J travelled to Portland Oregon for the first Fall/Christmas show of 2005. Frank Adams Wholesale had some great merchandise to work with, as you will see.

A fun fall arrangement (at left) in a Pumpkin container - the butterflies really draw the viewer in. At right is a great old-fashioned looking duo of Trick-or-Treaters from Winward.

Continuing with Halloween, color foam cubes and wire combine with a foam ring and bats to create a scary centerpiece.

A great fall into Christmas item is a cornucopia. Shown here in its fall wardrobe of gourds (on a single stem - so easy) that can be simply replaced with pine boughs and ornaments for the next holiday.

A pair of simple, yet stunning, pieces based in traditional Christmas Red. Carnations are always great for impactful color - especially red at Christmastime.

An elongated casual table arrangement again in traditional Christmas colors. The styrofoam ball wrapped in wire and sisal and studded with pins makes a great accessory anywhere.

A twist on Christmas Green makes for a more upscale presentation. The arrangement at left is made with three containers that may also be displayed separately. Ribbon and beaded wire really get this adorable chocolate colored bear (at right) in the holiday mood.

At left - J and his fabulous helper for the show, Terrie. Terrie is a Northwest Airlines Flight Attendant and we love that about her! Terrie takes time off every year for the September show to help the great folks at Frank Adams - how lucky are they? She even brought home made lunches each prep day before the show. Thanks Terrie!

At right - J with his favorite U.S. Oasis Sales Rep., the incomparable Marcella Stein.

On to the trendy Christmas - this year featuring Chocolate Brown and shades of Blue and Teal. The close-up image of the candles reveals simple wire products and paint splatter techniques combined with ribbon for an elegant presentation. (Be sure to remove the ribbon before lighting.)

A pretty bowl with eye-catching ornaments make for an easy home accessory piece - who can fit all of the ornaments on their tree anyway? A permanent Hydrangea stem enhanced with Design Master Just for Flowers color tool provides a beautiful natural-looking accent.

RESTAURANT TIP: When in Portland, check out Saucebox (214 Southwest Broadway - 503-241-3393). The beautiful decor and ambiance is surpassed only by the asian inspired cuisine. Fantastic DJ's complete the experience. And don't miss Poolside with David Hasslehoff, form the extensive drink menu.