Seasonal Sundries

It is everyone’s favorite time of year (everyone who isn’t a total Grinch at least). Holiday season is filled with cooler weather, pumpkin spiced lattes, beautiful scarves, and great times with the people you care about. There is something about this season that is just magical. As I prep for my weekend festivities which include bonfires, smores, and a hoodie for the first time this fall, I can’t help but think about the delight and horror that comes with holiday decorating.

You get to venture into your creepy attic for the first time in months and think about how they should really come up with a way to keep these things from getting so dirty. You find the holiday storage tubs and try to push them out that half sized door and for the life of you, you can’t remember how you even got those things in that opening last year! All while hurrying so that giant dust bunny in the corner doesn’t wake up and claim one of your appendages as a prisoner. Several hours later after many tangled cords, broken ornaments, open wounds, and proclaiming that you are going to find a better way to put this stuff away next year—you turn on the tree lights and it is all worth it.  If you are anything like me, when I turn on my Christmas tree I could just sit and watch it twinkle for hours (and I usually do). I love Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas and I usually try and decorate for all of them. Every year I see fantastic decorations and many that miss the mark. So let’s take some time and talk about holiday décor do’s and don’ts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unless you are going for the Griswold’s look, moderation is key. You want to go with something that expresses your taste: pumpkins and leaves make for a more natural fall inspiration. Wrapped presents and candy tie together a North Pole look. Pick a theme and go with it. If you are indecisive like me, pick a few. I do a very whimsical flocked tree with neon ornaments that I call “Dr.Seuss”. I also do a color theme each year for Christmas and will do an entire tree in a single color. I could go on for days just about types of trees and how to execute them–I will save that for another blog. Just make sure you stay consistent within each space. Have fun with your decorations and don’t be afraid to think beyond what you see on the holiday aisles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For example, If you want spooky for around Halloween try a few cobwebs and some overly melted candles and candle sticks. To achieve this style you want it to look as authentic as possible. Check out your local thrift shops for some creepy portraits and old mirrors, too.

Decorating does not have to cost a fortune either. I try to buy a few new pieces each year (using my 50% off Hobby Lobby coupon of course) and grow my collection slowly. Don’t forget to shop after the holidays for discounted items. I make the majority of my decorations. Sites like Pinterest have endless options for DIY projects and are a great place to find some inspiration. What is your favorite holiday style?

 

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