So many delightful holidays are upon us, and I, for one, love pulling out all the wreaths, garlands, handmade keepsakes and twinkling lights. I encourage you to create spaces, not simply purchase something and plop it on a table. Among my favorite Christmas decorations are boxwoods, holly berries, real pine garland and cypress. They add a cozy feel to the house that cannot be replicated by a dancing snowman. Not knocking snowmen; my kids have loved theirs for ages. But mixing nature, keepsakes and the kids’ handmade items will elevate your home’s holiday decor.
Don’t get me wrong — I love buying seasonal decorations from a store, but I try to have a plan in mind first. Before buying, think of a vignette you want to create.
For example, instead of simply putting out a Nativity set, add moss, twinkling lights or miniature Christmas trees. At my house,
our Willow House Nativity on the entry table includes a manger my kids made from twigs, Mary and Joseph on an elevated platform and animals, shepherds and wise men at different heights. I add driftwood Christmas trees around the sides and hang a rustic wreath above the table. Lastly, I dust the scene with faux snow that tells the story of a cold night that brought hope to
the world.
Do you have collections of Santas, snowmen or nutcrackers and don’t know what to do with them? Place them together on bookcase shelves, the mantle, a buffet table or a windowsill for a larger impact. Grouping them creates a focal point and allows you to enjoy comparing them and sharing stories about their history.
Add pizzazz to your 365 decor — staples in your home that are out year-round. I have deer heads hanging on the wall (my boys hunt), and one gets a scarf around its neck, while another has a red nose and lights tangled in its antlers. And I add boxwood branches to our mounted antlers for holiday flair. Tie red velvet ribbons around lamps or candlesticks, add garland to your chandelier or attach a natural spray to your mailbox. String dried oranges, cranberries and popcorn to make a unique decoration with a fabulous fragrance.
Do more with items purchased at a store and things you already own. Get inspired by taking Christmas home tours, then get your creative juices flowing and start creating your holiday space.
– Betsy Manley is a proud University of Georgia alumna, who started House Therapy, which brings home makeovers to Acworth. She documents the process and provides tips and tricks along the way.
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