary look” than the traditional silk.

The fabrics come from Ottawa outlets, and an Ottawa seamstress produces the ties and pocket squares.

These one-of-a-kind bow ties are available online at hightidebowties.com.

< AMERICAN GIRL For the little girls on your Christmas list … this fall saw the grand opening of an American Girl specialty boutique at Chapters on Rideau Street.

Chapters is thrilled to bring the American Girl experience to the Ottawa area, offering an assortment of dolls from the Girl of the Year, My American Girl, BeForever and Bitty Baby collections, plus a selection of popular doll accessories and a variety of bestselling American Girl books and craft kits. The American Girl specialty boutique also offers the opportunity for American Girl fans to treat their dolls to a new hairstyle or ear piercing in the Doll Hair Salon. The boutique offers child-friendly events and programs to be slated throughout the year. For more information, visit indigo.ca/americangirl.

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THE SCENE Openings

COMING

HOME

BY MARY TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW ALEXANDER

L

ooking at the old Friday’s Roast Beef House through the eyes of a child, one might have seen a grand, impressive building and a fancy restaurant for getting dressed up and being treated to an extravagant meal, a place where “important people” dined at a “serious restaurant.” These were the impressions of a young Stephen Beckta who lived, as a boy, down the street from the Elgin street eatery that now bears his name.

Appropriately, it’s a name in Ottawa that is synonymous with fine dining and important people.

In mid-November, Stephen Beckta opened the doors to his latest restaurant, Beckta Dining & Wine, in the historic Grant House at 150 Elgin St. The original structure was built in 1875 and has since gone through major restructuring and renovations to allow for the heritage home to be integrated with the architecture of the newly constructed Performance Court building.

Morguard now owns the building and according to Stephen has been an exceptional landlord with whom to work. In conjunction with architect Barry Padolsky, who worked with Morguard on the redevelopment,and Beckta’s

architect Robertson Martin, a stunning new restaurant is now on Ottawa’s dining scene. “They have done an incredible job integrating the new, modern conveniences with the heritage mouldings, grand open staircases, heritage fireplaces (9) and stained glass, a remarkable juxtaposition of new and old,” states Stephen, who proudly reveals that the city’s heritage committee wants to use the renovation as a case study for future heritage redevelopments.

“We are very honoured!” he says.

While it’s clearly a fine dining establishment, it still holds on to the welcoming feeling of the recently closed original Beckta Dining & Wine location at Nepean Street. Stephen’s vast experience in the business makes him one of Ottawa’s most respected restaurateurs with an innate sense of what guests want.

There is no pretence within his establishments, yet the dining experience is most definitely for serious diners and wine aficionados.

His team includes a partnership with executive chef Michael Moffatt and director of operations Clay Cardillo. Stephen is the majority owner along with his group of original investors from 12 years

BECKTA’S NEW HISTORIC HOME ABOVE: STEPHEN BECKTA CELEBRATING GRAND RE-OPENING OF BECKTA’S NEW LOCATION ON ELGIN STREET.

ago when he opened the Nepean Street restaurant; it’s a good sign when investors continue to believe in you.

The new place seems like a natural transition for Stephen, who is coming back to his roots. Elgin Street has a place in his heart; he has worked at several places along the strip, met his wife in the neighbourhood and has fond memories of playing and going to school

there. A piece by artist Andrew King of the old Elgin Theatre, painted to reflect a time in Stephen’s young moviegoing days, symbolizes those roots.

Stephen has long been an Andrew King fan. The artist’s work hangs throughout the restaurant in fitting form. “I’ve always loved Andrew’s work, and thought with the prestige of the new space it would fit with his esthetic really well.

That perfect blend of historic and modern,” says Stephen. And as he now stands proudly as the owner of a serious restaurant housed in a building he took note of as a child, wondering if some day he too might be able to dine there, it seems that his new venture mirrors that as somewhat of a modern-day fairy tale that mixes historical elements with modern influences as well.

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LIVING Daytripping

Oh what fun it is to ride In a one horse open sleigh…

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DAY TRIPPING WITH KIDS

BY MARY TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

CU P

CEO THE IS KE CA

Family time is cherished over the holiday season, yet finding just the right activity to keep children of all ages entertained can be challenging. But once the magic of Christmas sets in we embrace our inner child to find charm in traditional family activities that include sleigh rides, fairy tales and oldfashioned fun!

STANLEY’S CHRISTMAS VILLAGE A sleigh ride to Santa’s village is an ideal outing for the whole family. Combining humour for adults with kid-friendly fun, Earl Stanley and his team have created a magical family experience at Stanley’s Christmas Village, just south of Ottawa. In the heart of the village there are outposts for elf stations where the busy workers help make Santa’s work run smoothly by sorting mail, making toys and wrapping gifts.

There is even a Chief Elf Officer (CEO) who helps Santa keep track of who is naughty and nice . . . Visit stanleysfarm.com for more information.

NAUGHTY & NICE NGER CHECK THE GI & NT MI ER PP PE

LIST.

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www.LiveQWest.com 2014-11-18 4:14 PM

r

LIVING Daytripping

!

m

CUMBERLAND HERITAGE VILLAGE MUSEUM Home for the Holidays is the theme for the Vintage Village of Lights being showcased at the Cumberland Heritage Museum Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings from 3-8 p.m. Starting Nov. 29 until Dec. 21, 30,000 lights will light up the site each night.

Paying tribute to soldiers in the First World War who were expected to return to their families by Christmas, the home setting is recreated by museum staff within one of the heritage homes on site. Complete with a traditional family meal, games and holiday traditions visitors can expect to step back in time to an old fashioned Christmas. Craft activities include letterpress postcards, making snow globes, knitting socks, story telling and more. Visitors will experience a rural family Christmas complete with broomball games, Santa’s sleigh and scavenger hunts. Visit ottawa.ca/museums for more details.

THE GLADSTONE It may be freezing in Ottawa over the holiday season, but The Gladstone will warm your hearts with a wintry family musical – even though it’s called Freezing! The locally produced holiday show runs from Dec. 18 to Jan. 4, and you can enjoy an enchanting Canadian cast in the fairy-tale Snow Globe Kingdom at the theatre. More information at itsfreezinginottawa.com

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ENTERTAINING Table Settings

Table settings are part of the memorable magic during festive gatherings. Add special touches such as personalized place cards, token gifts and glorious centrepieces.

CLOCKWISE, LEFT TO RIGHT: TRILLIUM FLORAL DESIGNS BRINGS NATURE TO THE TABLE USING PINECONES AS PLACE CARD HOLDERS; ARTISTIC LANDSCAPE DESIGN PLACES INDIVIDUAL FERNS AT EACH PLACE SETTING TO COMPLEMENT THE ELABORATE CENTREPIECE; A TOY ORNAMENT IS A FUN OFFERING FOR EACH SETTING AT THE CHILDREN’S TABLE; FLOWERS TALK TIVOLI ADDS RUSTIC CHARM WITH BARNWOOD AND ROSES; WRAP NAPKINS WITH CINNAMON STICKS AND ROSEMARY AT A COUNTRY CHRISTMAS TABLE; MILL STREET FLORIST ENHANCED THE ELEGANCE OF A FORMAL TABLE SETTING FOR THE HOMES FOR THE HOLIDAYS TOUR 2014.

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FOOD Food Thoughts PREP TIME: 15 minutes COOK TIME: 3 minutes MAKES: 25 INGREDIENTS: 3 oz plain goat cheese 2 tbsp (30 mL) chopped raw pumpkin seeds 1 tbsp (15 mL) freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 tsp (10 mL) lemon zest freshly ground pepper, to taste 1/4 cup (50 mL) pomegranate seeds 25 wonton wrappers vegetable oil for frying

FESTIVE POMEGRANATE PARCELS CREATED BY KOREY KEALEY, @FOODTHOUGHT PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

An easy-to-make festive appetizer is perfect for holiday entertaining. Decorate plates with pomegranate seeds and wrap the parcels with chives for a merry presentation.

METHOD: In small bowl, combine goat cheese, pumpkin seeds, lemon juice, lemon zest and pepper until well blended.

Lay wonton wrappers on clean surface, place 1/2 tsp (2.5 mL) goat cheese mixture in the middle of wonton wrapper and top with 5 pomegranate seeds. Brush outside edges of wrapper with water then gather the four corners around the filling and pinch to seal and form a parcel. Repeat with remaining wonton wrappers and filling.

TO COOK: In saucepan, heat 1 inch oil to 350F. Add parcels and cook on all sides until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Drain on paper towel and serve immediately.

To reheat, place on baking tray and reheat at 350F for 12-15 minutes.

KOREYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TIPS To remove seeds from pomegranate fill a bowl with water and gently remove seeds under water. The extra membrane and peel floats to the top to be skimmed off. Drain and refrigerate seeds in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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FOOD Let’s Dish

ERIN PHILLIPS (LEFT) AND KOREY KEALEY

HOCKEY & HOLIDAYS

BY PAULA ROY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

E

rin Phillips and Korey Kealey, authors of the recently published The Ultimate Cookbook for Hockey Families, are very familiar with the juggling act it takes to maintain balance and keep everyone fuelled. Leveraging their expertise as nutritionists, Erin, wife of Ottawa Senators defenceman Chris Phillips, and Korey,

foodpreneur and creator of the popular enerjive SKINNY quinoa crackers, collaborated to collect a book full of healthy, satisfying recipes from a host of hockey superstars. Both Erin and Korey will be carefully scheduling family gatherings and festive meals around training, practices and games this Christmas; Ottawa At Home asked

them to share some of their tips, traditions and indulgences for the holiday season.

WHAT ACTIVITIES ARE YOUR CHILDREN INVOLVED IN? Erin: Ben is 11 and enjoys hockey, baseball and wake boarding; 10-year-old Zoë likes hockey, wakesurfing and piano; Niomi, our youngest, is seven and

is into figure skating, wakesurfing and piano.

Korey: Alexander, 17, and Adam, 15, are into hockey and golf; 11-year-old Rebecca is an avid reader and enjoys hockey and horseback riding.

HOW DO HOLIDAY PREPARATIONS FIT INTO YOUR HECTIC SCHEDULE?

Korey: My planning gets started in November when holiday promotions are happening and I am either setting up shows for others or demonstrating them myself.

Erin: I go to Syracuse with my girlfriends every November and shop like crazy to get most of it done.

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Hugging my kids! Our eldest is home for only five days – he’s playing in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League this year .

—

KOREY KEALEY, OTTAWA AT HOME FOOD CONTRIBUTOR, AUTHOR, HOCKEY MOM

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS CULINARY TRADITIONS? Erin: I love our family tradition of fondue on Christmas Eve as well as having the whole family together for turkey dinner on Christmas Day; my inspirational 95-year-old grandma still makes the family date squares and apple pies.

Korey: On Christmas Eve, we always host an open house, featuring potluck appetizers.

I always make pork dumplings and a few other nibbles, my sister-in-law makes her mexican layer dip, Gramma Elva brings crab puffs and Mila Dingcong makes her famous spring rolls.

These are guaranteed traditions.

IN WHAT WAYS ARE YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS INVOLVED IN PREPARING FOR THE HOLIDAYS? Korey: My husband always panics last minute about his

shopping so I take advantage of him being out in the madness and constantly text him with never ending eleventh-hour needs.

Rebecca takes charge of the decorating, right down to the Hershey’s Kiss and marshmallow garnish on the bûche de Noël, which the boys all take an active part in preparing.

Erin: Chris is in charge of putting up the Christmas lights and we all decorate the tree together, spending the entire evening listening to Christmas carols and reminiscing about all of our ornaments from years past. The kids and I also spend time baking, often using really old family recipes.

And Chris always cooks a yummy Christmas morning breakfast.

HOW WILL YOU SPEND DOWNTIME THIS HOLIDAY SEASON? Erin: This holiday is actually one of Chris’s longest breaks and I believe he has three days off. The following days

we usually spend at the Bell Cup tournament and if schedule allows I sneak up to Tremblant to ski with the kids.

Korey: Hugging my kids! Our eldest is home for only five days – he’s playing in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League this year – so I plan to be home and catering to his and his friends’ every whim. I will likely read a book or two; I’m looking at Hockey Confidential right now.

small batches, making them easy to pull out at a moment’s notice. Korey’s website Kitchen Konnected is my frequent goto source for great appetizer ideas.

by the fire pit. Given our hectic schedule, these times feel like indulgences.

WHAT ARE YOUR INDULGENCES OVER THE HOLIDAYS? Erin: I indulge myself by having the hockey wives’ Christmas party, which lets me keep up with the times thanks to a group of beautiful young ladies!

On Christmas Day, we spend as long as we can in our PJs and then spend the afternoon at our farm relaxing

Korey: I buy frivolous entertaining accessories; every year I stock up on new items. Once Dec. 25 hits, I nest. I stay home and do pretty much nothing until the kids go back to school, indulging my need to refuel and spend time with my family.

Visit ottawaathome.ca to find a great holiday make-ahead casserole recipe from The Ultimate Cookbook for Hockey Families.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR MAKE-AHEAD TIPS TO TAKE THE PRESSURE OFF HOSTING CHRISTMAS GATHERINGS? Korey: Make triple batches of your appetizers and stock your fridge, freezer and pantry with staples like pickles, shrimp, cheeses, quinoa crackers, wine, etc. Invest in a SodaStream machine so you always have bubbly water and pop on hand.

Erin: I tend to bake and make lots of appetizers that I can freeze in

Chris always cooks a yummy Christmas morning breakfast.

—

ERIN PHILLIPS, NUTRITIONIST, AUTHOR, HOCKEY MOM, WIFE OF OTTAWA SENATORS, CHRIS PHILLIPS.

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FOOD Dining Out

“Many families come for our Holiday Tea after attending a performance of The Nutcracker; it’s a fun way to extend the day and make it even more festive.”— DENEEN PERRIN

MAKING DELICIOUS

CHRISTMAS MEMORIES

BY PAULA ROY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

F

or many families, the true spirit of Christmas is deeply embedded in traditions. Baking cookies, trimming the tree and visiting Santa all create cherished memories. Ottawa At

Home looks at a few local opportunities to create unforgettable family experiences that just may turn into traditions.

CHRISTMAS MAGIC AT THE CHÂTEAU LAURIER

There’s nothing like visiting one of Ottawa’s most iconic buildings when it’s been transformed into a holiday wonderland.

From late November to just after New Year’s, the Fairmont

Château Laurier is hosting the 17th annual Trees of Hope for CHEO, a festive paradise featuring over 30 trees decorated on this year’s fun themes of silver bells and superheroes. “People

are welcome to come into our public spaces just to walk around and enjoy all our Christmas decorations including these gorgeous trees,” says Deneen Perrin, the hotel’s director of public relations.

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HOLIDAY TEA FACING PAGE: RYAN AND AUTUMN CHOOSE THE GINGERBREAD MEN. THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE: SWEET AND SAVOURY OFFERINGS ARE PART OT THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS TEA AT THE CHATEAU LAURIER.

“When visiting, be sure to cast a vote for your favourite tree to win the People’s Choice award and consider making a donation to CHEO as well.”

For those wishing to extend their time savouring the Château’s magical, opulent environment, taking tea in Zoé’s Lounge is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season.

“Many families come for our Holiday Tea after attending a performance

of The Nutcracker; it’s a fun way to extend the day and make it even more festive,” says Deneen. A special Little Prince and Princess Tea menu is available for kids. Santa will also be on hand for tea on Dec. 22 and 23 in addition to the Château’s famous brunch with Santa at Wilfrid’s on Dec. 20. These special events sell out very quickly; call the hotel at 613-562-7041 or email at infochateaulaurier@ fairmont.com to reserve.

“People love having tea at the Château all year round, but at Christmastime, it becomes something particularly memorable and special,” says Deneen. “It can be both a wonderful, affordable tradition to start with your family as well as a great intergenerational, interactive activity that everyone from young children to grandparents and even greatgrandparents can enjoy together.”

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BYWARD MARKET FESTIVITIES A popular shopping and dining destination for locals and tourists alike, the ByWard Market celebrates Christmas in a fun and festive manner. For the first three weekends in December, choirs from all over the city bring a joyful sound to the Market; you can typically find them on the corner of George and ByWard, in matching green

fleece robes, with two appearances each day and at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

On the same weekends, complimentary wagon rides are offered, weather permitting, with pickup and drop-off on York Street near William, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Shopping possibilities are highlighted through the ByWard Market’s Thirty Days of Christmas program, which presents a new holiday idea each day via social media.

For the second year, the Market will be featuring a display of Christmas trees in various locations, bringing warmth and light to chilly winter evenings. When you visit the ByWard Market with your family or friends, be sure to look for Luciano Pradal’s stand on George Street, where this seasonal fixture dishes up freshly roasted chestnuts and wonderful stories, to warm hands and hearts.

HOLIDAY TRADITIONS THIS PAGE: WAGON RIDES AND ROASTED CHESTNUTS

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VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS THIS PAGE: TEATIME AT BILLINGS ESTATE.

“This year, the Christmas Tea at the Estate will celebrate the imported delicacies of the Victorian era.” — BRAHM LEWANDOWSKI CHRISTMAS AT THE BILLINGS ESTATE For a nostalgic Christmas experience, consider visiting the Billings Estate, a national historic site and home to Ottawa’s oldest wood-framed house. Dating from the late 1820s, the Billings homestead pays tribute

to the remarkable contributions of one of Ottawa’s founding families. “This year, the Christmas Tea at the Estate will celebrate the imported delicacies of the Victorian era,” says Brahm Lewandowski, museum administrator.

“Reflective of the traditions of the Billings

family, the tea will highlight special holiday indulgencies that were particularly valued at a time when treats and toys were difficult – and costly – to obtain. In times past, Christmas was very special because people got to taste things, typically received as gifts, that they would

not possibly be able to enjoy at other times of the year.”

In addition to enjoying a delicious tea inspired by historical dishes and recipes, modernized for modern preparation methods, guests are welcome to tour the museum’s extensive collection of historical artifacts. “The home will also be very festively decorated in both traditional and modern ways, with lavishly bedecked mantels,” says Brahm, “because we know the

Billings, as a Christian family, enjoyed celebrating the season.”

For this familyfriendly event, roving Dickens Carollers will be on hand to entertain guests and a garlandmaking activity will help to keep kids happily occupied during your visit. “The tea will be held on two Sundays – Dec. 7 and 14 – and it will be a wonderful way to treat yourself and your family to something happy and peaceful during this hectic time of year,” confirms Brahm.

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FOOD Paula’s Bites

SCALLOP

CRUDO

BY PAULA ROY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

W

ith raw seafood bars all the rage at some Ottawa restaurants, why not try this elegant yet easy-to-prepare dish at home? Drizzling top-quality, thinly sliced scallops with a simple dressing makes them absolutely pop with flavour – it’s the perfect dish for any holiday gathering.

INGREDIENTS For the crostini: 1/2 slightly stale baguette 2 tbsp (30 mL) premium extra virgin olive oil For the scallops and vinaigrette: 1/2 lb (225 g) fresh or frozen scallops (use the largersized ones if possible) 2 tsp (10 mL) finely diced shallot 1 tsp (5 mL) capers, drained well and chopped 2 tbsp (30 mL) premium extra virgin olive oil Juice of 1/2 lemon (about 1 tbsp / 15 mL) Pinch crushed red pepper flakes 1 tbsp (15 mL) minced fresh chives or slivered green onion tops Fleur de sel or Maldon salt METHOD: To make crostini, preheat oven to 375 F. Slice baguette thinly (1/4 inch / 6 mm) and lay the slices out on a baking tray.

Brush bread slices lightly with olive oil and bake until just beginning to brown (6 – 8 minutes). Flip slices over and bake 3 – 4 minutes longer.

Remove from oven and transfer slices to a cooling rack. (NOTE: you can make the crostini several days

ahead; cool and place in an airtight container.)

If scallops are fresh, remove the little muscle on the side of each one then place them in the freezer on a paper towel lined plate in a single layer for 30 minutes to help them firm up, making them easier to slice.

If frozen, remove scallops from freezer and let thaw on a paper towel lined plate just long enough to remove the muscle and slice.

Use a very sharp knife to cut the scallops crosswise into very thin slices (about 1/8 inch thick).

Arrange the scallop slices in a single layer on a serving platter. (NOTE: you can do this up to 3 hours ahead of time; cover the platter with plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving time).

When ready to serve, sprinkle the chopped capers and shallot over the scallops.

Combine the olive oil, lemon juice and crushed red pepper flakes in a jar with a tight lid and shake until well blended. Drizzle over scallops and garnish with fresh chives or green onions. Sprinkle lightly with salt.

Serve immediately, with the crostini.

Serves 4 as an appetizer.

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END NOTE Gifting

It’s a wrap Trends in gift-wrapping are turning towards traditional detailing.

RESEARCHED BY MARY TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

PAPER PAPIER SELLS TRADITIONAL TRIMMINGS WITH FRESH BERRIES, MAGNOLIA LEAVES, SATIN RIBBON AND CONVENTIONAL PAPERS.

Click ottawaathome.ca for our how-to wrap the perfect gift video.

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