Making it Merry

I honestly think I could write an entire month’s worth of blog’s on the items that you can decorate with for the Christmas season. I have three trees of three different themes myself and I’m a single girl. I thought this year I’d dedicate the blog to decorating rather classically with red and green touches rather than giving you the full scoop on going “themed.” 

That said, I adored these Crate and Barrel pillows. (Alpine Ivory Pillow $26.95 & Red Pillow $34.95). I think using pillows and throw blankets are a forgotten punch during the holidays where the decor can actually get used for something – 2 for 1! I loved the little top stitched vintage print, I think this could be used with country, modern, or even just a traditional Christmas look. It’s a little classic mixed with a nice nostalgic feeling.

Considering the “days of old”, I thought this little tree from Cost Plus World Market was precious. The 3 foot feather pine tree would make a great centerpiece on a side table or even make a college student’s dorm room a little cheerier during those days of tests. I would use this for those ornaments that I receive or buy that mark milestones or special memories, and have it displayed on my entryway table. It’s sparse branches would show off heirloom pieces perfectly without being in reach of little ones.

While you’re at Cost Plus, I fell in love with this 6 foot red berry garland. It’s steep at $25, but the fullness makes quite an impact. This would really make my white mantle pop with color!

When considering the mantle, make sure you’ve chosen great stockings. These simply elegant classics from Pottery Barn are super affordable at $9-15 each and the personalizing options abound if you’re a crafty person!

So the big tree marks the day and for the tree beginners it’s all about the tree skirt. I found this fantastically detailed  skirt on Target.com. The Bucilla Partridge In A Pear Tree Tree Skirt runs $54.99, which may sound expensive, but will last for many years. Consider also a great starter kit of the 225-pc. Tree Decorating Kit Red/Green/Gold $84.15 – this will get any size tree full and ready!

When it comes to table topping, you can lose your mind in this department. I try to have two or three Christmas related dinners so I can see friends, and secretly validate my addiction to Christmas entertaining vessels! I found this cute retro platter at Pier 1 for $30. This would be also a great use for a gift platter with homemade cookies. If I’m going to keep it for myself though, these great red plates at Amazon.com were $23 a place setting (Search: Laurie Gates Vintage Dekko Red 4-Piece Place Set ) and not only work throughout the year but would frame a mix and match holiday salad dish fantastically.!

That said, the sky is the limit! It’s the biggest holiday out there to look around and express your fashion sense in. Embrace that and enjoy all the trimmings!