Video Post: My Favourite trends for 2012

I was recently approached by my good and very talented friend Brian of Bookstrucker Photography to start experimenting with some video blogs. I was intrigued and thought the Home + Garden Show would be a perfect spot to shoot a little clip of my favourite trends. This comes from a feature that I helped design called Ask A Designer where we created large, life sized mood boards to help people at the show get inspired.

Thanks to the great people at Homesense, Crown Wallpaper, and Robert Allen fabrics!

There will be more video clips to come so stay tuned and hope you enjoy!



Check out:

Bookstrucker Photography 

Calgary Home and Garden Show 2012

Next week marks yet another Calgary Home and Garden Show. I can't believe I have been involved for more than 7 years!! The shows really keep on getting better and better every year and if you are looking to get inspired this spring for an upcoming decor/design/reno project, the show is a must see. Here are some highlights for the show that shouldn't be missed:

1. Beer Haus

Creating a chic and well designed space to drink beer in, no problem! I have come up with a twist on the German beer hans. Creating a space that will not only facilitate large groups of people becoming friendly with communal seating but also a modern space with un conventional elements. Located right by the Food Truck Alley, you can come and get some delicious treats and enjoy a great beer!

2. Ask a Designer

Need some decor/design advise for your upcoming project? Stuck on a beige palette and need to get out of it? Be sure to check out the Ask a Designer feature where you will get to sit down and consult with real designers and decorators to get their expert advice on your next project.

3. Getting in the Mood

Not that kind of mood!! A design mood! Rosalyn Lazaruk and I will be presenting on the HGTV main stage taking about creating your own mood board and how to get inspired with your next design project . We will give you a glimpse into the top 2012 design trends and how to incorporate them into your home.

Click here to see the stage schedule


For a chance to win 2 tickets to the show check out my Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/AlykhanVeljiDesigns and make a comment about what you are most excited to see at the show and you will be entered into a draw to win one of 3 pairs of tickets.

Check Out:

Calgary Home and Garden Show

Crate&Barrel Preview

The thoughts of spring and warmer weather will soon be upon us! With this, also comes the influx of fabulous wares for your outdoor space! Crate and Barrel and just sent out a preview of their Spring/Summer collection. The look is bold and beautiful. Think bold patterns infused with citrusy brights. Delicious!  I especially love the bean bag stools. So versatile that they can serve double duty as extra seating and as side tables. Using Marimekko fabrics, these pieces are sure to create a buzz at your next patio party!

Collection should be hitting stores soon!

Check Out:

Crate&Barrel

Design Trend: Terrariums

Plant

Plant

Plant

Moss & Horn

Moss & Horn

Moss & Horn

Terrariums are definitely the new design trend! I was at a market this past weekend was quite taken with the lovely displays created by 2 vendors (Moss & Horn and Plant). There is nothing more gorgeous than a clear glass vessel filled gorgeous plants, succulents, rocks and moss. It is great for those that don't have a green thumb (like me) as they don't require much maintenance.

Placed on a coffee table or side table, they add that perfect hit of greenery to a space. My fave would be to add a grouping to a dining table to create some impact. You could even do something custom... give them a vessel and let them work their magic!

Check Out:

Plant-online 
Moss&Horn

Valentines Day

Valentines Day is soon approaching and for most, chocolate and flowers will do. Why not do something different this year and show your lover you really care! I was asked to do a segment on Global TV this past weekend and the great people at Papyrus kindly lent me some fabulous V Day finds that I got to share. Papyrus is known for its great stationary and cards but they also carry amazing accessories that are sure to please the love in your life. Fabulous messenger bags and notebooks for your man made with high quality Italian leather to great smelling candles and sachets.

Check out the video below:

Shop Alert: Love Of Mine Boutique

One of my favourite things to do while in Toronto is walk up and down Queen Street. Of course, I have to hit up The Queen Mother for a delicious meal and then head out. I love it as there are some great go to places that I love to visit such as MORBA, QUASIMODO, Design Republic, and now the CB2, which was fantastic!!

The shop that I want to mention today is called Love Of Mine. It is a beautifully curated store filled with collections of handmade pieces of jewellery, scarves, pillows and other fabulous accessories. When you walk in you are immediately greeted by a wall of butterflies strategically placed on a massive wall. It creates such an impact. Loved it! Next time you are in Toronto, be sure to check them out!

Check Out:

Love Of Mine Boutique