CONQUERING YOUR KITCHEN Photo credit: Janis Nicolay Photography Tackling the kitchen can be a little daunting… okay, maybe really daunting. Trying to design a kitchen that is both functional yet stylish can be tough, let alone actually getting into the ring and cooking delicious homemade meals yourself. But here’s the thing: kitchens aren’t just a trend and more and more homeowners are getting inspired to take on what is arguably the most important room in the home. This year, the <strong>2019</strong> <strong>Edmonton</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> Home Show is packed with experts ready to give you the advice you need when it comes to kitchen design and cooking. On the main stage, Vancouver’s Jamie Banfield is sharing his top tips for kitchen renovations and right next door on the Cooking Stage, Emily Mardell of www.choosefoodfirst.com is sharing her tips on creating delicious and easy meals using local foods. You can catch them both in person at the <strong>Edmonton</strong> Expo Centre October 18-20. For now, here are some of their tips to create your dream life, in the kitchen. “People are putting more emphasis on their cooking spaces and are being very strategic when it comes to designing their dream kitchens,” says Banfield. “Kitchens are one of the most used spaces in the home, so every detail counts.” Emily Mardell, registered dietician, couldn’t agree more. “I feel so blessed to be able to cook in such a functionally beautiful, and inspiring space. My favourite thing about my kitchen is the island. It’s the centrepiece of our home, and where we gather to cook, eat, and share. Even if we only have 15 minutes to recount our day, it’s the best 15 minutes hands down.” When it comes to renovating kitchens, it can sometimes seem simple, but according to Banfield “before long, you’re gutting down to the studs and starting from scratch. This area can be tricky and oftentimes, you may not be able to see all the costs with your eyes,” notes Jamie. “For example, even upgrading you appliances can be a bit more work that you imagined since some new technology might require an upgrade to the electrical panel.” The kitchen plan should take time and be well thought out. “It’s a lot more than just adding more counter space or changing up the backsplash. You have to consider the function, flow and fit of every item and design elements to ensure you keep loving your space for longer.” Finally, Jamie suggests investing in items that get the most usage in your day-to-day life such as your appliances, hardware and sink and faucet. The joy in cooking at home isn’t going anywhere anytime soon and 6 will last forever with a kitchen designed right for you. Eating local has definitely become an important value for many Canadian families across the country. “For me, the value of eating local extends well beyond the benefits of freshness, seasonality, and nutrition. Eating local empowers my whole family to cultivate a more joyful relationship with the food on our table. After all, knowing where your food is grown, and the hard-working hands and hearts responsible for it—is a special thing.” Many homeowners are inspired to make a change when it comes to their nutrition and supporting local however, some struggle with the balance of eating right, what’s convenient and are concerned with the cost of it all. “Finding time to cook is more about creating time than having time. We’re all busy, but prioritizing eating together is something you’ll never regret. Set aside an hour, or two each week to prep a recipe, or a few ingredients to help kick-start quick, healthy meals.” For Mardell’s family, meal planning is a great way to ensure balance, both in the wallet, and in the kitchen. “Meal planning can be a helpful way to stretch food dollars. Knowing what you’re making, what you have on hand, and what you need to buy definitely helps keep the grocery list to the essentials. Enjoying frozen fruit, and veggies is a great way to save money, too. Frozen at peak freshness, and nutrition, makes them a healthy, practical choice.” Her tip? “You don’t nee to over plan! Prepare just do enough to give you a head start, and allow your creativity, and appetite to guide what you make.” Curious to know more? Stop by the <strong>Edmonton</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> Home Show at the <strong>Edmonton</strong> Expo Centre October 18-20. The main stage and cooking stage will be chock-full of <strong>Edmonton</strong>’s best, waiting to share their design tips, tricks and food samples! Between creating your dream kitchen to cooking meals you can’t stop dreaming about, The <strong>Edmonton</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> Home Show is the one-stop shop for industry knowledge and advice. REAL HOME ADVICE Photo credit: Janis Nicolay Photography
Oct 18 –20 Real home advice from trusted home experts. Is your do-it-yourself a don’t? Get real home advice from trusted experts at the <strong>Edmonton</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> Home Show. See Canada’s favourite handyman, HGTV’s Bryan Baeumler on Friday, October 18 th and Saturday, October 19 th for practical advice and inspiration for all your home projects – however large or small. With hundreds of experts all under one roof, find great deals, new ideas and inspiration at every turn. Satisfaction guaranteed, or the cost of admission is on us. SAVE $3 Buy tickets online Promo Code: ADVICE *On Regular Adult Admission Only Sponsors: .com Home and Garden Events @YEGHomeShows #EFHS19 edmontonfallhomeshow.com Produced by