The annual Homes for the Holidays tour, in support of Hospice Care Ottawa, has become a tradition in Ottawa, kicking off the holiday season. This year $135,000 was raised to support end of life care for both patients and their families.
Eight homes around the city opened their doors to over 1600 visitors who were treated to inspiring holiday décor. The event is handled by 700 volunteers who ensure that each home is respected and guests are attended to.
Local florists added festive flair from the front door to the backyard while guests on tour were wowed and inspired by the holiday trends. This year vibrant colours were a staple along with traditional greens and rich metallic touches from gold bows to the shimmering red vases filled with boughs and berries from Stoneblossom Floral Gallery. Mill Street Florist showed striking use of rich red and orange tones for the season. Traditional holiday elements could be found throughout each home to show a leaning towards décor from Christmas past.
Tables were dressed for elegant holiday entertaining like the all-white elegance found on a table decorated by Scrims Florist. A standout was The Stalk Markets use of asparagus at the residence of the Belgium Ambassador to Canada. Terra Plants and Flowers wowed with their elegant table top that combined gold into each setting.
Christmas trees were heavily adorned both indoors and out, all in keeping with the design trend that leans towards embellishment and celebrating the traditions of the holiday. Flowers Talk Tivoli incorporated berries and pinecones on a decorated tree to add a woodsy element to the décor.
Florists and decorators took the décor beyond the indoors to ensure that entrances were grand. Trillium Flowers wowed with a front porch in Westboro with wispy branches that creating a stunning seasonal display. Karen Grand of Grand Expectations is a long-time supporter of Homes for the Holidays and her wreaths and garlands are always impressive. Window boxes from Beaudry Silk design set the tone for a home in the Glebe.
Mary Taggart
