Take some time to add a personal touch

Even if you just do it for yourself…..there are a few extra things you can do around your home and before the holidays that will add the “peace” you are looking for amongst all the hustle and bustle of the season.

Add a little red

Adding red to any décor works when it’s Christmas – if you are into the color then try a little dash of it. These vibrant red earthenware vases will add sparkle and shine to a sideboard or mantelpiece. Available in two sizes, these deep crimson beauties will attract lots of compliments. They're not watertight, so don't fill them with fresh flowers. Instead, opt for dry botanicals; consider amaryllis or paper whites for festive flair.

Stop to smell the…..

Whether it’s an oil burner or a fresh swag on the mantel – there is a smell of the season that always warms your heart. Try a fresh over sized magnolia wreath to capture that sense.Simple and understated, this magnolia wreath will add natural beauty to your home. Perfect for the front door or above a fireplace, this wreath features lovely, fresh green leaves mixed with silver and gold faux leaves.

A touch of whimsy

I think a little bit of whimsy can go a long way especially if it’s as special as these mugs. So cute, so stylish even if your by yourself. These ceramic reindeer mugs just make you want to fill them with something tasty and wrap your cold hands around them while you sit in front of the Christmas tree. Don't forget to fill them with hot chocolate on Christmas Eve or tea and coffee on Christmas morning – indulge!

Festive Surfaces You know by now my love for holiday dinnerware – why not use them all season long? This set of four porcelain plates will make a statement on your holiday table or throughout the winter. A modern square design paired with a striking black and white snowflake pattern makes this set perfect for a contemporary table. A set of four is beautifully packaged for gift-giving too.

Beautiful Candle Light Lit candles add such a festive feeling during the holidays. The design of these ornate candlesticks is inspired by the luxurious, opulent living of 18th century France. Placed on the dinner table, they're sure to add a warm and inviting ambiance. I would place them allover to carry the glow from room to room.

Adding warmth with Cashmere Add warmth to your home décor with extra pillows and a cozy throw blanket. At arms reach, a warm throw blanket is a must have – great for curling up after an evening of wrapping gifts.

So take time to relax - grab a festive plate full of sweets, a whimsical mug of hot cocoa, light a candle and sit back to enjoy!

J Crew (I know it's clothing - but I can't resist)

There are very few catalogs I hunt for at Christmas time. Pottery Barn, William Sonoma and J Crew. I always love the fresh and airy fashions and holiday outfits in the J Crew line-up.

Their label “collection” is outstanding – I only wish I had somewhere to wear these exceptional holiday dresses and gowns!

I don’t really comment on fashion her on my blog, but I have compiled a few of my favorite J Crew outfits for the holiday season. The photography in all their catalogs is equally as beautiful – when I get my hands on one – I never throw it out! The colors this year are vibrant and fun – along with the classic looks of gold and silver. Oh, and did I mention they are so my style. The subtle hints of glitter and sequins paired with simple classic looks are timeless. I love the photo of the hoodie paired with the short taffeta skirt – so me!!!


And let’s not forget the little ones! These outfits are classic – never to become a hand me down!

Ways to add impact to your Holiday tree

Tip #1: Think Over Scale
Use over scaled ornaments. Large silver balls and stars have a huge impact. Though over sized decorations may cost a bit more, you won't need many (about a dozen for an average size tree), and the effect will be stunning.

Tip #2: Stick with a Theme
A large white butterfly could be the key to a leafy garden theme for your tree. Green dragonflies and a selection of artificial leaf sprays may add to the theme that's further enhanced with green ornaments and glittered netting. Even the tree skirt was embellished with floral sprays. Or how about these black and white ornaments I found once when travelling - this would be a lovely elegant theme as well. When thinking head of a theme you can never go wrong with your tree décor.

Tip #3: Do Something Different
Looking for something unique? How about these cute vintage kitchen icons from William Sonoma – think outside the norm on this one for a real show stopper! I am working on another post coming soon - Unique Holiday Trees - you'll find some additional inspiration there too!

Tip #4: Glam It Up
Add crystals, sparkle and shine to your tree. This is definitely the one time a year no one can fault you for too much “bling”. The large tree here is done by swarovski and is full of crystals (Eaton Centre, Toronto) – now that’s “bling”!

Tip #5: Remember to Repeat
Repeat one type of ornament so it creates a color, shape, or theme through a tree. I would recommend buying two to four dozen of a main theme element (like the same red balls), in various sizes, and finishes to add even more flair.

Tip #6: Color Your World
Designers create trees using colors and themes that relate to the room where the tree is displayed. Repeat your room's hues and motifs using ribbons, wrapping paper, garlands, and ornaments to harmonize with or complement what you already have.

Tip #7: Design with Line
Ornaments in one color and style get a designer look by varying the sizes between small, medium, and large. Slim ribbon garland criss-crossed horizontally throughout the tree adds to the lines as does dozens of vertical ornaments such as icicles.

Tip #8: Designer Monochromatic
Do you love one color? Go for it with a monochromatic tree. One-color trees work their magic with shape and texture. Vary the size of the decorations and mix up shiny and matte finishes as well.
Tip #9: Fill in the Gaps
Fill gaps between branches with floral filler such as silk flower sprays or leaf bunches. I sometimes even use faux flowers and plants – they add a pleasant surprise when found filling a hole.

Now I am off to the crawl space to pull out my tree - dust off my ornaments and get down to the task of decorating. I love the holiday look in my home - I find I rush home each evening turn on all the lights inside and out and enjoy!!

I hope you find inspiration in the above tips and create a beautiful centerpiece in your own home.