I absolutely love the holiday season. As a matter of fact, I'm listening to Christmas music as I write this. The older and cheesier, the better. I always put my tree up during the weekend after Thanksgiving because, well, there are only four weeks to enjoy it at that point! And I LOVE it! And then I spend those weeks trolling the internet, looking at beautiful holiday images, and wishing I had the balls to do something super new and different and chic in my house. Something like this:
Or THIS:
I actually find that I'm drawn to simple. I love looking at green trees with little or no ornaments on them.
As a matter of fact, this year I had to put up my tree in stages. So it stood there with only white lights for a full day, and I was loving it! I was so tempted to leave it like that, but didn't want to dash the hopes and dreams of my children. ;)
And herein lies the problem. I just can't bring myself to veer very far from the traditional, green tree, brimming with ornaments that date back to my childhood. And Joel's. There are some UGLY ornaments hanging on our little tree. But they all carry with them a memory - from when we made them or when we received them from someone special. And now, the tree also holds countless photos of our kids from each of their early years. And ornaments that they've made in school or received as gifts. They love pulling them out and remembering where they came from. So there you have it. Sentimental wins. Style does not.
But that doesn't mean I can't dream. And drool over other people's awesome style. So I've put together a collection of holiday decor photos that inspire me. There's a lot in here that I CAN do. Hope you're inspired, too!
Let's start with some lovely wreaths:
I'm digging these simple garlands:
These branches, lit up with white lights, are magical around a fireplace:
I'm also a sucker for a beautiful tablescape. We aren't hosting this year, but when we do, watch out!!
And then there's just the extra touches that caught my eye and wanted to be included:
Happy Holidays, everyone! Wishing you health, happiness, great food and even better company this season!
XXXOOO
-Anna