Mary Pidlaski

Spring has officially arrived in Winnipeg, and with it comes a vibrant lineup of events that showcase the city's rich culture, culinary delights, and architectural heritage. Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the area, these happenings offer a fantastic way to connect with the community and experience the best our city has to offer. Here are my top four picks for this month:

🩰 Bolero with Angels in the Architecture & Hikarizatto – Royal Winnipeg Ballet

• Dates: May 1–4, 2025

• Location: Centennial Concert Hall, 555 Main Street

• What to Expect: Experience a dynamic triple bill of contemporary ballets showcasing the Royal Winnipeg Ballet's versatility. The program features Mark Godden’s Angels in the Architecture, Stephan Azulay’s Bolero, and Itzik Galili’s Hikarizatto. This performance also marks the final curtain for Artistic Director André Lewis after 50 years with the RWB, making it a historic event not to be missed. 

🎨 Winyan by Lita Fontaine at WAG-Qaumajuq

• Dates: May 3 -May 17, 2025

• Location: Winnipeg Art Gallery – Qaumajuq, 300 Memorial Blvd

• What to Expect: Winyan (the Dakota word for “woman”) is a solo survey exhibition by Dakota/Anishinaabe/Métis artist Lita Fontaine. The exhibition brings together both seminal and recent works, celebrating Indigenous femininities through collage, textiles, and medallion-style paintings. Fontaine's art serves as a resistance to colonial practices, incorporating symbols of assimilation and gender-discriminatory policies while honoring her sisters, matriarchs, and Dakota culture.

🎉 Cinco de Mayo Carnival at Assiniboia Downs

• Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025

• Location: Assiniboia Downs, 3975 Portage Avenue

• What to Expect: Celebrate Mexican culture at the Cinco de Mayo Carnival, hosted by the Mex y Can Association of Manitoba Inc. Enjoy a day filled with authentic Mexican cuisine, live music, traditional dances, and family-friendly activities. It's a vibrant cultural experience that brings the community together in celebration.

🚚 MB Food Truck Battles at Assiniboia Downs

• Dates: Saturday, May 24 & Sunday, May 25, 2025

• Location: Assiniboia Downs, 3975 Portage Avenue

• What to Expect: Prepare your taste buds for a weekend of culinary competition! Winnipeg's top food trucks will battle it out for the title of Food Truck Champion. Enjoy a variety of delicious eats, live music, kids’ activities, and a vibrant festival atmosphere. It's a foodie’s paradise and a family-friendly event all in one.

🏛️ Doors Open Winnipeg 2025

• Dates: Saturday, May 24 & Sunday, May 25, 2025

• Location: Various sites across Winnipeg

• What to Expect: Explore Winnipeg's architectural gems and hidden historical sites during this annual city-wide celebration. From iconic landmarks to lesser-known treasures, Doors Open Winnipeg offers free access to buildings and guided tours that showcase the city's rich heritage. It's a fantastic way to connect with the community and discover the stories behind our built environment.

Whether you're immersing yourself in Indigenous art, indulging in culinary delights, celebrating cultural festivals, or uncovering the city's architectural history, Winnipeg offers a diverse array of events this May. These experiences not only enrich our cultural landscape but also highlight the vibrant community spirit that makes our city unique.

Feel free to share this post with your network, and let's celebrate the best of Winnipeg together!

As the snow melts away and Winnipeg begins to bloom, the city comes alive with events that bring us together, celebrate creativity, and showcase the unique spirit of our communities. Whether you’re a long-time local or new to the neighbourhood, these spring happenings offer the perfect chance to enjoy the best of Winnipeg’s culture and charm.

Here are a few must-visit events this April and May that I’m especially excited about:

🎨 Lita Fontaine: Winyan

📅 May 3 – May 17
📍Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq

Lita Fontaine, a celebrated Dakota/Anishinaabe/Metis artist, presents her solo exhibition Winyan, a powerful exploration of Indigenous identity, womanhood, and tradition. Her work is deeply rooted in storytelling, and this exhibit invites reflection on the roles, strength, and spirituality of Indigenous women. It’s a must-see for art lovers and anyone interested in Winnipeg’s rich cultural mosaic.

😂 Winnipeg Comedy Festival – "Maybe It’s Me"

📅 April 29 - May 4

📍 Burton Cummings Theatre, 364 Smith St

Laughter is the best way to shake off the winter blues, and the Winnipeg Comedy Festival never disappoints. This year’s show Maybe It’s Me promises a hilarious lineup of Canada’s top comedians. The iconic Burton Cummings Theatre provides the perfect backdrop for an evening of big laughs and even bigger smiles.

🏛️ Doors Open Winnipeg 2025

📅 May 24–25
📍 Various historic locations across Winnipeg

Doors Open Winnipeg is a citywide celebration of our local heritage and architecture. This annual event lets you peek behind the doors of some of the city’s most iconic and rarely accessible buildings — for free! It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn about Winnipeg’s past while exploring landmarks and hidden gems that shape the city’s identity today.

🌾 St. Norbert Farmers’ Market

📅 Every Saturday - year round! Summer hours start May 17th!
🕒 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Summer hours - 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM.
📍 3514 Pembina Highway

There’s something special about shopping local, and the St. Norbert Farmers’ Market is the heart of that experience in Winnipeg. From fresh produce and baked goods to handmade crafts and friendly smiles, this market is a springtime staple. It’s also a fantastic way to support local growers and makers while soaking up the sunshine.

Spring is more than just a season — it’s a feeling. A time to reconnect, refresh, and rediscover the beauty of our communities. As a Winnipeg realtor, I love helping people find not only the right home but the neighbourhoods and events that make this city such a vibrant place to live.

Whether you’re attending a gallery opening, laughing until your cheeks hurt, or picking up fresh greens at the market, these moments remind us why Winnipeg is so easy to fall in love with — especially in the spring.

As the snow melts and Winnipeg bursts into spring, it's the perfect time to think about ways to live a little greener at home. Earth Day is a reminder that small changes can make a big impact—not just for the environment, but for your home's comfort, efficiency, and value.

As a local realtor, I’ve seen eco-conscious features become increasingly important to buyers here in Winnipeg. Homes that offer energy efficiency, sustainability, and smart upgrades tend to stand out—and often sell for more.

So whether you're thinking about selling or just want to create a more eco-friendly space, here are some seasonally appropriate, practical ways to green your home this spring and summer.

🌿 Simple Swaps for a Greener Home

You don’t have to start with a renovation—small changes can add up:

• LED bulbs for patios, porches, and garden lighting—more efficient and longer-lasting.
  
  

• Low-flow fixtures help save water as we head into gardening and lawn-care season.
  
  

• Eco-friendly cleaning products for spring cleaning that’s safe for your family and the environment.
  
  

• Reusable items like beeswax wraps, cloth napkins, and refillable containers to reduce everyday waste.

🌞 Spring & Summer Sustainability Tips

• Rain barrels: Collect rainwater to use in your garden and reduce strain on the water system.
  
  

• Native plants & pollinator gardens: Choose local species that thrive in our climate and support biodiversity—bonus: they’re low-maintenance!
  
  

• Outdoor compost bins: Get ready for garden season by composting food scraps and yard waste to create rich soil.
  
  

• Unplug & open up: Take advantage of warmer weather by unplugging and letting natural light and fresh air in.

⚡ Energy-Efficient Upgrades That Add Value

• Energy-efficient windows & doors: Still important in Winnipeg, but especially useful in keeping your home cool during our hot prairie summers.
  
  

• Smart thermostats: Control cooling efficiently and save on energy bills during temperature swings.
  
  

• Solar panels: Manitoba has plenty of sunny days—solar can be a smart long-term investment, and Manitoba Hydro offers programs to help.

🏡 Why Green Homes Matter in Winnipeg

Winnipeggers care about sustainability, and buyers are paying attention. Eco-friendly features like efficient heating/cooling, water-saving upgrades, and green landscaping don’t just benefit the planet—they make your home more comfortable, more attractive, and more valuable when it hits the market.

Thinking of making your home a little greener this season? Let’s chat! I’d be happy to share which upgrades are worth the investment in our local market—and help you turn Earth Day inspiration into real value for your home.

I don't know about you, but I am so excited about spring!  It's as if all of humanity is being brought back to life! For many, it is a time to do a significant clean around the house, to declutter and remove unwanted items.  

Whether you are getting ready for a sale, or just wanting to maintain your haven, here are eight important things that should be included on every homeowner’s spring checklist this year:

Examine the Roof

During the winter months, the roof of your home takes a beating. After months of heavy snowfalls, wind storms and ice build-up, your roof shingles may be in need of some attention. Hire a professional to climb up onto your roof and do an inspection. Check if any shingles are missing, cracked, buckled, or if they are beginning to curl. Shingles that have any damage at all should be replaced. If it looks like you have more than just a few shingles to replace, it may be time to start budgeting for a new roof before next winter.

Clean Out the Gutters

While we are on the topic of roofs, check out the gutter situation. The gutters on your house should be cleaned at least annually to prevent clogs and damage. The best time to do it is in the late fall after the leaves have fallen off nearby trees. Winter storms tend to cause plenty of debris to fly around, and some of it could be lodged in your gutters. Getting this done again at the beginning of the spring season will set you ahead of the curve when it comes to summer storms and help improve the health of your roof. 

Inspect the Attic

Next, make your way up to the attic. Check for moisture, mould, water damage, or signs of any pesky critters living up there. Build-up of moisture could lead to significant damage if left undetected, and it is also a sign that you may need to get your roof inspected.

Thoroughly Investigate the Basement

After going up, it’s time to head down to the basement. Look for similar things as you would in the attic. Basements are more prone to issues such as water and moisture damage, especially as the seasons change. While you are down there, check for any cracks or signs of leaks in the foundation. Check out the sump pump and windows to ensure they are all sealed properly.

Inspect the Air Conditioning Unit

As the temperatures rise, it’s only a matter of time before you decide to turn on the AC to get some relief on those hot summer days. Make sure you do a thorough inspection of the AC unit, or hire a professional to do this for you if you’re unfamiliar with the required maintenance. The beginning of spring is a great time to change the filters and call in to have the unit serviced if needed.

Fence and Deck Maintenance

With all the snow and ice melted, it’s time to inspect your fences and deck. Check for cracked boards or panels, and make a plan to replace them if needed. It’s also good to check under the deck for signs of rodents or other pests that could have taken up residence during the colder months.

Spend Some Time on the Lawn

No one’s grass looks great after a long, harsh winter. Spend some time this spring tending to your front and back lawn. This could involve spreading grass seed or creating a better drainage system to eliminate water pooling, which is unpleasant to walk in and creates mosquito habitats.

Top-to-Bottom Interior Clean

Finally, we recommend doing a thorough top-to-bottom clean of your home’s interior. Clean out the fridge and kitchen cupboards and put all your winter wear away into storage. After all, lightening up your home and decluttering it will only add to the peace of mind that usually comes once the spring weather hits.

Last but not least, get back outside and enjoy it! 

Spring in Winnipeg is a breath of fresh air - literally.  After months of winter, we’re all ready to shake off the cold and bring some renewal indoors.  This is the perfect time to refresh your home and embrace new trends I do my best to keep up with design trends, scrolling social media, and visiting homes, and I’ve noticed a few staples that are popping up this season.  If you’re thinking of sprucing up your space, here are six spring home trends that will bring a fresh look into your space. 

1. Scalloped Edges: A Playful, Classic Touch

Scalloped edges have been trending for a while, but this season, they’re everywhere—especially in decor that leans towards classic, vintage, or grandmillennial aesthetics. These soft, wavy edges bring a playful and elegant touch to furniture and accessories.

How to try it:

• Scalloped-edge throw pillows for a cozy touch

• Picture frames or mirrors with soft curves

• A side table or accent chair with a delicate scalloped design

This trend is an easy way to add a bit of whimsy and charm to any space.

2. Pops of Red: A Bold & Unexpected Accent

If you’ve seen the “unexpected red theory” making the rounds on social media, you know that a dash of red can instantly elevate a space. This year, cherry red is one of the top trending colors, bringing energy and warmth to otherwise neutral spaces.

How to try it:

• A red vase or lamp for a striking focal point

• Cherry red throw pillows or artwork

• A small rug with red accents to anchor a space

Red pairs surprisingly well with many color palettes, making it an easy addition that doesn’t require a full redesign.

3. Tone-on-Tone Stripes: A Fresh Take on a Classic Pattern

Stripes never go out of style, but this season, bold tone-on-tone color pairings are making them feel fresh and modern. Instead of the usual high-contrast stripes, these use subtle shifts in shade to create depth and movement.

How to try it:

• Striped table linens for a lively dining space

• A throw blanket with soft tonal stripes

• Even striped furniture upholstery for a bigger statement

This trend blends well with both minimalist and maximalist styles, depending on how bold you go.

4. Spindle Furniture: A Vintage Revival

For years, mid-century modern dominated furniture design, but we’re now seeing a return to more traditional shapes—especially spindle furniture. With its turned wood details and antique-inspired silhouette, spindle furniture is perfect for adding timeless character to a space.

How to try it:

• A spindle-leg chair or bench in an entryway

• A classic spindle nightstand for a cozy, vintage feel

• Accent tables or bed frames with this historic design

It’s a look that feels both refined and relaxed, perfect for anyone wanting a balance of old and new in their home.

5. Hand-Drawn Sketch Art: Effortless & Understated

Heavy, moody artwork had its moment, but this spring, light, hand-drawn sketch art is having its turn. These pieces feel simple, organic, and slightly imperfect, adding an unpolished yet elegant touch to a space.

How to try it:

• Swap out framed prints for sketched portraits or nature-inspired pieces

• Look for charcoal or pencil-drawn artwork with a soft, airy feel

• Layer framed sketches on bookshelves for a subtle decor update

This trend is low-commitment and easy to mix into your existing decor—just swap out a frame, and you’re set.

6. Miniature Table Lamps: Small But Mighty Mood Lighting

Sometimes, small details make the biggest impact, and tiny table lamps are proof of that. These petite, charming lamps are popping up everywhere, offering warm, cozy lighting in unexpected spots.

How to try it:

• A cordless mini lamp on your kitchen counter for soft evening light

• A tiny lamp on a bookshelf to create a moody glow

• A small bedside lamp for a relaxed, layered lighting effect

Mini lamps are a quick and affordable way to make a room feel more inviting and polished without a major design overhaul.

Which Trend Will You Try?

Spring is all about renewal and fresh starts, and your home deserves the same energy. Whether it’s a pop of red, a vintage-inspired spindle chair, or a cozy new lamp, even small changes can make a big difference.

If you’re thinking of upgrading your home in a bigger way this spring—whether that’s staging for sale or finding a new space that better fits your lifestyle—I’d love to help. Let’s chat about your goals!

📩 Reach out anytime if you’re thinking about buying or selling this season.

I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve been awarded a Bronze Medallion by the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board! 🏆 This recognizes being in the top 10% of contributors to the MLS® System in Winnipeg Metropolitan Region & surrounding areas for 2024! 🎉

🏡 Helping my clients find their dream homes and achieve their real estate goals is truly my passion. This milestone is as much yours as it is mine—I couldn’t have done it without my amazing clients, friends, and supporters. 💕

Here’s to more keys, more connections, and more success stories in 2025! 🔑✨

📞  Ready to make your next move? Let’s make it happen together!

#MedallionAward #BronzeWinner #WinnipegRealEstate #Top10Percent #RealEstateSuccess #MaryOnRealEstate

Why this is a good thing to do, and where to take your beloved items after you no longer need them.

I firmly believe that how we set up our homes is a marker for how we will show up in our lives. Letting go of the old can help create space for the new.

As the holidays approach and the New Year begins, it's natural to reflect on where we've been and where we're headed. Often, these internal changes inspire external ones—whether that's reimagining how we enjoy our current home, preparing to stage it for sale, or even starting fresh in a new place.

You might be entering a new season of life—perhaps a marriage or loss in the family, a change in economic status, or a move to a larger or smaller home. Or maybe you’re preparing to sell your house and need to get it market-ready. Whatever your situation, decluttering is an essential step toward embracing these transitions.

Here are some questions I have found helpful to ask yourself as you pack and sort. I’ve also put together an updated list of places in Winnipeg where you can donate items. If you know of others to add, I’d love to hear about them—this is by no means an exclusive list.

What do I truly need to thrive in my life right now?

What can I let go of to create space for growth?

Who might benefit from the things I no longer need?

Where can I donate these items locally to make a meaningful impact?

Here are some local places who would gladly accept your gently used items:

Siloam Mission - 205.956.4344 - Clothing and Household items.

Big Brothers and Big Sisters Association - 204.943.5437 - Clothing and Household items.

Things – Royal Winnipeg Ballet – 204.284.7331 - Antiques, Collectibles, Home Furnishings, China, Jewelry, Silver, Artwork, Lamps. Donations taken by appointment.

Villa Rosa Inc – 204.786.5741 - Winter Coats, Feminine Hygiene Products, Fabric, Car Seats, Strollers, Exercise Balls, more.

Nearly New Shop - Children’s Hospital Guild of MB - 204.772.3629 -  Clothing, Household items, Toys, Shoes, Boots, Books, Music, Art, Crafts, Decorative Pieces, Tableware, Plants.

Dress For Success Winnipeg – 204.284.9311 – Coats, Boots, Winter Accessories, Suits, Jackets, Pants, Skirts, Blouses, Tops, Shoes, Accessories, Jewelry, Scarves, Purses, Belts. Plus-sized clothing is always in high demand.

Winnipeg Pet Rescue Shelter – 204.832.7387 - Cat Litter Scoops, Air Freshener, Brooms & Dust Pans, Cat & Dog Toys, Soap, Blankets and Towels, Other Pet Items.

Habitat ReStore – 204.233.5160 - Furniture, Renovation materials, Appliances, Doors, Windows, Flooring, Cabinets.

Mennonite Central Committee – 204.694.3669 - Clothing, shoes, & accessories, Bedding & bath, Books & magazines , Media, Toys & games, Housewares, Home décor, Sports equipment, Antiques & collectibles, Furniture - Limited locations*.

Into the Music – 204.287.8279 - They pay cash for quality used LPs, CDs, Music DVDs, Music books, Cassette tapes and Music Memorabilia.  

Winnipeg Humane Society – 204.982.2021 - LONG list of things they need! Check out their website!\

Centre Flavie-Laurent – 204.231.9513 - Mattresses, Box springs, Bed-frames, Bedding, Dressers, Cribs & Baby Accessories, Kitchen Tables & Chairs, Sofas & living Room Chairs, Dishes & Cutlery, Pots & Pans, Washers, Dryers, Freezers, Stoves, Books.

Arts Junktion – 204.942.5865 - Art supplies, Leather, Beads, Jewelry, Board games, Trophies, Magnets (HUGE list of things to donate on website!)

The Salvation Army – 204.953.1500 - Accessories, Antiques, Clothing, Computers, Electronics, Furniture, Housewares, Media & Books, Seasonal Items, Textiles, Toys.

Teen Challenge – 1-800.632.6095 - Long list of items they will NOT take, so be sure to check the link. You can donate your Car - working or not, a tax receipt is provided.

Goodwill – 204.943.6435 - Books, Clothes, Furniture, Appliances, Linens, Household Items, Sporting Goods, Toys.

Oyate Tipi Cumini Yape – 204.589.2218 - Furniture mainly, they will pick-up! 

International Hope Canada – 204.774.1102- Medical Equipment & Supplies.

Canadian Lions Eyeglass Recycling Centre – Prescription eye glass drop-off. Located in many optometrists throughout the city.

Winnipeg Conservatory of Music – 204.505.9012 - Music (not always taking stuff, so check with them first), Old learning books, RCM, Faber, etc.

Apple – Trade-in or recycle old phones. Does not have to be apple products. Check your local computer store for recycling options for your old desktops/laptops. 

Happy sorting!

Will you be, or do you know a student in grade 12 across Canada that is graduating in 2025? 
RE/MAX Canada wants to give you (or rather, your student) a $1000 bursary.  Apply for one of forty $1000 scholarships available. 
✍️ Is this person active in their community, or have ideas about how to make it a better place to call home? Submit an essay of up to 1250 words, and this could make them a winner! 
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‍ Please share with anyone you think might want to know about this!

 
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Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or a first-time buyer, diving into the world of real estate can feel like stepping into a new language. From escrow to pre-approval, the jargon can be overwhelming. Fear not! In this guide, we'll break down some key real estate terminology to empower you in your property journey.

1. MLS (Multiple Listing Service):

The MLS is a comprehensive database of properties for sale. As a realtor, I leverage this powerful tool to help you find the perfect home or market your property effectively.

2. Pre-Approval:

Before you start house hunting, it's crucial to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This involves a lender assessing your financial situation to determine how much they're willing to lend you.

3. CMA (Comparative Market Analysis):

A CMA is a report that helps determine a property's fair market value. It considers recent sales of similar properties in the area, helping sellers set competitive prices.

4. Closing Costs:

These are the additional fees and charges associated with finalizing a real estate transaction. They can include legal fees, title insurance, and other expenses.

5. Appraisal:

An appraisal is a professional assessment of a property's value. Lenders use this information to ensure they're not lending more than the home is worth.

6. Pending:

Once a buyer and seller have agreed on terms, the property is marked as "pending." However, it's not yet finalized, and certain conditions must be met before closing.  You may also use the term “conditional sale” interchangeably. 

7. Home Inspection:

A crucial step in the home-buying process, a home inspection involves a thorough examination of a property's condition. It helps buyers make informed decisions and negotiate repairs if needed.

8. Down Payment:

The initial payment made when purchasing a home, typically a percentage of the property's purchase price. The size of the down payment affects the mortgage amount.

9. Amortization:

This refers to the gradual repayment of a mortgage over time through regular payments. It includes both principal and interest.

Navigating the real estate market becomes more manageable when armed with knowledge. If you have questions about these terms or any others, feel free to reach out! As your Winnipeg realtor, I'm here to guide you through every step of the process.

You might see some abbreviated terms used on MLS listings to describe features in a home. Some commonly used ones are:

1. BR: Bedroom
2. BA: Bathroom
3. B/I: Built-In
4. LR: Living Room
5. DR: Dining Room
6. Kit: Kitchen
7. HWF: Hardwood Floors
8. WIC: Walk-In Closet
9. PBR: Primary Bedroom
10. ** ensuite:** Ensuite Bathroom
11. W/D: Washer/Dryer
12. FP: Fireplace
13. Bsmt: Basement
14. AC: Air Conditioning
15. FDR: Formal Dining Room
16. MLS: Multiple Listing Service
17. C/A or CAIR: Central Air Conditioning
18. HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

Not sure of one you have seen, or know if it applies to terms used locally?  Just ask.  That's what I am here for. :)

Look up. What do you see? A plain white popcorn ceiling? Chances are you're one of millions of Canadians who haven't explored the option of ceiling decor. Designers are calling it the fifth wall in a room and have started to become more and more vocal about sprucing ceilings up. Here are some decor options to consider for your ceiling:

Wallpaper, or ceiling paper to be more accurate: Apply a textured wallpaper to your smooth ceiling in much the same way you would a wall. It can be left its original colour, or painted for a more stunning effect. Or, opt for a wallpaper that features a bold pattern or bright colour to enhance an otherwise serene room.

Wood planks: These can be applied over a textured ceiling and can be painted or stained to match, or contrast, other woodwork in the room. Choose a lightweight plank and be sure to nail them to joists. For added interest, angle the planks across the room, make a herringbone pattern, or even add a few rows around the room before switching to a typical strip design. 

Corrugated tin: Using adhesive and screws, you can cover your ceiling with elegant tin ceiling tiles. Use them throughout a room or as a focal point above a dining room table or kitchen island, for example.

Fabric: Think of a tent, but in elegant, gauzy fabrics that drape from the center of a room to the walls. Alternatively, drape fabric across the ceiling adhering it every few feet with a wooden beam to create a cloud-like look. Be sure to choose fabrics that are lightweight and can be stapled to the ceiling.