Let’s celebrate the magic of Christmas!

Posted by Elaine McHale on 6 Dec, 2011 in Blog | 0 comments

It’s official – just two and a  half weeks to go to Christmas Day! Did someone fast forward the clocks, or is it just me? Truth is though, I’m glad it’s just around the corner because I really do love Christmas – it’s the only time I’m authentically wrecked and so appreciative of all  the comfort, warmth and joy that Christmas offers.

I wanted to inspire you all with some great ideas for decorating your tree, your table and your home this Christmas. I’ve kept it simple so if you have the time and would like something a bit more meaningful or different then here are some great ideas that hopefully will excite you. So let’s have a look in those cupboards…its’ probably a bit cold to be venturing outside just yet. I’m expecting it to get warmer……am I wrong??!

Here’s an example of how a creative fashion duo on a small budget and even less space created a unique  Christmas centrepiece! The space was relatively dark so they wanted a delicate piece that would throw out some light and also look the part et voila- job well done,I think you’ll agree and it really is fairly simply achieved as a DIY job( if you forget about the bulb fixture!). It’s a straightforward job for electrician though if you want to go the whole hog!

 

I LOVE  a traditional Christmas tree – it’s just such a lasting symbol of this time of year. However I’m also fascinated by some of the amazing alternatives people have come up with. Like the retro white trees that are all in now or the crafty wall versions that are not difficult to achieve. These are for the heathens though, I mean progressive types who don’t have a huge amount of space for a monster tree (‘cos after all that’s the only way to do traditional!!!), don’t like the clean up, don’t like spending a fortune on ornaments, don’t have kids, aren’t even going to be there on Christmas Day….you know the type…you do…!!!!

 

 

I LOVE ………There’s something about traditional red and white colours for Christmas – it looks even better when it gets the Swedish treatment!

It’s such a fresh, simple and uplifting colour combination. You can make a statement table dressing by adding a vibrant red runner – (remember the Swedish colour tone is a strawberry red rather than a deeper wine colour) Ikea do a great selection of red and white fabrics. I also spotted a  great selection in TK MAXX in Stephens Green last week. Make drop baubles by gluing together a selection of small matte and shiny ones. Another easy trick is to take some twigs in from outside and paint them a  vibrant red as in the photo and arrange casually on your table. You could add some lovely foliage with red berries also if you’re feeling flamboyant!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ADD SOME INTEREST to your table by sticking to a simple, vibrant colour scheme like red and white or pink and white. I love that instant touch of glamour that some gold or silver tableware can add. Martha Stewart’s centrepiece of red cranberries and white roses adds a sense of drama and beauty to any table at any time of the year. For a  more traditional look with a twist, try combining some colourful autumnal flowers and vegetables (try ornamental cabbages ) from your garden to impart a wonderful glow to your table!

I’M DREAMING OF A  WHITE CHRISTMAS….and so to get us all in the mood I’ve added some great images that may convince you to revert back to all-white …just for Christmas! Mix with lots of crystal, mirror, gold or silver for a  fairytale Christmas.

 

I love the fresh green napkin and pom -pom like bow made with satin ribbon from Martha Stewart – the satin has  a lovely radiance that highlights the bow’s contours and sits so well against the cotton napkins – a delightfully simple idea. Pair it with textured green and electric blues – this peacock feather wreath is a bit different.  Recreate the look quite easily with some peacock feathers (source from an arts and hobbies supplier or on the internet) wire, pliers and a  bit of patience.

The great thing is you’re done then…all that’s left is to curl up beside a blazing fire, to watch an old black and white movie with a glass of mulled wine and for me to wish you a very happy holiday and all the joys of the season xxx