A few of us from the Nod office recently visited the International Housewares Show at the McCormick Place in Chicago.  While we did find a few hidden gems at the show in terms of product, most of the items that were shown didn’t apply to us.  Even though Pajama Jeans are quite fascinating, we’re definitely not in the market for any As-Seen-On-T.V. products. 

At the show we were star struck by some famous chefs. Here’s Jen with Paula Dean.  They exchanged some nice compliments with each other that resulted in Paula asking Jen for a picture together!

We also saw Top Chef contestant Fabio Viviani doing a cooking demonstration.  He was definitely entertaining the crowd with his cooking style and strong Italian accent.  Even calling the amount of cheese he was using in his omelet “A stu-peed amount of cheese”.

Then we saw dreamboat Curtis Stone making some yummy drinks and stir fry.   He is quite the charmer with his sense of humor and Australian accent.  He even had the crowd participate in a dance off!

After a long day of walking we took a break on these oversized benches at the show.  It made us feel like little kids again!

As were leaving the show we also saw Barbara Turf’s 2011 Lifetime Humanitarian Plaque.  What a great achievement for the Crate and Barrel Chief Executive Officer and President! 

All in all not a bad day at the Housewares Show.   We’ll be sure to keep you posted on the goodies we found and when they will be debuting in our assortment.   Here’s a small hint, they may help you lighten up a room.

By Lia Mensinga

When Lia’s not out hunting for the latest and greatest décor items for Nod, she can be found painting, and re-painting, and re-painting her finger nails. Her current obsession is an ombré technique and water marbling. She’s also recently started a collection of all things robots, including a costume she made herself.