Linda Gaudette is hoping to inspire others with her holiday decorating ideas.
Gaudette opened her Sequoia Drive home as part of the Thunder Bay Art Gallery’s annual Christmas House Tour, which was held throughout the day on Sunday.
The creative do-it-herself artist decorated the home on her own, in much of the similar fashion that she does every year.
The one decorating aspect that caught the attention of nearly every visitor to her home was her use of teal.
“(Visitors) like the colour combinations of the decorations,” Gaudette explained.
“The teal colour is not a normal Christmas colour that is expected to find. They can see what it looks like when it’s put together and maybe give some ideas.”
The tour also had stops at a Riverdale Road residence, Winnipeg Avenue home, a model suite at Chartwell Select Estates as well as the art gallery.
Special events and front of house supervisor Cathy Krelove said anticipation for the event, which is in its 13th year, typically builds as early as September.
The art gallery also hosted a candlelight tour on Saturday evening to provide a more intimate perspective of the different spaces.
The tour also featured a performance by the Fort William male choir in the afternoon portion, and serves as a major fundraiser.
“It’s a special event for us,” Krelove said.
“The money goes to education programs and exhibitions. All the great exhibitions at the gallery throughout the year are because of these major fundraisers.”
The tour also brings visitors to the gallery that might not make regular visits, and helps peak interest and membership.
Preparations for each space began approximately a week in advance, and had local businesses provide decorations and plans to serve as a showcase.
The vendors included Celebrations by George’s, Willow Springs Creative Centre, and Heather Cranston and Moss Cottage.
They work in coordination with the art gallery to help demonstrate their products and lead into holiday sales.
