HOLIDAY DECORATING & ENTERTAINING "IT'S EASY, JUST LOOK AROUND!"

In regards to decorating and entertaining, we are often told, "You make it look so easy, but I just can't do it." When we inquire as to why they think they can't do it, the response is often the same. "I don't know where to begin!" Well, I am here to tell you that you CAN do it, and you begin simply by LOOKING AROUND!!! Yes my friend, chances are that everything you need to decorate and entertaining for the holidays you already have, or can easily gather while out on your daily tasks! Below are simple ideas and tips that in most cases can save you time, money and frustration!!

DECORATING

GARLAND & WREATHS

Begin by first putting up your interior and exterior garland and wreaths. Do not bring out any of your other decorations until this is complete. This will make you feel as though the bones of your holiday decorating is up and complete. 

CHOOSE AREAS TO DECORATE LARGE

Choose only 3 or 4 areas of your home to decorate large. Decide the feel and look you want in each of these rooms. Then bring the decorations out for each area, ONE AREA AT A TIME. This will keep you from destroying your entire home at once. This alone can keep you from feeling overwhelmed!! Shown above is a kitchen island full of candy and candy inspired items all grouped together to create a fun and whimsical atmosphere! NOTE: Fancy candy jars are not necessary !! Use ANYTHING glass, fill it with inexpensive candy such as peppermint or taffy and stick lollipops, candy bars and licorice out of the top!! A favorite for adults and children alike. Serves the purpose of both decor and dessert!

SMALL TOUCHES

In the other ares of your home you can add small signs of the season. A small sprig of holly in a guest bath or as shown above, a group of ornaments randomly set on a cake plate. With a small amount of water, flowers and /or greenery can be added if desired.

GATHERING

FROM YOUR YARD

Branches, Pine Cones, Fox Tail Fern and Roses all can be gathered from your yard (or perhaps your neighbors yard) and placed in a vase. A tall cylinder is used here. Roses can also now be purchased in most grocery stores. In this photo hanging votive holders were added for accents. These can be made by using small vases / jars and wire.

FROM OTHER AREAS OF YOUR HOME

Look around your home and move things to different rooms for the holidays. In this photo a large deer was moved from the main living area to the center of the dinning room table. Different candle sticks and holders were added along with a combination of greenery and pine cones. Not one flower was used. It's that EASY!!! Dramatic, Smart and FREE!

FROM YOUR GROCERY STORE

During the holidays, you will find yourself at the grocery store a number of times. Open your eyes and mind to all the different ways you can use what they offer in order to fulfill your decorating and entertaining needs. In the photo above a center piece is made with artichokes, egg plant, green apples, cabbage and asparagus  along with a small amount of greenery. Also shown is an artichoke in a dollar store cube used to hold the utensils. A throw is being used as a table cover.

MY HOPE

 

 My hope and reason for continuing the emphasis on the simple Fearless Entertaining concepts is that you will realize how easy and fun sharing your joys and life with others can be. ENJOY!!!! It's Contagious.

Love,
Catherine