MyFixitUpLife's Interview With Mike Holmes at the National Hardware Show 2014

In early May of this year, Mike Holmes was in my hometown of Las Vegas at the 2014 National Hardware Show. I attended the convention on Tuesday, and unfortunately Mike did this interview on Wednesday, so I wasn't able to see him record this interview!

In this interview, Mike Holmes sits down with Mark and Theresa of MyFixitUpLife and Food Network's show "Save My Bakery." He talks with them about what else... tools and fix-it-up projects! Interesting enough, Mike talks about his "Holmes Approved" brand moving beyond the borders of Canada into the US, specifically Minnesota and Texas. They also discuss fun with drywall repair! It's a short and fast-paced but fantastic interview! For more information about Mike Holmes and the 2014 National Hardware Show, see Mike Holmes in Las Vegas at the National Hardware Show.

(Mike's segment begins at the 31:00 mark.)
Direct link to the interview

From MyFixitUpLife.com:

We're talking tool innovations and the Property Brothers' new outdoor furnishings and more on this episode from the National Hardware Show in Vegas.

How do you know you’re at risk—of being boring? Is your design look a blend of “I’ve always done it that way” combined with lots of beige? When was the last time you looked at your home?

The cure is color, so pick up some paint and punch it up a notch. From fixing that old doorknob hole to sharpening up those shutters outside, you can body slam boredom in no time. From prep to color pop, from deck to decore, let’s make the tough stuff easy.

We're talking new tool innovations from the HYDE Tools booth at the National Hardware Show and we're shaking down what's amazing from the trade show floor with our guests. HGTV's 'Property Brothers' Drew and Jonathan Scott are sharing a preview of their 'not-yet-available-in-stores' outdoor furnishing line. Make it Right Mike Holmes talks his latest ventures on improving communities and skilled trades. And 'Consumer Reports' Senior Market Analyst Michael DiLauro is breaking down what's best in mowers and more.

So take a look around. And dare to be awesome. You can always repaint your house beige—but not today because awesome is now on MyFixitUpLife.

Find Additional Design Podcasts with MyFixitUpLife on BlogTalkRadio

Baeumler Family Foundation Gala Recap -- Part II

The second annual Baeumler Family Foundation Gala that was held this year on May 22, 2014 was apparently so massive, it outgrew one blog entry and into two! For more information on this charity event hosted by HGTV star Brian Baeumler and his wife Sarah, see Baeumler Family Foundation Celebrity Gala Recap and visit the BFF's official website.

Mike Holmes, who is a good friend of the Baeumler family, was in attendance with his lovely Anna at his side in a beautiful turquoise gown. From the pictures floating around on the web, it looks like everyone had a grand time. On May 28, Brian posted about 180 or so photos of the event on his public Facebook page. Here are some more photos of Mike from the HGTV-star studded gala:

Platinum Pro Painters Joins the "Make It Right" Family

It looks like Mike Holmes has added a new painting company to roster of skilled professionals he uses. Platinum Pro Painters in Calgary, Alberta Canada is the newest member of the "Holmes Makes It Right" family. The episode featuring the company is slated to air in the summer of 2014 according to the article below.

From DigitalJournal.com:

Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary Announces Upcoming Appearance on HGTV’s Holmes Makes It Right

Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary (http://www.PlatinumProPaintersCalgary.com), the leading painting/renovating company serving Calgary, Okotoks, Airdrie, Chestermere, and the surrounding areas, is reacting to the company being slated to appear on upcoming episode of HGTV’s Holmes Makes It Right.

Calgary, Canada (PRWEB) May 30, 2014

Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary (http://www.PlatinumProPaintersCalgary.com), the leading painting/renovating company serving Calgary, Okotoks, Airdrie, Chestermere, and the surrounding areas, is reacting to the company being slated to appear on upcoming episode of HGTV’s Holmes Makes It Right.

A spin-off of HGTV’s similarly successful Holmes on Homes, Holmes Makes It Right features host Mike Holmes, who has made a living on physically repairing people’s homes and giving them a second chance at being liveable, as the lead project coordinator.

“We’re so proud to be part of a company that is being recognized for our commitment to quality work,” says Chris White, owner of Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary. “All of our franchises share the same work ethic and principles across the board. It’s great to be acknowledged for those values.”

For the episode, currently scheduled to air in summer 2014, Platinum Pro Painters will be doing both interior and exterior residential work, both of which are part of what the company regularly offers its clients. White explains that the company’s workers will be doing what they do best; reviving people’s homes with high-quality paint jobs for both the interior and exterior of the house.

“Mike Holmes is a public figure who prides himself on repairing less than admirable houses,” White concludes. “He is constantly held to a high standard and being part of that is just further proof as to the quality of work that Platinum Pro Painters is known for.”

Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary is the premier painting/renovating company serving the Calgary, Okotoks, Airdrie, Cochrane, and surrounding areas. With more than 60 years of industry experience, Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary offers its clients a full range of professional residential and commercial services, including exterior and interior painting. Platinum Pro Painters also provides a host of other services, such as driveway sealing, pressure washing, graffiti removal, and vinyl and aluminium siding painting. Some of the areas served by Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary include Airdrie, Crossfield, Okotoks, Priddis, Strathmore, High River, Nanton, and Bragg Creek. To learn more about Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary, visit the company’s web site at http://www.PlatinumProPaintersCalgary.com or call toll-free 1-855-847-2468 (PAINT).

Mike's Super Busy Day Promoting His New Book

From the looks of it, Mike had a very busy media-filled day today as he made his rounds from public appearance to public appearance, all in an effort to promote his new book. The Holmes Manual, which hits the shelves June 3 in Canada, is a book that tackles homeowners most commonly asked questions about the nitty gritty of home maintenance. US fans can also purchase the book in Mike's official webstore on the MAKEITRIGHT.ca website.

Early this morning, Mike Holmes was at CTV for an interview on the CanadaAM morning show. See photos from Mike's interview:

After the interview, Mike was off to the First Canadian Place for a Holmes Manual Interview/Q&A. As expected, both the 12:15 PM and 1:15 PM sessions were complete packed! The interview was conducted by Canadian Living’s Brett Walther. Photos from Mike's visit:

Here's a small bit about Mike's appearance on the MyCanadianPlace.ca web calendar:

Mike Holmes in Conversation with Canadian Living’s Brett Walther
May-28-14, First Canadian Place Gallery
12:15 PM,1:15 PM
If you’re a homeowner, it’s important to know what’s behind your walls, no matter how nerve-wracking the thought might be. Canada’s Most Trusted Contractor Mike Holmes explains why at First Canadian Place with his new book The Holmes Manual – a must-have guide for homeowners.
A no-nonsense professional contractor, best-selling author, and the star of the hit TV series Holmes on Homes, Holmes Inspection and Holmes Makes It Right, Mike will be interviewed by Canadian Living’s Home and Garden Director, Brett Walther. Mike will answer questions about his latest book, address common homeowner concerns, share season maintenance tips and even offer advice for buying and selling residential properties.
These two charming home experts will also ensure you understand how crucial it is to address issues around the home such as the state and condition of your walls (including the electrical, insulation, plumbing and other hidden elements) before you even begin to think about paint colours, hanging artwork or decorating.
After each session, Mike will be available for book signings. A signed copy of Mike Holmes’ The Holmes Manual makes a great gift for Father’s Day!
Presented in association with Indigospirt. The Holmes Manual arrives in stores May 27.Web: makeitright.ca/

Next, Mike was off for yet another interview with ETCanada. After the interview, Mike sat down to read some comments from his fans on Twitter (love those hipster reading glasses!).

For Mike's last appearance of the day, Mike did a book signing at the Toronto Public Library at 7PM. Again, very, very large crowds of people eager to meet Mike!

What an exhausting day! Mike deserves some R&R after a day like that! I can't wait to get a copy of Mike's new book!

Mike Holmes on Cityline Promoting His New Book: The Holmes Manual

Mike Holmes was on Canadian daytime TV talk show Cityline today promoting his new book, The Holmes Manual, which goes on sale June 3, 2014. For more information about Mike's upcoming book, see "The Holmes Manual" Coming Soon To A Bookstore Near You!. The show with Mike's segment will air on June 2, 2014. If you're like me and don't get Canadian TV, you can watch the episode stream live online from 9am ET to 10am ET on June 2 at the Cityline website, or you can watch the archived episode after its debut broadcast.

From Mike's Facebook page:

I am at Cityline sharing tips from my new book, The Holmes Manual! 
Tune in next week June 2 at 9:00 am EST.

More photos from Twitter:

And by the way, according to Mike on his Twitter account, he stated that the book will only be released in Canada, for now at least.

As an added bonus, I found this article online at the Chronicle Herald.ca. The article talks about Mike's passion to help the public understand their homes and describe's Mike's book as an "easy-to-read encyclopedia of home ownership.

From the Chronicle Herald.ca:

Mike Holmes’ new book an ‘easy-to-read encyclopedia of home ownership


(Contributed)

No matter where Mike Holmes goes, he can expect one thing — questions.

“Over the years, it doesn’t matter where I go, from the gas station to the big box store, I can always count on people approaching me and asking questions about their homes,” he says.

A professional contractor and the host of Holmes Make it Right, Holmes’ wealth of knowledge is in the palm of homeowners’ hands in his new book, The Holmes Manual. The how-to tome covers every frequently asked question imaginable.

“For most people, their home is their single most important investment, but they don’t pay enough attention to it. If your child says they don’t feel well, you take them to the doctor. It’s no different with your home; it’s always trying to communicate with you.”

Holmes’ new book will help you make the translation.

“It’s about why, not how. This book will give it to you straight. You need to approach your home from the inside out.

“So many home buyers focus on the look. This is a big mistake. They look at finishings like countertops and don’t stop to think about what’s inside the walls.

“ You can make a terrible cake, cover it in icing to make it look nice, but in the end it’s still going to taste like crap.”

Two years in the making, and following the success of his other books — Holmes Inspection, Make it Right, Mike Holmes: Attics and Basements, Make it Right: Kitchens and Bathrooms — The Holmes Manual is an easy-to-read encyclopedia of home ownership.

Sectioned in chapters from Exteriors & Attics and Basements & Foundations to Kitchens & Bathrooms and Materials & Finishes, the pages are filled with info boxes and charts to help you understand the steps before getting started.

Ever wonder how a book like this comes together?

“When I’m driving job site to job site in my truck, I talk into a recorder. I love to work that way — get it all out of my head while I’m driving, and the more I talk, the more tips and information I think of that I want to share with homeowners.”

With an impressive multimedia career, Holmes has been able to use television and books as tools to educate homeowners on proper building code, what to look for in contractors and their rights as homeowners.

This new manual is just an extension of Holmes’ passion to educate the public.

“Whether you keep it on your bedside, beside your toilet or in your workshop, this book is smart bang for your buck.”

The Homes Manual will be in stores June 3.

Baeumler Family Foundation Celebrity Gala Recap

As expected, the second annual Baeumler Family Foundation Celebrity Gala, which took place on May 22 this year, was a huge success and by the looks of all the photos and videos on Twitter, everyone seems to have had a great time! This year's theme was "CRÈMÈ DE LA CRÈMÈ."

The BFF is a foundation started by HGTV star Brian Baeumler and his wife Sarah. The charity strives to make the lives of disabled children better by funding renovations to make their homes more accessible. As many people know, Mike Holmes and Brian Baeumler are good friends and fellow Canadians, and if one of them is throwing a shindig chances are the other is going to show up. True enough, Mike and his best girl Anna (Zappia) arrived, dressed to the nines. For more information about the Baeumler Family Foundation, visit their official website.

Photos:

Here's some pictures and a video of Mike singing karaoke to "Some Kind of Wonderful."

Click to view video

Other photos from the event:

Mike Holmes, Anna Zappia, and Marilyn Denis

Here's a great article about the even from the website It's All Style To Me:

Toronto, May 23, 2014 – The Baeumler family hosted their second black-tie fundraising gala at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Toronto last night. The fundraising gala is dedicated to supporting children and family advocacy. Guests enjoyed some live karaoke, cocktails, a gourmet dinner by celebrity chef Lynn Crawford and an interactive silent auction.
The event was held in together with title sponsor Lowes Canada, who provide renovations for children and families in need of accessibility, safety and security in order to create a nurturing and positive environment in the home.
Support is also provided to existing organizations that provide important physical and mental services for children’s health and wellbeing. Organizations include The Sick Kids Foundation of Canada, The Reach Out Centre for Kids, and Easter Seals of Ontario.

Last night’s guests included: Bryan Baeumler (HGTV’s Leave it to Bryan), Sarah Baeumler (HGTV’s Leave it to Bryan), Adam Wylde (host on Kiss 92.5), Adriano Belli (former CFL player), Anne Mroczkowski (Canadian media personality), Ben Mulroney (host of etalk) & Jessica Mulroney (Kleinfelds Canada), Brad Smith (entertainment host CityTV), Christine Simpson (Canadian media personality), Deadmau5 (Grammy award-winning DJ), Drew Scott (HGTV Property Brothers), Drew Taylor (former Toronto Blue Jay) , Eric Lindros (former NHL player), Frank Ferragine (weatherman and gardening expert BT Toronto), Gabrielle Miller (actor, Call me Fitz), Greg Bryk (actor, A History of Violence), Jennifer Valentyne (live eye host BT Toronto), Jian Ghomeshi (CBC’s Q with Jian Ghomeshi), Jonathan Scott (HGTV Property Brothers), Kim D’eon (entertainment reporter ET Canada), Kris Reyes (news anchor Global news), Leslie Roberts (anchor Global News), Liza Fromer (host Global Morning Show), Marilyn Denis (host of the Marilyn Denis Show), Mary Zilba (Real Houswives of Vancouver), Maurie Sherman (producer KISS 92.5), Mike Holmes (HGTV Holmes on Homes), Mocha (host Kiss 92.5), Monika Schnarre (super model), Paul LaFrance (HGTV’s Decked Out) , Ramsin Khachi (media personality), Rick Campanelli (host of ET Canada), Robin Reichman (Real Houswives of Vancouver), Rod Black (TSN sports announcer), Sangita Patel (reporter ET Canada), Scott McGillivray (HGTV’s Income Property), Stacey Mckenzie (super model), Stephen Fanuka (host of Million Dollar Contractor), Taylor Kaye (host Kiss 92.5), Tommy Smythe (associate designer on Sarah’s House), Tracy Moore (host of Cityline), and Trish Johnston (media personality).