Like a teacher preparing for the upcoming school term, we’ve spent a good deal of our summer with one eye on opportunities to enjoy the beach, the garden and balmy days and nights, and one eye on September.
Our autumn publication is always a busy one, and this issue before you is no exception. September is when many of us get down to serious work again, maybe not until after the Labour Day weekend if we’re lucky.
Our Fall Home Resource Guide is timed for that focus, when we start to execute some of the dreams we’ve had over the summer.
We always enjoy covering the LHBA’s Parade of Renovations, an annual autumn open house when renovators invite the public to see some of their best work up close, with their clients’ permission, of course. Our sneak peek should whet your appetite for October 4, when the event is held, and I can vouch that this represents new projects as much as our “Homes” stories ever do.
Our publishing timelines meant that some of the renovators were still in finishing stages when we needed photos. As great as these images are, you may see even more styling on Parade Day!
We’ve got even more great fashion ideas than usual in this issue. Our local retailers have provided exquisite examples of fall fashion, with beautiful pieces from numerous top designers. That’s a tour de force of inspiration, and we’re pleased to tell the story of nine local designers in our “Changing the Fabric of Fashion” feature.
You’ll see a wide variety of businesses represented, with one common denominator: creativity. You’ll also recognize some of their work scattered amid our Marketplace “handmade” pages.
Speaking of creativity, our conversation with Strathroy denizen Emily Michelle, whom you may have seen on HGTV, may spur you to take on your own personal projects. As well as having an elegant design aesthetic, she’s a committed thrifter and upcycler. I hope Emily doesn’t regret offering our readers some shopping tips, as she’s likely created some competition for the second-hand pieces she covets.
There’s no shortage of fall activity in the cultural realm, but I rely upon Kathy Navackas to provide timely suggestions about local events that I might have otherwise missed. Her “Culture Calling” column is always worth taking note of.
Autumn is also a perfect time for road trips, with the temperature usually more moderate and the crowds at popular venues often thinner. If you’re unfamiliar with the Long Point Biosphere, Bruce Fyfe provides an enticing description of what a trip might entail. There are adventures of all sorts available, from zipline flying to unique drinking and dining opportunities.
On that note, Bryan Lavery’s “Buzz” column includes his tasting notes on several of London’s most interesting restaurants and food purveyors. Somehow always in the know, Bryan provides business updates that are enhanced by his informed opinions and culinary observations.
And do take note of the fundraiser for Paul’s Place on October 17. Bryan is cooking with fellow chef Brian Sua-an, so this will be special.
Cheers,
Chris McDonell
