November//December 2022 Rochester Home Magazine

homefortheholidays

As another year comes to a close, we hunker down to decorate, wrap gifts and get ready for the busy season ahead. Whether setting your table for Thanksgiving or getting the living room ready for the tree, preparing your home for the holidays is no small feat. No one knows this better than the experts at DL Home & Garden, who have been helping people decorate for occasions big and small since 2014.

From the holiday season to ordinary, everyday moments, your home is a special place to reconnect and celebrate with loved ones. As gatherings have resumed, we are craving connection at home and desiring our space to be comfortable, warm, and welcoming. How you do that is an art, and we turned to our friends at DL Home & Garden to give us some tips and tricks to help prepare our homes for the holidays.

DECORATING FOR THE HOLIDAYS

“Decorating for the holidays doesn’t have to be overwhelming,” shares Krissy Caputo, Interior Designer at DL Home & Garden. “Bring in warm colors, tones, and textures for the season that are complimentary to your existing décor,” she suggests. To take it up a notch, do it in a way that feels natural and fits your lifestyle. Add stunning crystal ornaments to the tree, use blues and teals to create a winter landscape, or bring in special linens and table settings – all of which can elevate a room.

She also says to keep the function of your space and needs for entertaining in mind. For example, if you have young children or are hosting a family with little ones, keep hard edges and breakable items out of reach, but experiment with adding pops of color or other fun, festive elements. “Try adding white twinkle lights around your centerpiece or pre-lit glass trees to adorn your mantle. The holidays are about adding that extra sparkle!” Caputo suggests.

A HOME REFRESH

While not all home updates are in preparation for the holidays, winter can be a popular time to re-evaluate your family’s needs and update your space. Since everyone’s lives have shifted so much in the past few years, the designers at DL Home & Garden are seeing customers gravitate toward natural, timeless pieces to create that warm, welcoming feeling all year-round.

Timeless Elegance

Many stores built up inventory in their showrooms because of supply chain issues and shipping delays. While DL Home & Garden is known for its wide selection of highly customizable furniture, they now provide many in-stock options that can be ordered as well as “take me home today” floor pieces as an alternative to waiting months for a custom piece. Custom orders are still available, though, as they believe all good things are worth the wait!

When buying furniture, select pieces that are timeless and elegant. Consider fabrics and shapes that are versatile and work well with many different styles. Consider recovering an existing sofa or chair, which can be a simple way to update the look without fully replacing a piece of furniture. These options tend to last longer and are a much more sustainable option as well.

Soothing Colors & Natural Elements

Create a calm, serene haven for your family. Neutrals and earth tones are showing up in a big way and green is everywhere. From soft shades like sage to bolder hues like evergreen, understand what you are most drawn to and experiment with color to update your space. Incorporate textures such as mohair, velvets, boucle, woodgrains, and shagreen. Incorporate these tones and textures, along with layers to create an authentic, natural feeling.

Organic Shapes & Movement

Be thoughtful about space planning and allow rooms to serve multiple purposes. Focus on the flow from one space to another and have the form of your furniture follow the function of the room. Leverage organic shapes that are fluid and soft such as curved sofas and chairs to create a welcoming feeling, as opposed to hard edges and straight lines.

“Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home.” – Edith Sitwell

WHO WE ARE & VISITING THE SHOWROOM

Located in downtown Rochester, DL Home & Garden is a unique destination full of fresh designs and exclusive product lines. As a premier home interiors and furniture store, the massive 11,500 sq. ft. showroom is situated directly below its sister company, Designers Library, which has built a reputation as a go-to resource for interior designers over the last 30 years.

Owners Brian Coutu and Bob Bressinger, both Interior Designers and Industry Trade Experts, opened DL Home & Garden in 2014 to bring high-quality design and products to more local shoppers and expand beyond the trade. As true visionaries often do, they made something from nothing and turned a historic, industrial building that dates back to the 1800s into a design masterpiece. With original wood floors, tin ceilings and over 40 perfectly staged vignettes, visitors are sure to be inspired the moment they walk in.

DL Home & Garden’s friendly staff has a combined 80+ years of experience and are there to assist you with fabric selections, space planning and product specifications to help customize your home into the space you desire. They have endless access to all that the industry has to offer and will transform your space using a mix of new items from the store, custom pieces created just for you, or even give life to an old favorite. Combined, this elevates your space and creates a unique experience and cohesive design madejustforyou.

GARDEN

- from the artists’ desk -

Son of a nutcracker! The holidays are upon us once more! There’s a chill in the air nipping at your nose, there’s a warm feeling in your heart, and it’s the season of giving. (You might also be considering using 25,000 lightbulbs in your outdoor décor, to which we say good luck, Sparky!) Here at Home we’re bringing good tidings to you and yours to make the most of the holiday season, and we can’t wait for you to join us!

The weather outside might be frightful, but that won’t stop us from bringing our greenery indoors with some DIY projects for the season with Jamie Snyder of My Creative Gardens! Or maybe it’s time to renew your seating arrangement with help from our friends at DL Home & Garden? While that brightens up your season, spread some cheer with @ShareSomeRocLove by searching for holiday packages hidden around Rochester and supporting some local businesses. (We also have you covered there with some Locally Flavored Hostess Gifts featuring ROCLove!)

November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month, and there’s no better partner than Rescued Treasures Pet Adoption! We’re delving into a feel good story that’ll warm you up just like a nice mug of cocoa after a cold winter’s day. Speaking of treats, local culinary expert Chef Cruz Nieves is sharing some of his favorite brunch recipes and a fun twist on some Thanksgiving leftovers!

From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, and remember–there’s no place like Home for the holidays.

We can’t wait to see you in the new year!

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Shar� S��� ROC L���:

Supporting Local & Bringing Holiday Joy to Rochester!

Amy Button has lived in Rochester for over 20 years. It’s one of her very favorite places. She loves the city, its stores, and everything else it has to offer. When the Covid pandemic began in the winter of 2020, everyone was stuck inside. Nevertheless, Amy wanted to spread some happiness during this dark and uncertain time. She had some extra gift cards and little trinkets from local stores, so she decided to package them up and place them in spots around Rochester and left clues as to where they were on her personal social media. Rochesterians quickly became immersed in her new happiness project!

Amy’s idea took off, and a growing number of locals have become involved since. Amy began purchasing items from small businesses and continued hiding the packages in fun places around the city and the surrounding areas. In 2021, Amy decided to create online profiles to establish a social media presence for her project which she called Share Some ROC Love!

Keep up with Amy’s package drops by following Share Some ROC Love @sharesomeroclove on Instagram & Twitter @ShareROCLove.

By Riley Smith

INSPIRATION & HOW IT WORKS

Amy shares that many local artists have done gift drops before. An artist will take a picture of a piece of artwork they’ve “hidden” somewhere for locals to go find. She decided to take this idea and add clues to help neighbors find her holiday packages.

Dropping packages between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, Amy’s purpose is to spread joy during the holiday season! She’s busy for six weeks, making one or two drops a week. She posts when she’s purchasing gifts to provide awareness for small businesses. Then, she posts when a package will be dropped a few days in advance with a preview of what’s going to be in it.

Both adults and families search for the gifts. Every package thus far has been found, and most recipients come forward and say they’ve found it! Each package comes with a card with information about letting Amy know so she can celebrate each discovery.

Typical participants are groups looking for an adventure, and it’s a great way for families to bond. One family shared that although they didn’t find a package in time, they adored the spot in which it was placed and go back often as a family for quality time together. Amy also finds that positivity dominates the project. When groups don’t find a package, they respond with “I’m so excited for the person who won,” or when a group can’t make it, they’ll share messages of good luck to those going on the adventure. These heartwarming comments are some of the reasons Amy continues her project!

SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES IN ROCHESTER

A big supporter of Rochester’s locally owned businesses, Amy uses her package drops as a way to both support and provide publicity for local businesses. Once a package is announced, she tags businesses from which she’s bought gifts on her social media pages. She’s proud of her project’s ability to help locals learn more about local businesses and hidden gems.

It’s important to build a stronger community, especially with the pandemic. Amy hopes Share Some ROC Love can help Rochester become a more vibrant place with locals who support independent businesses and remain involved in the community. Plus, the project keeps money inside the community, which is key.

While Amy puts her own money into the project, friends will make donations, as well. Several small businesses have also donated gift cards for the package drops! Amy hopes local places will obtain more business as an outcome of this happiness project.

COMING SOON!

Amy will continue creating themed packages this winter! Since so many businesses are offering Bills-themed apparel now, she’s hoping to create a Bills Mafia package. She will be kicking things off on Black Friday. Send Amy a message if you’d like to get involved!

SHARE SOME LOVE IN YOUR COMMUNITY!

Amy shares 5 tips for starting a Share Some Love project of your own.

• Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. It can be overwhelming to take on a project that involves using social media and community participation, but most people will appreciate what you’re doing for the reason you’re doing it!

• Start small. You may want to try only one or two package drops during your first month.

• Plan ahead. Start off with gift cards and small trinkets, considering how you’ll spread the message. Avoid last-minute panicking by creating a spreadsheet that includes dates, locations, and ideas for clues.

• Get some help. Find some friends or family members who are willing to help you drop a package or two so that you can focus on social media sharing, or vice versa. Splitting responsibilities can be a great time crunch solution.

• Don’t feel pressure to spend hundreds. Staying small is perfectly fine. It’s okay to work with what you have!

By Lori Bruton

Get Festive

WITH CREATIVE GARDENS

SSurrounding homes and businesses with colorful greenery is the specialty of My Creative Gardens. Owner Jamie Snyder provides unique plant designs to enhance both residential and commercial environments at such businesses as The Strathallan, Genesee Valley Club, and several St. Ann’s Community locations. Full of benefits, greenery has been found to improve mental health and productivity, keep the air cleaner, and add moisture and beauty to a space.

Jamie is not your typical gardener. Primarily providing container gardening, she grows all her own plants and flowers, bringing tropical ones in as needed. These are used to infuse live potted plants with artificial and preserved elements, enhancing any space with elegance.

Passionate about plants, flowers, and color, Jamie brings her distinctive design, artistry, passion, and knowledge to every project. Her love affair with plants and flowers began while she was growing up on a Niagara County, NY farm. After graduating with a Landscape Design Degree from SUNY Morrisville, she acquired a job at a home & garden store where she was introduced to a variety of flower containers. Her passion “grew” from there!

Bringing joy to life, Jamie creates floral arrangements and teaches others how to create their own, as well. She suggests getting your hands in the dirt and discovering the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment that comes with a personalized pot. Check her My Creative Gardens website for upcoming classes.

Plants aren’t Jamie’s only “green” interest. She also provides sustainable arrangements which incorporate a combination of potted plants infused with dried, silk, or wood flowers. Afterward, these unique artful treasures can be taken home for lasting inspirational beauty.

The holidays are the perfect time to give loved ones a gift that keeps on growing! Jamie has an abundance of gift inspirations for every season. Holiday favorites include wreaths, hanging baskets, centerpieces, and porch pots. A “perennial” favorite, porch pots add a touch of festive décor to your porch and entryways.

JAMIE’S 7-STEP DIY PORCH POT

One. Use a soil base to keep your greens stable. Remember, your soil could freeze if left outside, so keep it indoors until you are ready to use it.

Two. Cut a variety of evergreens such as Norway spruce, white pine, and blue spruce. We cut our trees fresh from a local farmer that can no longer sell them because they have gotten too big!

Three. Once the greens are in place, add color with faux berries, spiral eucalyptus, or salal leaves. For bling, include a faux stem that has some sparkle to it!

Four. Use other flowers from the garden like hydrangea, teasel, Siberian iris pods, allium heads, astilbe flowers, and autumn joy sedum. Pick the allium and astilbe flowers once the color has passed to prevent them from drying too much and becoming brittle.

Five. Add dogwood or willow branches to create additional height and interest. When using birch poles, add them when you place your greens.

Six. Attach pinecones and ribbon to the front of your pot as a finishing touch. Add water to your pot to help the soil freeze and make your pot heavier so that it doesn’t blow over.

Seven. Enjoy your creation!

To find more inspiration and follow along with Jamie's work, go to mycreativegardens.com, follow @mycreativegardens on Facebook & @creative_gardens_585 on Instagram

RESCUED TREASURES –Giving Furry Friends the Gift of Love

BY JODY GREER

The season of giving is upon us, and for many neglected and abandoned animals there is no greater gift than that of a safe, loving home with a forever family. Local rescue shelters are exceeding capacity and rely heavily on community engagement to aid with supplying toys, food, and many other essential supplies. Adopting a pet from a local shelter is not only giving back to your community, but saving the life of an animal in need.

Rescued Treasures Pet Adoptions in Rochester is a network of over 100 fosters and volunteers. Their passion is rescuing abandoned and homeless pets. A non-profit, their caring, compassion, and desire to serve comes straight from the heart.

Avon native Jennifer Everett is a Rescued Treasures six-year rescue veteran. Using her wealth of knowledge, she educates fosters, prospective pet owners, and store volunteers. Balancing a fulltime job and a busy schedule, Everett is available for guidance after hours and on weekends.

Fierce dedication like Everett’s is not uncommon among Rescued Treasures volunteers who are driven to care for the well-being of our most vulnerable animal populations. Sadly, it’s a common misperception that shelter animals suffer behavioral problems. In reality, many of them were abandoned by pet owners who could no longer financially care for them, moved out of the area, or passed away.

One of the best ways to help is to foster. Rescued Treasures’ adoptable pets are at PetSmart via their locations in Greece and Baytown Plaza, Webster. The rescue has also opened its new Pawsitive Cat Café on East Avenue in Rochester.

Everett continues to support Rescued Treasures for a reason. “It’s clear they always want to do right by the animal,” she said. Like many, Everett feels rewarded by the dramatic progress she has seen in shelter pets.

“One of my favorite ones was a little black cat named Willow,” she recalled. “She had a litter, and she was fiercely protective of them. Although she didn’t seem to be feral, she wanted no part of anything with humans.”

Everett’s solution? Patience. “I just gave her time to come out of her shell,” she explained. “She was at my house for a year and three months. It took her that long to come out of any trauma. A wonderful couple adopted her. Her story is a testament.”

Fostering or adopting a shelter pet means not only that you’ll save its life, but also the life of another animal that can then be taken in. Can’t adopt or foster? There are still many ways you can support your local animal shelter. Take a cue from our 12 Days of Christmas Pet Shelter Wishlist!

A 501c3 rescue organization that fully vets and places cats, dogs, and other small animals in permanent homes. All pets will be adoptable!

Lieutenant Dan

Breed: Border Collie/Australian Cattle Dog Mix

Location: Fostered by Jennifer Everett

Story: Accidentally kicked by a cow as a tiny puppy, Lt. Dan currently has no mobility in his hind legs. Now 5 months old, Lt. Dan gets around thanks to a specially designed doggy wheelchair. Rescued Treasures hopes with the right support and loving care, he will live a more independent life and regain his ability to walk.

Bob Breed: Mastiff

Location: Rescued Treasures

Story: Beautiful canine Bob was abandoned (dumped), yet despite this horrific experience, he is often described as a “sweet and loving” young boy who would make an excellent companion in any home. Rescued Treasures hopes he will find a forever home where he will receive as much love as he gives.

View Lieutenant Dan, Bob, and more available pets on our website!

Things to Consider Before You Adopt

A pet is a lifetime commitment of time, energy, attention, and love. Please consider all of these before adopting one.

Pets need daily exercise and interaction. Consider a 20-30-minute walk for dogs as well as playtime and interaction for physical and emotional well-being.

Do not leave your pet outside chained or penned nor indoors crated or isolated 24/7. Dogs need interaction, mobility, and socialization.

Consider the cost of healthy food and vet careyour dog deserves both, along with fresh, clean water.

Training your pet takes time, patience, and kindness. Never use force or anger; it will not work.

Spay or Neuter: it is for your pet’s health, and it is also humane.

Consider the grooming needs your pet will have such as fur, nails, flea prevention, etc.

Research a breed that will fit your lifestyle best and the needs of which you can accommodate.

Days of Wishlist

1. Vet Appointments

Help pets get the care they need at a local veterinarian’s office.

2. Dog & Cat Toys

From rubber balls and lasers to cloth mice and feathers, pets thrive with play.

3. Activity Toys

These “smart” toys help keep pets healthy & happy!

4. Puppy Food Help give these fur babies something to grow on.

5. Kitten Food Royal Canin can be eaten by kittens as young as 4 weeks old.

6. Adult Dry Cat Food

Science Diet, Iams & Blue Buffalo are preferred by Rescued Treasures!

7. Canned Cat Food

These fab felines benefit from something soft to eat.

8. Treats

A fun and well-deserved treat can work miracles.

9. Adult Dog Beds

Help keep Fido off the floor this winter.

10. Velcro Collars

A very practical necessity, collars help with identification and walks.

11.

Scratching Posts

Get kitties in the habit of scratching where they should.

12. Super Soft Blankets

Is there anything more comforting for pets and humans alike?

A Community Classroom and Event Space

Today’s a Great Day to Learn Something New

Rochester Brainery opened in 2013 to spotlight the talents and brains of folks in Rochester, NY. Since then, we’ve worked with more than 300 teachers and businesses (not to mention the thousands who attended classes). The RB Teacher Community teaches everything from improv comedy and fresh

pasta making to acrylic painting and houseplant care. We offer classes online, off-site at partner venues, and at our Neighborhood of the Arts location. When classes aren’t being held in our sun-soaked space, it’s available to rent for your next business function or special event.

VIEW ALL CLASSES WITH Christin Ortiz

VISIT US:

VISIT US: 176 ANDERSON AVE. STE F109, ROCHESTER, NEW YORK

ROCHESTERBRAINERY.COM

Christin Ortiz has been working in restaurants since she was 19. Starting in the front of the house, she realized early on she preferred the back of the house. Having worked in different kitchens, she is most proficient in Italian and Hispanic cuisine. She loves sharing her passion for food, and wants everyone to be able to cook the food they crave!

Christin Ortiz, photo by @pixbypapi

“I fell in love with the kitchen when I was 16 years old and haven’t stopped since.”

CHEF CRUZ NIEVES Personal Chef & Restaurant Consultant

Overcoming adversity since he was 16 years old, Chef Cruz has paved his own way in the culinary industry.

Kicking off his career as a dishwasher, Chef Cruz Nieves fell in love with the culture of the kitchen. Born in Puerto Rico, he waited to finish school until he joined his mother in Rochester, NY. Early in his career in the United States, Chef Cruz spent a stint of time in NYC working in Michelin-star kitchens, making his way up the ranks, and honing his culinary craft. Once he returned to Rochester to be with his mother, he continued to work with local restaurants. That’s where his talent really began to shine in the local community.

Now, Chef Cruz is one of Rochester’s most sought-after private chefs and is a popular consultant for restauranteurs. Focusing on great food and a great life, he finds balance in his work by investing in his physical health.

How he does it all

Balancing work with personal time and investing in his health

Chef Cruz makes time to spend at least one evening a week with his partner/family, and exercises daily.

Taking Thanksgiving off

With days off in short supply in the food industry, Chef Cruz has recently dedicated Thanksgiving to not working and fully focusing on family time.

Camping

Taking regular camping trips throughout the year allows for Chef Cruz to truly disconnect from his busy lifestyle and return refreshed.

chef cruz answers your holiday cooking questions!

Q: “Do you have any special go-to cooking hacks for the holidays?”

A: “My favorite hacks for the holidays are probably so basic. I love a great turkey, bacon, avocado, and tomato sandwich with a side of “rellenos de papa” - stuffed potato balls. (The mashed potatoes are breaded with breadcrumbs and fried.) You can stuff these with just cheese, or sometimes, if the stuffing makes it to the next day, you can also use the stuffing and cheese.”

Q: “What’s your pro tip for the holidays?”

A: “My best pro tip for the holidays is not to start the day of. Maybe start the day before and get some prep done ahead of time. Sometimes, we try to do too much the day of, and that can backfire on us. Something as simple as getting your knife work done ahead of time could help you so much. And also, please, brine your turkey as long as you can. For hosting, definitely set up some [finger] foods for people to relax and snack on if you are behind. Lastly, make sure everyone is drinking and enjoying themselves.”

You can follow Chef Cruz on IG @chefcruz585 to check out more of his work and see what he’s up to on the daily. No two days in the life of a chef are ever the same, but they are always delicious!

featuring @CHEFCRUZ585

BY MARIE RACHELLE PAZYCH

1

Potato Hash

link

2

1 Medium potato

1/2 Medium

CHEF CRUZ’s FAVE BRUNCH RECIPES

Smoked

2 Eggs

1/2 Tablespoon of butter

1 Piece of toast

2 Slices of cold smoked salmon

A few thin slices of red onion

10-12 Small capers

Salt + Pepper

taste

diced)

white onion

diced)

1 Clove of garlic

1 Pinch of oregano

1/4 Cup of shredded sharp cheddar

1

Salt

of

Pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

Take the chorizo out of the casein and cook in a sauté pan with a little bit of oil–not too much since there’s a lot of fat in the sausage already. Add garlic.

Once the chorizo is cooked, take it out and set aside. Add potatoes and cook them at a medium heat. When potatoes are almost cooked, add diced onions and the pinch of oregano. By the time the onions are cooked, the potatoes should be, too. Add chorizo back into the pan and toss everything together.

In a nonstick pan, fry eggs to your preference. I like mine over easy; they make for good presentation. In a bowl, add hash to the bottom; then add the cheese on top and finish it off with the eggs and chopped cilantro.

Like it spicy? Add some chopped pickle jalapeños to garnish.

INSTRUCTIONS:

This recipe is all about getting the eggs just right.

Warm up a nonstick pan and melt butter. In a small bowl, whisk your eggs very well and add a pinch of salt. If the butter is melted, add the eggs to the pan and stir them in on medium low heat. The trick is to never stop whisking the eggs. When the eggs form, remove them from the heat and stir constantly to reduce temperature.

Repeat this process for about 10-12 minutes. The eggs should be soft and almost custard/cheese like.

Toast bread and add the eggs on top; then garnish with the capers and red onion. Add your smoked salmon on top and finish with a few cracks of fresh black pepper.

Photo by AdobeStock

Photo by AdobeStock

We see art in everything.

F R O M O U R H O M E T O Y O U R S

by TRISH PINO

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH REFRESHING NON-ALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVES

Local influencer Jessica D’Amour is on a mission to build a more inclusive culture in which people can attend social gatherings without feeling the need – or the pressure – to drink alcohol. Jessica decided to take a month off of drinking about two and a half years ago to see how she would feel. She was surprised at how much energy she had, but she also noticed how uncomfortable it was to attend parties, particularly those at breweries and bars.

Knowing there is a wide range of reasons why someone may not want to drink alcohol –whether for a year, a lifetime, or even just a night – she was disappointed with the lack of selections she found. In 2019, these instances started popping up more and more, inspiring her to create her own social media account called Spirit Free WNY to share non-alcoholic products and post recipes of her own. A pharmacist by day, experimenting with flavors and creating her own mocktails gave her a much-needed creative outlet, especially when home during the pandemic.

While many have heard of Dry January, the movement around more people choosing not to drink has gained national attention. Terms like “sober curious” are becoming more common as people re-evaluate their relationship with alcohol. Jessica shares that there are many misperceptions around why someone may choose not to drink, and it is up to all of us to create a culture of inclusion that normalizes whatever decision someone chooses to make.

Jessica is amazed by the response she has received since starting Spirit Free WNY, which has continued to gain traction since she launched. She continues to expand with the launch of her website and will be attending local pop-up and vendor fairs, with the goal of eventually opening her own brick and mortar location.

Follow along with Jessica for more tips & recipes on Facebook @ spiritfreejess and Instagram @SpiritFreeWNY

Tips & Advice from Jessica

Spirit Free WNY’s mission is to expand options for people who are sober, sober curious, just want to avoid alcohol once in a while, and for everyone hoping to create a culture of inclusion for those who decide not to drink for whatever reason.

FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Holidays can be a high-pressure time to drink, but on the flip side, it is also a warm and welcoming time that brings people together, despite their differences and choices. When hosting, make someone feel welcome by not only making NA options available, but by also explaining what you have and serving it alongside the alcoholic options.

RECIPES & INGREDIENTS

I find a lot of great mocktail recipes on Pinterest and social media. You can even modify regular cocktail recipes by substituting the alcohol with a spirit alternative. One of my favorite ways to switch it up is by adding my own infused simple syrup which I make by dissolving sugar into water on the stove and adding herbs such as rosemary. It creates a nice herbal flavor so your mocktail isn’t just juice and seltzer water.

RESOURCES

Many of the non-alcoholic spirit brands have great information and recipes on their websites. Two of my favorites are Ritual Zero Proof

(www.ritualzeroproof.com) that provides great recipes as well as rum, gin, tequila and whiskey alternatives and We Are Raising the Bar, which provides a monthly subscription box of alcohol-free craft cocktail ingredients to make drinks at home (www.weareraisingthebar.com).

pS a r k l i n g R o s e m a r y O ran geMocktail

Making infused simple syrups is my favorite way to add sophisticated flavor to mocktails. It may sound intimidating, but it is actually really simple! Rosemary adds an earthy herbal flavor that pairs well with citrus. Here, I used blood oranges which are in season from December to April and add a striking red color.

ROSEMARY SYRUP

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup water

• 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary

MOCKTAIL

• 2 tablespoons blood orange juice (or regular orange juice)

• 1-2 tablespoons rosemary syrup

• Non-alcoholic sparkling wine or seltzer (I used Gruvi Dry Secco)

DIRECTIONS

1. Prepare rosemary syrup. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine water, sugar, and rosemary. Heat and stir until sugar is fully dissolved and let simmer for 10-15 minutes. Remove from burner and allow to cool to room temperature.

2. Strain out the rosemary and transfer to a jar. Store in the fridge until ready to use.

3. Put 1-2 tablespoons of rosemary syrup into glass, then add orange juice and stir to combine.

4. Top off the glass with non-alcoholic sparkling wine.

5. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary, frozen cranberries, and an orange slice.

CHEESE & CHARCUTERIE BOARDS

Cheese & Charcuterie Rochester cheeseandmeatclub.com

WINTER ROOTS IN ROCHESTER MUG WITH FLOWERS

Stacy K Floral Downtown Rochester www.stacykfloral.com

WARM HEARTS WITH OUR

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and gift giving is in the air! While the holiday season is full of laughter and cheer, it can also be a stressful time when it comes to gifts. When attending a myriad of gatherings and parties, it’s always a nice gesture to bring something to show your appreciation to the host. Big or small, putting thought into what you give is the most important thing.

Of course, any sort of gift is nice, but one that supports a local business with items unique to your area is even better! We all know that the holiday parties begin around Thanksgiving and keep rolling through New Years. Deciding what to get someone can be a bit tricky, especially when it comes to hostess gifts. These are just some examples of some of the great local products in our area–shop local for yourself and see what you can find!

DR. KONSTANTIN FRANK WINES Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery Hammondsport www.drfrankwines.com

A SEAT AT THE TABLE 2: ROCHESTER CHEF RECIPES

Presented by Sip and Savour Rochester and ROConnoisseur Available online at: rochester-cookbook.square.site

COZY CANDLES

Holiday parties keep going right through Christmas when gift giving really kicks into full gear! Christmas time is all about keeping warm and feeling cozy vibes. Candles and florals do just that.

Candles always make for a lovely gift, especially ones that are unique to your hometown! Show your hostess locally hand-poured love with soy wax candles, made by Rochester’s Light My Candle, Co. and available at Rochester Brainery.

Want to add a little extra love? Sign up for a Light My Candle, Co. class at the Brainery and pour it yourself!

Floral centerpieces and décor, like those from Stacy K Floral in Rochester, add a living splash of color and interest to any occasion. Grab some Roc City Merch while you’re there to beautifully accent your gift. Like food and wine, candles and florals can be enjoyed right away by everyone present.

LIGHT MY CANDLE CO. SOY WAX CANDLES HAND-POURED IN ROCHESTER

Available at Rochester Brainery www.rocbrainery.com

SWEET & SAVORY DELIGHTS

It’s never a bad idea to bring something that the host can put out for guests to eat. Charcuterie boards will be in full effect during the holidays, so bring something that can be easily added to it or even used for your host’s next party.

Consider putting together your own custom charcuterie board. If you’re in the Webster area, stop by locally owned Hegedorn’s Market. Packed with a gigantic assortment of artisanal cheeses, meats, fresh baked bread, and more, Hegedorn’s has what you need to create a gift that’s both delicious and local.

Looking for a ready-made board? There are plenty of local options! Check out Rochester’s Cheese and Charcuterie on East Ridge Road. As you peruse the boards and boxes, don’t forget to take a peak at its incredible “Grazing Tables” as well!

Does your hostess have a sweet tooth? Pick up a little something rich and sweet from Hedonist Artisan Chocolates in Rochester. Popular throughout the region, Hedonist Chocolate Almond Bark is also available for purchase at Janis Reed Interiors which caters to exceptional tastes of the home and the palette!

LOCAL WINE

Bringing a bottle of wine is a really great option because it’s something that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery is located on Keuka Lake and has some beautiful tasting wines that would make for the perfect Thanksgiving hostess gift. While you can find these wines at stores in the area, why not make it more fun for yourself and visit the winery? Take a little day trip for some tastings and tell your host or hostess all about why you chose the bottle that you brought them! After all, the holidays are about making memories and sharing stories with the ones you love.

Want to get extra creative with it? Try mulling your own wine. Snag some spices and a mulling ball, and you’ve got yourself a gift that shows how much time and thought you put into it.

Feeling ambitious? Throw together an entire gift basket, complete with something savory, something sweet, a bag of Flour City Pasta, one of the wonderfully flavorful Guglielmo’s sauces handcrafted in Rochester, and top it off with a copy of A Seat at the Table 2 filled with recipes from 20 local chefs and bartenders.

HEDONIST ARTISAN CHOCOLATES ASSORTED CHOCOLATE BARK

Available at Janis Reed Interiors

Piano Works Mall, East Rochester janisreedinteriors.com

By Lauren Leone

MERRY

Meet Dina Madigan

Pittsford mom turned entrepreneur, Dina understands being constantly on the go. She sympathizes with that seemingly impossible dream of keeping one’s home looking pretty while trying to manage a crazy busy life at the same time! It began as a hobby. Then, recognizing her organization skills as a gift, Dina started organizing professionally. Today, she manages a successful organizing team of her own and has built a career doing something that both brings her joy and creates joy in the lives of others.

“Beautifully organized spaces tailored to your lifestyle can bring calm to your chaos and help you take the next step in your career!”

Creating Order from Chaos

Over the better part of the last decade, Dina has been creating beautiful, effective organization systems out of the

Many people do not consider organizing to be a pleasant—or sometimes even a possible—process, but we all appreciate neat and well-organized work and living space. For professional organizer, businesswoman, wife, and busy mom of three Dina Madigan however, organizing is a joy. “Happily organizing any and all spaces” is more than just her tagline: it is her passion.

chaos which so easily fills our spaces. People experience varying degrees of disorganization and stress, yet they all crave organization and calm. Even so, it is difficult to find the right process–and enough time–to create a fully-functional, extraordinarily tidy space for oneself.

Dina’s process starts with a consultation during which she assesses the space, the products necessary to organize materials in the space, and the true need behind the chaos. She then makes certain each client understands the scope of the work involved. From a habitually untidy closet to a study, bedroom, or an entire office space, Dina determines the needs, functions, potential issues of each space and develops a plan for its ideal arrangement, transforming it seamlessly into the whole.

“Coming home to something that is completely under control, a space in which they can easily find the things they need, is extremely comforting.”

Personal Organizing | Personal Shopping Moving Concierge (Pack, Unpack, Project Management) Home Staging

Professional Organizing vs. Housekeeping

Dina’s professional organization services go far beyond cleaning and housekeeping. After the initial consultation, she develops a plan for the space or spaces involved. Regularly scheduled maintenance visits are built into her pricing and engagements for long-term success. Services include home spaces, office spaces, moving support, interior design, and home staging.

As a professional organizer, Dina designs the organization of space in terms of desired outcomes, finding the disconnect between how her clients are currently using a space and how her clients want to use that space. She drives a process that requires clients to only allow in each space those items which are needed, streamlining for function and aesthetic.

Results that Speak for Themselves

Dina provides her clients with a highly effective organizing system that is repeatable, manageable, and aesthetically appropriate for their space. She thinks in terms of solutions, implementing what is necessary to realize them. Formerly an interior design expert for West Elm, Dina has a tasteful eye for style and design, which gives her organization an aesthetic appeal.

Dina finds the relief she brings to her clients to be entirely rewarding; effective organization changes their lives and their state of mind. From more time with their children to lessening their everyday stress, her clients experience the host of benefits which come with an organized lifestyle. She loves what she does, and she does it well. Her clients’ gratitude is proof of that.

This is a GREAT service. After our home was staged by Set The Stage, not only did it sell in a week, but we were able to raise the price back to where we started and received multiple bids. This is well worth the investment, Dina is amazing! –Ryan M.

*Dina Organizes does not service hoarders. While those who hoard are invited to follow Dina’s tips and tricks, hoarding is a condition which requires services beyond Dina’s expertise.

The 6 Figure Organizer

Taking lessons from her own success, Dina has become a business coach, creating her own eight module, digital course, The 6-Figure Organizer, to teach her fellow women (or anyone really!) how to become professional organizers and find financial freedom by learning to do what she does. Any woman who completes this course from start to finish will have the tools and business plan they need to be successful.

Dina takes pride in being a woman business owner who helps other women. Whether they are starting a new career or looking to make extra money on the side, professional organizing is something any woman—including busy moms—can learn to do to generate additional income for their families. Then, they, too, can experience and share the freedom and peace of mind excellent organization brings.

RIN G Y OU R VISION T O U S

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Senior Designer Chris Bonanno meet one of our designers

Trust the process. That is something Greater Living Architecture (GLA) Senior Designer Chris Bonanno might tell you. He designed the simple yet effective process himself: Design each home as if it were his own.

The best place to find the home of your dreams, says Chris, is the GLA website. There, clients can find high-quality house plans with variations that range from starter to luxury and everything in between. With that strong foundation, Chris works with each client to customize their plan to best suit their family & lifestyle.

“I enjoy working with clients who are excited about their vision, yet remain open-minded,” says Chris. “It lets me put my creative brain to work for them.”

Creativity is a must when it comes to design. From façade and style to structure and interior design, GLA provides creative leadership and expertise in every area. This allows GLA to stay abreast of home design trends.

Until a couple decades ago, most homes were still set up with a traditional layout: having walls that separated the common areas including the living room, dining room, and kitchen. Now for more than 10 years, open-concept plans have dominated home interiors. Other features are gaining popularity as well, such as larger multi-use rooms, laundry rooms adjacent to bedroom suites, and mudrooms; larger walk-in pantries to avoid overcrowding a kitchen space, and work-from-home friendly features like a pocket office and tech area. Barrier-free living to facilitate aging in place is also gaining momentum.

Chris has been married to “the most amazing person” for 18 years. He and his wife live with their two beautiful

things

merry bright

BY KAITLIN DONNAN

When it comes to our homes, some of the best ways to elevate our curb appeal are the easiest— and can be done even during the winter, too! For many, our porches are our home’s focal point and the first thing any guest sees. Aside from being a place to leave packages or stomp snow off our feet, our porches can be just as cozy as our living rooms.

photo @motherthyme

IDEAS

TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

1. Replacing old hardware or house numbers is a simple touch that can speak volumes, and it’s important for those house numbers to be easily visible from the street, no matter the weather.

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2. Before it gets too cold out there, consider a mailbox makeover! White and gray mailboxes won’t stand out too strongly in the winter weather, so consider some bright colors to make it pop! (Just be sure to bring the mailbox inside first so it has time to warm up before you paint it.)

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3. One of the quickest ways to elevate our curb appeal is everyone’s favorite winter chore: clearing snow. A cleared walkway or driveway shows maintenance and is also much safer for everyone.

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4. Adding a few chairs or a small bench can serve as decorative while providing a place to enjoy our morning coffee and take in the winter splendor of our yards. A seating arrangement can also encourage more social activity and serve as an invitation to sit and chat for a moment. A rustic piece like a wooden rocking chair can add a seasonal element and a stack of firewood offers both a whimsical and functional element.

5. Create a warm glow well into the holiday and winter season with some string lights across the railing or woven into your porch to add a touch of warmth. The exterior lighting improves the level of safety in the cold, dark months, while also making your home look cozy and inviting. Using fake candles for your outdoor décor not only adds a dash of elegance, but speaks to Christmases of old, as well!

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6. The holidays are the perfect time to get out that seasonal greenery! Pine trees and holly are Christmas mainstays since they maintain their color all year-round! A decorative wreath hanging on the door to a small ornamental tree in all of its holiday finery adds a little something extra to every front entryway.

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7. Aside from green, the poinsettia is a wildly popular holiday flower. With vivid reds that will stand out against the white snow, it adds pops of color to your porch. (Remember that only the fake ones should go outside!)

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8. While we often associate wintertime with gray and dreary weather, hanging a bird feeder in our yards can add color and bring in some local wildlife!

However you choose to decorate, your front porch provides with you a treasure trove of opportunities to embellish for the winter season. It’s a step in from the cold, a place to stomp off boots after an afternoon spent building a snowman, and the first thing that invites your guests into your home for the holidays. Simple touches can elevate both our curb appeal and décor; let holidays and seasonal features complement one another!