Sometimes it seems as if there is no real divide between the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. I’m already seeing Christmas lights and exterior decor popping up on homes! While Christmas does seem to be approaching at warp speed, I wonder . . . Are we Americans rolling the two holidays into one huge event?
I totally understand how tightly we are scheduled, these days. There are essentially only three weekends available, between Thanksgiving and Christmas, to squeeze in holiday gatherings. For my Jewish friends, all I can say is “Oiy!”, as Hanukkah is December 1st-9th!
If you are feeling a bit done in with the notion of swapping one seasonal decor for the other, perhaps I can share some ideas of how to extend your investment and the celebrations!
Better Homes and Gardens exhibits this lovely copper container, filled with simple, seasonal delights. So easy to go from the harvest table through the Winter Solstice.
Canadian House and Home features a door wreath of preserved textures. With the warm tones, it would easily transition from fall to winter with the compliment of the potted and wrapped evergreen additions. In the spring, the plants can be placed in the yard for many years of enjoyment. Adding some luminaries, up the stairs, will create a glow for your guests to follow to the party!
Real Simple showcased a landscape of potted paperwhites. I love how they left a few bulbs at the base to add a woodland warmth. Neutral palette items are an effortless way to carry from one holiday to the next. Keep in mind, some flowers do carry a strong fragrance. Be sure to place any of these in an area where the scent is not overpowering – especially where food will be served.
So clever and fun! Pairing some non-traditional holiday colors, and a little whimsy, will keep you smiling all winter long. Some clementines, jingle bells, ribbon, and a few tools truly keep it Real Simple!
My friend, Linda Marshall, is the owner of a fabulous candle company, Imageglow. Her lantern candle series allows for the pattern to be imbedded in the wax, and then backlit from within. It’s a safe way to share the magic of candlelight. The blue toile series would be lovely mixed with traditional greens, or they could be fabulously displayed on a silver tray with crystal accents.
(As a holiday offering, Linda has shared the gift of special pricing for her beautiful candles! When you go to checkout, enter in the initials - ‘WSH’- for the discount code, and you’ll receive a 20% savings! Thank you, Linda!)
However you choose to celebrate the holidays, be it a small, quiet celebration, or in the midst of a lively crowd, my wish is that you share it with your special people and in a home that you love!
Happy Thanksgivingmas to you! I’ll see you somewhere in between!
Wanda
PS - Contest Alert! I’ll be giving away an autographed copy of Vicente Wolf’s “Lifting the Curtain On Design”! All you have to do to enter is to leave a comment on any two of my posts, beginning with the 2010 High Point Furniture Finds – Post 1, and by November 30, 2010.
I’ll announce the winner the first week of December 2010. I hope you’ll enjoy a festive month!
