From Blah to Brilliant

 

Depending on your frame of mind, the sparkling ornaments and twinkling lights of the holiday season can conjure up cozy memories… or trigger a headache…  Not this year!  With a little imagination, a few new ideas and LOADS of texture, you can spin your “same old” holiday décor into a brilliant display!

Yearning for a fresh look without starting completely over? I believe the best way to set the stage for the holidays is to start with items that are meaningful – clear out the rest – take stock, and use your imagination!  Aside from the traditional tree, table setting and strands of lights, there is a whole world of color, texture, lighting and finishes that will give your holiday new life!

A Holiday Dinner: Start with your favorite holiday piece – whether it’s an ornament, your holiday dishware or an antique candleholder – and create a “color story!”  A consistent palette gives you a cohesive, pulled together look. Start with the place-setting basics and mix it up by tucking in fun elements of texture – pine boughs, berries, twigs, holly and pinecones – natural, textural elements that bring color and interest to any setting.  Colorful stemware, strands of garnet beads and ornaments hung from the chandelier, and customized place cards tucked into a folded napkin with a sprig of faux glittered greenery add a brilliant touch! Adding non-traditional elements can bring new life to your treasured pieces.  This year, metallic finishes are EVERYWHERE – from furniture to wallpaper.  So why not take the reins on the trend and add some metallic sparkle to your holiday?  A mercury glass vase, a tray adorned in gold leaf, silver taper holders, even a splash of feathers or faux fur – all are purchases that will extend not only your holiday look, but can be kept out and switched up to add an unexpected touch throughout the year!

A Sparkling Mantle: Mantles often star as the centerpiece of the home.  This year, make sure yours is one mantle Santa can’t wait to visit!  Keep your home’s overall style in mind – a Craftsman bungalow craves the natural textures of the season - whether plucked from your backyard or found at your favorite garden center, nature’s trimmings are an easy addition. Christmas doesn’t have to be just red and green… elements of blue, gold, copper and even purple add warmth and personality!  Add your holiday palette to your tree, and borrow from it as well!  Ornaments are a natural on the tree, but add them to the mantle, hang one with a stocking, or group them to adorn a doorway and you’ve got that unexpected touch that makes your décor unforgettable! The crackle of a winter fire is reminiscent of the season… bring that beautiful light to the rest of your space with candle groupings, strands of white lights, and reflective elements (mirrors, ornaments, etc.) tucked in to unexpected places.

Think Outside the Wreath:  There’s nothing like a first impression… the inside of your home is brilliantly decorated – the outside should be, too!  Greet your guests with a stunning preview to the show inside – play up your entry with a stocking hung where a wreath is expected!  Or mix up the color and texture of the wreaths or garlands you chose – berries, magnolia, boxwood – all lend that creative touch.  Pair them with lights set on timers to turn on just at dusk, and the whole neighborhood will enjoy your efforts as you arrive home each evening!

These unexpected elements are what make your décor fresh and memorable all you need now is to celebrate!  Cheers!