ed0857b3-2c1e-4f08-83a6-7cca86ca0b05
416-226-9770 info@realtornima.com EstateByNima.com
courtesy of: Nima Nojavan-Kheiraddin
Dear Homeowners Happy New Year! With the fresh start of 2025, this January issue of Home Sweet Home is here to bring warmth and inspiration for the season ahead. This edition is all about creating cozy, vibrant spaces and making winter feel like a true retreat. For those looking to bring nature indoors, we explore creative ways to incorporate lush greenery as a living focal point in your space. You’ll also find helpful ideas for planning hearty, comforting winter meals that make dinnertime easy and enjoyable, even on the busiest nights. In our recipe section, we share nourishing winter favorites, from a vegetable- packed soup to berry-infused breakfast bowls that are sure to brighten your mornings. And, as the days grow shorter, consider gathering friends or family for an unforgettable game night—this issue includes great tips to make it a tradition filled with warmth and laughter.
As always, I’m here to help with any real estate needs you may have this year. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember—both in your home and beyond.
Warm wishes,
Nima Nojavan-Kheiraddin HomeLife/Cimerman Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage 416-226-9770 info@realtornima.com EstateByNima.com 28 Drewry Ave, North York, ON M2M 1C8
Table of Contents
16
Recipes • Cozy Winter
Vegetable Soup • Superfood Green Smoothie • Rainbow Veggie & Quinoa Salad • Berry & Oat Breakfast Smoothie Bowl
04
Indoor Plant Walls: Transform Your Space with Living Art
Once seen only in hotels and office lobbies, these lush, vertical gardens are now a popular home feature, offering versatile designs to fit any space. Get expert tips on creating and maintaining these "living walls" to match your unique style and environment.
20
Organize the Perfect Winter Game Night: An Evening Laughter and Friendly Competition
10
Meal Planning for Winter Nights: A Cozy, Stress-Free Guide
Make winter nights unforgettable by hosting a cozy game night filled with fun and connection. With tips on planning, themes, and capturing memories, you’ll be ready to make game night a beloved tradition. So gather friends and family, pick your favorite games, and prepare for an evening of laughter and friendly competition.
When winter nights call for hearty, comforting meals, having a solid meal plan can make all the difference. This guide helps you craft an easy routine filled with cozy casseroles, stews, and seasonal treats, all tailored to fit your family’s busy schedule.
3
January 2025
Credit: Monique Capanelli, owner of Articulture Designs
4
HOME SWEET HOME Magazine
INDOOR PLANT WALLS TRANSFORM YOUR SPACE WITH LIVING ART
Plant walls are known by many names, green walls, living walls, and even vertical gardens as it is common to place plant walls in this alignment. You may have seen some examples in public spaces. They have become especially popular in upscale hotels, corporate headquarters, and atrium areas of airports. As people have discovered the beauty of plant walls, demand has increased for the installation of these living gardens in residential settings. In large part, the growing popularity of plant walls can be attributed to the fact that they not only make an attractive and distinct statement, but they are also extremely versatile: a plant wall can be large or small, oriented to fit a horizontal, vertical, or even round shape depending on the size and space for which it is created. Used both indoors and out, plant walls are more than an aesthetically pleasing addition to your home. Research shows there are physical and mental benefits to including plants in your décor. To learn more, Home Sweet Home spoke with MoniqueCapanelli,ownerofArticultureDesigns, a biophilic design firm based in Austin, Texas, that specializes in the creation, installation, and maintenance of plant walls. Asked what
inspired her to combine her love of design so closely with plants, Monique explains, “I grew up in a very creative atmosphere as a young person. I was always dabbling in all types of art and playing outside in nature. As my love of art and plants grew to a more knowledgeable scale, I gravitated to working at garden stores and design firms. I quickly learned there was a need for more plant design and green walls not only in Austin but all over the United States. Articulture was born out of this passion and expertise in plant design.” When considering a plant wall, homeowners should think about how it will align with their overall design goals, lifestyle, and daily routines. A successful plant wall balances beauty with functionality, so it’s essential to consider practical aspects, such as lighting and ongoing care, to ensure it fits seamlessly into the space. Monique emphasizes the importance of assessing these elements from the start: “We start with an onsite consultation to review the space, how folks are living or working within it, and evaluate lighting as well as getting a strong sense of who the client is and their likes and dislikes. We chat about care and ongoing maintenance needs.”
5
January 2025
CHOOSING THE PERFECT PLANTING PALETTE When selecting plants and botanical elements for a plant wall, homeowners can start by assessing the conditions of their space and the level of care they’re comfortable providing. Monique advises that the “planting palette” should match both the environment and the intended aesthetic. She emphasizes that lighting is a crucial factor, saying, “If we are working in a live palette, for example, the amount of natural light is the factor on what species will thrive the best.” For well-lit areas, a mix of sun-loving plants can add lushness and vibrancy, while for spaces with less natural light, shade-tolerant plants or even artificial lighting may be necessary. Maintenance is another key consideration when planning a plant wall. Homeowners should think about the level of upkeep they’re willing to commit to, as some plant selections require more regular care than others. For live plants, factors like watering frequency, pruning, and occasional fertilizing are necessary to keep the wall healthy and vibrant. Monique highlights that maintenance discussions are essential from the start, saying, “We chat about care and ongoing maintenance needs,” to help clients choose a setup they can comfortably manage. For instance, preserved moss is an option for lower- light spaces or for those seeking a low-maintenance choice: “Preserved moss is real nature but is no longer living and no longer requires lighting or watering.” For live plants, factors like watering frequency, pruning, and occasional fertilizing are necessary to keep the wall healthy and vibrant. Beyond lighting and maintenance, consider the wall’s texture, colors, and composition. For instance, combining plants with varying shapes, leaf patterns, and sizes can create a dynamic, layered look. Homeowners can also explore complementary elements, such as preserved moss or ferns, to add depth without needing extra care. Homeowners should think about the desired impact of the plant wall—is it meant to be a focal point or a subtle enhancement? These choices will guide which plants and materials best support the wall’s purpose and ensure a cohesive, sustainable design that reflects both the homeowner’s style and practical needs.
6
HOME SWEET HOME Magazine
CREATING LIVING WORKS OF ART
Articulture frequently frames plants as artwork. “Our work is fueled by the principles of art and design,” explains Monique, “so every project is seen through that lens. We want to challenge the way we look at plants and botanicals in our spaces. And in bending that perspective toward an art presentation, framing a piece resonates a ‘landscape picture’ vibe.” This same concept is carried seamlessly throughout by thoughtfully introducing living plants, flowers, and other botanicals into additional aspects of living spaces, tailoring arrangements to fit within tables and benches, and even as an innovative option for utilizing open storage spaces in cabinetry by filling them with living interior décor.
MONIQUE CAPANELLI OWNER OF ARTICULTURE DESIGNS
7
January 2025
3 BENEFITS PLANT WALLS PROVIDE
2. RELIEVING STRESS AND ANXIETY
Monique is a firm believer that “the benefits abound from plant walls. If live, they bring in oxygen, purify the air, and bring a sense of calm to any space. However, even if not living, plants still bring a homey sense of the space.” Her opinion is backed by science, here are some of the ways in which plant walls increase quality of life:
“Biophilia” is a term first coined by Erich Fromm, a German-born American psychoanalyst and the author of The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness, published in 1973. Fromm defines biophilia as “the passionate love of life and of all that is alive.” The guiding principle of biophilic design is that humans crave a connection with nature. Studies have shown that being around plants, real and artificial, has a positive effect on the human psyche, decreasing stress and anxiety. Interestingly, research has shown that patients who are surrounded by landscapes and other images depicting nature improve at a faster rate.
1. AIR PURIFICATION
Basic science teaches it is hazardous for humans to inhale large quantities of the chemical compound carbon dioxide (CO2). Thankfully, plants absorb carbon dioxide, so having them around keeps the air healthy for us to consume. How much CO2 is too much? Scientists aren’t sure, but recent research indicates that as little as 1,000 parts per million (ppm) of CO2, not an uncommon level for shared spaces like offices and schools, can lead to kidney and bone damage and negatively impact cognitive ability. A 2015 scientific study concluded reducing the level of CO2 in the atmosphere by half, to 550 ppm has the potential to increase cognitive awareness by 50%. Whatever the precise level of CO2 that is safe for human consumption, we know plants perform an important function by providing us with cleaner, healthier air.
3. INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY LEVELS
Considering all of the physical and mental health benefits associated with having plants around you from improving the quality of the very air you breathe to stimulating enhanced cognitive function, it is unsurprising that biophilic design has been linked to increased productivity and efficiency. Given the numerous benefits associated with creating an atmosphere that embraces plant life as a core element, it is little wonder Monique maintains all clients and settings, from residential to work and public spaces such as hotels, schools, and hospitals “are a good candidate for our services, on any level.”
8
HOME SWEET HOME Magazine
PLANT WALL MAINTENANCE DIY PLANT WALL IDEAS
Asked to share her suggestions for homeowners who want to implement aspects of biophilic design into their homes via DIY projects, Monique quickly replies, “My advice—buy more plants!”
The amount of maintenance your living plant wall will require depends on the type you choose. Modern takes on plant walls include options such as self-watering systems and tray systems where plants remain potted, minimizing the time and effort that proper maintenance demands. If you choose a plant wall with a tray system featuring potted plants, it is recommended that from time to time you remove the plants from the trays and clean the wall. Doing so will help ensure bugs that are naturally attracted to plants are cleared away. To clean your plants, simply wipe the leaves with plain soap and water. You will also want to trim plants as needed to keep your display tidy and not overgrown. If you intend to create a vertical plant wall and tend to it yourself, make it a point to choose plants that share common care needs. Be sure you are well- educated about the kinds of plants you have and how much water and light as well as the proper soil they need to thrive.
Here are some creative ways you can put that advice to use:
1. CREATE A PEGBOARD PLANT WALL:
Purchase a natural or white piece of pegboard and have it cut to fit the height and width of the space you have set aside for your plant wall. Using hooks, hang a thoughtful combination of flowerpots, shelves, and trays. Give the arrangement an element of interest and contrast by choosing a variety of shapes and textures to create a statement wall.
2. USE WIRE BASKETS FOR YOUR LIVING WALL:
A selection of plastic-lined baskets is an excellent choice if you desire a low-maintenance plant wall.
Use baskets of the shape and material of your choice to design a wall customized to your specific tastes and space.
Tip : When laying out the design of your plant wall, carefully consider the placement of each plant and its natural growth pattern. Space the containers at an appropriate distance so the plants will have the room necessary to grow without you having to be concerned with constantly rearranging the display.
9
January 2025
Winter days are short, dark, and cold in much of the country. In response, your family is likely craving comfort food like casseroles, creamy dishes, and hearty stews. Finding the time to make nourishing meals can be challenging with busy work and activity schedules, but don’t let comforting recipes take a back burner. Instead, tackle the winter meal blahs with a meal plan, complete with ingredient lists and time estimates that fit any schedule. MEAL PLANNING for Winter Nights
INVENTORY AND ASSESS
Start by taking an inventory of what’s already in the house, especially if you have fresh produce that needs to be used up before it goes bad. Similarly, list the meats you have in the freezer so you know what you have to work with. Then peruse the pantry for staples you use often. On a digital spreadsheet, piece of paper, or notes section of your phone, list your family’s favorite meals. These are meals that might vary slightly but that you make several times each month. Next to your meals, jot down an estimated preparation time. This makes it easier to decide which meals you’ll make on what days. Also, be sure to take into account how many mouths you’re feeding. Not every family member will be home every night, so you can cut back the quantity on some nights. Regardless of how your family size adds up, make note of how many servings you’re planning for.
10
HOME SWEET HOME Magazine
For most people, recipe selections during the winter are heavier, creamier, and heartier than the lighter meals we choose on hot summer days. Keep this in mind by swapping out salad for soup and fresh fruit for cooked tarts and crisps. Think warm applesauce instead of cold and replace pasta salad with roasted potatoes. Aim to include a variety of recipes to keep things interesting. For the ultimate organization, pick a food category for each day of the week. For example, you can include meatless Monday, taco Tuesday, leftovers on Wednesday, pasta Thursday, sheet-pan dinners on Friday, Saturday soups, and more labor-intensive meals on Sunday. Plan for a variety of different types of meals so you don’t have a ton of repeats. To get some fresh ideas, hit up Pinterest, social media, and your favorite dusty cookbooks. Be sure to read through recipes before planning to make them so you don’t find yourself missing ingredients or needing a long period of time to complete the dish. While digital recipes can be organized into files, printing them makes it easier for anyone to find and use. Use a three-ring binder with tab dividers to organize them. Then use a label maker on the spine of the binder to list the types of recipes inside, such as breads, desserts, rice dishes, etc. CHOOSE A VARIETY OF RECIPES
CONSIDER THE SCHEDULE
One essential component of effective meal planning is identifying the times and days that have the most restrictions. When you’re running from the time your feet hit the ground before work until after the kids’ activities in the evening, the last thing you want to do is get creative with dinner ideas. Perform some damage control by aligning quick meals with chaotic schedules. If you only have a one-hour window between after-school activities and evening functions, plan for simple meals like burgers or sub sandwiches and soup. Another option is to use the crock pot for meals-at-the-ready when you have time to pop in to eat. The point here is to think about how you’re going to manage meals on days when time is short, so you have a plan in advance.
PLAN LEFTOVERS
Don’t minimize the power of leftovers. While you may not want to have the exact same foods day after day, you can vary ingredients for quick meals. For example, extra chicken breasts early in the week can then be tossed onto salad, rolled into wraps, seasoned for burritos, mixed into chili, or layered onto a sandwich. Similarly, a double batch of spaghetti sauce that simmers all day on Sunday can later be used on chicken marinara, lasagna, or baked ziti. Winter meals like soups and stews often lend themselves well to cooking in larger batches, which can be warmed for lunches or served as leftovers later in the week.
11
January 2025
Now that you’ve reviewed your inventory, your schedule, and your recipes, it’s time to make a meal plan. Post your meals for the week somewhere everyone can see them, whether that’s on a chalkboard, dry-erase board, the refrigerator, or via text message. An old-fashioned wall calendar is another great way to stay organized. Add all activities to the calendar so you can quickly see what’s on the agenda. Then designate meals for each night of the week. Remember to factor in date night, school functions that involve food (such as fundraisers), and holiday celebrations that will keep you from eating at home. Always leave one to two days open in the schedule with the intent of using leftovers. It can be a free-for-all night if kids are old enough to cook for themselves. This is a great way to use up what’s available rather than cooking additional food only to watch leftovers go to waste. ORGANIZE YOUR IDEAS INTO A MEAL PLAN Create a detailed shopping list based on your weekly meal plan. Organize your list by categories (e.g., produce, dairy, pantry items) to make your shopping trip more efficient. Remember to check your pantry and fridge for ingredients you already have. Plan meals that include fresh foods for earlier in the week and push meals that include frozen or canned food further down the list. Do not shop more than once each week. Even better, try to only go to the store every other week. This will save you money and time. Plus, it will force you to use what you have, resulting in less waste. Do keep an eye out for deals on your favorite pantry staples and stock up early in the season. Look for rice, quinoa, pasta, and oats. In the canned food section, stock up on beans, tomatoes, broth, tuna, and coconut milk. When it comes to produce, seek out heartier root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, onions, and sweet potatoes. Also load up on flour, MAKE A DETAILED SHOPPING LIST
salt, baking soda, baking powder, cornstarch, breadcrumbs, and sugar so you can make your own bread, muffins, biscuits, pastries, and desserts. Finally, check the spice cupboard for common basics like cinnamon, nutmeg, cumin, chili powder, pepper, paprika, and dried herbs.
SCHEDULE A PREP DAY
With your meals mapped out, get the family involved in the preparation process by working together to clean and chop vegetables, grill chicken breasts, marinate meats, and make rice. If you shop on the same day, you can prep foods as you put them away. Otherwise, choose a time early in the week to get it done. This will save you mess, stress, and time on weeknights. Many meals, like casseroles, can also be put together and cooked later in the week or frozen for another time. For instance, you can make a few chicken pot pies and freeze those you’re not using. Same with lasagna, empanadas, chili, and stew.
12
HOME SWEET HOME Magazine
Winter is the season of comfort foods, so lean into flavors that evoke warmth and coziness. Use spices like cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg in both sweet and savory dishes. Add hearty greens like kale or spinach to soups and stews, and enjoy seasonal produce like squash, pumpkins, and apples in your recipes. KEEP IT COZY WITH SEASONAL FLAVORS These appliances make cooking easy and mess-free. You do need to think ahead, but with a plan and prepped ingredients you can pop dinner into the crock pot in minutes, before heading out the door to work. Similarly, the Instant Pot can get the job done in a hurry while you do a quick change between the office and the gym. Try out meal ideas like pulled pork, lentil soup, French dips, or Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches, Hawaiian chicken, shredded Mexican chicken, or curry. USE YOUR SLOW COOKER AND INSTANT POT
PLAN FOR SPECIAL TREATS
Include some special treats in your meal plan to make winter nights even more enjoyable. Plan to bake a batch of cookies, make hot chocolate, or try a new dessert recipe on the weekends. These little indulgences can lift everyone’s spirits during the colder months.
13
January 2025
At the end of each week, review your meal plan. Note what worked well, what didn’t, and any changes you'd like to make. You might find five planned dinners each week is too many or that everyone enjoyed a dish so much that you should double it next time. Adjust your plan based on what’s in season, your family’s preferences, and any upcoming events or commitments. REVIEW AND ADJUST WEEKLY Many cities and even smaller towns offer grocery pick-up or even home delivery. While there are sometimes issues with substitutions or your personal shopper doesn’t select the freshest produce, when time is an issue, this service can mean the difference between cooking at home and hitting a drive-thru fast-food restaurant. As your week progresses, add needed items to your shopping cart or at least maintain an ongoing list for your next order. Take advantage of weekly specials, online store coupons, and services through your credit card company — like Instacart discounts. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF PICK-UP AND DELIVERY SERVICES With a bit of organization, you can create a winter meal routine that is both cozy and manageable. Meal planning takes the stress out of dinnertime, saves you time and money, and ensures you have nutritious and delicious meals ready to enjoy, even on the busiest nights. So, embrace the flavors of the season, get creative in the kitchen, and enjoy the warmth of home-cooked meals with your loved ones all winter long. MAKE WINTER MEALS WARM AND STRESS-FREE
14
HOME SWEET HOME Magazine
15
January 2025
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECIPES TO JUMPSTART HEALTHY HABITS Nourish the New Year
As you start the year, there's no better time to embrace wholesome, nutritious choices that can set the tone for a happy and healthy year. This season calls for foods that are as comforting as they are energizing, and filled with ingredients that will keep you and your family nourished and satisfied. From warm soups that chase away the winter chill to vibrant salads and smoothies that bring a pop of freshness to the table, here’s a selection of recipes that are simple to make, delicious, and perfect for bringing the family together. Let’s start the year with meals that are good for the soul and the body!
16
HOME SWEET HOME Magazine
Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup
Superfood Green Smoothie
This smoothie is packed with green goodness, ideal for a refreshing breakfast or snack. It’s slightly sweet, nutrient-dense, and the perfect pick-me-up for anyone looking to start their day right.
This colorful, nutrient-packed soup is a warming hug in a bowl. Loaded with fiber and vitamins, it’s an ideal meal for chilly days, providing your family with all the cozy goodness they need. Ingredients: z 1 tbsp olive oil z 1 large onion, diced z 3 cloves garlic, minced z 2 carrots, diced
Ingredients:
z 1 cup spinach leaves z 1/2 cup kale, stems removed z 1 ripe banana z 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen) z 1/2 avocado z 1 cup almond milk (or preferred milk) z 1 tbsp chia seeds z 2 tsp honey
z 2 celery stalks, diced z 1 bell pepper, chopped z 1 zucchini, diced z 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes z 4 cups vegetable broth z 1 tsp dried thyme z 1 tsp dried rosemary z Salt and pepper, to taste z Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions: 1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. 2. Pour into glasses, sprinkle with extra chia seeds, and serve immediately.
Instructions: 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. 2. Add the carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for another 5 minutes. 3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. 4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. 5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread for dipping!
Tip : Freeze the banana and pineapple for a thicker smoothie!
17
January 2025
Bright, colorful, and bursting with flavor, this veggie and quinoa salad is a great way to get the kids to eat more vegetables. It’s fun, crunchy, and loaded with the fiber and protein your family needs to feel satisfied. Rainbow Veggie & Quinoa Salad
Berry & Oat Breakfast Smoothie Bowl
This smoothie bowl is like eating dessert for breakfast but packed with fiber, antioxidants, and protein to start the day right! Kids can have fun adding their favorite toppings for a fun, healthy meal.
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
z 1 cup quinoa, rinsed z 2 cups water z 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved z 1 cucumber, diced z 1 yellow bell pepper, diced z 1/2 red onion, finely chopped z 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped z 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
z 1/2 cup rolled oats z 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen) z 1 ripe banana z 1/2 cup Greek yogurt z 1/2 cup almond milk (or preferred milk)
Toppings:
z Sliced bananas z Fresh berries z Chia seeds z Granola
Dressing:
z 3 tbsp olive oil z 1 tbsp lemon juice z 1 tsp honey z Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions: 1. Blend oats, berries, bananas, yogurt, and milk until smooth. 2. Pour into a bowl and add your favorite toppings.
Instructions: 1. Cook quinoa in water according to package instructions. Let it cool. 2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. 4. Add cooled quinoa to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over the top. Toss to coat. 5. Sprinkle with feta cheese and serve!
Wishing you and your family a vibrant and health-filled year! These recipes are perfect for keeping everyone happy, healthy, and well-fed as you dive into the new year’s adventures.
18
HOME SWEET HOME Magazine
Winter evenings are the perfect time to gather family and friends together for an indoor game night. Not only is it a warm and dry way to spend time together, but the comradery and friendly competition result in long- lasting memories and deep connections. There are many ways to enjoy game night, so don’t worry about being too rigid in your planning. However, be sure to include all the elements a great game night requires— food, drinks, games, and laughter. Perhaps the most difficult part of planning any game night is simply finding a time when everyone has a blank spot on the calendar. You can either start by communicating with guests about availability, or you can choose a date and see who is available to attend. You can improve the odds of attendance by picking a time that doesn’t overlap school, work, and extracurricular activities. A weekend evening is often ideal, but find a time when everyone can be relaxed and present. Make sure to plan ahead so everyone can mark their calendars and look forward to the event. Send out e-vites, texts, or snail mail invitations to set the tone of the event and ensure everyone has the information they need. SET A DATE AND TIME ORGANIZE THE PERFECT WINTER GAME NIGHT
19
January 2025
CHOOSE A THEME
Adding a theme to your game night can make it even more fun and engaging. Themes could be as simple as “classic board games” or more elaborate like a “retro night” with 80s music and games from that era. Alternatively, you can select a single game or options focused on cards, dice, or trivia. You could also pick themes based on upcoming holidays, like a Halloween- themed game night with spooky games and treats. Themes add an extra layer of excitement and can make the night feel special. Plus it gives guests an idea of what to expect.
SELECT THE GAMES
Choosing the right games is crucial for a successful game night. Consider the age range and interests of your family members or friend group. Aim for a mix of games that cater to different preferences and skills. Include some classics such as Monopoly, Scrabble, and The Game of Life when you have a multi-generational group. For the younger set, go with basics like Uno, Go Fish, or Crazy Eights, which are easy to learn and fun for everyone. If your group enjoys intellectual competition, set up trivia games like Scrabble, Trivial Pursuit, or Pictionary. For an adult-only gathering, have fun with Cards Against Humanity, Exploding Kittens, or Poker. Game night doesn’t have to be about board games though. If you want to keep the party (and your guests) moving, look for options that involve Charades, get out the Twister board, or move to a physical game like darts. The point is to choose a game or games that match the interests and abilities of your audience. Make sure to have a few game options available so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. If you’re unsure, you can ask family members to suggest their favorite games ahead of time. While you’re at it, be sure to inventory your games to make sure there are plenty of score pads and no missing pieces.
20
HOME SWEET HOME Magazine
PLAN THE LAYOUT
Create a comfortable, functional, and inviting space for your game night. Arrange a large table or clear floor space where everyone can gather around comfortably. Provide plenty of seating, cushions, and blankets to keep everyone cozy. Also, ensure there’s enough lighting to see game boards and cards clearly. If you plan to host a dinner first, keep the gaming supplies readily available to set up after the meal. Make sure you have the proper amount of game pieces, pens, pads, and other supplies. Also, plan for scorekeeping, whether that will take place on a dry-erase board, chalkboard, tablet, or other means. Remember to consider the kids if they’ll be playing games of their own. Give them their own table or blanket on the floor and provide a basket of related supplies.
PREPARE SNACKS AND DRINKS
No game night is complete without delicious snacks and drinks! Prepare a variety of easy-to-eat snacks like popcorn, pretzels, chips, and dip. For a healthier option, include a veggie platter, fruit slices, or cheese and crackers. You could also prepare themed snacks to match your game night theme, like cookies shaped like dice or board game pieces. You could pipe trivia categories onto cupcakes or disperse strips of paper with trivia questions around the food table. Similarly, edible markers can turn rectangular sandwiches into cards and cubes of white cheese into dice. For drinks, offer a mix of options such as soda, juice, water, and perhaps hot chocolate or tea for a cozy touch. Make sure snacks and drinks are accessible throughout the night to keep everyone fueled and happy. You can also include wintery alcoholic options such as mulled wine, old-fashioneds, or spiked spiced cider.
JS eapntue amrbye 2r 022052 4 21
SET THE RULES AND EXPECTATIONS
CAPTURE THE MEMORIES Make sure to capture the fun moments! Take candid photos or short videos of everyone playing, laughing, and enjoying themselves. You could also set up a game night “trophy” or prize for the overall winner or provide prizes for different categories, such as sportsmanship, humor, skill, or last place. This is a fun way to provide tokens that remind your guests of a memorable evening and also encourages a little friendly competition. If your game nights are a regular thing, select funny old trophies from thrift shops and have guests return them so you can pass them on to a new winner at each gathering. Be sure to take photos so you can settle debates about who has held the trophy the most times.
Different people often play variations of the same game, so be sure to address those differences. In the end, it’s okay to declare ‘house rules’ if there’s a discrepancy, but setting some ground rules will ensure everyone has a great time. Emphasize that the main goal is to have fun, not necessarily to win. Encourage positive behavior, fair play, and good sportsmanship. If you have young children, simplify or modify the rules to make the games more accessible and enjoyable for them. It’s also helpful to agree on how long each game will last and decide in advance what happens in case of a tie or dispute.
KEEP THE ENERGY UP
CLEAN UP
Maintain a lively and fun atmosphere throughout the evening. Encourage participation by taking turns picking games and switching up the activities to keep things fresh. Play upbeat music in the background and don’t forget to celebrate the little moments, like a funny answer or a creative move. Take short breaks between games to stretch, grab more snacks, or chat. This will help keep guests engaged and prevent anyone from feeling overwhelmed or fatigued. As the evening winds down, choose a final game that’s light-hearted and quick. Ending with a fun, easy game leaves everyone in high spirits. Before wrapping up, take a moment to thank everyone for coming and express how much you enjoyed the time together. You might even plan the next game night before everyone leaves.
If guests offer, involve them in the cleanup process to make it quick and easy. This can also be a fun way to wind down and chat about the highlights of the night. Make sure all game pieces are accounted for, put away the snacks, fold up tables, and tidy up the space together.
MAKE GAME NIGHT A TRADITION
Organizing a game night is a great way to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. With a little planning and creativity, you can turn an ordinary evening into an extraordinary experience filled with laughter and love. So gather your family and friends, pick your favorite games, and get ready for a night of fun that everyone will look forward to time and time again!
22
HOME SWEET HOME Magazine
What Is Your Home Truly Worth? To Request a Copy of My Free Home Value Report to Determine What Your Home is Truly Worth, Call 416-226-9770 or Email info@realtornima.com . This is all 100% free with no obligation. After you submit the online questionnaire, you will receive my free report with information that will help you determine your home's value. I recommend printing it out and taking a drive to see the homes I've identified as comparable to yours. See how your home measures up. This will help you get an even more accurate idea of what your home is worth. An appraiser would charge hundreds for this service, but I will provide one at no cost. If you would like my free, professional opinion on the value of your home, I'd be glad to help. We can talk on the phone, or we can meet in person. I look forward to helping you! Nima Nojavan-Kheiraddin HomeLife/Cimerman Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage 416-226-9770 info@realtornima.com EstateByNima.com
Nima Nojavan-Kheiraddin HomeLife/Cimerman Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage
416-226-9770 info@realtornima.com EstateByNima.com
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24Powered by FlippingBook